Current Affairs - State

The Bikram Lock Canal Bank solar power project was inaugurated in Bihar's Patna district as part of the state's ‘Jal-Jeevan-Hariyali’ campaign. This initiative aims to promote renewable energy and reduce environmental damage caused by traditional energy sources. The project is located along a 2-kilometre stretch of the main canal at Bikram, highlighting Bihar's commitment to sustainable development and green energy solutions. Chief Minister Nitish Kumar's involvement underscores the state's focus on expanding solar energy infrastructure to meet future energy demands while minimizing ecological impact.

The 'Bodhi Yatra' was organized by the Uttar Pradesh Tourism Department in collaboration with the Union Ministry of External Affairs under the Mekong-Ganga Cooperation (MGC) framework. The event aimed to highlight Uttar Pradesh's rich Buddhist heritage on the global stage, attracting 50 delegates from five ASEAN countries. This initiative reflects the state's efforts to boost cultural tourism and strengthen international ties through its historical and spiritual significance in Buddhism. Uttar Pradesh is home to key Buddhist sites like Sarnath and Kushinagar, making it a focal point for such heritage promotions.

Daojali Hading, a Neolithic habitation site over 2,700 years old, is located in the Dima Hasao district of Assam. The site has revealed both domestic artefacts and early metallurgical activity, including polished stone tools, cord-marked pottery, and grinding stones. The presence of jadeite stones suggests ancient trade links with East and Southeast Asia. Daojali Hading is one of the prominent Neolithic sites in Northeastern India, showcasing the region's rich cultural and archaeological heritage. The site provides valuable insights into the lives of ancient people in the region.

Kerala’s State Public Health Laboratory in Thiruvananthapuram has made a significant scientific breakthrough by developing PCR-based molecular diagnostic kits capable of detecting five dangerous species of free-living amoebae, including Acanthamoeba spp., which causes amoebic meningoencephalitis. This achievement marks the first time the presence of Acanthamoeba spp. has been confirmed in a human sample using an in-house developed kit. Previously, such samples had to be sent to national laboratories, causing delays in diagnosis and treatment. With this advancement, Kerala can now conduct its own confirmatory testing, enabling faster, more accurate diagnoses and improving the chances of effective treatment and survival.

India’s first Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant (PSP) has commenced operations at Tehri in the state of Uttarakhand. Developed by THDC India Ltd. under the Ministry of Power, this plant marks a significant advancement in energy storage and grid stability. The PSP operates by moving water between two reservoirs to store and generate electricity based on demand, offering a flexible and efficient solution for integrating renewable energy sources. This milestone not only supports energy sustainability but also strengthens the state's role in India’s growing power infrastructure.