Current Affairs - State

The Andhra Pradesh government launched 'Mana Mitra', India’s first WhatsApp-based governance platform. This initiative offers 161 civil services, aiming to make government services more accessible to citizens. With the platform, residents can easily access public services directly through WhatsApp, making it a significant step in digital governance. The platform is developed in collaboration with Meta and is set to expand with additional services in the future, further improving the accessibility of government services in the state.

Maharashtra was allocated a record ₹23,778 crore for railway projects in the 2025-26 Budget, marking a significant investment in the state’s railway infrastructure. With ongoing railway projects valued at ₹1.7 lakh crore, Maharashtra is set to witness major developments, including 132 new railway stations under the Amrit Stations Scheme. The tripartite agreement between the state, Centre, and RBI further ensures smooth funding for these projects. Additionally, the state has seen extensive railway expansion, with 2,105 km of new tracks laid since 2014, enhancing connectivity and economic growth.

The saffron reedtail damselfly (Indosticta deccanensis) was discovered in Madhugundi, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, marking its first recorded presence in the northern Western Ghats. This species belongs to the Platystictidae family and thrives in undisturbed forest streams, serving as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem. The discovery expands the known range of the species and underscores the ecological importance of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. Conservation of such pristine habitats is essential for preserving unique and lesser-known species like the saffron reedtail damselfly.

As part of the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, the government has announced various initiatives to support farmers and improve agricultural productivity. One of the key developments under this scheme is the establishment of a new urea plant in Assam. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of fertilizers for farmers, thereby improving crop yields and overall agricultural output. Additionally, the government is setting up a Makhana Board in Bihar to support makhana producers. These efforts collectively contribute to rural development and aim to reduce migration by creating better livelihood opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Solan district is located in Himachal Pradesh and lies in two distinct agro-climatic zones—sub-tropical low hills and sub-temperate mid hills. These zones influence the region's agricultural practices, which currently rely on hybrid seeds, synthetic fertilizers, and pesticides. However, these methods contribute to environmental degradation and increased production costs. The state is now transitioning to natural farming, focusing on sustainability, climate resilience, and improving soil health, with practices like Jeevamrit and mulching.