Current Affairs - State

Karnataka has taken a landmark step in tobacco regulation by passing the COTPA (Karnataka Amendment) Act, 2024. The law increases the minimum legal age to purchase tobacco from 18 to 21 and introduces a complete ban on hookah bars, including those operating in cafes, pubs, and restaurants. The amendments also enforce stricter penalties for violations, such as public smoking and spitting, and prohibit the sale of loose cigarettes. These reforms aim to reduce tobacco consumption, particularly among youth, and enhance public health safety. The Karnataka High Court upheld these measures under Article 47 of the Constitution, reinforcing the state's commitment to health-focused governance.

Telangana became India’s 28th state on June 2, 2014, after separating from Andhra Pradesh. The day is celebrated as Telangana Formation Day to honour the people's efforts in creating a distinct state. Historically, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh were merged into one Telugu-speaking state on November 1, 1956, before Telangana gained separate statehood. The formation day is commemorated with grand events in various locations, such as Gun Park in Nampally and Parade Grounds in Secunderabad, reflecting the cultural and political significance of the region’s establishment.

Sikkim has urged the Union Government to limit mountaineering activities on Mt. Khangchendzonga because the peak holds deep religious importance for the indigenous communities, especially the Lepcha people. Mt. Khangchendzonga, India’s highest peak and the world’s third-highest, is considered sacred as the abode of the guardian deity Dzoe-Nga, revered by local faiths. While climbing is prohibited on the Sikkim side to respect these beliefs, it remains allowed from the Nepal side. This move highlights the intersection of cultural preservation and environmental management in the region.

Goa was declared fully literate under the ULLAS – Nav Bharat Saaksharta Karyakram (New India Literacy Programme) on its 39th Statehood Day, celebrated on May 30, 2025. This achievement made Goa the second Indian state to surpass the nationally prescribed 95% literacy benchmark. The success was driven by a Whole-of-Government approach, involving various state departments working collaboratively to identify and educate non-literate individuals. The official declaration was made by Chief Minister Dr. Pramod Sawant in the presence of top officials and citizens at a grand event in Panaji, marking a significant milestone in India’s literacy movement.

The ‘Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan’ was launched from Sakhigopal in the Puri district of Odisha by the Union Agriculture and Farmers Welfare Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan. This initiative aims to bridge the gap between agricultural research and practical farming through active collaboration between scientists and farmers. Experts from institutions like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Krishi Vigyan Kendras will participate to ensure that innovations reach the grassroots. By starting the campaign in Odisha, the government highlights the state's role in pioneering efforts to promote sustainable and informed agricultural practices.