Current Affairs - State

In 2005, approximately 50,000 Gond tribals were displaced from Chhattisgarh as part of a counter-insurgency measure called the ‘strategic hamleting’ programme, aimed at combating Maoist insurgents. This policy involved relocating the tribal population to roadside camps in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Despite playing a crucial role in security operations due to their local knowledge, these tribals have received no proper rehabilitation or recognition. The Chhattisgarh government has not processed their Forest Rights Act claims or advocated for their rights with the central government, making Chhattisgarh the state of origin for this significant and unresolved displacement.

The state of Andhra Pradesh has taken a landmark decision by approving a draft ordinance aimed at sub-categorising Scheduled Castes (SCs) to ensure a fairer distribution of reservation benefits. The initiative follows the principle of "reservation within reservation" and seeks to address the concerns of underrepresented SC communities like the Madigas, who have historically lagged behind more dominant groups such as the Malas in accessing quotas. Based on recommendations from a commission led by retired IAS officer Rajeev Ranjan Mishra and enabled by a supportive Supreme Court verdict, the ordinance reflects Andhra Pradesh's commitment to social equity and justice.

The Vizhinjam International Seaport is situated near Thiruvananthapuram in Kerala. This strategic location places the port close to international shipping routes, enhancing its potential as a major transhipment hub. Developed through a Public-Private Partnership between the Government of Kerala and Adani Ports, the port is India's first semi-automated deep-water container transhipment terminal. Its natural deep-water harbour allows for the docking of large cargo and container ships without extensive dredging, making it a significant addition to India's maritime infrastructure. The port is expected to boost regional trade with Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Africa, and contribute to job creation and economic growth in Kerala.

Telangana has taken a significant step towards strengthening its cyber defence capabilities by launching T-SHIELD, the state’s first cybersecurity hardware lab. Located at the Police Training College in Medchal, the lab is designed to boost digital policing efforts through advanced training in cyber defence, hardware forensics, and crime simulations. It will also serve as a hub for knowledge sharing by hosting faculty development programs, hackathons, and specialized courses tailored to equip law enforcement with the tools and skills necessary to address evolving cyber threats. This initiative positions Telangana as a frontrunner in cybersecurity preparedness at the state level.

Maharashtra signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IBM to drive AI-based transformation across government operations. The collaboration will leverage artificial intelligence, hybrid cloud, and data analytics to boost administrative efficiency and improve public service delivery. As part of this initiative, three AI Centres will be established in Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, where government employees and students will receive training in AI, cybersecurity, and cloud technologies. This partnership reflects Maharashtra's commitment to becoming a leader in tech-driven governance and equipping its workforce with essential digital skills for the future.