Current Affairs - State

Madhya Pradesh has recorded the highest vulture population in India, with 12,981 vultures counted in the first phase of the 2025 census. This is a significant increase from 10,845 in 2024 and 8,397 in 2019. The state conducts systematic vulture censuses and has been actively working on conservation efforts since 2016. These efforts, including the banning of harmful veterinary drugs and the protection of habitats, have helped in the gradual recovery of the vulture population. The state is home to seven out of nine vulture species found in India, making it a key location for vulture conservation.

Madhya Pradesh has recently become the state with its 8th operational airport, following the approval of Datia Airport by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). This airport, categorized as a public aerodrome under the 3C/VFR category, is now eligible for commercial operations. With its 118-acre area and facilities like a runway of 1,810 meters and a terminal building, the airport is set to improve air connectivity in the state. Chief Minister Mohan Yadav expressed gratitude for the development, which is expected to benefit both local and national travellers.

Haryana launched a witness protection scheme aimed at ensuring the safety of witnesses involved in cases with severe punishments such as death, life imprisonment, or sentences of seven years and above. The scheme categorizes witnesses into three threat levels and provides various protection measures, including identity change, relocation, and in-camera trials. To oversee the implementation, a district-level Witness Protection Cell, led by police officials, has been established. This initiative underscores Haryana's commitment to protecting witnesses and ensuring fair justice.

The Soil Health Card (SHC) scheme was launched on 19th February 2015 at Suratgarh, Rajasthan, marking the beginning of a nationally coordinated effort to improve soil health and address soil degradation. The scheme helps farmers by providing soil health information and recommendations for nutrient application. It is part of a broader initiative that includes soil testing and educational programs, contributing significantly to agricultural sustainability and improved crop yields across India. Rajasthan was the place where this important scheme was first introduced.

Assam has included Bathouism, the traditional faith of the Bodos, as an official religion option in various application forms, such as admissions and birth & death certificates. This move aims to preserve the indigenous faiths and distinct identity of the Bodo community, the largest plains tribe in Assam. The Bathouism faith centres around nature worship and reverence for ancestral traditions. This recognition reinforces the cultural roots of the Bodo community and promotes religious inclusivity, aligning with broader efforts to preserve nature-based indigenous beliefs in India.