Current Affairs - State

Puducherry led the nation with 53.03% women electors in the 2024 Lok Sabha Elections, making it the state/UT with the highest percentage of women electors. This significant milestone highlights the territory's efforts towards promoting inclusivity and gender equality in the electoral process. The achievement is particularly notable, considering the overall increase in female electors and their participation in the elections.

Gujarat Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel launched the SWAR (Speech and Written Analysis Resource) platform on December 25, aiming to improve accessibility and overcome language barriers for citizens. Developed with the Bhashini Team, the platform integrates AI-driven Speech-to-Text technology, enabling users to communicate effectively without typing. This initiative aligns with Gujarat's efforts to enhance inclusivity and ease of living by making government services more accessible to all.

The 1924 Belgaum Congress session, chaired by Mahatma Gandhi, was held in Belgaum, located in present-day Karnataka. This was the only session presided over by Gandhi, where he emphasized combating untouchability, promoting khadi, and fostering Hindu-Muslim unity. The event is celebrated for its focus on both political independence and social reform, leaving a lasting legacy, including infrastructure like the Pampa Sarovara well. The centenary celebration highlights its historical and cultural significance in India's freedom movement.

Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL) is planning to invest $11 billion in a new refinery and petrochemical project in Andhra Pradesh. The project will include a 9 million metric ton per year refinery and an ethylene cracker, with a petrochemical intensity of 35%. BPCL has already initiated pre-project work, including land acquisition, for this large-scale development in southern Andhra Pradesh.

Queen’s University Belfast and Coventry University have received approval to establish campuses at Gujarat’s GIFT City. This decision aligns with the relaxed regulations introduced by the International Financial Services Authority (IFSCA) in 2022, which allow foreign universities to set up campuses in India. This initiative follows a trend started by Australian institutions and marks a significant step in the expansion of global educational institutions within India, especially at GIFT City, Gujarat.