Current Affairs - State

The Government of India has approved 47 ethanol projects in Bihar for interest subvention on bank loans to establish or expand distilleries. Currently, Bihar operates 22 ethanol distilleries, including molasses-based and grain-based units. This initiative supports the Ethanol Blended Petrol Program, which aims to achieve a 20% ethanol blending target with petrol by 2025-26, promoting sustainable energy and reducing dependency on fossil fuels.

The Central government and the Asian Development Bank (ADB) have signed a $42 million loan agreement aimed at strengthening coastal and riverbank protection in Maharashtra. This initiative is designed to enhance the resilience of coastal communities against coastal erosion, flooding, and climate change. The project includes hybrid approaches like offshore reefs, rock protection works, and nature-based solutions such as beach and dune nourishment. It also focuses on boosting local sectors such as tourism and fisheries, vital for the state's economy, and incorporates advanced technologies for better shoreline management.

Masali, located in Gujarat’s Banaskantha district, is India’s first border solar village. Situated just 40 kilometres from the Pakistan border, the village has achieved the remarkable feat of generating 100% of its electricity through solar power. The project involved installing solar panels on 199 rooftops, making it a key part of India’s renewable energy and rural electrification efforts. The initiative is aligned with the larger Border Development Project, which aims to provide sustainable energy to multiple border villages across the country.

The "Banglar Bari" housing scheme was launched by West Bengal CM Mamata Banerjee at the Nabanna Secretariat. This state-funded initiative aims to provide affordable housing to the rural population, with an estimated cost of ₹14,773 crore. The first instalment of ₹60,000 was distributed to 42 beneficiaries from 21 districts, emphasizing the government's commitment to improving rural living conditions through direct financial assistance.

NTPC announced plans to establish a nuclear power project in Bihar, as revealed by CMD Gurdeep Singh at the 'Bihar Business Connect 2024' summit. This initiative will be carried out under the ASHVINI joint venture, where NPCIL holds a 51% stake, and NTPC holds 49%. NTPC, with an installed capacity of 76,531 MW spanning thermal, solar, and wind energy, is expanding into nuclear energy, marking a significant milestone in its diversification and contribution to India’s energy sector.