Current Affairs - State

Maharashtra was allocated a record ₹23,778 crore for railway projects in the 2025-26 Budget, marking a significant investment in the state’s railway infrastructure. With ongoing railway projects valued at ₹1.7 lakh crore, Maharashtra is set to witness major developments, including 132 new railway stations under the Amrit Stations Scheme. The tripartite agreement between the state, Centre, and RBI further ensures smooth funding for these projects. Additionally, the state has seen extensive railway expansion, with 2,105 km of new tracks laid since 2014, enhancing connectivity and economic growth.

The saffron reedtail damselfly (Indosticta deccanensis) was discovered in Madhugundi, Chikkamagaluru, Karnataka, marking its first recorded presence in the northern Western Ghats. This species belongs to the Platystictidae family and thrives in undisturbed forest streams, serving as an indicator of a healthy ecosystem. The discovery expands the known range of the species and underscores the ecological importance of Karnataka’s Western Ghats, a biodiversity hotspot. Conservation of such pristine habitats is essential for preserving unique and lesser-known species like the saffron reedtail damselfly.

As part of the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, the government has announced various initiatives to support farmers and improve agricultural productivity. One of the key developments under this scheme is the establishment of a new urea plant in Assam. This initiative aims to enhance the availability of fertilizers for farmers, thereby improving crop yields and overall agricultural output. Additionally, the government is setting up a Makhana Board in Bihar to support makhana producers. These efforts collectively contribute to rural development and aim to reduce migration by creating better livelihood opportunities in the agricultural sector.

Solan district is located in Himachal Pradesh and lies in two distinct agro-climatic zones—sub-tropical low hills and sub-temperate mid hills. These zones influence the region's agricultural practices, which currently rely on hybrid seeds, synthetic fertilizers, and pesticides. However, these methods contribute to environmental degradation and increased production costs. The state is now transitioning to natural farming, focusing on sustainability, climate resilience, and improving soil health, with practices like Jeevamrit and mulching.

The Assam government has decided to denotify three proposed reserve forests in Tinsukia district—Talpathar, Mohongpathar, and Duarmarah—to provide land rights to over 20,000 residents. These areas will now be converted into revenue villages, ensuring legal land ownership for the inhabitants. Alongside this decision, Assam has also announced a Rs 600 crore grant for 25,000 places of worship and introduced new policies to support startups and defence manufacturing. This move reflects the state’s commitment to balancing environmental conservation with social and economic development.