Current Affairs - State

India’s first Variable Speed Pumped Storage Plant (PSP) has commenced operations at Tehri in the state of Uttarakhand. Developed by THDC India Ltd. under the Ministry of Power, this plant marks a significant advancement in energy storage and grid stability. The PSP operates by moving water between two reservoirs to store and generate electricity based on demand, offering a flexible and efficient solution for integrating renewable energy sources. This milestone not only supports energy sustainability but also strengthens the state's role in India’s growing power infrastructure.

Khichan and Menar wetlands, located in Rajasthan, were recently added to the Ramsar List of Wetlands of International Importance, increasing India’s total number of Ramsar sites to 91. Khichan in Phalodi is known for attracting thousands of migratory Demoiselle Cranes and is a vital stopover along the Central Asian Flyway. Menar, near Udaipur, is famous as a “bird village” with over 150 bird species, including flamingos and pelicans. This designation highlights India’s commitment to conserving crucial ecosystems and promoting biodiversity through both government efforts and local community participation.

Bihar has initiated the export of green vegetables produced by its cooperative marketing federation, VEGFED, which operates similarly to the milk cooperative COMFED. The first consignment, weighing 1,500 kilograms, was shipped to Dubai via Varanasi. This marks a significant step in promoting agricultural exports from Bihar and expanding its market reach internationally. The next planned shipment is set for Singapore, showcasing Bihar’s growing role in the export of fresh produce and enhancing the cooperative movement in the state’s agricultural sector.

Uttar Pradesh approved a 20% horizontal reservation for ex-Agniveers in police recruitment, including positions like Constable, PAC, Mounted Constable, and Fireman. This decision, made on June 3, 2025, aims to facilitate the reintegration of youth trained under the Agneepath scheme into civil services, providing them with career opportunities after their four-year military tenure. The policy includes a 3-year age relaxation and applies within all existing reservation categories, reflecting the state government’s commitment to honouring the service of Agniveers and enhancing the police force with disciplined, trained personnel.

Telangana Formation Day, celebrated on June 2nd, marks the official formation of India’s 29th state in 2014. The day symbolizes the culmination of a long struggle for self-determination, regional identity, and administrative autonomy. The movement addressed regional disparities and cultural underrepresentation experienced by Telangana when it was merged with Andhra Pradesh in 1956. The state's creation was driven by a history of protests, including the Jai Telangana Movement and efforts by leaders like K. Chandrasekhar Rao. Telangana Formation Day honours resilience, cultural pride, and the quest for equitable development and governance.