Current Affairs - State

Tamil Nadu has taken a significant step in addressing snakebite envenomation by declaring it a notifiable disease under the Tamil Nadu Public Health Act, of 1939. This move enables healthcare authorities to track and monitor snakebite cases more effectively, ultimately enhancing prevention and treatment efforts. The World Health Organization (WHO) has also launched initiatives to combat snakebite envenoming globally, aiming to reduce mortality and morbidity by half by 2030. India has similarly implemented national plans to tackle snakebite hazards, demonstrating concerted efforts to address this critical health concern.

The Andhra Pradesh model of natural farming has been recognized by the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) for its potential to double employment opportunities for farmers and increase their incomes. Natural farming, a chemical-free method promoting traditional indigenous practices, aims to make farming aspirational by rejuvenating soil health and increasing net incomes. The FAO's 'AgroEco2050' initiative suggests that adopting natural farming can provide sustainable and economic benefits to agriculture in Andhra Pradesh, offering lessons for other regions to follow.

Gujarat's Dinosaur Fossil Park and Museum, located in Raiyoli village, is being advocated for a UNESCO Global Geoparks tag, recognizing its significance as a geological heritage site. The park boasts an impressive collection of dinosaur fossils, one of the largest in the world. Gujarat, along with Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra, is renowned for its rich dinosaur fossil deposits, including skeletons and eggs, shedding light on India's prehistoric past. A UNESCO designation would enhance scientific research, education, and tourism in the region.

Himachal Pradesh's Chief Minister, Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, has introduced the 'Come and Install Solar Power Projects' initiative to boost solar energy production in the state. The program allocates 300 MW of solar power to the private sector, with 62 MW already operational and 32 MW established in the government sector. This effort aims to increase employment opportunities, promote economic growth, and make Himachal Pradesh a 'Green Energy State' by March 31, 2026. The state plans to tap into solar energy resources, setting an ambitious target of initiating new solar energy projects with a combined capacity of 500 MW in the fiscal year 2023-24.

The Hynniewtrep National Liberation Council (HNLC) is a militant organization operating primarily in Meghalaya, India, aiming to free the state from alleged domination by outsiders. The group was banned again by the Union Home Ministry for five years due to its activities against India's sovereignty and integrity. Meghalaya's government recommended the ban under the UAPA Act, citing HNLC's secessionist goals and extortion activities. The group has been linked to other secessionist organizations in North-East India and has carried out terror activities in Shillong, Meghalaya's capital.