Current Affairs - State

The "Mahabharat Vatika" was established in Uttarakhand by the Forest Department in Haldwani. Featuring 37 plant species mentioned in the Mahabharata, such as Peepal, Bargad, and Harsringar, the initiative connects religious traditions with environmental conservation. It draws inspiration from the Van Parva, which emphasizes the significance of forests and wildlife. This conservation effort follows the establishment of a similar "Ramayan Vatika" in 2024, showcasing plants from the Valmiki Ramayana.

The glass sea bridge, a 77-meter-long and 10-meter-wide structure, connects the Tiruvalluvar Statue and Vivekananda Rock Memorial in Kanniyakumari, Tamil Nadu. It was inaugurated by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin during the 25th-anniversary celebrations of the Tiruvalluvar Statue. This innovative bridge provides safe access between the two landmarks, addressing previous transportation challenges caused by rough seas. The project, worth ₹37 crore, showcases Tamil Nadu's commitment to innovative infrastructure development and tourism growth.

The Haryana government has raised the DCRG limit for state employees by 25%, enhancing financial security for employees and their families. The new gratuity limit is ₹25 lakh, up from ₹20 lakh, effective January 1, 2025. This decision reflects the government's commitment to improving employee welfare, with judicial officers also benefiting from the revised limit.

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.