Current Affairs - State

Gujarat has taken a significant step in promoting entrepreneurship and mineral exploration by auctioning 25 major and 2,280 minor mineral blocks, and granting Letters of Intent to leaseholders. This initiative, part of the "Vikas Saptah" program and Entrepreneurship Day, aims to encourage competitive leasing through transparent auctions. Additionally, Gujarat has introduced an application-based system for minor mineral leases on private land under the Ease of Doing Business (EODB) initiative. This move is expected to boost the state's mineral sector and economy.

The Kerala Assembly passed a resolution urging the central government to withdraw the 2024 Waqf Amendment Bill, citing concerns over violations of federal principles and democratic values. The bill has been criticized for replacing elected Waqf board members with nominated officials, thereby undermining state rights. This resolution was supported unanimously by the assembly, led by Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, with Governor Arif Mohammed Khan overseeing the state. Kerala's opposition to the bill highlights concerns about the centralization of power and the erosion of local governance in Waqf matters.

Karnataka has set its sights on becoming the gaming and animation hub of Asia, as emphasized by IT Minister Priyank Kharge during the Indian Gaming Convention 2024. The state is taking significant steps towards this goal by establishing centres of excellence and organizing a government-sponsored eSports Olympics. With the theme "India—The Next Superpower in Gaming," the event reflects the rapid growth of India's gaming market, which has expanded by 28% between 2020 and 2023, driven by 42.5 crore gamers across the country.

Odisha took the top spot in the 'Best State' category at the 5th National Water Awards, 2023, announced by Union Minister of Jal Shakti Shri CR Paatil. Uttar Pradesh secured second place, while Gujarat and Puducherry jointly claimed third. This prestigious award recognizes outstanding efforts in water conservation and management across various categories, including states, districts, villages, and individuals. The National Water Awards aim to promote holistic water resource management and encourage exemplary work in achieving the government's vision of 'Jal Samridh Bharat'.

The Maharashtra government announced on October 14, 2024, that the Maharashtra State Skills Development University will be renamed the "Padma Vibhushan Ratan Tata Skills University" to honour the significant contributions of the late industrialist Ratan Tata to education and skill development. This decision reflects the state's recognition of Tata's philanthropic efforts and commitment to empowering youth, particularly in rural areas. The renaming also included other honours, such as a request for the Bharat Ratna Award and the renaming of the Udyog Ratna Award in his memory, showcasing Tata’s enduring legacy in India.