Current Affairs - State

The Deepam 2.0 scheme was launched by Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister Chandrababu Naidu in Edupuram, Srikakulam, to empower women by providing clean cooking energy and improving living conditions. This initiative builds upon the Deepam 1.0 scheme, which provided LPG connections and subsidies, and offers three free gas cylinders annually. The scheme aims to reduce financial burdens, promote cleaner cooking methods, and enhance the quality of life for women and their families, aligning with Naidu's 'Super 6' election promises focused on women's empowerment.

The Assam Police has received recognition from the Ministry of Home Affairs for its exceptional work in anti-terror and criminal operations. Five personnel, including Inspector General of Police Partha Sarathi Mahanta, were awarded for their distinguished service. Other recipients included ASP Kalyan Kumar Pathak, Lance Naik Hemanta Kachari, Constable Rajkumar Kaibartta, Additional SP Subrata Kumar Sen, and Officer-in-Charge Amrit Kumar Singha. These awards acknowledge the dedication and bravery of Assam Police personnel in maintaining law and order and combating terrorism, showcasing their commitment to public safety.

The Durgesh Aranya Zoological Park, located in the Bankhandi area of Kangra's Dehra assembly constituency, is situated in Himachal Pradesh. Announced by Chief Minister Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu, this zoo is set to become the first in India to receive certification from the Indian Green Building Council (IGBC). This milestone highlights the park's commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices in its infrastructure. The certification aims to recognize the zoo’s structural design and landscape planning, positioning it as a model for conservation efforts and sustainable tourism in the region, enhancing its appeal as a tourist destination.

Odisha's Similipal Tiger Reserve has undertaken a significant conservation effort by translocating a tigress named Jamuna from Maharashtra's Tadoba Andhari Tiger Reserve. This initiative aims to enhance genetic diversity within Similipal's tiger population, addressing concerns about inbreeding due to the reserve's small population. Notably, Similipal is home to the rare pseudo-melanistic or "black" tigers, with 13 out of 24 adult tigers exhibiting this unique characteristic. The translocation, approved by the National Tiger Conservation Authority, marks a crucial step in preserving the genetic health and diversity of Odisha's tiger population.

Rajasthan has launched the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024 to attract private investment and stimulate economic growth. This initiative offers enhanced financial incentives across various sectors, building upon the previous RIPS 2022. The scheme's introduction precedes the 'Rising Rajasthan' Global Investment Summit 2024, scheduled to take place in Jaipur from December 9 to 11, aiming to draw domestic and international investors. The RIPS 2024 includes benefits for renewable energy projects, such as solar captive power plants, and targets sectors like Aero & Space, Defence, and Agri-Tech. This strategic move positions Rajasthan as a competitive hub for industries and fosters balanced economic development.