Current Affairs - State

The 17th Urban Mobility India Conference and Expo was inaugurated by Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel in Gandhinagar, Gujarat. This three-day event focuses on the theme of "Standardization and Optimization" in urban transport. It showcases various initiatives aimed at promoting clean urban mobility, including the Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) in Ahmedabad, metro networks, and the implementation of electric and CNG buses through the Mukhyamantri Shaheri Bus Parivahan Yojana and the PM eBus Sewa Scheme. These initiatives are crucial for enhancing sustainable transportation in urban areas.

In a major push for rural infrastructure, the Chief Minister of Bihar, Nitish Kumar, inaugurated panchayat projects totalling Rs 7,160 crore. These projects include the construction of 2,615 panchayat buildings and a resource centre. Alongside the buildings, solar panel installations and street light projects are set to enhance energy access and infrastructure across Bihar’s villages. Additional resource centres and completed panchayat buildings further emphasize the state’s commitment to rural development and modernization.

Andhra Pradesh, led by Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu, aims to counter its declining fertility rate of 1.70, which is below the national average. The proposed law would incentivize having more children, with Naidu suggesting only candidates with two or more children be allowed to contest local body elections. This move addresses concerns about the state's ageing population and potential labour shortages. Southern states, including Andhra Pradesh, face significant demographic challenges due to low fertility rates.

The Odisha government has taken a significant step towards supporting women's health and well-being by introducing one day of paid menstrual leave per month. This policy provides women employees with 12 additional casual leave days annually, bringing their total to 27 days. Announced by Deputy CM Pravati Parida on Independence Day, this initiative aims to promote inclusivity and support women in the workforce. This move demonstrates Odisha's commitment to addressing the needs of its female employees and setting a positive example for other states to follow.

Assam launched Mission Basundhara 3.0, an initiative aimed at empowering indigenous communities by providing them with formal land rights. The launch event took place at Srimanta Sankardev Kalakshetra in Guwahati, presided over by Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative is part of a broader commitment by the Assam government to secure land rights for indigenous populations, following the success of earlier missions that had already benefited many individuals. The mission reflects the state's dedication to enhancing security and recognition of indigenous land holdings after 75 years of independence.