Current Affairs - State

Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar has inaugurated a significant Rs 1,347 crore water supply project aimed at providing drinking water from the Sone River to Aurangabad, Dehri, and Sasaram. This project is expected to be completed in two years. Alongside this, Kumar has also launched several other projects, including a state industrial training institute and tech labs, and has allocated funds to various self-help groups. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to improving infrastructure and public services.

The West Bengal Assembly passed the groundbreaking Aparajita Woman and Child Bill, making significant amendments to central laws related to rape and sexual crimes. This bill introduces severe penalties, including the death penalty for rape cases that result in death or leave the victim in a vegetative state. Additionally, it mandates life imprisonment without the possibility of parole for other rape convictions. West Bengal is the first state in India to take such a decisive step in amending central laws concerning rape, gang rape, and sexual crimes against children, setting a precedent for others to follow.

Uttar Pradesh, under the leadership of Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, aims to establish itself as a technological powerhouse by investing $4 billion in developing global technology hubs. The five selected cities - Noida, Lucknow, Kanpur, Varanasi, and Prayagraj - will specialize in various areas such as IT, AI, drones, robotics, and Engineering Research and Development (ER&D), positioning Uttar Pradesh as a key player in India's technological growth.

Tamil Nadu is set to host the first Formula 4 car race in South Asia, featuring a new racing circuit and global participation. The event is being organized by the Indian Racing League and the Tamil Nadu government at the newly built Tamil Nadu Formula Racing Circuit in Chennai. This marks a significant milestone in Indian motorsport, with the International Automobile Federation (FIA) ensuring the circuit meets global standards. The race promises to bring excitement and showcase Tamil Nadu's capabilities in hosting international events.

Kerala Tourism has been recognized with the prestigious PATA Gold Award 2024 in Digital Marketing for its innovative "Holiday Heist" online contest. This award acknowledges Kerala's efforts in leveraging digital platforms to promote tourism and engage with potential visitors. The contest's success demonstrates Kerala's commitment to embracing digital marketing strategies to enhance its tourism industry, making it a standout destination in India's tourism landscape.