Current Affairs - State

UNESCO has recognized West Bengal as a leading destination for heritage tourism due to the state's significant growth in religious, heritage, and tea tourism. The state has worked on enhancing iconic religious sites like the Dakshineshwar and Kalighat temples, along with developing infrastructure such as homestays and tourist facilities, which have boosted employment opportunities for local youth. These efforts have made West Bengal an important player in India's tourism industry while fostering local economic growth and cultural preservation.

The West Bengal cabinet has approved the appointment of at least one legal advisor for each subdivision to enhance the legal support system. These advisors will provide crucial assistance to the police in legal matters, aiming to improve the overall effectiveness of law enforcement in the state. This initiative underscores West Bengal’s commitment to strengthening governance and law enforcement frameworks across its subdivisions.

Telangana has become the 14th state to participate in India’s mineral auction regime, with the auction of two limestone blocks at Sultanpur and Saidulnama in November. These limestone blocks were auctioned to NCL Industries and Deccan Cement, marking the state’s entry into the Centre’s auction system. This initiative is aimed at boosting mineral production, particularly to meet the growing demands of industries like cement manufacturing. Telangana’s involvement in this regime highlights its commitment to enhancing its mining sector.

'Mission Arun Himveer' was launched by the Government of Arunachal Pradesh to strengthen market linkages for agricultural and horticultural producers. The initiative involves a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the Arunachal Pradesh Agriculture Marketing Board (APAMB) and the Indo-Tibetan Border Police (ITBP). Aimed at fostering rural economic growth and supporting the Vibrant Village Programme, it ensures direct market access for farmers, self-help groups, and cooperatives while addressing employment challenges in border regions.

In FY25, Maharashtra led the allocation for women-centric welfare schemes, dedicating $5.4 billion, which is 1.1% of its GDP. These schemes, which include cash transfers and empowerment programs, have become significant political tools. Maharashtra's schemes, such as the "Ladki Bahin Yojana," have played a crucial role in attracting women voters and contributing to the success of the BJP-led coalition. Maharashtra's focus on women-centric welfare is reflected in its substantial financial commitment to these initiatives, setting it apart from other states in terms of allocation.