Current Affairs - State

The West Bengal government introduced the 'Rattirer Shaathi-Helpers of Night' program aimed at safeguarding women medical professionals on night shifts. This initiative follows the tragic RG Kar incident, where a 31-year-old doctor was brutally murdered. The program's launch came amidst calls for Mamata Banerjee's resignation and demands for immediate safety measures, reflecting a crisis of governance in Bengal. It is considered a damage control effort by the TMC-led government in West Bengal.

The Union government has sanctioned the Swargate to Katraj underground metro expansion in Pune. This 5.46 km Line-l B underground metro extension includes three stations, aiming for completion by February 2029, with an estimated cost of Rs. 2,954.53 crore. The project is anticipated to serve a projected average daily ridership of 95,000 commuters by 2027, with significant improvements in connectivity and reduction of road traffic congestion. Executed by Maha-Metro, this extension will connect various transport modes, residential areas, and business hubs, including the Rajiv Gandhi Zoological Park and other key points like Shivajinagar and the Pune International Airport, enhancing the city's metro infrastructure.

Artisans of Jangareddygudem in Andhra Pradesh have perfected the art of crafting Panchaloha idols, traditional Hindu sculptures made from a blend of metals. These idols, often used for worship, symbolize prosperity and are now marketed in various states, including Telangana. The skill of creating these idols passed down through generations, has provided a livelihood for these artists, who have evolved from making copper items to intricate idols and arches for temples.

The Uttar Pradesh government has unveiled the "Chief Minister Bal Seva Yojana," providing Rs 2500 monthly to destitute children whose parents have passed away. This scheme, aimed at destitute children, ensures support for their education and nutrition. To qualify, children need to submit a death certificate, Aadhar and bank documents, with enrolment in school as a condition. The Yojana is part of the government's efforts to address the needs of children left without parental support and improve their overall well-being.

The Union Cabinet approved three metro rail projects worth Rs 30,765 crore on Friday, including two corridors of Bangalore Metro Rail Project Phase-3 (BMRP) worth Rs 15,611 crore, set to be operational by 2029, and the Swargate-to-Katraj Underground Line Extension of the existing PCMC-Swargate Metro Line of the Pune Metro Phase-I project worth Rs 12,200 crore operational by 2029. Additionally, the Thane Integral Ring Metro Rail Project Corridor was approved with an estimated cost of Rs 12,200 crore to be funded by various sources, including the Government of India, Maharashtra, and private investments. This development aims to enhance urban connectivity, reduce traffic congestion, and promote economic growth in Karnataka and Maharashtra, addressing the need for efficient and reliable public transportation systems in these regions.