Current Affairs - State

The Khavda Solar Energy Project is situated in Bhuj, Gujarat, where NTPC Green Energy Ltd has begun commercial supply of 49 MW as part of its broader 300 MW solar initiative. Earlier phases of 142.2 MW and 32.8 MW were also made operational in June 2025, highlighting steady progress in the project’s rollout. Gujarat has been a leading state in India’s renewable energy sector due to its favorable geography and policy support. This development underlines NTPC Green’s commitment to expanding its clean energy portfolio, aligning with India’s long-term renewable energy and sustainability goals.

The ‘Shramshree’ Scheme was launched by West Bengal to address the challenges faced by migrant workers returning from other states due to linguistic discrimination and harassment. Under the scheme, each eligible worker receives ₹5,000 per month for up to one year or until employment is secured. In addition, returnees are provided job cards, rural employment opportunities, skill development training, and financial assistance for self-employment. This initiative reflects West Bengal’s commitment to rehabilitating its workers by offering both immediate financial support and long-term livelihood solutions, ensuring their reintegration into the state’s economy.

Odisha has initiated efforts to promote Palmyra palm trees (Borassus flabellifer) as a natural safeguard against lightning strikes, given its high vulnerability to lightning-related deaths according to IMD and NCRB data. The tree, commonly found in tropical regions of South and Southeast Asia, is known for its resilience and tall structure, which helps in dispersing lightning safely, thereby reducing the risk to human life. While the Palmyra palm holds cultural significance in Tamil Nadu as its State Tree, Odisha’s move to expand its plantation highlights a strategic environmental and safety measure to protect vulnerable communities from natural hazards.

The Cabinet Committee on Economic Affairs has approved the Airports Authority of India’s proposal to develop a Greenfield Airport at Kota-Bundi in Rajasthan with an investment of ₹1,507 crore. Kota, widely recognised as the industrial capital of Rajasthan and a global hub for educational coaching, has seen rising demand for better transport infrastructure. The new airport will feature a modern terminal, a longer runway capable of handling larger aircraft like the A-321, and facilities to serve up to 2 million passengers annually. This project will strengthen connectivity, boost industrial and educational growth, generate employment, and accelerate regional economic development.

The Cabinet has approved the construction of a 6-lane access-controlled Capital Region Ring Road in Odisha at a cost of ₹8,307.74 crore. This project includes the Bhubaneswar Bypass, which is designed to divert heavy commercial traffic away from Cuttack, Bhubaneswar, and Khordha. By reducing congestion in these key urban areas, the road will significantly enhance freight movement efficiency and lower logistics costs. Furthermore, the project is expected to stimulate socio-economic growth across the region, improve connectivity, and create opportunities for trade and industry, making it a transformative step for Odisha’s infrastructure development.