Current Affairs - State

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.

Haryana has pioneered the implementation of sub-quotas for Dalits, introducing a subclassification within the Scheduled Caste (SC) category. The state will divide the 20% SC quota into two equal parts: Deprived Scheduled Castes (DSC) and Other Scheduled Castes (OSC). This move aims to address disparities in employment opportunities and the under representation of DSC in government jobs, as highlighted by empirical data. The decision aligns with a Supreme Court ruling and demonstrates Haryana's commitment to promoting social equity and inclusive governance. This initiative may set a precedent for other states to follow.

Bihar has taken a significant step in boosting its logistics infrastructure with the inauguration of its first Dry Port and Inland Container Depot (ICD) in Bihta, near Patna. This facility will provide efficient warehousing, customs clearance, and multi-modal transport services, streamlining import and export operations for businesses in Bihar. Strategically located, the ICD is well-connected by rail to major ports such as Kolkata, Haldia, Visakhapatnam, and Mundra. This development is expected to enhance trade facilitation, reduce transportation costs, and promote economic growth in the region. Bihar's logistics landscape is poised for significant transformation.

The Zeilad Wildlife Sanctuary is situated in the West Manipur Hills, characterized by its unique landscape of five lakes amidst tropical rainforests and hilly terrain within the Barak River basin. This ecologically sensitive area has become a focal point of controversy due to proposed oil exploration plans. Environmentalists and local groups, including the Naga citizens group, have expressed strong opposition to the project, citing concerns about potential harm to the sanctuary's fragile ecosystem and biodiversity. Manipur's rich natural heritage is reflected in this sanctuary, underscoring the need for sustainable conservation efforts.

Vedanta has announced an investment of over ₹1 lakh crore in Rajasthan, targeting sectors such as zinc, oil and gas, and renewable energy. Hindustan Zinc will contribute ₹30,000 crore to double its zinc production capacity and build a fertilizer plant, while Cairn Oil & Gas will invest ₹35,000 crore to boost oil and gas production. This investment is expected to generate around 200,000 jobs and foster the growth of over 500 downstream industries, marking a significant boost to the state's economy.