Current Affairs - State

Didymocarpus janakiae, a newly discovered plant species, was found in the sub-tropical forests of West Kameng district, Arunachal Pradesh, at an altitude of 2,300 meters above sea level. Named in honour of Dr. E. K. Janaki Ammal, an eminent Indian botanist, this species belongs to the genus Didymocarpus within the Gesneriaceae family. The discovery underscores Arunachal Pradesh's biodiversity richness and highlights the conservation challenges faced by rare plant species due to habitat degradation in the region.

Assam has introduced its inaugural Witness Protection Scheme under the approval of Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma. This initiative aims to protect witnesses from threats throughout legal proceedings, employing measures such as in-camera trials, security devices at homes, close protection, temporary relocation, and provision of government vehicles on hearing dates.

The bioplastic park initiative announced by the Uttar Pradesh government is located in Lakhimpur Kheri district. This ambitious project aims to promote the production and use of biodegradable plastics, addressing environmental concerns while fostering local economic growth. The park, spread across 1,000 hectares in Kumbhi village, Gola Gokarnnath tehsil, involves a significant investment and is developed as a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model by Balrampur Sugar Mills Firm, with support from the Uttar Pradesh government.

The Haryana government, under the leadership of CM Nayab Singh Saini, has decided to increase reservations for the Other Backward Classes (OBC) category in Group-A and Group-B posts from 15% to 27%. This decision aims to align with the Central government's policy and enhance opportunities for OBC youth in government jobs and educational institutions across the state. The announcement was made at the 'OBC Morcha Sarv Samaj Samrasta Sammelan' in Gurugram, emphasizing the state's commitment to welfare and inclusive growth.

The Madhya Pradesh government has approved the establishment of one PM College of Excellence in each district of the state, starting from July 1. This initiative aims to enhance educational opportunities and promote job-oriented courses across all 55 districts of Madhya Pradesh. Additionally, Madhya Pradesh recently initiated the country’s first helicopter pilot training school in Khajuraho, reflecting the state's commitment to advancing aviation education alongside traditional academic disciplines.