Current Affairs - State

Researchers from the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI) discovered a new species of forest-dwelling horned frog in Arunachal Pradesh. Named Xenophrys apatani, after the Apatani community in the Lower Subansiri district, this discovery highlights the biodiversity richness of Arunachal Pradesh's Talle Wildlife Sanctuary. The findings contribute to understanding amphibian evolution in the Eastern Himalayas and Indo-Burma biodiversity hotspots, potentially guiding future conservation efforts in the region.

Maharashtra launched the 'Mukhyamantri Majhi Ladki Bahin' scheme, aimed at empowering women aged 21 to 60 with a monthly financial support of ₹1,500 starting from July 2024. Inspired by Madhya Pradesh's 'Ladli Behna' scheme, this initiative reflects the state government's commitment to enhancing women's welfare and development.

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.