Current Affairs - State

India’s first CO2-to-Methanol pilot plant, with a capacity of 1.4 Tons Per Day (TPD), is being established in Pune, Maharashtra. This pioneering project is designed to demonstrate CO2 capture and utilization technologies, crucial for India's journey towards net-zero carbon emissions. The collaboration between IIT Delhi and Thermax Ltd. aims to develop innovative solutions to convert CO2 emissions from diverse industrial sources into methanol. Supported by the Department of Science and Technology, this initiative aligns with India's broader goals of energy self-reliance and sustainable development.

The Rs 530 crore water supply project launched by Tripura's Chief Minister Manik Saha aims to enhance drinking water infrastructure across 12 cities in Tripura. Funded by the Asian Development Bank (ADB), this initiative will benefit over 75,000 families and includes the construction of deep tubewells, water treatment plants, reservoirs, and the laying of 305 km of pipelines. The project highlights the government's commitment to improving essential services and ensuring access to clean drinking water for its citizens, with a completion target set for three years.

The rainwater harvesting project in Kerala uncovered a significant number of megalithic urn burials on Kundlikkad hill. This discovery is noteworthy as it reveals burial practices dating back over 2,500 years, including unique urn characteristics and organized burial construction techniques. The findings, which include various pottery styles and evidence of chisel marks on rocks, provide valuable insights into the region's historical links between the Mesolithic and Iron Age periods. This combination of remains is considered unusual, making the discovery crucial for understanding Kerala's ancient cultural practices.

At the 4th Global Renewable Energy Investors Meet, Gujarat stood out by winning the highest number of awards, showcasing its leadership in renewable energy and wind power capacities. The state also ranked second in solar power capacity, highlighting its significant contributions to the renewable energy sector. Other states like Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu, and Karnataka received fewer awards, emphasizing Gujarat's dominant position in advancing sustainable energy solutions. This achievement reflects the effective policies and initiatives implemented by Gujarat's government to promote renewable energy development.

The 4th RE-INVEST Summit was held in Gandhinagar, Gujarat, marking a significant milestone in India's renewable energy journey. The prime minister's inauguration highlighted India's commitment to a green future, as it is the first G-20 nation to meet its Paris climate goals. The summit showcased innovations in renewable energy, including the PM Surya Ghar Muft Bijli Yojana, aimed at making every home a power producer. Gujarat's hosting of this event underscores India's priority for accelerating the clean energy sector and advancing climate goals.