1. India Hosts 6th EAS Conference on Maritime Security Cooperation in Mumbai
Tags: Summits State News
The 6th East Asia Summit (EAS) Conference on Maritime Security Cooperation was held in Mumbai, Maharashtra from 4th to 5th July 2024.
An Overview of the News
The conference was organized by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India (GoI).
Partnered with the Governments of Australia and Indonesia.
The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations)-India Centre (AIC) at Research and Information System for Developing Countries (RIS) and the National Maritime Foundation (NMF) collaborated as Knowledge Partners.
Key Highlights:
The conference showcased India’s commitment to strengthening ASEAN-led EAS mechanisms.
Supported the EAS Plan of Action 2024-2028.
Thematic Sessions:
Indo-Pacific Oceans Initiative (IPOI) and ASEAN Outlook on the Indo-Pacific (AOIP).
Regional Maritime Domain Awareness.
Combating illicit maritime activity, anti-piracy, and Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Maritime Connectivity.
Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) and Search and Rescue (SAR).
EAS Overview:
EAS is the only leader-led forum for strategic dialogue in the Indo-Pacific region.
Leaders from 18 countries meet to discuss political, security, and economic challenges.
About Maharashtra
It is a state located in the western part of India and covers a significant part of the Deccan Plateau
Chief Minister - Eknath Shinde
Governor - Ramesh Bais
Official Animal - Indian giant squirrel
Official Bird - Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Official Dance - Lavani
Additional Information:- |
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2. Karnataka Launches 'Digital Nagarik & AR-VR Skills'
Tags: State News
Karnataka minister for Information Technology (IT) and Biotechnology (BT), Priyank Kharge, has introduced the 'Digital Nagarik and Augmented Reality / Virtual Reality (AR-VR) Skills' Programmes in Bengaluru, Karnataka.
An Overview of the News
The programme was launched in partnership with Meta Platforms Inc. (formerly Facebook).
Objective: To train over 1 lakh teachers and 10 lakh students across Karnataka in digital safety and AR-VR by 2025.
The programme will train 10 lakh students aged 18 to 24 from various schools, Pre-University (PU) colleges, and universities in Karnataka in digital safety and AR-VR skills.
Programme Features:
Workshops, seminars, and hands-on activities focused on digital safety and AR-VR skills.
Conducted in both Kannada and English.
Innovative Approach:
For the first time, the initiative will cover 100 colleges and universities across Karnataka.
Students will serve as master trainers to promote peer learning.
Partnership:
Karnataka is the first state in India to partner with Meta Platforms Inc. for this initiative, which began with a two-year agreement in December 2023 to enhance digital education and online safety for students.
About Karnataka
Capital:- Bengaluru (Executive Branch)
Chief minister:- Siddaramaiah
Governor:- Thawar Chand Gehlot
Bird:- Indian roller
Additional Information:- |
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3. Rajasthan Pioneers India's First 10-Year Road Safety Action Plan
Tags: State News
Rajasthan aims to pioneer India's first ten-year action plan focused on enhancing road safety.
An Overview of the News
Deputy Chief Minister Prem Chand Bairwa announced the plan's goal: a 50% reduction in traffic accidents by 2030.
The plan is part of the BJP government's 100-day agenda, overseen by the road safety cell within the Transport Department.
It includes detailed action plans and robust government policies to raise awareness and promote adherence to road safety measures.
The initiative involves collaboration with the World Bank to enhance and expand Rajasthan's road safety infrastructure.
This partnership aims to develop policies that blend global best practices with local needs, ensuring effectiveness and cultural relevance.
Implementation Strategy:
Phase 1 (2025–2027): Focus on addressing basic road safety issues such as speed limits and traffic signals.
Phase 2 (2027–2030): Enhance safety behaviors including seatbelt and helmet usage.
Phase 3 (2030–2033): Implement advanced measures like safer pedestrian areas and improved infrastructure.
Stakeholder Coordination:
Various departments including Transport, Public Works, Police, Medical & Health, and Forest are collaborating closely to ensure seamless execution of the action plan.
Regular strategic review meetings are conducted to monitor progress and address challenges.
Impact and Future Prospects:
Rajasthan aims not only to reduce accidents but also to serve as a model for other Indian states in enhancing road safety measures.
The initiative is supported by international partnerships to leverage global expertise in road safety management.
About Rajasthan
Rajasthan, a state in northern India, is the largest by area and the seventh largest by population.
It shares borders with five states: Punjab (north), Haryana and Uttar Pradesh (northeast), Madhya Pradesh (southeast), and Gujarat (southwest).
The state hosts three national tiger reserves: Ranthambore National Park (Sawai Madhopur), Sariska Tiger Reserve (Alwar), and Mukundara Hills Tiger Reserve (Kota).
Formation - 30 March 1949
Capital- Jaipur
Districts - 33 (7 divisions)
Governor - Kalraj Mishra
Chief Minister - Bhajan Lal Sharma
Rajya Sabha - 10 seats
Lok Sabha - 25 seats
Airports - Jodhpur Airport and Jaisalmer Airport
4. Vizhinjam Port arrival First Container Ship 'San Fernando'
Tags: State News
The Vizhinjam Port in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, achieved a historic milestone with the arrival of its first container ship, 'San Fernando'.
An Overview of the News
'San Fernando' departed from Xiamen Port in China and received a water salute upon arrival.
This marks the beginning of trial operations at the port, fulfilling a long-awaited economic infrastructure development initiative in Kerala.
Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan, state ministers, dignitaries, officials, and the public will attend the event, expecting a large turnout.
Trial operations are set to continue for 2-3 months, after which larger vessels are expected to arrive, solidifying Vizhinjam Port's position on the global transshipment map.
About Kerala
Capital - Thiruvananthapuram
Chief minister - Pinarayi Vijayan
Districts - 14
Rajya Sabha - 9 seats
Lok Sabha - 20 seats
5. UP Government Waives Registration Tax on Strong Hybrid Cars
Tags: State News
The Uttar Pradesh government has implemented a policy to waive registration tax on strong hybrid cars, effective immediately as per a July circular.
An Overview of the News
This initiative offers a 100 percent waiver on registration fees, potentially saving customers up to Rs 3.5 lakh.
Manufacturers such as Maruti Suzuki, Toyota Kirloskar Motor, and Honda Cars India are set to benefit from this decision.
Maruti Suzuki offers models like the Grand Vitara and Invicto hybrids, Toyota sells the Hyryder and Innova Hycross, and Honda has the City hybrid in its lineup.
Tax Structure and Impact:
Uttar Pradesh currently levies an 8 percent road tax on vehicles below Rs 10 lakh and 10 percent on vehicles above Rs 10 lakh, which will be waived for hybrid cars.
Despite the waiver, the impact on state revenues is expected to be minimal due to relatively low sales of hybrid vehicles.
Hybrid Vehicle Market Dynamics:
Hybrid vehicle sales are on the rise due to advantages such as ease of ownership without dedicated charging infrastructure, better mileage compared to petrol cars, and lower acquisition costs.
This move follows the state's previous initiatives, including a three-year exemption from tax and registration fees for electric vehicles (EVs), and a five-year exemption for EVs manufactured within Uttar Pradesh.
About Uttar Pradesh
On 24 January 1950 itself, United Provinces or United Provinces was renamed as Uttar Pradesh.
In 2017, the state government announced to celebrate January 24 every year as Uttar Pradesh Day.
It was celebrated for the first time in 2018.
First in the state
The first Chief Minister of the state – Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant
First Deputy Chief Minister of the state - Chaudhary Narayan Singh
The first woman Chief Minister of the state and the country - Sucheta Kriplani
The first woman governor of the state and the country - Sarojini Naidu
Current Chief Minister - Yogi Adityanath
Current Governor – Anandiben Patel
Additional Information:- |
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6. Tata Power Solar Launches 'Ghar Ghar Solar' Initiative in Uttar Pradesh
Tags: State News
Tata Power Solar Systems Limited launched 'Ghar Ghar Solar, Tata Power ke Sang' initiative in Uttar Pradesh.
An Overview of the News
The initiative aims to provide rooftop solar solutions to every home in Uttar Pradesh starting from Varanasi.
CEO and MD Praveer Sinha emphasized the mission to drive a sustainable energy future.
The initiative promises substantial financial savings and environmental benefits through state-of-the-art Rooftop Solar Solutions (RTS).
Features include advanced technology like bifacial solar panels for higher efficiency, easy financing options, and a quick turnaround of seven days from inquiry to installation.
Residents can benefit from local government subsidies, making solar adoption more attractive.
A typical household investing in a 3 kW solar rooftop system could save up to INR 27,000 annually on electricity bills, with an initial investment offset by available subsidies.
Tata Power Solar Systems Limited:
Tata Power Solar Systems Limited, formerly Tata BP Solar, is an Indian company focusing on solar energy services.
They manufacture solar modules, cells, and provide EPC services for solar power projects.
In February 2017, Tata Power Solar became the first Indian company to ship over 1 GW of solar modules globally.
Their manufacturing unit in Bangalore has a capacity of 400 MW for modules and 300 MW for cells.
Founded - 1989
Headquarters - Noida, Uttar Pradesh
About Uttar Pradesh
On 24 January 1950 itself, United Provinces or United Provinces was renamed as Uttar Pradesh.
In 2017, the state government announced to celebrate January 24 every year as Uttar Pradesh Day.
It was celebrated for the first time in 2018.
First in the state
The first Chief Minister of the state – Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant
First Deputy Chief Minister of the state - Chaudhary Narayan Singh
The first woman Chief Minister of the state and the country - Sucheta Kriplani
The first woman governor of the state and the country - Sarojini Naidu
Current Chief Minister - Yogi Adityanath
Current Governor – Anandiben Patel
Additional Information:- |
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7. Maharashtra Wins Best Agriculture State Award 2024
Tags: Awards State News
Maharashtra has been awarded the Best Agriculture State Award for 2024 by the 15th Agriculture Leadership Awards Committee.
An Overview of the News
The announcement was made by the committee chaired by Justice P. Sathasivam, former Chief Justice of India and Governor of Kerala.
Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde will accept the award at a ceremony in New Delhi on July 10, 2024.
The award recognizes Maharashtra's innovative agricultural and rural initiatives.
Initiatives and Policies of Maharashtra :
Maharashtra was acknowledged for its sustainable development policies focusing on environmental protection and food security.
The state launched India’s largest bamboo mission, covering 21 lakh hectares.
Plans were announced in the recent budget for a 1.20 lakh-acre green belt in Nandurbar district in collaboration with the Central and state governments.
Maharashtra aims to enhance irrigation capabilities across approximately 17 lakh hectares through 123 projects.
Agriculture Leadership Award
Established in 2008 by Agricultural Today magazine.
Recognizes leadership in agriculture by government, individuals, and organizations.
Past winners include Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, former Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan, and former Punjab Chief Minister Prakash Singh Badal.
About Maharashtra
It is a state located in the western part of India and covers a significant part of the Deccan Plateau.
Chief Minister - Eknath Shinde
Governor - Ramesh Bais
Official Animal - Indian giant squirrel
Official Bird - Yellow-footed Green Pigeon
Official Dance - Lavani
Additional Information:- |
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8. Yogi Adityanath announces launch of 'Mitra Van' initiative on UP-Nepal border
Tags: State News
The Yogi Adityanath government announced the launch of 'Mitra Van' under the Tree Plantation Jan Abhiyan-2024.
An Overview of the News
The aim of the 'Mitra Van' initiative is to increase the green cover on the Uttar Pradesh-Nepal border.
The 'Mitra Van' initiative will be on the border of Uttar Pradesh and Nepal.
Main Objective
To increase the green cover by planting 35 crore saplings.
To promote bilateral relations through environmental initiatives with neighboring states and Nepal.
Preparation and Implementation
Scheduled to start on July 20, 2024.
Massive tree plantation drives will be conducted in the border districts of Uttar Pradesh.
Location and Coordination
35 forest divisions will identify locations for setting up 'Mitra Van'.
The specific districts include Sonauli in Maharajganj, Lakhimpur Kheri, Shravasti, Bahraich and Pilibhit.
Coordination with representatives of Nepal for joint tree plantation activities.
Special Forest Initiative
Establishment of special forests like 'Shakti Van', 'Yuva Van' and 'Bal Van' in each district participating in the tree plantation mass campaign.
Divisional Forest Officers (DFOs) have been directed to expedite the establishment and promotion of 'Mitra Van'.
About Uttar Pradesh
On 24 January 1950 itself, United Provinces or United Provinces was renamed as Uttar Pradesh.
In 2017, the state government announced to celebrate January 24 every year as Uttar Pradesh Day.
It was celebrated for the first time in 2018.
First in the state
The first Chief Minister of the state – Pt. Govind Ballabh Pant
First Deputy Chief Minister of the state - Chaudhary Narayan Singh
The first woman Chief Minister of the state and the country - Sucheta Kriplani
The first woman governor of the state and the country - Sarojini Naidu
Current Chief Minister - Yogi Adityanath
Current Governor – Anandiben Patel
Important Points:-
Uttar Pradesh passes draft for Uttar Pradesh Nodal Investment Region for Manufacturing (NIRMAN)-2024.
UP becomes first state in India to issue one crore tokens through Ayushman Bharat Health Account (ABHA) ID.
'Jatayu Conservation and Breeding Centre,' world's first for Asian king vultures, established in Maharajganj, UP.
Kathiya Gehu, indigenous wheat variety from Bundelkhand, gets Geographical Indication (GI) tag.
UP Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath names Ganges River dolphin as state aquatic animal.
About Nepal
The kingdom of Nepal was established by the Shah dynasty.
It is a landlocked country in South Asia.
Prime Minister - Pushpa Kamal Dahal
President - Ram Chandra Paudel
Capital - Kathmandu
Currency - Nepalese Rupee
9. Madhya Pradesh Launches 'Lokpath Mobile App' to Expedite Road Issue Resolution
Tags: State News
The 'Lokpath Mobile App' was launched by Madhya Pradesh CM Mohan Yadav on July 2, 2024, at the Vidhan Sabha Media Center in Bhopal.
An Overview of the News
Developed by Madhya Pradesh State Electronic Development Corporation Limited (MPSEDC), the app was created by the Public Works Department (PWD).
It allows the public to report road issues by submitting images directly to officials.
Officials are mandated to address reported problems within seven days and update the resolution status on the app.
Implementation and Features Of 'Lokpath Mobile App':
Aims to improve 40,000 kilometers of roads in Madhya Pradesh, addressing national highways, state highways, and major district roads.
Phase one began on July 2, 2024, focusing on national highways, state highways, and main district roads.
Phase two will extend improvements to other district and rural roads, scheduled for later implementation.
Despite challenges like heavy rainfall and traffic, the app facilitates timely issue resolution and accountability among officials.
About Madhya Pradesh
In terms of area, it is the second largest state of India after Rajasthan.
According to the Indian Forest Status Report-2021, Madhya Pradesh has the maximum forest cover in the country in terms of area.
25.14% of its area is covered by forests.
National Parks - Panna National Park, Pench National Park
Wildlife Sanctuaries - Gangau Wildlife Sanctuary, Ghatigaon wildlife sanctuary
Chief Minister - Dr. Mohan Yadav
Governor - Mangubhai C. Patel
Capital - Bhopal
10. Andhra Pradesh Launches NTR Bharosa Pension Scheme
Tags: State News
Andhra Pradesh Chief Minister N Chandrababu Naidu launched the NTR Bharosa pension scheme.
An Overview of the News
The launch event took place at Penumaka village in Amaravati, accompanied by his son Nara Lokesh and Deputy CM Pawan Kalyan in their respective constituencies.
Increased Monthly Pensions:
Old-aged, widows, weavers, toddy tappers, fishermen, single women, traditional cobblers, transgenders, and artistes: Increased from ₹3,000 to ₹4,000 per month.
Disabled and multi-deformity leprosy patients: Increased from ₹3,000 to ₹6,000 per month.
Fully disabled (bedridden/wheelchair-bound), severe muscular dystrophy patients: Increased from ₹5,000 to ₹15,000 per month.
Chronic disease patients (e.g., kidney diseases, thalassemia): Increased from ₹5,000 to ₹10,000 per month.
Implementation Details
State Cabinet Approval: June 24, 2024.
Participation: All cabinet members and MLAs participated in pension distribution in their respective constituencies.
Distribution Highlights
Example: Naidu personally handed ₹4,000 monthly pension to Islavath Sai (widow) and ₹4,000 old-age pension to her parents, Banavath Pamula Nayak and Banavath Sitha, who are daily-wage earners.
Distribution Details:
₹4,408 crore distributed to 6.531 million beneficiaries across 28 categories.
Distributed by 120,097 village and ward secretariat employees.
Doorstep delivery of pensions.
Government Initiatives and Future Plans:
Inspired by TDP founder NT Rama Rao.
Focus on improving living standards and controlling commodity prices.
Plans to revive Anna canteens and fill vacant teaching positions.
Commitment to youth training for skill enhancement and employment opportunities.
