Category: States

In recent years, Indian States have increasingly relied on financial transfers and grants from the Central government. Over the last decade, the share of Central transfers in State revenues has increased, raising concerns about the sustainability of State finances and their ability to generate independent revenue. Rise in Central Transfers From FY16 to FY25, Central…

The Telangana government has formally requested information regarding the Polavaram (Godavari)-Banakacherla (Krishna) link project. This request was directed to the Chairman of the Godavari River Management Board (GRMB). The urgency stems from reports that surfaced in leading newspapers, prompting the Engineer-in-Chief of the Irrigation Department, G. Anil Kumar, to act. The request marks the need…

In 2024, Haryana reported a concerning drop in its sex ratio at birth, reaching an eight-year low of 910 girls for every 1,000 boys. This figure has alarmed activists and civil society members, despite government officials describing it as a minor fluctuation. The sex ratio is a critical indicator of gender equality and reflects the…

The Ministry of Education (MoE) has recently released the Unified District Information System for Education Plus (UDISE+) report 2023-24. It reported a decline in student enrolment for the academic year 2023-24. The total enrolment fell to 24.8 crore, a drop of over one crore compared to previous years. This decrease marks a notable shift from…

The recent declaration of the Wayanad landslides as a disaster of “severe nature” marks governmental response. This decision follows extensive criticism regarding the lack of financial aid for the victims. The landslides occurred on July 30, resulting in over 200 fatalities, numerous injuries, and the displacement of thousands in the region. What are Severe Natural…

Tensions in Katra, Jammu and Kashmir, have escalated due to ongoing protests against a proposed Rs 250-crore ropeway project. The protests, initiated by the Shri Mata Vaishno Devi Sangharsh Samiti, have entered their seventh day and coincide with a peak pilgrimage season. Local businesses and livelihoods are at stake, prompting widespread demonstrations. Background of the…

Karnataka’s government is set to enhance tourism through investments in historical and religious sites. The recent announcement includes a ₹100 crore initiative focused on Yadgir Fort, part of the One District, One Spot programme. This initiative aims to promote regional tourism and cultural heritage. Key Facts About Yadgir Fort Yadgir Fort (also known as Yetagiri)…

In a political shift, President Droupadi Murmu has appointed two new governors and reassigned three others, which impacts five states, reflecting ongoing governance challenges. The changes come amidst rising tensions and ethnic conflict in regions like Manipur. New Governor of Manipur Ajay Kumar Bhalla has been appointed as the new Governor of Manipur. He replaces…

The Congress government in Telangana has recently announced the scrapping of the Telangana Rights in Land and Pattadar Pass Books Act, 2020, and introduced the Dharani online land records system. However, it faced extensive criticism for inaccuracies, missing passbooks, and inadequate grievance handling. Many landowners reported unresolved issues, prompting legal disputes. Background of the Dharani…

Bharti Airtel has recently achieved a milestone by becoming the first private telecom company to provide mobile services in seven border villages of Jammu and Kashmir. This initiative enhances connectivity for remote areas and aligns with the Vibrant Village Programme, which aims to improve infrastructure in border regions. Locations Served The villages benefiting from this…