States PCS: Himachal Pradesh GK for HPPSC Exams

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The world’s first-ever Tibetan thanka fusion exhibition started at the Jehangir Art Gallery in Kala Ghoda, Mumbai on November 12. A thanka, also spelled thangka, is a traditional Buddhist painting depicting divinities or patterns related to Buddhism. The four-day exhibition, titled ‘Calm’, features the works of artist Sudhir Katkar, with two 10 x 14 feet installations featuring hundreds of his oil-based paintings stitched together.

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With an objective to protect, conserve and promote the rich and distinguished culture and tradition of Chhattisgarh, the State Government has decided to constitute State Folk Art Council.The State Folk Art Council will compile literatures related to various folk arts in Chhattisgarh and publish the same. It would also list the folk art groups functioning in State and carry out their registration apart from providing them necessary equipment, musical equipment and other necessary materials to these folk groups.

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The Bombay Natural History Society (BNHS) has been instrumental in the conservation of the Himalayan Griffon Vulture, a near threatened species according to the IUCN. BNHS has established Vulture Conservation and Breeding Centres to combat population declines caused by the veterinary use of Diclofenac, a drug harmful to vultures. While the Himalayan Griffon has faced threats, its decline has not been as drastic as that of other vulture species, highlighting the importance of targeted conservation efforts.

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The mHariyali app was launched in New Delhi alongside a website titled “Environment Protection in Government Colonies.” This initiative aims to enhance green drives and promote tree plantation, with plants being geo-tagged for tracking. Developed by the National Informatics Centre (NIC), which was established in 1976, the app reflects India’s commitment to environmental sustainability and digital innovation.

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The Mukyamanthri Nishulk Dava Yojana was launched in Rajasthan in 2011 to provide free medicines to the public. In 2013, it expanded to include free medical testing. The scheme offers 712 essential medicines at no cost in government hospitals and has served around 67 crore people. It has been recognized by the National Health Mission for its effectiveness and compliance with health standards.

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The SAANS campaign, which stands for Social Awareness and Action to Neutralise Pneumonia Successfully, was launched in Gujarat. This initiative aims to reduce child mortality from pneumonia by training Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHA) and providing pulse oximeters at wellness centers. The goal is to lower pneumonia-related child deaths to below 3% by 2025, showcasing Gujarat’s commitment to child health.

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Lumpy Skin Disease, also known as Neethling disease, primarily affects cattle and poses significant economic challenges to the livestock industry due to its detrimental effects on milk production and skin health. The disease was first reported in India from Odisha, highlighting the region’s vulnerability to such outbreaks, especially during humid and warm conditions, which facilitate its spread.

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Jammu and Kashmir achieved the highest road length under PMGSY this year, completing 11,400 kilometers of roads from a sanctioned total of 19,700 kilometers. This initiative enhances connectivity to over 1,800 habitations. PMGSY is a significant program aimed at improving rural infrastructure, co-funded by the central and state governments, with varying funding ratios based on the region.

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The Kumhar Shashaktikaran Yojana aims to empower potters by providing modern tools. Recently, in Boondi, Rajasthan, the Lok Sabha Speaker distributed 500 electric potters’ wheels to support local artisans. This initiative commemorates Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth anniversary and is linked to the Khadi and Village Industries Commission (KVIC), which promotes rural entrepreneurship and sustainable practices.

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The Bharat Vandana Park, being developed in Delhi, is set to become a major tourist attraction with an investment of 550 crore INR. It will include a ‘Herbal Vatika’ for the conservation of medicinal plants, eco-trails, an adventure park, and an amusement park, promoting environmental awareness and tourism in the capital.