Category: State Current Affairs

State govt.to extend financial protection to Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)  patients

Why in news :

• The State government will extend financial protection to patients suffering from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological condition

Key Highlights

• Launched by: The Karnataka State Government, announced by Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao and implemented via a circular from the Suvarna Arogya Suraksha Trust (SAST).
• Core Purpose: To extend financial protection to patients suffering from Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS), a rare neurological condition, by covering the cost of the critical and expensive Intravenous Immunoglobulin (IVIG) therapy.
• Scheme Integration: The treatment is now brought under the Ayushman Bharat–Arogya Karnataka (AB-PMJAY–CM’s ArK)
• Coverage & Financials:
  • The revised package covers up to ₹2 lakh per patient for IVIG therapy.
  • The drug price is fixed at ₹2,000 per gram.
  • Dosage coverage is calculated based on patient weight (2 grams per kg body weight, up to a maximum of 20 grams per cycle).
  • Two specific procedure codes have been created for billing and auditing.

Additional information

Guillain-Barré Syndrome (GBS)

• About :GBS is a rare autoimmune disorder where the immune system attacks the peripheral nerves, causing muscle weakness and potentially paralysis.
• Occurrence: It affects about 1–2 per 100,000 people annually, appearing more frequently in adults and males.
• Triggers: It usually follows a viral or bacterial infection, such as Campylobacter jejuni, influenza, Zika virus, or (rarely) vaccinations.
• Symptoms:
  • Early: Tingling and weakness starting in the legs and spreading upward, pins-and-needles sensation, and back pain.
  • Severe: Paralysis, difficulty breathing, loss of speech, and vision problems.
  • Complications: Can disrupt heart rate and blood pressure, or lead to respiratory failure.
• Treatment: While there is no definitive cure, treatments include:
  • IVIG Therapy: Infusing healthy antibodies to block the immune attack.
  • Plasma Exchange: Removing harmful antibodies from the blood.
  • Supportive Care: Use of ventilators (if breathing fails) and physical therapy for rehabilitation.

Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA) award

Why in news :

• 2 senior scientists conferred with KSTA Lifetime Achievement Award

Prof. C.N.R. Rao – KSTA Lifetime Achievement Award

• Awardee: Ramakrishna, Scientist and former Director of the Zoological Survey of India (ZSI).
• Issuing Authority: Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA).
• Purpose: In recognition of his significant contribution to the field of Science and Technology.
• Cash Prize & Reward: A gold medal worth ₹2 lakh and a cash prize of ₹1 lakh.
• About Award: This is a prestigious honor instituted by the KSTA to recognize distinguished senior scientists for their lifetime work.

KSTA Lifetime Achievement Award in Science Communication in Kannada (2023)

• Awardee: Sreemathi Hariprasad, former scientist at the Central Food Technological Research Institute (CFTRI).
• Issuing Authority: Karnataka Science and Technology Academy (KSTA).
• Purpose: For exceptional service in popularising STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Agriculture, and Medicine) specifically in the Kannada language.
• Cash Prize & Reward: A gold medal worth ₹1 lakh and a cash prize of ₹75,000.
• About Award: This award focuses on bridging the language gap in science and acknowledging those who make technical knowledge accessible to the local population.

The Activity Point Tracking System (APTS) mobile app

Why in news :

• VTU to launch app to track activity points for students to prevent fraud

About  APTS mobile app

• Developed by: Visvesvaraya Technological University (VTU).
• Purpose: The Activity Point Tracking System (APTS) mobile app aims to curb the unethical practice of students submitting fake documents to claim activity points, ensuring transparency and genuine participation in extracurricular activities.
• Target group: All engineering students under VTU who are required to earn at least 75 out of 100 activity points over their four-year course to qualify for their degree (mandated by AICTE from 2018-19).
• Mechanism: The system operates through a mandatory mobile application where students must upload geo-tagged photos as proof of their engagement in approved activities.
• Objectives: The initiative is designed to foster entrepreneurial capabilities, social commitment, soft skills, leadership qualities, and team spirit among students.
• Key Activities: Eligible activities include preparing business proposals for village income enhancement, developing sustainable water management systems, promoting tourism or appropriate technologies, reducing energy consumption, skilling rural populations, and facilitating 100% digitised money transactions.

Indian Army officer from Bengaluru wins UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025

Why in news

• An Indian Army officer from Bengaluru, Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, has won the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her project Equal Partners, Lasting Peace.

Award Details

• Recipient: Major Swathi Shantha Kumar, an Indian Army officer from Bengaluru.
• Current Role: She is currently serving on the United Nations Mission in South Sudan (UNMISS).
• Award: She received the UN Secretary-General’s Award 2025 for her project titled “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace.”

Project Overview

• Title: “Equal Partners, Lasting Peace.”
• Purpose: The project aimed to significantly enhance gender parity and strengthen grassroots-level engagement within the mission’s area of responsibility.

11 potential Blue Flag beaches in Karnataka

Why in news

• The Karnataka Tourism Department has identified 11 potential Blue Flag beaches in the State, as announced by Secretary K.V. Thrilok Chandra at the Coastal Karnataka Tourism Conclave.

Objective & Strategy

• Purpose: To elevate coastal tourism standards by developing 11 beaches as potential “Blue Flag” candidates, addressing the region’s status as “under-developed” despite holding immense potential for hospitality experiences.
• Target Area: The initiative focuses on Coastal Karnataka, which currently accounts for 21% to 38% of total tourist visits to the State.
• Development Strategy: Involves a multi-faceted approach including educational programmes, installation of information signages, introduction of adventure and water sports, and the organization of beach festivals.
• Maintenance & Standards: Operational focus includes rigorous beach cleaning, garbage collection and disposal, regular water quality tests, and the maintenance of public amenities to meet international standards.

Identified Potential Beaches

• Dakshina Kannada District:
  • Someshwara Beach
  • Ullal Beach
  • Sasihitlu Beach
• Udupi District:
  • Asare Beach
  • Kodi Kanyana Beach
  • Padukere Beach
  • Kodi Beach (Kundapura)
  • Shiroor Beach
• Uttara Kannada District:
  • Bailur Beach
  • Apsarakonda Beach
  • Rabindranath Tagore Beach

River Cruise Projects

Five national waterways have been identified for developing river cruise tourism:

• Kali River: 53 km
• Netravathi River: 30 km
• Sharavati River: 29 km
• Kabini River: 23 km
• Gurupura River: 10 km

Tourism Statistics (2023-2024)

The region has seen a significant rise in tourism numbers:

• Domestic Footfall: Increased from 28 crores to 30 crores.
• Foreign Footfall: Increased from 09 lakh to 4.85 lakh.

Current Blue Flag Status (As of January 2026)

Karnataka currently holds two Blue Flag certified beaches:

• Padubidri Beach (Udupi District)
• Kasarkod Beach (Uttara Kannada District)

About Blue Flag Certification

• Origin: Initiated in France (1985) and expanded globally in 2001.
• Awarded By: Denmark-based Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE).
• Aim: Promotes sustainable practices in marine and freshwater ecosystems.
• Key Criteria:
  • Water Quality: Maintains high cleanliness and safety standards.
  • Environmental Management: Implements sustainable eco-friendly initiatives.
  • Safety Measures: Ensures visitor security and accessibility.
  • Education: Promotes environmental awareness and responsible tourism.

Blue Flag Beaches of India

• Shivrajpur (Gujarat)
• Golden Beach (Odisha)
• Ghoghla (Diu)
• Kasarkod and Padubidri (Karnataka)
• Kappad and Chal (Kerala)
• Rushikonda (Andhra Pradesh)
• Radhanagar (Andaman & Nicobar Islands)
• Kovalam (Tamil Nadu)
• Eden Beach (Puducherry)
• Minicoy Thundi and Kadmat (Lakshadweep)

NIT-K Surathkal develops jute-based geocell as alternative to plastic in roadworks

Why in news

• Researchers at NIT-K Surathkal have developed an industrially manufactured ‘jute geocell’ to replace conventional petroleum-based plastic geocells for sustainable road construction.

Project Overview

• Aim: To replace conventional petroleum-based plastic geocells with an industrially manufactured ‘jute geocell’ for sustainable road construction and slope stabilisation.
• Developed by: Researchers at the National Institute of Technology Karnataka (NITK), Surathkal.
• Project Support: The project is funded by the National Jute Board under the Union Ministry of Textiles and was executed in collaboration with Birla Jute Mills.

Mechanism & Function

• Structure: The geocells function as three-dimensional, honeycomb-like structures.
• Application: They are placed beneath roads or on slopes to strengthen weak soil, improve load-bearing capacity, and control erosion.

Sustainability & Impact

• Environmental Benefits: Unlike existing high-density polyethylene or polypropylene options that cause microplastic pollution, this solution is cheaper, biodegradable, and eliminates long-term environmental risks.
• Target Areas: The innovation is designed for large-scale implementation, particularly in rural and ecologically sensitive regions where environmental preservation is critical.

India’s first commercial Quantum Computer to be deployed at IIIT, Dharwad

Why in news

• India’s first commercial Quantum Computer is set to be deployed at the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Dharwad.

Key Highlights

• Location: The system is being installed at the Indian Institute of Information Technology (IIIT) Dharwad.
• Announcement: The initiative was announced by Priyank Kharge, Minister for Rural Development and Panchayat Raj, IT & BT.
• Status: This deployment represents the country’s first indigenously built Quantum Computer for commercial use.
• Target: The installation is proceeding at a quick momentum to secure Karnataka’s leadership in the quantum space.

Strategic Importance

• Purpose: The initiative marks a significant milestone in building a world-class quantum ecosystem and advancing the “Karnataka Quantum Roadmap” to ensure cutting-edge technology translates into real-world impact.
• Infrastructure: The State government has also recently announced the establishment of a Centre of Excellence in Quantum AI and Computing at IIIT Dharwad.

Key Collaborations

• Tech Partner: The project involves strong collaboration with the Bengaluru-based deeptech company QpiAI for quantum advancements.

Application Focus: Discussions are held with Singapore-based ZWEEC regarding applications, specifically for strengthening rural water security.

Dr. Madhav Gadgil report

Why in news

• Renowned Indian ecologist and environmentalist Dr. Madhav Gadgil passed away on January 7, 2026.

Report Highlights

• The Panel: The Western Ghats Ecology Expert Panel (WGEEP), headed by ecologist Madhav Gadgil, submitted its report to the Union Ministry of Environment and Forests in August 2011.
• Recommendation: The report recommended designating the entire Western Ghats region as an Ecologically Sensitive Area (ESA), which would have covered a vast geographical portion of Karnataka.

Zoning & Target Regions

• Target Region in Karnataka: The recommendations applied to the Ghats stretching across districts including Uttara Kannada, Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, Shivamogga, Chikkamagaluru, Hassan, Kodagu, Mysore, and Chamarajanagar.
• Zoning Mechanism: It proposed a graded classification system—ESZ-1 (High Priority), ESZ-2, and ESZ-3—based on ecological sensitivity. A significant number of taluks in Karnataka were categorized as ESZ-1, implying the strictest level of protection.

Key Restrictions Proposed

• Infrastructure: A complete ban on the construction of new large dams, specifically recommending against the Gundia Hydroelectric Project in Karnataka.
• Mining: An indefinite moratorium on new mining licenses in ESZ-1 and ESZ-2, with a proposal to phase out existing mines in ESZ-1 by 2016.
• Industry: A ban on polluting industries (Red and Orange category) in ESZ-1 and ESZ-2.

Governance & Response

• Governance Model: It proposed a Western Ghats Ecology Authority (WGEA) to oversee the region and emphasized a “bottom-up” approach, granting Gram Sabhas (local village councils) the power to veto development projects.
• State Response: The Karnataka government (along with Kerala and Goa) strongly opposed the report, arguing it would hinder development, power generation, and agriculture. This opposition led to the formation of the Kasturirangan Committee to review these recommendations.

Additional information

Sanjay Kumar Committee:

• Formed to review state objections on ESA demarcations and validate proposed exclusions.
• Will conduct field visits to verify if demands for village exclusions from ESA listings are justified.
• Seeks to finalize the ESA status for villages, restricting activities harmful to biodiversity.

State Film Awards

Why in news :

• The Lifetime Achievement Awards as part of the Karnataka State Film Awards 2020 and 2021 were announced.

About the State Film Awards

• Announced by: The Karnataka State Government, presenting the Lifetime Achievement Awards as part of the Karnataka State Film Awards for the years 2020 and 2021.
• Award Categories: The honors include the prestigious Rajkumar Award, the Puttanna Kanagal Award, and the Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award.
• 2020 Recipients:
  • Puttanna Kanagal Award: Conferred upon renowned filmmaker and theatre personality S. Sathyu.
  • Rajkumar Award: Awarded to actor-politician Jaimala for her contributions spanning over 50 years in the film industry.
  • Vishnuvardhan Award: Given to veteran still photographer Pragathi Ashwath Narayana.
• 2021 Recipients:
  • Rajkumar Award: Presented to Sa. Ra. Govindu, producer and former president of the Karnataka State Film Chamber of Commerce (KFCC).
  • Puttanna Kanagal Award: Awarded to director Shivarudraiah.
  • Dr. Vishnuvardhan Award: Conferred upon actor-producer M.K. Sundar Raj

Restore ecozone around Bannerghatta: SC panel report

Why in news :

• The Central Empowered Committee has recommended to restore a 2016 draft notification and cancel a 2020 notification which warrants reconsideration and shall be withdrawn by MoEFCC

Recommendations of the Central Empowered Committee (CEC)

• Mandate: The committee has recommended the immediate withdrawal of the MoEFCC’s March 11, 2020 notification and the full restoration of the June 15, 2016 draft notification regarding the Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) around Bannerghatta National Park (BNP).
• Ecological Rationale: The recommendation aims to protect scientifically identified elephant corridors and ecologically important patches that were excluded in the 2020 notification. It argues that the adoption of a generic “one-km ESZ norm” ignores site-specific ecological requirements.
• The report highlights that the ESZ was drastically reduced without scientific justification from 96 sq. km (in the 2016 draft) to 168.84 sq. km (in the 2020 final notification).
• Procedural Violation: The CEC noted that the decision to reduce the ESZ was made by a Cabinet Sub-Committee in 2017, which violates Para 6.2 of the 2011 Guidelines. These guidelines require a specialized committee (Chief Wildlife Warden, Ecologist, Local Govt, and Revenue Officer) to assess ESZ extents.
• Timeline: The CEC has stipulated that the entire exercise to re-notify the ESZ to its original extent must be completed within the next six months.