Notes: Union Health Minister Jagat Prakash Nadda inaugurated the 9th National Summit on Good & Replicable Practices and Innovation in Public Healthcare in Puri, Odisha, on 28th February 2025. Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi and other dignitaries attended the event. The two-day summit allows states and Union Territories to showcase best practices and innovations in public healthcare. Participants share knowledge and learn from others’ experiences in tackling public health challenges. The 8th summit was held in Kevadia, Gujarat, in May 2022. The National Health Mission under the Union Health Ministry organizes the summit.

Notes: Andhra Pradesh launched the Thalliki Vandanam Scheme 2025 to support students from financially unstable families. The scheme helps students from Class 1 to 12 continue their education without financial worries. Eligible students who struggle to pay fees can apply for assistance. The government aims to reduce dropout rates and ensure uninterrupted education. The scheme reflects the state’s commitment to education accessibility and financial support for underprivileged students.

Notes: Scientists have developed a new gene therapy for Maple Syrup Urine Disease (MSUD), a rare genetic disorder. MSUD is caused by a deficiency of the enzyme complex needed to break down branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) like leucine, isoleucine, and valine. It is inherited in an autosomal recessive pattern, requiring both parents to pass on the gene mutation. The disorder prevents proper amino acid metabolism, leading to neurological symptoms and life-threatening brain damage.

Notes: Gujarat leads India in mangrove afforestation, covering 19,020 hectares in two years under the MISHTI scheme. MISHTI (Mangrove Initiative for Shoreline Habitats and Tangible Incomes) was launched in 2023 to expand mangrove forests and support coastal livelihoods. The initiative aims to strengthen coastal ecosystems across India’s coastal states and union territories. Gujarat’s rapid afforestation efforts have made it the top performer in the scheme.