States Weekly: October 14, 2026
Photo: Mavlers
Big News: Uttar Pradesh approves the Uttar Pradesh Sustainable Aviation Fuel Manufacturing Promotion Policy 2026; Gujarat announces implementation of the Gujarat Electricity Grid Code 2026; Jammu and Kashmir announces a City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy 2026; Andhra Pradesh approves the Andhra Pradesh Policy for Promotion of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions 2026; Maharashtra orders a minimum 10 percent water cut across all urban local bodies from October 16, 2026; and more.
Health
Delhi announces an increase in incentives for Accredited Social Health Activist (ASHA) workers. ASHA workers will now be entitled to incentives of USD 62 (INR 6000) a month.
Source: Hindustan Times
Karnataka mandates hospitals to display the purchase and selling prices of medicines from November 1, 2026. The measure aims to ensure transparency in billing and prevent patients from being overcharged.
Source: Deccan Herald
Punjab approves amendments to the Punjab Nursing Education Service Rules, 2016. The new rules clarify procedures regarding promotions and other service-related matters.
Source: Babushahi
Climate Change and Energy
Gujarat announces implementation of the Gujarat Electricity Grid Code 2026. Introduced by the Gujarat Electricity Regulatory Commission (GERC), the Code introduces a comprehensive framework for the operation, planning, scheduling and development of Gujarat’s intra-state power.
Source: Solar Quarter
In detail: Gujarat Electricity Grid Code, 2026
Telangana announces recovery of $561 million (INR 5,420 crore) under true-up charges. Approved by the Telangana Electricity Regulatory Commission (TGERC), the recovery will begin with electricity bills issued in November 2026.
Source: Hydrebad Mail
In detail: TGERC Order
Jammu and Kashmir announces a City Gas Distribution (CGD) Policy 2026. The policy aims for a phased expansion of cleaner natural gas infrastructure across the Union Territory.
Source: New Indian Express
Maharashtra directs ride-share apps to switch to electric by July 2027. The directive outlines a nine-month phased transition window aimed at eliminating petrol-powered motorcycles from app-based ride-hailing platforms across the state.
Source: EV India
Finance
Nothing critical to report this week.
Industrial Policy and Business Regulations
Uttar Pradesh approves the Uttar Pradesh Sustainable Aviation Fuel Manufacturing Promotion Policy 2026. The policy aims to promote decarbonization in the aviation sector, strengthen energy security, encourage private investment and innovation, and create new green employment opportunities in the state.
Source: Times of India
In detail: Cabinet Decisions
Uttar Pradesh approves an Uttar Pradesh Artificial Intelligence Mission (UP-AIM). The Mission aims to support at least 100 AI startups, train 500,000 AI-skilled youth and develop artificial intelligence applications for governance and public services.
Source: Economic Times
In detail: Cabinet Decisions
Land Acquisition and Labor Regulations
Bihar establishes “Labor Service Facilitation Centers” in three districts in Tamil Nadu: Chennai, Coimbatore, and Tirupur. The Centers aim to address grievances, welfare, and workers’ rights.
Source: Times of India
Infrastructure and Governance
Andhra Pradesh approves the Andhra Pradesh Policy for Promotion of Foreign Higher Educational Institutions 2026. The policy specifies eligibility criteria, incentives and government support for foreign higher educational institutions and Indian private universities seeking to establish campuses in the state.
Source: Times of India
In detail: Policy
Uttar Pradesh announces the continuation of a scheme to provide two free LPG cylinders in a year. Beneficiaries of the ‘Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana’ (the Prime Minister’s Bright/Lightening Scheme) will receive one free LPG cylinder refill each on Diwali and Holi.
Source: DD News
In detail: Cabinet Decisions
Uttar Pradesh passes a proposal to rename Noida International Airport in Jewar as the Narendra Modi International Airport.
Source: DD News
In detail: Cabinet Decisions
West Bengal approves the ‘Bhagini Nivedita Scheme’ (Sister Nivedita Scheme). The scheme will provide $518 (INR 50,000) in financial assistance to unmarried women pursuing higher education.
Source: Times of India
Himachal Pradesh approves an increase in the monthly honorarium of Anganwadi workers and helpers.
Source: The News Himachal
In detail: Press Release
Water and Sanitation
Maharashtra orders a minimum 10 percent water cut across all urban local bodies from October 16, 2026. The decision was taken citing reduced rainfall and limited water availability amid the impact of El Niño. Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs) have been asked to operate at full capacity, with treated wastewater being used for gardens, construction, and washing purposes.
Source: Hindustan Times
In detail: Order
Center – State Relations
Nothing critical to report this week.
Any Other
Tripura announces free distribution of essential food items to nearly 992,000 ration card holders. The decision was taken to commemorate the Durga Puja festival.
Source: Hindustan Times