<h1>Puducherry Seeks Rs 600 Crore Aid After Cyclone Fengal; Assembly Pushes for Statehood to Tackle Governance Challenges.</h1> Cyclone Fengal in 2024 caused severe damage in Puducherry, prompting the government to request a Rs 600 crore aid package from the Centre. The territorial Assembly urged for statehood to address governance challenges. Chief Minister presented a Rs 12,700 crore budget for 2024-2025. Former IAS officer assumed the role of Lt Governor in August. The cyclone led to extensive flooding and power outages, with damages estimated at Rs 614.88 crores. The Congress retained its Lok Sabha seat in April elections. A tragic incident involving a nine-year-old girl led to public protests. Civic bodies and the university operated without permanent leadership.