APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (30/10/2024)
For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, staying updated with current affairs is vital. This blog covers most important topics from the Assam Tribune today (30-10-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Dighalipukhuri Tree-Cutting Protest in Guwahati
GS Paper 3: Environment, Conservation Efforts
Introduction:
In Guwahati, residents staged a large-scale protest against the planned felling of century-old trees in the Dighalipukhuri area. The trees are to be removed to facilitate the construction of a new flyover, raising public concerns about the loss of heritage and environmental impact.
Key Points:
- A total of 21 trees, some over 100 years old, are scheduled for felling to clear the area for a four-lane elevated flyover.
- Local citizens have petitioned the Chief Justice of Gauhati High Court to intervene, citing environmental and heritage concerns.
- The protest included a signature campaign and a public procession, with widespread participation from different sections of society.
- Concerns include habitat loss for birds, impact on local biodiversity, and the cultural significance of the area.
Prelims Pointers:
- Dighalipukhuri: A historical lake in Guwahati, known for its cultural and ecological significance.
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL): A legal process allowing the public to seek judicial intervention on issues of public interest.
- Green Corridors: Areas designated for maintaining urban greenery to support biodiversity.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Environmental Conservation: Preserves biodiversity, providing habitat for rare and migratory bird species.
- Cultural Heritage: The area holds historical significance, with trees symbolizing Guwahati’s heritage.
- Community Well-being: Trees contribute to air quality and temperature regulation, benefiting urban health.
- Public Awareness: The protest has raised awareness of sustainable development practices.
- Legal Precedent: The case could set a legal standard for environmental conservation in urban planning.
- Challenges:
- Development Pressure: Balancing urban infrastructure needs with ecological preservation.
- Lack of Public Consultation: Absence of transparent public hearings prior to project approval.
- Loss of Urban Green Spaces: Cutting down trees affects the city’s green cover, impacting the urban ecosystem.
- Shortage of Alternatives: Limited consideration of alternative development plans that minimize environmental impact.
- Administrative Roadblocks: Protests may face resistance from authorities prioritizing development goals.
- Way Ahead:
- Public Consultation Framework: Implement mandatory public hearings for all major infrastructure projects.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Ensure a thorough, transparent EIA for urban projects affecting green areas.
- Alternative Designs: Develop flyover designs that incorporate or bypass existing green spaces.
- Urban Green Policy: Create guidelines for conserving trees within city limits, promoting sustainable urban planning.
- Community Involvement: Involve citizen forums in decision-making for local development projects.
Conclusion:
The Dighalipukhuri protest underscores the importance of preserving urban green spaces and engaging the public in development planning. By adopting sustainable alternatives, Guwahati can balance heritage conservation with infrastructure development.
Topic 2: Record September Heat in Northeast India
GS Paper 1: Geography, Climate Change
Introduction:
September 2024 saw record-breaking temperatures in Northeast India, attributed to reduced monsoon rainfall and rising global temperatures. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the region’s highest mean temperature since records began in 1901.
Key Points:
- Northeast India recorded an average maximum temperature of 32.59°C and a minimum of 24.93°C.
- Major cities like Guwahati and Dibrugarh experienced temperatures crossing 39°C.
- A 47% rainfall deficit in Assam contributed to the heatwave, leading to a drought-like situation in various districts.
Prelims Pointers:
- India Meteorological Department (IMD): The national agency responsible for weather forecasting and climate monitoring.
- Temperature Anomaly: A deviation from the normal temperature pattern, often linked to climate change.
- Monsoon Deficit: Lower-than-average monsoon rainfall affecting agriculture and water availability.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Agricultural Impact: Temperature rise and rainfall deficit affect crop yield, especially in water-dependent regions.
- Public Health: High temperatures increase heat-related health risks, especially among vulnerable groups.
- Water Scarcity: Reduced rainfall exacerbates water shortages, impacting domestic and agricultural water supplies.
- Climate Monitoring: Provides data on changing climate patterns, aiding adaptation strategies.
- Biodiversity Risks: Heatwaves and droughts disrupt local ecosystems, impacting flora and fauna.
- Challenges:
- Increased Frequency of Anomalies: Climate change is intensifying the frequency of extreme weather events.
- Lack of Adaptive Infrastructure: Limited infrastructure for water storage and temperature regulation in Northeast India.
- Agricultural Vulnerability: Traditional crops may suffer due to heat and drought, affecting food security.
- Public Awareness: Low awareness about climate-resilient practices among rural communities.
- Health Infrastructure: Need for better healthcare facilities to handle heat-related illnesses.
- Way Ahead:
- Climate-Resilient Crops: Promote drought-resistant and heat-tolerant crop varieties.
- Water Management Plans: Implement water conservation and harvesting strategies to address future shortages.
- Awareness Programs: Educate communities on climate adaptation practices.
- Green Infrastructure: Develop green spaces and shade structures to mitigate urban heat.
- Policy Support: Strengthen policies focusing on climate resilience in agriculture and water management.
Conclusion:
The extreme temperatures experienced in Northeast India highlight the urgent need for climate adaptation strategies. Strengthening infrastructure and enhancing community awareness will be critical in mitigating the impacts of climate anomalies on the region.
Topic 3: Cybercrime Coordination Centre in Assam
GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Cybersecurity
Introduction:
Assam Police announced the establishment of a Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (R4C) to combat rising cybercrime in the state. The center will enhance capabilities to detect, investigate, and prevent cybercrime, addressing a growing security concern in Assam.
Key Points:
- Assam Police’s R4C will coordinate with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
- Cybercrime police stations are also being set up in high-risk districts.
- The center will focus on crimes like child pornography, financial fraud, and cyberbullying.
Prelims Pointers:
- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C): A central agency under the Ministry of Home Affairs focusing on cybercrime prevention.
- Cyber Tipline: An online platform for reporting cybercrimes.
- 1930 Cyber Helpline: Helpline number for reporting cyber fraud.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Enhanced Cybersecurity: Strengthens Assam’s cybersecurity defenses in line with national cyber policies.
- Public Safety: Reduces cyber risks, ensuring public safety and protecting digital identities.
- Financial Security: Addresses cyber fraud and financial crimes, safeguarding citizens’ finances.
- Data Protection: Ensures data privacy for individuals by combating data theft and misuse.
- Capacity Building: Trains law enforcement in cybercrime investigation, boosting overall policing quality.
- Challenges:
- Technological Advancements: Cybercriminals often outpace law enforcement with new technologies.
- Resource Constraints: Limited resources for sophisticated cybersecurity infrastructure in rural areas.
- Cross-Border Cyber Threats: Many cybercrimes originate from foreign entities, complicating enforcement.
- Public Awareness: Low awareness among the public about cyber risks and preventive measures.
- Data Privacy Concerns: Balancing effective cybercrime monitoring with citizens’ right to privacy.
- Way Ahead:
- Enhanced Funding: Allocate more resources for cybersecurity technology and infrastructure.
- Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate citizens on cyber hygiene and safe online practices.
- Training Programs: Regular training for police officers on emerging cyber threats and response strategies.
- International Cooperation: Collaborate with global entities to tackle cross-border cybercrimes.
- Data Protection Framework: Establish clear protocols for data privacy while ensuring security.
Conclusion:
The establishment of Assam’s R4C is a proactive step toward strengthening cybersecurity and ensuring a safer digital environment. Enhanced public cooperation and advanced technology will be essential to its success.
Topic 4: Preservation of Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet in Assam
GS Paper 1: Art and Culture
Introduction:
The endangered Assamese folk traditions of Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet, which carry significant cultural heritage, were recently celebrated through a lecture and performance event in Guwahati. The event highlighted the need for preserving these unique art forms.
Key Points:
- Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet are traditional songs rooted in Assamese folklore, often sung without musical instruments.
- They originate from Buddhist and agricultural traditions and are vital to the cultural identity of Assam’s rural communities.
- The event was organized by Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA) with Assam Down Town University.
Prelims Pointers:
- Chiya Geet: Folk songs believed to be derived from Buddhist traditions, sung in Assamese villages.
- Nangeli Geet: Competitive agricultural songs sung during fieldwork, fostering community bonds.
- IGNCA: A cultural institution under the Ministry of Culture, dedicated to preserving India’s art heritage.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Cultural Preservation: Maintains Assam’s rich folklore, passing down history and values.
- Community Identity: Strengthens bonds within rural communities, preserving social customs.
- Linguistic Heritage: Promotes Assamese language and oral traditions.
- Economic Opportunities: Preservation efforts can create income sources through tourism and cultural events.
- Intergenerational Learning: Engages youth with traditional art forms, ensuring continuity.
- Challenges:
- Lack of Documentation: Limited formal documentation increases the risk of losing these oral traditions.
- Urbanization and Modernization: Youth migration to cities reduces community engagement in traditional arts.
- Funding Shortages: Inadequate resources for systematic preservation and promotion efforts.
- Language Barriers: Diminished use of local dialects may lead to a loss of traditional lyrics.
- Limited Awareness: Many people are unaware of the significance of these traditional songs.
- Way Ahead:
- Digital Documentation: Record and archive these art forms digitally for future generations.
- Cultural Festivals: Organize annual festivals dedicated to folk traditions like Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet.
- Educational Integration: Include traditional music in school curricula to engage younger generations.
- NGO Involvement: Partner with cultural NGOs for community outreach and preservation funding.
- Tourism Promotion: Highlight these folk traditions in tourism campaigns, attracting cultural tourists.
Conclusion:
Preserving Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet is essential for safeguarding Assam’s cultural heritage. Collaborative efforts between government, educational institutions, and communities can revitalize these art forms and ensure their survival for future generations.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Dighalipukhuri Tree-Cutting Protest in Guwahati
Question 1: With reference to environmental conservation practices in urban areas, consider the following terms:
- Green Corridor
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL)
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA)
Which of the above terms is/are directly related to conservation and sustainable urban development?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: D. 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- Green Corridor refers to designated urban areas with green cover that support biodiversity and reduce urban heat, aiding in sustainable development.
- Public Interest Litigation (PIL) allows the public to seek judicial intervention in matters affecting the environment and public welfare.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) is a process used to assess the potential environmental effects of a proposed project before it is approved, helping ensure sustainable development.
Thus, the correct answer is D.
Topic 2: Record September Heat in Northeast India
Question 2: Which of the following statements about the record heat in Northeast India in September 2024 is/are correct?
- A deficit in monsoon rainfall contributed to the heatwave conditions in the region.
- The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded the highest mean temperature for the region since records began in 1901.
- A high temperature anomaly in the region is primarily due to its proximity to the Tropic of Cancer.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. A significant monsoon rainfall deficit contributed to the unusually high temperatures, creating drought-like conditions in parts of Northeast India.
- Statement 2 is correct. The IMD reported record-breaking mean temperatures for September, marking the highest since records began in 1901.
- Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Tropic of Cancer does pass through India, temperature anomalies in Northeast India are more directly linked to climate change effects and monsoon variability, not solely its proximity to the Tropic of Cancer.
Thus, the correct answer is A.
Topic 3: Cybercrime Coordination Centre in Assam
Question 3: Which of the following statements regarding the Regional Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (R4C) being set up in Assam is/are correct?
- The R4C in Assam will work in coordination with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
- The primary objective of R4C is to address cross-border cyber threats originating from neighboring countries.
- The R4C will facilitate specialized training for law enforcement personnel in handling cybercrime cases.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The R4C in Assam will coordinate with the Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) to strengthen cybersecurity at the regional level.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. Although cybercrime can have cross-border implications, the primary focus of R4C is on addressing domestic cyber threats such as financial fraud, child pornography, and cyberbullying.
- Statement 3 is correct. R4C will offer specialized training to law enforcement personnel to improve their capabilities in dealing with cybercrime cases.
Thus, the correct answer is B.
Topic 4: Preservation of Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet in Assam
Question 4: With reference to Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet, consider the following statements:
- Chiya Geet is a traditional Assamese song derived from Buddhist folklore.
- Nangeli Geet is associated with agricultural activities and is often sung in a competitive format.
- These folk traditions are typically performed with the accompaniment of musical instruments.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Statement 3 is incorrect. Chiya Geet and Nangeli Geet are typically sung without instrumental accompaniment, maintaining their traditional, oral nature.
Thus, the correct answer is A.
Statement 1 is correct. Chiya Geet has roots in Buddhist traditions and is a part of Assamese folklore.
Statement 2 is correct. Nangeli Geet is associated with agricultural work, often performed in a competitive style to motivate and engage the community.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Question: With reference to recent protests against tree-cutting in Dighalipukhuri, Guwahati, critically examine the challenges of balancing urban infrastructure development with environmental conservation. Suggest sustainable urban planning measures that could be adopted in Assam to mitigate such conflicts. (250 words)
Model Answer:
Introduction:
The recent protests in Guwahati against the felling of century-old trees in Dighalipukhuri for a new flyover highlight the complex challenge of balancing infrastructure development with environmental conservation. As urbanization accelerates, Assam faces mounting pressure to expand its infrastructure while preserving its natural heritage.
Body:
Challenges in Balancing Development and Conservation:
- Loss of Green Cover: Urban projects often lead to deforestation, resulting in the loss of biodiversity and increased urban heat.
- Heritage Conservation: Sites like Dighalipukhuri hold historical significance, and development that disregards this can lead to cultural loss.
- Public Health Impact: Trees in urban areas improve air quality, regulate temperature, and provide shade, essential for urban health.
- Community Opposition: Public resistance to projects affecting green spaces can delay infrastructure work and lead to social conflicts.
- Lack of Transparent Planning: Limited public consultations and insufficient environmental assessments undermine efforts to reach balanced development decisions.
Sustainable Urban Planning Measures:
- Integrated Green Spaces: Include existing trees and green areas within infrastructure projects through thoughtful design adaptations.
- Mandatory Public Consultations: Engage communities in project planning stages to incorporate local concerns and reduce resistance.
- Comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA): Ensure rigorous EIA for all major urban projects to address environmental risks effectively.
- Adoption of Vertical Infrastructure: Develop multi-level structures where feasible, reducing the need for extensive land clearance.
- Tree Relocation Programs: Implement technology for safe tree relocation in cases where felling is unavoidable, minimizing biodiversity loss.
Conclusion:
Balancing urban development with environmental conservation requires a shift toward sustainable planning that respects Assam’s natural heritage. By incorporating green practices and fostering public engagement, Assam can develop infrastructure responsibly, ensuring both ecological preservation and urban growth.
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