APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (26/11/2024)
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 (26-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. ULFA Ban Extended for Five Years
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Internal Security
Introduction:
The Government of India has extended the ban on the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) for another five years under the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA). The extension highlights concerns over ULFA’s continued activities aimed at secession and its links with other insurgent groups.
Key Facts:
- First Ban: ULFA was first banned in 1990 for its anti-national activities.
- Current Status: The group remains divided into ULFA (Pro-Talks) and ULFA (Independent), the latter led by Paresh Baruah.
- Recent Developments: Reports of the group’s involvement in extortion and arms trafficking persist.
Prelims Pointers:
- ULFA: Established in 1979, it demands a sovereign Assam.
- UAPA: A law enacted to prevent unlawful activities threatening India’s integrity and sovereignty.
- Secessionist Movements: ULFA’s ties with insurgent groups in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
- National Security: Prevents armed insurgency from destabilizing Assam and the Northeast.
- Regional Stability: Discourages external support for secessionist movements.
- Governance: Upholds the rule of law in conflict-prone areas.
- Economic Growth: Ensures a peaceful environment for investment and development in Assam.
Challenges:
- Reconciliation Issues: Bridging gaps between ULFA factions.
- Cross-Border Links: Persistent support from groups operating in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
- Public Sentiment: Balancing enforcement with addressing grievances fueling insurgency.
Government Initiatives:
- Ongoing peace talks with ULFA (Pro-Talks) faction.
- Strengthened border surveillance to curb arms and militant infiltration.
- Socio-economic development programs in insurgency-prone areas.
Way Ahead:
- Inclusive Dialogue: Engage ULFA (Independent) in peace talks without compromising sovereignty.
- Cross-Border Cooperation: Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
- Youth Empowerment: Address unemployment and lack of opportunities that drive youth to insurgency.
Conclusion:
The extension of the ULFA ban underscores India’s commitment to preserving its sovereignty and ensuring peace in Assam. A multi-pronged approach blending enforcement with socio-economic reforms is essential to end insurgency.
2. Damage to PMGSY Bridge in Jamira Baganbasti
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Infrastructure Development; Governance
Introduction:
A bridge constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) in the Assam-Mizoram border region of Jamira Baganbasti collapsed shortly after completion, causing significant disruption to local communities.
Key Facts:
- Location: Jamira Baganbasti, on the Assam-Mizoram border.
- Impact: Thousands of villagers, including students and patients, are severely affected due to the lack of connectivity.
- Temporary Solution: Local residents constructed a bamboo subway to manage immediate needs.
Prelims Pointers:
- PMGSY: A central scheme aimed at providing all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural areas.
- Jamira Baganbasti: A strategic location near the Assam-Mizoram border.
- Community Participation: Locals taking measures to restore mobility in the absence of government intervention.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
- Rural Connectivity: Bridges under PMGSY are vital for socio-economic integration in remote regions.
- Disaster Resilience: Robust infrastructure mitigates the impact of frequent floods and erosion in Assam.
- Public Trust: Ensures government accountability and builds trust in state-led development programs.
Challenges:
- Quality Concerns: Poor construction practices leading to premature failures.
- Delayed Action: Lack of immediate response from authorities worsens public grievances.
- Monitoring Deficiency: Ineffective oversight mechanisms during project execution.
Government Initiatives:
- Establishment of third-party inspection systems for PMGSY projects.
- Guidelines for disaster-resilient infrastructure in flood-prone areas.
Way Ahead:
- Strengthening Oversight: Introduce independent quality monitoring agencies to ensure standards.
- Community Engagement: Incorporate feedback from local communities during planning and execution.
- Timely Repairs: Prioritize immediate action to restore connectivity in critical areas.
Conclusion:
The Jamira Baganbasti incident underscores the need for quality assurance in rural infrastructure projects. Timely intervention and robust governance can prevent similar occurrences and restore public confidence in developmental initiatives.
3. Sonitpur Social Forestry Division’s Agro-Net Shade Project
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Environment and Sustainable Development
Introduction:
The Sonitpur Social Forestry Division has invited tenders for constructing an agro-net shade structure over 200 standard beds in the Naduar Reserve Forest. The project aims to enhance eco-friendly forestry and agroforestry practices in the region.
Key Facts:
- Location: Naduar Reserve Forest, Sonitpur District.
- Project Details:
- Cost: ₹57.22 lakh.
- Infrastructure: Agro-net shade with GI pipe for sustainable plantation activities.
- Objective: Promote climate-resilient forestry and eco-tourism in Sonitpur.
Prelims Pointers:
- Agroforestry: A land-use system integrating trees with crops or livestock.
- Naduar Reserve Forest: A key forest reserve in Sonitpur known for biodiversity.
- Agro-Net Technology: Used to control temperature, humidity, and pests for plants.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
- Climate Mitigation: Enhances forest carbon sequestration and combats climate change.
- Sustainable Forestry: Encourages sustainable practices and preserves biodiversity.
- Economic Boost: Supports local communities through employment and agro-tourism.
- Research Opportunity: Provides a model for integrating forestry with climate-resilient agriculture.
Challenges:
- Logistical Hurdles: Constructing infrastructure in forested areas can be challenging.
- Maintenance Costs: Ensuring long-term upkeep of the shade structure.
- Community Engagement: Aligning local interests with conservation objectives.
Government Initiatives:
- Promotion of agroforestry under the National Agroforestry Policy.
- Financial incentives for climate-resilient projects in forestry.
Way Ahead:
- Collaborative Management: Involve local communities in project execution and maintenance.
- Capacity Building: Train local stakeholders in agroforestry and eco-tourism practices.
- Monitoring Systems: Implement real-time monitoring to ensure project success.
Conclusion:
The Sonitpur agro-net project exemplifies the potential of integrating technology and forestry for sustainable development. Its success can pave the way for similar initiatives in other parts of Assam.
4. Assam’s Participation in Global Cooperative Conference
Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Governance; GS Paper 3: Economy
Introduction:
Assam showcased its cooperative movement’s potential at the Global Cooperative Conference inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The event focused on leveraging cooperative structures for socio-economic development.
Key Facts:
- Themes: Inclusive development and economic resilience through cooperatives.
- Representation: Assam highlighted its successful cooperative ventures in tea, handlooms, and dairy.
- Objective: Promote cooperatives as engines of rural and semi-urban economic growth.
Prelims Pointers:
- Cooperative Societies Act, 1912: Governs cooperatives in India.
- Amul Model: A successful cooperative model inspiring similar initiatives.
- Assam Tea Cooperatives: Empower local farmers by ensuring fair pricing and market access.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
- Rural Development: Boosts income and employment in rural Assam.
- Inclusive Growth: Reduces income disparities by empowering marginalized groups.
- Market Expansion: Facilitates access to national and international markets for local products.
- Self-Reliance: Reduces dependency on government schemes through community-driven initiatives.
Challenges:
- Lack of Awareness: Limited understanding of cooperative structures among rural populations.
- Management Issues: Inefficiencies in managing large cooperatives.
- Financial Constraints: Difficulty in accessing capital for cooperative ventures.
Government Initiatives:
- Financial support for cooperatives under the National Cooperative Development Corporation.
- Skill development programs for cooperative members.
Way Ahead:
- Digital Transformation: Use digital platforms for better management and market access.
- Policy Support: Provide tax incentives and ease of doing business for cooperatives.
- Education and Training: Conduct awareness campaigns and leadership training programs.
Conclusion:
Cooperatives are vital for Assam’s socio-economic transformation. By leveraging their potential, the state can achieve inclusive and sustainable development, contributing to India’s overall growth.
5. Guwahati Air Quality and Regional Weather Update
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Environment
Introduction:
The Pollution Control Board of Assam (PCBA) released an air quality index (AQI) report for November 25, 2024, indicating varying pollution levels across cities in the state. While most cities reported satisfactory AQI, Nagaon showed moderate pollution.
Key Facts:
- AQI Levels:
- Guwahati: 63 (Satisfactory)
- Nagaon: 130 (Moderate)
- Sivasagar: 43 (Good)
- Weather Update: Light rain and shallow fog expected in isolated pockets.
Prelims Pointers:
- AQI Categories: Defined by parameters like PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NO2.
- PM10 and PM2.5: Particulate matter pollutants causing respiratory issues.
- PCBA: State agency monitoring air and water pollution in Assam.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
- Public Health: Improved air quality reduces respiratory and cardiovascular diseases.
- Environmental Sustainability: Indicates the success of anti-pollution measures like stricter vehicular emissions norms.
- Policy Guidance: Helps prioritize interventions in areas like Nagaon with moderate AQI.
- Tourism Boost: Cleaner air quality attracts more tourists to heritage and natural sites.
Challenges:
- Urbanization: Increased construction and vehicular emissions deteriorate air quality in urban centers.
- Monitoring Infrastructure: Gaps in monitoring air quality comprehensively across rural areas.
- Community Awareness: Limited public engagement in adopting eco-friendly practices.
Government Initiatives:
- National Clean Air Program (NCAP) aims to reduce particulate pollution by 20-30% in cities by 2024.
- Assam-specific projects include urban greenery programs and improved waste management systems.
Way Ahead:
- Regional Coordination: Collaborate with neighboring states for air quality management.
- Infrastructure Development: Install more monitoring stations in semi-urban areas.
- Public Participation: Launch campaigns on carpooling, clean energy, and proper waste disposal.
Conclusion:
Monitoring and improving air quality in Assam is crucial for ensuring long-term health and environmental sustainability. A multi-pronged approach addressing pollution sources and public awareness can achieve cleaner air for all.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. ULFA Ban Extended for Five Years
Question:
Under which of the following legislations can organizations like the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) be banned for anti-national activities?
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967
- National Security Act (NSA), 1980
- Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA), 1958
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2, and 3
D. 2 and 3 only
Answer: A
Explanation:
- UAPA, 1967: Used to ban organizations and individuals involved in activities threatening India’s sovereignty and integrity, like ULFA.
- NSA, 1980: Provides preventive detention for individuals but does not ban organizations.
- AFSPA, 1958: Governs military operations in disturbed areas but does not include provisions for banning organizations.
This question highlights the legislative framework for handling internal security threats.
2. Damage to PMGSY Bridge in Jamira Baganbasti
Question:
Which of the following is NOT a primary objective of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)?
A. Providing all-weather road connectivity to unconnected rural areas.
B. Promoting rural employment through infrastructure projects.
C. Strengthening rural socio-economic integration.
D. Ensuring quality and standardization of rural road construction.
Answer: B
Explanation:
- PMGSY focuses on providing all-weather road connectivity to rural areas, improving socio-economic integration and ensuring quality road construction.
- Promoting rural employment is not a direct objective of PMGSY, although it is an indirect benefit.
This question tests understanding of the PMGSY’s scope and objectives.
3. Sonitpur Social Forestry Division’s Agro-Net Shade Project
Question:
Which of the following best describes agroforestry?
A. Cultivating food crops under controlled environmental conditions.
B. Integrating trees, crops, and/or livestock in the same land-use system.
C. Large-scale plantation of trees for timber production.
D. Using advanced greenhouse technology for agricultural purposes.
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Agroforestry involves integrating trees, crops, and livestock in a way that optimizes resource use and supports biodiversity and sustainability.
- Options A, C, and D are unrelated or narrower in scope.
This question ensures conceptual clarity on sustainable agriculture practices.
4. Assam’s Participation in Global Cooperative Conference
Question:
Which of the following sectors in Assam are commonly organized under cooperative structures?
- Tea production
- Handlooms and handicrafts
- Dairy farming
- IT services
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 2, 3, and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Cooperatives in Assam are prominently active in tea production, handlooms, and dairy farming, supporting rural livelihoods.
- IT services are not typically organized under cooperative models in the region.
This question evaluates knowledge of cooperative structures in Assam’s economy.
5. Guwahati Air Quality and Regional Weather Update
Question:
Which of the following parameters are used to calculate the Air Quality Index (AQI) in India?
- PM2.5
- Carbon monoxide (CO)
- Sulphur dioxide (SO2)
- Methane (CH4)
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A
Explanation:
This question ensures clarity on environmental parameters critical for air quality monitoring.
AQI Parameters: Includes PM2.5, PM10, CO, SO2, NO2, ozone (O3), and ammonia (NH3). Methane (CH4) is not included.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Topic: ULFA Ban Extended for Five Years
GS Paper 3: Internal Security
The ban on the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) highlights the persistent security challenges in India’s Northeast. Analyze the role of legislative measures like the Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) in addressing insurgency. Suggest a balanced approach to ensure security while addressing socio-economic grievances in the region.
Model Answer
Introduction:
The Northeast region of India has been a hotspot for insurgency, with groups like the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA) demanding secession. The Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) has been instrumental in combating such threats by empowering the government to ban organizations and individuals engaged in activities threatening India’s sovereignty. However, addressing the underlying socio-economic issues is equally critical to ensuring lasting peace.
Role of UAPA in Addressing Insurgency:
- Banning Secessionist Groups:
- ULFA, banned under UAPA, is prevented from openly operating and recruiting members.
- Curbing Funding and Resources:
- Provisions for freezing financial assets and monitoring external support networks disrupt the functioning of insurgent groups.
- Facilitating Law Enforcement:
- Enables detention of individuals associated with banned organizations, reducing their operational capabilities.
- Promoting National Security:
- Reinforces India’s commitment to maintaining sovereignty and territorial integrity in insurgency-prone areas.
Challenges of Relying Solely on Legislative Measures:
- Human Rights Concerns:
- Prolonged detentions and stringent measures under UAPA can lead to allegations of misuse and alienation of local communities.
- Socio-Economic Grievances:
- Lack of employment, education, and development often fuels insurgent activities.
- Cross-Border Dynamics:
- ULFA’s links with groups in Myanmar and Bangladesh complicate enforcement.
- Limited Impact on Pro-Talks Factions:
- While ULFA (Independent) remains active, the Pro-Talks faction is involved in peace negotiations, necessitating a differentiated approach.
A Balanced Approach to Ensure Security and Development:
- Strengthening Dialogue:
- Engage ULFA (Independent) in peace talks without compromising India’s sovereignty.
- Cross-Border Cooperation:
- Strengthen intelligence-sharing mechanisms with Myanmar and Bangladesh to dismantle cross-border insurgent networks.
- Socio-Economic Interventions:
- Expand employment schemes, educational opportunities, and infrastructure development in insurgency-prone regions.
- Community Engagement:
- Build trust through grassroots programs that involve locals in governance and conflict resolution.
- Monitoring Mechanisms:
- Ensure transparency and accountability in UAPA’s implementation to address concerns of misuse.
Conclusion:
While legislative measures like UAPA are crucial for maintaining internal security, addressing the socio-economic root causes of insurgency is equally important. A holistic strategy that combines enforcement with inclusive development and dialogue can ensure sustainable peace and progress in Assam and the Northeast.
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