APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (11/12/2024)
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 (11-12-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Jagiroad Proposed as a Smart City Under the New Cities Scheme
GS Paper 3: Urban Development and Infrastructure
Introduction
Jagiroad, located in Assam’s Morigaon district, has been proposed by the state government under the Centre’s New Cities Scheme, an extension of the Smart Cities Mission. With a focus on urbanization and sustainable development, the scheme aims to address the challenges posed by rapid urban growth in smaller towns.
Key Points
- Objective of the New Cities Scheme:
- Incubate eight new cities with an allocation of ₹8,000 crore as a performance-based challenge fund.
- Enhance infrastructure in emerging urban areas to manage population growth.
- Jagiroad’s Selection Criteria:
- Proximity to Guwahati ensures integration with regional economic activities.
- Strategic location for industrial development, particularly in paper and plywood industries.
- Components of Development:
- Focus on Smart Mobility, Smart Energy, and WASH (Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene) infrastructure.
- Integration with the Swachh Bharat Mission and digital governance platforms.
Prelims Pointers
- Smart Cities Mission: Launched in 2015, aims to promote sustainable and inclusive cities.
- New Cities Scheme: Aims to develop urban centers with a population of 3–40 lakh.
- Jagiroad: Known for its industries, including the Nagaon Paper Mill.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Jagiroad’s Inclusion as a Smart City:
- Urbanization and Connectivity:
- Acts as a satellite town for Guwahati, easing the urban congestion in the capital.
- Improved connectivity through highways and rail enhances trade opportunities.
- Industrial Growth:
- Provides infrastructure for expanding industrial zones, boosting Assam’s economy.
- Environmental Management:
- Ensures sustainable development with energy-efficient systems and waste management initiatives.
- Economic Growth and Employment:
- Attracts investments and creates jobs, particularly in construction, IT, and local industries.
Challenges:
- Resource Constraints:
- Limited availability of funds for comprehensive development.
- Execution Delays:
- Land acquisition and bureaucratic hurdles often stall projects.
- Environmental Impact:
- Unplanned urbanization could lead to deforestation and pollution in the region.
Government Initiatives:
- Smart Cities Mission Achievements:
- Completion of 91% of the total projects in 100 existing smart cities (Source: MoHUA Data).
- Focus on NE States:
- Special assistance to Northeastern states for inclusive urban development.
Way Ahead:
- Sustainable Urban Planning:
- Use Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for resource mapping and planning.
- Community Involvement:
- Engage local stakeholders in decision-making and monitoring progress.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Encourage private investments in smart city infrastructure to leverage expertise and funds.
Conclusion
Jagiroad’s proposal as a smart city is a significant step toward urban modernization in Assam. With effective implementation and a focus on sustainability, it can serve as a model for balancing industrial growth with environmental preservation, contributing to Assam’s vision for inclusive development.
2. Assam’s Initiative for Eri Silk Export Promotion
GS Paper 3: Economy, Culture, and Trade
Introduction
Assam, renowned for its silk varieties, especially Eri silk, has launched a focused initiative to promote the export of its silk products to global markets. This step is part of a larger effort to integrate traditional crafts with global trade, ensuring sustainable livelihoods for local weavers while preserving Assam’s cultural heritage.
Key Points
- About Eri Silk:
- Known as the “fabric of peace” due to its non-violent silk production process, where silk moths are not killed.
- Primarily produced in Assam and Meghalaya, Eri silk is eco-friendly and highly durable.
- Export Promotion Strategy:
- Collaboration with the Indian Silk Export Promotion Council (ISEPC) to identify potential markets in Europe and the USA.
- Organizing international trade fairs and exhibitions to showcase Assamese silk.
- Leveraging Geographical Indication (GI) tagging to enhance brand recognition.
Prelims Pointers
- Eri Silk: Derived from the castor plant-feeding silkworm, also known as “Ahimsa Silk.”
- Geographical Indication (GI) Tag: Protects and promotes products associated with a specific region.
- Sericulture in Assam: Employs over 3 lakh families, contributing significantly to the rural economy.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Eri Silk Export for Assam:
- Economic Benefits:
- Boosts rural incomes by integrating traditional weavers into global value chains.
- Diversifies Assam’s export basket, which is currently dominated by tea and petroleum products.
- Cultural Preservation:
- Promotes Assam’s rich textile heritage on a global platform.
- Sustainability and Inclusivity:
- Supports eco-friendly production practices, aligning with global demand for sustainable textiles.
- Encourages women’s participation, as a significant proportion of sericulture workers are women.
Challenges:
- Market Access:
- Limited awareness of Eri silk among international buyers.
- Infrastructure Deficit:
- Lack of modern dyeing and weaving facilities affects quality and scalability.
- Competition:
- Faces stiff competition from synthetic and other natural fibers in the global market.
Government Initiatives:
- North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS):
- Provides support for the production, marketing, and branding of textiles in Assam.
- Silk Samagra 2.0:
- Focuses on improving productivity and quality of silk in India.
- Trade Promotion:
- Export hubs established in Guwahati for silk products.
Way Ahead:
- Modernization of Infrastructure:
- Upgrade weaving and dyeing units with advanced technology.
- Branding and Marketing:
- Launch global campaigns to establish Eri silk as a premium sustainable fabric.
- Skill Development:
- Train weavers and sericulture workers to meet international quality standards.
- Export Subsidies:
- Provide financial incentives for exporters to reduce costs and enhance competitiveness.
Conclusion
The promotion of Eri silk exports is a step toward revitalizing Assam’s traditional industries while integrating them into the global economy. With strategic interventions and sustainable practices, Assam can position itself as a global leader in eco-friendly textiles, ensuring economic growth and cultural preservation.
3. Assam’s Progress on Green Hydrogen Initiatives
GS Paper 3: Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Development
Introduction
Assam has taken significant steps to integrate green hydrogen into its energy mix as part of India’s National Green Hydrogen Mission. The state plans to leverage its industrial base, natural gas infrastructure, and renewable energy potential to emerge as a hub for green hydrogen production and applications.
Key Points
- What is Green Hydrogen?
- Produced using renewable energy to split water into hydrogen and oxygen via electrolysis.
- It is a zero-carbon fuel with applications in industries like transportation, power, and manufacturing.
- Assam’s Strategy:
- Establishment of green hydrogen production units in industrial hubs like Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL).
- Integration of renewable energy sources like solar and hydro to power electrolysis plants.
- Target Sectors:
- Transportation: Adoption of hydrogen fuel cell vehicles for public and industrial transport.
- Industrial Applications: Usage in oil refineries, fertilizers, and steel industries to replace fossil fuels.
Prelims Pointers
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Targets 5 MMT (Million Metric Tons) of green hydrogen production annually by 2030.
- Numaligarh Refinery Limited (NRL): Assam’s key player in renewable energy and hydrogen integration.
- Hydrogen Valley Initiative: Part of India’s global commitment to green energy.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Green Hydrogen for Assam:
- Energy Transition:
- Reduces dependence on fossil fuels, aligning with India’s Net Zero 2070 target.
- Industrial Competitiveness:
- Boosts clean energy adoption in oil refineries and fertilizer production, enhancing sustainability.
- Economic Growth:
- Creates jobs in green hydrogen production, storage, and distribution.
- Attracts investments in renewable energy infrastructure.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and local air pollution.
Challenges:
- High Production Costs:
- Electrolysis and renewable energy costs make green hydrogen expensive.
- Infrastructure Deficit:
- Limited infrastructure for hydrogen storage, transportation, and refueling.
- Technology Readiness:
- Need for research and development to improve efficiency and scalability.
- Policy Framework:
- Lack of clear regulatory guidelines for hydrogen production and usage.
Government Initiatives:
- National Green Hydrogen Mission:
- Allocates ₹19,744 crore to promote green hydrogen projects across India.
- Renewable Energy Integration:
- Incentives for solar and wind energy projects to support green hydrogen production.
- Assam’s Green Energy Policy:
- Focuses on renewable energy development and its integration with hydrogen technologies.
Way Ahead:
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Encourage collaboration between government and private players to build green hydrogen infrastructure.
- Research and Development:
- Invest in advanced electrolysis technologies and hydrogen storage systems.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Develop hydrogen pipelines and refueling stations for industrial and transportation applications.
- Policy and Incentives:
- Introduce subsidies and tax benefits to lower the cost of green hydrogen production.
Conclusion
Assam’s green hydrogen initiatives reflect its commitment to sustainable energy transitions and economic growth. By addressing challenges related to cost and infrastructure, the state can position itself as a key player in India’s green hydrogen economy, contributing significantly to global climate goals.
4. Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative
GS Paper 2: Governance, Education, and Skill Development
Introduction
Assam’s government has launched the Integrated Skill Development Initiative to address the state’s growing unemployment challenges and align workforce capabilities with industry demands. The initiative focuses on equipping the youth with market-relevant skills, fostering entrepreneurship, and ensuring sustainable employment opportunities.
Key Points
- Objectives:
- Bridge the skill gap in key sectors like IT, healthcare, construction, and renewable energy.
- Promote entrepreneurship development through financial literacy and business training.
- Target Beneficiaries:
- Aims to train 5 lakh individuals by 2026, with a focus on women, rural youth, and marginalized communities.
- Key Features:
- Establishment of skill development centers across 33 districts.
- Collaboration with private players and industry experts for practical training.
- Integration of digital platforms for remote learning and certification.
Prelims Pointers
- Skill India Mission: A national initiative to train over 40 crore Indians in various skills by 2022.
- Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY): Provides financial support for skill training.
- Key Sectors in Assam: Tea, tourism, textiles, and emerging fields like IT and renewable energy.
Mains Pointers
Significance of the Initiative:
- Reduction in Unemployment:
- Empowers youth with employable skills, addressing Assam’s 9.2% unemployment rate (Source: CMIE).
- Economic Growth:
- Boosts productivity and competitiveness across industries, particularly tea, tourism, and textiles.
- Entrepreneurship Development:
- Encourages self-employment, reducing dependency on traditional job markets.
- Women Empowerment:
- Provides targeted programs for women to enhance their participation in the workforce.
Challenges:
- Infrastructure Gaps:
- Limited availability of training centers in remote areas.
- Quality of Training:
- Inconsistent standards and lack of trained instructors affect outcomes.
- Mismatch with Market Demand:
- Training programs may not align with the specific requirements of emerging industries.
- Dropout Rates:
- High dropout rates due to lack of motivation or financial constraints among trainees.
Government Initiatives:
- Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM):
- Aims to provide skill training and certification across sectors.
- National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS):
- Supports apprenticeship training to improve employability.
- Digital Platforms:
- Use of e-learning platforms to reach rural and remote youth.
Way Ahead:
- Industry Collaboration:
- Partner with private companies to design job-oriented training programs.
- Quality Assurance:
- Standardize training modules and enhance the quality of instructors.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Expand training centers in rural and semi-urban areas with modern facilities.
- Monitoring and Feedback:
- Implement robust tracking systems to measure outcomes and improve programs.
Conclusion
Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative is a progressive step toward creating a skilled and empowered workforce. By addressing the challenges of infrastructure, quality, and market alignment, the initiative can unlock Assam’s potential for inclusive growth, bridging the gap between education and employment.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Jagiroad Proposed as a Smart City Under the New Cities Scheme
Q1. Which of the following is a key feature of the New Cities Scheme under India’s urban development initiatives?
- Focus on sustainable urban planning.
- Development of cities with a population of 3–40 lakh.
- Allocation of ₹8,000 crore as a performance-based challenge fund.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 1, 2, and 3
d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: c) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- The New Cities Scheme emphasizes sustainable urban planning, targets mid-sized cities with a population of 3–40 lakh, and includes a performance-based challenge fund of ₹8,000 crore.
Q2. Jagiroad, proposed under the New Cities Scheme, is well-known for which industry?
a) Plywood
b) Tea
c) Paper
d) All of the above
Answer: d) All of the above
Explanation:
- Jagiroad is an industrial hub known for plywood, tea, and the Nagaon Paper Mill.
Topic 2: Assam’s Initiative for Eri Silk Export Promotion
Q1. What makes Eri silk unique compared to other types of silk?
a) It is produced using mulberry leaves.
b) It is known as the “fabric of peace” for its non-violent production process.
c) It requires high temperatures for processing.
d) It is exclusive to Assam’s tribal communities.
Answer: b) It is known as the “fabric of peace” for its non-violent production process.
Explanation:
- Eri silk is called the “fabric of peace” because the moths are not killed during the production process, unlike in other types of silk.
Q2. Which scheme supports the promotion of textiles in the Northeastern Region?
a) North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS)
b) National Textile Development Program (NTDP)
c) Silk Samagra Yojana
d) Skill India Mission
Answer: a) North East Region Textile Promotion Scheme (NERTPS)
Explanation:
- NERTPS is specifically designed to support the production, marketing, and branding of textiles in the Northeastern region, including Eri silk.
Topic 3: Assam’s Progress on Green Hydrogen Initiatives
Q1. Which of the following is correct regarding green hydrogen?
a) It is produced by electrolysis using renewable energy.
b) It is a byproduct of oil refining.
c) It is created using natural gas and emits CO2.
d) It is derived from biomass decomposition.
Answer: a) It is produced by electrolysis using renewable energy.
Explanation:
- Green hydrogen is produced through electrolysis powered by renewable energy, making it a zero-carbon fuel.
Q2. The National Green Hydrogen Mission aims to achieve how much annual green hydrogen production by 2030?
a) 3 MMT
b) 5 MMT
c) 10 MMT
d) 20 MMT
Answer: b) 5 MMT
Explanation:
- The National Green Hydrogen Mission targets 5 Million Metric Tons (MMT) of green hydrogen production annually by 2030 to decarbonize various sectors.
Topic 4: Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative
Q1. Which sectors are prioritized under Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative?
- IT and healthcare
- Construction
- Renewable energy
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 2 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative focuses on key sectors like IT, healthcare, construction, and renewable energy to meet industry demands.
Q2. Which national scheme supports skill training and certification across India?
a) Make in India
b) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
c) Digital India Mission
d) National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS)
Answer: b) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
Explanation:
PMKVY provides financial support for skill training and certification to improve employability.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
“Discuss the potential of Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative in addressing the challenges of unemployment and underemployment in the state. Highlight the steps taken by the government and suggest measures to enhance its effectiveness.” (250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam faces an unemployment rate of 9.2% (Source: CMIE 2024), compounded by a skill gap across key sectors like IT, healthcare, and construction. The Integrated Skill Development Initiative aims to train 5 lakh individuals by 2026, focusing on equipping youth with industry-relevant skills to foster economic growth and social inclusion.
Potential of the Initiative
- Employment Generation:
- Addresses unemployment and underemployment by linking skill development with job opportunities in sectors like renewable energy and tourism.
- Example: IT and healthcare sectors in Guwahati have absorbed over 10,000 trained professionals under earlier skill missions.
- Boost to Industries:
- Fulfills the demand for skilled labor in Assam’s traditional (tea, textiles) and emerging sectors (renewables).
- Women Empowerment:
- Over 40% of trainees under the initiative are women, enhancing their workforce participation.
- Rural Development:
- Establishment of district-level training centers ensures access for marginalized and rural communities.
Government Efforts
- Skill India Mission:
- Provides funding and support for training and certification programs.
- Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM):
- Focuses on local industries and customized training modules.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Collaborations with companies like TCS and Tata Trusts for domain-specific training.
Challenges
- Infrastructure Gaps:
- Limited training centers in remote areas.
- Mismatch with Market Needs:
- Training often does not align with emerging industry demands.
- High Dropout Rates:
- Financial constraints and lack of motivation among trainees.
Measures to Enhance Effectiveness
- Industry Linkages:
- Engage industries in designing training modules to meet real-time demand.
- Digital Training Platforms:
- Leverage technology to provide virtual training and certifications.
- Incentivize Participation:
- Offer stipends and placement guarantees to reduce dropouts.
- Monitoring and Feedback:
- Establish robust mechanisms to assess program outcomes and address gaps.
Conclusion
Assam’s Integrated Skill Development Initiative has the potential to transform its workforce and drive inclusive growth. By addressing existing challenges and aligning with market demands, it can serve as a model for empowering the youth and achieving the state’s economic aspirations. The initiative’s success will contribute significantly to India’s SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth) goals.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!
🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!
For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.
Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group
📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?
Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations
