APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/12/2024)
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 (13-12-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/12/2024)
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 (13-12-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. School Education in Tea Gardens of Assam
GS Paper 2: Education, Social Justice, and Regional Development
Introduction
The tea garden community of Assam, which constitutes over 20% of the state’s population, faces unique challenges in accessing quality education. Historical neglect, socio-economic disparities, and cultural nuances continue to hinder the educational aspirations of this marginalized group. Recent initiatives, such as establishing 116 model schools in tea garden areas, aim to address these gaps.
Key Points
- Current Challenges:
- High dropout rates due to child labor and economic pressures.
- Lack of infrastructure, qualified teachers, and awareness about the importance of education.
- Cultural factors, such as contentment with traditional lifestyles, impede aspirations for formal education.
- Government Interventions:
- Model Schools Initiative (2022): Establishes schools with modern facilities on land provided by tea garden management.
- Pragyan Bharati Scheme: Offers free uniforms and textbooks to students from tea garden communities.
- Impact Observed:
- Improved enrollment rates and academic performance.
- Better access to elementary education with infrastructure support.
Prelims Pointers
- Tea Garden Tribes: Recognized as Other Backward Classes (OBC) in Assam.
- Key Government Initiatives: Pragyan Bharati Scheme, Mission Shiksha, and Midday Meal Program.
- Jhumur Dance: A cultural symbol of the tea garden communities, reflecting their unique heritage.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Education for Tea Garden Communities:
- Socio-Economic Upliftment:
- Reduces child labor and creates opportunities for better-paying jobs.
- Gender Equity:
- Empowers young girls through education, addressing early marriages and exploitation.
- Preserving Culture:
- Promotes cultural inclusivity in education through regional languages and local art forms.
- Regional Development:
- Enhances human capital, contributing to the economic growth of Assam.
Challenges in Implementation:
- Accessibility Issues:
- Many tea gardens are located in remote, hilly areas with limited connectivity.
- Cultural Resistance:
- Community skepticism towards formal education due to entrenched traditional roles.
- Resource Constraints:
- Shortage of trained teachers and inadequate funding for school facilities.
Government Efforts:
- Mission Shiksha: Focused on universalizing elementary education.
- Digital Education Initiatives: Providing smart classrooms in model schools.
- Skill Development Programs: Integrating vocational training into secondary education.
Way Ahead:
- Community Engagement:
- Sensitize tea garden workers on the benefits of education through awareness drives.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Build more schools with hostels for children from remote areas.
- Inclusive Curriculum:
- Incorporate cultural aspects like Jhumur dance and tea-garden folklore into the school syllabus.
- Financial Support:
- Increase scholarships and stipends to reduce economic burdens on families.
Conclusion
Education is a transformative tool for empowering Assam’s tea garden communities. By bridging infrastructural and cultural gaps, the state can unlock the potential of this marginalized group, ensuring social justice and inclusive growth.
2. Assam’s Cybersecurity Policy for Digital Governance
GS Paper 3: Science and Technology, Cybersecurity, and Governance
Introduction
With increasing digitization in governance, Assam has unveiled its first Cybersecurity Policy 2024 to protect critical infrastructure, safeguard citizen data, and promote a secure digital ecosystem. The policy emphasizes preventive measures against cyber threats and builds capacity for effective incident response.
Key Points
- Objectives of the Policy:
- Protect critical IT infrastructure, including government databases and financial systems.
- Promote public awareness of cyber hygiene and digital literacy.
- Develop a robust incident response mechanism for cyber-attacks.
- Focus Areas:
- Establishment of a State Cybersecurity Operations Center (CSOC) for real-time threat monitoring.
- Training programs for government employees on cybersecurity best practices.
- Collaboration with national agencies like CERT-In and NCCC (National Cyber Coordination Center).
Prelims Pointers
- CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team-India): National nodal agency for responding to cybersecurity incidents.
- Cybersecurity Operations Center (CSOC): Monitors and responds to cyber threats in real time.
- Digital India Mission: A flagship initiative to transform governance through digital technologies.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Assam’s Cybersecurity Policy:
- Data Protection:
- Safeguards sensitive citizen data, especially under initiatives like Mission Basundhara and Aadhaar-linked services.
- Resilience Against Cyber Threats:
- Protects critical sectors such as finance, healthcare, and transportation from cyber-attacks.
- Boosts Digital Governance:
- Ensures uninterrupted delivery of e-governance services to citizens.
- Capacity Building:
- Develops a skilled workforce capable of managing and mitigating cyber risks.
Challenges:
- Resource Constraints:
- Limited budget allocation for cybersecurity infrastructure and training.
- Rising Cyber Threats:
- Increase in ransomware and phishing attacks targeting government systems.
- Awareness Deficit:
- Low cybersecurity awareness among citizens and public officials.
- Coordination Gaps:
- Limited integration between state and national cybersecurity initiatives.
Government Initiatives:
- Cyber Surakshit Bharat: Promotes awareness and capacity building in cybersecurity across India.
- National Cybersecurity Policy 2021: Provides a framework for securing cyberspace.
- CERT-In Collaboration: Assam works closely with the national agency for threat intelligence sharing.
Way Ahead:
- Infrastructure Strengthening:
- Invest in advanced cybersecurity tools, such as AI-based threat detection systems.
- Skill Development:
- Conduct regular training sessions for IT professionals and government officials.
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Educate citizens on basic cyber hygiene through schools, media, and local workshops.
- International Collaboration:
- Partner with global cybersecurity firms and agencies for knowledge sharing and best practices.
Conclusion
Assam’s Cybersecurity Policy is a proactive step toward securing its digital landscape in an era of increasing cyber threats. By addressing resource constraints, fostering collaboration, and building public awareness, Assam can establish a resilient and secure digital governance framework, contributing to the success of the Digital India Mission.
3. India’s Progress on the Bioeconomy and the Northeast’s Role
GS Paper 3: Economy, Biotechnology, and Regional Development
Introduction
India’s bioeconomy is rapidly expanding, valued at $120 billion in 2024, with a target of $300 billion by 2030 (Source: Biotechnology Industry Research Assistance Council). The Northeast, rich in biodiversity and traditional knowledge, plays a pivotal role in driving innovation in biotechnology, agriculture, and sustainable resource management.
Key Points
- What is Bioeconomy?
- An economy driven by the sustainable use of biological resources, innovations, and biotechnological processes for industrial and societal benefits.
- Northeast’s Contribution:
- Rich biodiversity: Home to 50% of India’s medicinal plants.
- Agro-biotechnology: Development of high-yield, climate-resilient crops.
- Biopharma and Nutraceuticals: Harnessing endemic plant species for healthcare products.
- Recent Developments:
- Establishment of Bioincubation Centers in Guwahati and Imphal for startups.
- Launch of the National Bamboo Mission to support bio-based industries.
Prelims Pointers
- India’s Bioeconomy Report 2023: Valued at $120 billion, contributing 2.6% to GDP.
- Biotech-KISAN Program: Empowers farmers with biotechnology solutions tailored to local needs.
- Bioincubation Centers: Platforms for startups to innovate in biopharma, bioenergy, and agriculture.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Bioeconomy for India and the Northeast:
- Economic Growth:
- Drives industrial development in biotechnology, bioenergy, and agriculture.
- Example: Assam’s Silk-Bio Blended Textiles initiative adds value to traditional products.
- Sustainability:
- Promotes circular economy principles by converting waste into resources.
- Supports renewable energy through biofuels and biomass-based technologies.
- Healthcare Innovations:
- Development of low-cost vaccines and herbal medicines, especially from endemic species like Taxus wallichiana (Himalayan yew).
- Empowering Marginalized Communities:
- Enhances livelihoods through bio-based industries in rural areas.
Challenges:
- R&D Investment Gaps:
- Insufficient funding for research in biotechnology, particularly in the Northeast.
- Market Access:
- Limited infrastructure for transporting bio-products to global markets.
- Regulatory Hurdles:
- Complex approval processes for biotech innovations like genetically modified crops.
- Community Involvement:
- Inadequate integration of local communities in bioeconomy initiatives.
Government Initiatives:
- Biotech-KISAN Program:
- Links researchers with farmers to address agricultural challenges using biotechnology.
- National Bamboo Mission:
- Supports bamboo-based products like bioplastics and bioenergy.
- NERAMAC (North Eastern Regional Agricultural Marketing Corporation):
- Facilitates marketing of bio-based products from the Northeast.
Way Ahead:
- Strengthening Infrastructure:
- Develop bio-refineries and storage facilities in the Northeast.
- Incentivizing Startups:
- Provide subsidies and incubation support for bioeconomy startups.
- R&D Investment:
- Increase funding for biotech research focusing on regional biodiversity.
- Community Integration:
- Train local communities in bio-based entrepreneurship through targeted skill programs.
Conclusion
India’s bioeconomy, with the Northeast at its forefront, offers immense potential for sustainable growth, innovation, and social equity. By addressing challenges related to infrastructure, market access, and community engagement, the region can serve as a global leader in the bio-based economy, contributing to India’s economic and environmental goals.
4. The Role of AI in India’s Judicial Reforms
GS Paper 2: Governance, Transparency, and Technology
Introduction
India’s judiciary faces challenges like backlog of cases (over 4.4 crore pending cases as of December 2024), delays in justice delivery, and access barriers for marginalized sections. Artificial Intelligence (AI) offers transformative potential to improve judicial efficiency, transparency, and accessibility. Recent initiatives like SUPACE (Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Courts Efficiency) highlight India’s efforts to integrate AI in legal systems.
Key Points
- AI Applications in Judiciary:
- Case Management Systems: Automated sorting of cases by priority and complexity.
- Legal Research Tools: AI-based platforms like LUMINOS and Manupatra for faster case law referencing.
- Real-Time Transcriptions: Use of Natural Language Processing (NLP) for court proceedings.
- Predictive Analysis: Assists in predicting case outcomes based on past judgments.
- Recent Developments:
- Implementation of E-Courts Phase III, focusing on digitizing court records.
- AI-powered chatbots to assist litigants in filing and tracking cases.
Prelims Pointers
- SUPACE: AI-based tool for case research introduced by the Supreme Court.
- E-Courts Project: Aims to digitize and modernize court operations across India.
- AI and Judicial Ethics: Focus on maintaining neutrality and transparency in automated systems.
Mains Pointers
Significance of AI in Judicial Reforms:
- Reduction in Pendency:
- Streamlines administrative tasks, allowing judges to focus on complex cases.
- Enhanced Transparency:
- Algorithms provide consistent decisions, reducing human bias.
- Access to Justice:
- AI tools enable remote access for litigants in underserved regions.
- Cost Efficiency:
- Reduces expenses by minimizing manual labor and paperwork.
Challenges:
- Algorithmic Bias:
- Risk of biases embedded in AI models impacting judgments.
- Data Privacy Concerns:
- Ensuring confidentiality in sensitive legal data processed by AI.
- Digital Divide:
- Limited digital literacy and internet access among rural populations.
- Resistance to Change:
- Skepticism among legal practitioners and judges regarding AI adoption.
Government Initiatives:
- SUPACE (Supreme Court AI): Aims to enhance research efficiency for judges.
- E-Courts Project Phase III: Focus on virtual courts and AI-enabled tools.
- National Judicial Data Grid (NJDG): Centralized database for case tracking and analysis.
Way Ahead:
- Capacity Building:
- Train judges, lawyers, and court staff in AI tools and digital platforms.
- Ethical AI Frameworks:
- Develop guidelines to ensure unbiased and transparent use of AI in legal processes.
- Public-Private Collaboration:
- Partner with tech companies for AI development tailored to judicial needs.
- Phased Implementation:
- Introduce AI solutions incrementally, starting with administrative functions.
Conclusion AI has the potential to revolutionize India’s judicial system by addressing chronic inefficiencies and enhancing access to justice. However, its integration must be cautious, ensuring ethical use, transparency, and inclusivity. With the right policies and stakeholder engagement, AI can strengthen India’s judicial framework while upholding democratic principles.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: The Role of AI in India’s Judicial Reforms
Q1. SUPACE, recently implemented in the Indian judiciary, refers to:
a) A court management software.
b) An AI-based legal research tool.
c) A platform for filing cases online.
d) A mechanism for live streaming court proceedings.
Answer: b) An AI-based legal research tool
Explanation:
- SUPACE (Supreme Court Portal for Assistance in Courts Efficiency) is an AI tool to assist judges in research and case management.
Q2. Which of the following challenges are associated with integrating AI in the judiciary?
- Risk of algorithmic bias.
- Data privacy concerns.
- Lack of digital literacy among rural populations.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- Algorithmic bias, data privacy, and digital illiteracy are significant challenges in adopting AI in legal systems.
Topic 2: India’s Progress on the Bioeconomy and the Northeast’s Role
Q1. What percentage of India’s GDP was contributed by the bioeconomy in 2023?
a) 1.2%
b) 2.6%
c) 3.5%
d) 5.0%
Answer: b) 2.6%
Explanation:
- According to India’s Bioeconomy Report 2023, the bioeconomy contributed 2.6% to India’s GDP.
Q2. Which program empowers farmers with biotechnology solutions tailored to regional needs?
a) Biotech-KISAN Program
b) Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
c) National Food Security Mission
d) Mission Organic Value Chain Development for NE Region
Answer: a) Biotech-KISAN Program
Explanation:
- Biotech-KISAN links researchers with farmers to address agricultural challenges through biotechnology.
Topic 3: Assam’s Cybersecurity Policy for Digital Governance
Q1. CERT-In, often mentioned in cybersecurity, stands for:
a) Central Emergency Response Team-India
b) Computer Emergency Response Team-India
c) Cyber Emergency Response Team-India
d) Critical Emergency Response Team-India
Answer: b) Computer Emergency Response Team-India
Explanation:
- CERT-In is the national nodal agency for cybersecurity incident response.
Q2. The establishment of a Cybersecurity Operations Center (CSOC) in Assam aims to:
- Monitor real-time cyber threats.
- Enhance digital literacy among citizens.
- Improve infrastructure for financial transaction security.
Select the correct answer using the codes 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:
- CSOC focuses on real-time threat monitoring and securing critical infrastructure like financial systems.
Topic 4: School Education in Tea Gardens of Assam
Q1. The tea garden communities of Assam are recognized under which category in the state’s reservation policy?
a) Scheduled Tribes
b) Scheduled Castes
c) Other Backward Classes (OBC)
d) Economically Weaker Section (EWS)
Answer: c) Other Backward Classes (OBC)
Explanation:
- Tea garden tribes are classified as OBCs in Assam.
Q2. Which government initiative provides bicycles to Class IX students in Assam?
a) Mission Shiksha
b) Pragyan Bharati Scheme
c) Anundoram Borooah Merit Scholarship
d) Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan
Answer: b) Pragyan Bharati Scheme
Explanation:
Pragyan Bharati provides bicycles to students in Assam, enhancing access to education.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The tea garden community in Assam is a cornerstone of India’s tea economy, yet it faces systemic marginalization. Critically analyze the socio-economic challenges faced by this community and evaluate the effectiveness of government interventions. Suggest innovative strategies for sustainable development. (250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam’s tea garden community, contributing to 50% of India’s tea production, faces intertwined socio-economic challenges despite being pivotal to the economy. Government interventions like the 116 Model Schools Initiative aim to improve living standards, but systemic barriers persist.
Socio-Economic Challenges
- Education Deficit:
- 45% dropout rate due to child labor and lack of educational infrastructure.
- Poor Living Conditions:
- Overcrowded housing and limited access to healthcare; IMR and MMR remain higher in these areas than state averages.
- Economic Exploitation:
- Daily wages are as low as ₹205, significantly below national averages for labor-intensive industries.
- Cultural Marginalization:
- Language barriers and lack of representation in local governance hinder community integration.
Evaluation of Government Interventions
- Pragyan Bharati Scheme:
- Success: Distribution of bicycles and free uniforms.
- Gap: Limited outreach to remote plantations.
- Midday Meal Program:
- Success: Improved attendance, especially among girls.
- Gap: Nutritional quality remains inconsistent.
- Model Schools Initiative:
- Success: Enhanced infrastructure and enrollment.
- Gap: Insufficient focus on secondary education.
Innovative Strategies for Sustainable Development
- Tech-Driven Solutions:
- Use EdTech platforms for e-learning in remote tea garden schools.
- Community-Led Development:
- Employ Self-Help Groups (SHGs) to implement vocational training programs.
- Policy Integration:
- Link tea garden welfare with broader schemes like MGNREGA for supplemental incomes.
- Market-Based Incentives:
- Introduce Fairtrade certification for tea estates, ensuring ethical wages and labor conditions.
Conclusion
The tea garden community’s challenges require a multi-pronged approach addressing education, healthcare, and economic empowerment. By integrating technology, policy reforms, and community participation, Assam can create a sustainable development model that aligns with SDG goals and preserves the legacy of its tea industry.
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