APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/01/2025)

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 (13-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. Act East Policy and Myanmar Crisis

GS Paper 2: International Relations

Introduction

India’s Act East Policy aims to enhance connectivity and economic integration with Southeast Asia, with Myanmar playing a pivotal role as a land bridge between South Asia and ASEAN. However, Myanmar’s political instability and internal conflict have hampered progress, posing significant challenges to India’s strategic objectives.

Key Points

1. Trilateral Highway Project:
   • Links India, Myanmar, and Thailand to boost trade and regional integration.
   • Approved in 2002, but prolonged delays due to political unrest in Myanmar.
2. Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project:
   • Integrates Sittwe Port, river transport, and roadways to connect India’s northeast with Myanmar.
   • Operational progress slowed due to security issues and governance gaps in Myanmar.
3. Impact of Myanmar’s Crisis:
   • Delayed implementation of key connectivity projects.
   • Increased insurgency activities in border regions, affecting India’s security.
   • Trade and people-to-people links remain disrupted.
4. India’s Diplomatic Dilemma:
   • Balancing relations with the Myanmar military junta and the National Unity Government (NUG).
   • Managing China’s growing influence in Myanmar’s infrastructure and economy.

Prelims Pointers

• Act East Policy: India’s strategy to enhance trade, connectivity, and cultural ties with Southeast Asia and East Asia.
• Sittwe Port: Part of Kaladan Project, facilitating maritime and inland water transport.
• Trilateral Highway: Key infrastructure linking India, Myanmar, and Thailand.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Myanmar in Act East Policy:

1. Connectivity: Vital for physical and economic integration between India and ASEAN.
2. Strategic Role: Counterbalances China’s Belt and Road Initiative in Southeast Asia.
3. Economic Opportunities: Enhances trade potential for India’s northeastern states.

Challenges:

1. Political Instability: Military rule and civil war disrupt governance and project timelines.
2. Insurgency: Cross-border militant activities in India’s northeast fueled by Myanmar’s unrest.
3. Infrastructure Bottlenecks: Poor funding and coordination delay projects like the trilateral highway.

Government Initiatives:

1. Kaladan Multimodal Project: Establishes multimodal transport connectivity to boost trade.
2. North East Vision 2020: Focuses on integrating the northeast region with Southeast Asia.
3. Support for ASEAN Master Plan on Connectivity 2025: Aligns regional strategies for connectivity.

Way Ahead:

1. Engaging Regional Players: Leverage ASEAN’s support to mediate in Myanmar’s crisis.
2. Enhancing Diplomacy: Balance ties with Myanmar’s military and opposition forces.
3. Improved Security Measures: Address insurgency and protect critical infrastructure.
4. Funding and Technology: Increase investments in timely project completion and adopt advanced technologies for infrastructure.

Conclusion

Myanmar’s stability is integral to the success of India’s Act East Policy. By fostering regional cooperation, enhancing diplomatic engagement, and accelerating infrastructure projects, India can ensure its northeastern region serves as a gateway to Southeast Asia, fulfilling both economic and strategic objectives.

2. Magh Bihu and its Socio-Economic Implications

GS Paper 1: Indian Society and Culture

Introduction

Magh Bihu, also known as Bhogali Bihu, is a post-harvest festival celebrated across Assam. Symbolizing abundance and gratitude, it marks the end of the harvesting season and showcases Assam’s agrarian roots. However, socio-economic challenges faced by farmers and the impact of urbanization have altered traditional practices over time.

Key Points

1. Cultural Significance:
   • Celebrated with traditional feasts, games, and rituals like burning the meji (bonfire).
   • Symbolizes community bonding and gratitude for a bountiful harvest.
2. Modern Transformations:
   • Urbanization has shifted festivities from community-based to individual-centric celebrations.
   • Traditional delicacies, once homemade, are now mass-produced for urban markets.
3. Challenges for Farmers:
   • Declining profits due to middlemen exploitation and lack of proper market linkages.
   • Shrinking agricultural land and increased input costs impact farmers’ participation in celebrations.

Prelims Pointers

• Meji: A bonfire made of bamboo and straw, symbolizing purification and the end of winter.
• Uruka: The night before Magh Bihu, marked by community feasts and traditional games.
• Pithas: Traditional rice cakes integral to Assamese festivals.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Magh Bihu:

1. Cultural Unity: Reinforces Assam’s unique identity and strengthens community ties.
2. Economic Impact: Generates demand for local produce, fish, and traditional crafts.
3. Environmental Significance: The use of natural materials like bamboo and straw promotes eco-friendly practices.

Challenges:

1. Economic Struggles: Farmers face reduced incomes and debt due to declining agricultural productivity.
2. Urbanization: Erosion of traditional practices as urban celebrations overshadow rural customs.
3. Market Exploitation: Small farmers are at the mercy of middlemen, limiting their profits during the festive season.

Government Initiatives:

1. Agri-Marketing Infrastructure Fund: To improve storage and transport facilities.
2. Cultural Promotion Grants: Financial assistance for community events and preservation of traditional practices.
3. Farmer Welfare Schemes: Focused on better pricing and reducing intermediaries in the supply chain.

Way Ahead:

1. Reviving Rural Celebrations: Encourage rural participation through incentives for community feasts and traditional games.
2. Market Reforms: Establish direct-to-consumer models to ensure fair pricing for farmers.
3. Cultural Awareness Campaigns: Promote the importance of traditional Bihu practices to younger generations.
4. Sustainable Farming Practices: Support organic farming and reduce input costs to improve farmers’ economic conditions.

Conclusion

Magh Bihu represents the essence of Assam’s agrarian culture and community spirit. By addressing the socio-economic challenges faced by farmers and promoting traditional practices, the festival can continue to thrive as a symbol of abundance and gratitude for generations to come.

3. Wildlife Drilling in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

GS Paper 3: Environment

Introduction

The National Board of Wildlife (NBWL) has recently approved exploratory drilling in the eco-sensitive zone (ESZ) of the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam. This decision highlights the dilemma between ecological conservation and the need for economic development.

Key Points

1. Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary:
   • Located in Jorhat, Assam, it is home to the endangered Hoolock Gibbon, India’s only ape species.
   • The sanctuary spans 21 sq. km and is surrounded by tea gardens and human settlements.
2. Drilling Project:
   • Cairn Oil & Gas has proposed exploratory drilling within a 4.49-hectare site, approximately 13 km from the sanctuary.
   • The NBWL has mandated that extraction, if reserves are found, should occur outside the ESZ.

Prelims Pointers

• Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Buffer areas around protected zones to reduce ecological impacts of human activities.
• Hoolock Gibbon: Endangered species found in Northeast India and parts of Southeast Asia.
• Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Key legislation for conserving biodiversity in India.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary:

1. Biodiversity Hotspot: Home to rare species, including elephants, civets, and hornbills.
2. Ecological Role: Maintains regional climate stability and serves as a carbon sink.
3. Cultural Significance: Integral to local tribal communities who value the forest’s resources.

Challenges:

1. Habitat Disruption:
   • Noise and pollution from drilling activities could harm sensitive wildlife.
   • Potential fragmentation of habitats, affecting species like the Hoolock Gibbon.
2. Legal and Ethical Concerns:
   • Violation of ESZ regulations and potential non-compliance with Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs).
   • Risk of setting a precedent for similar projects in other sanctuaries.
3. Community Backlash:
   • Local communities and activists oppose the project due to fears of long-term environmental damage.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Wildlife Action Plan (2017-2031): Focuses on protecting and restoring biodiversity.
2. Eco-Sensitive Zone Guidelines: Restrict commercial activities near protected areas.
3. Forest (Conservation) Act, 1980: Mandates compensatory afforestation for projects in forest areas.

Way Ahead:

1. Stringent Monitoring: Ensure compliance with environmental safeguards during exploratory activities.
2. Alternative Solutions: Promote renewable energy projects to reduce reliance on fossil fuels.
3. Stakeholder Engagement: Involve local communities in decision-making to address their concerns.
4. Biodiversity Offsetting: Mandate companies to invest in conservation programs to mitigate ecological damage.

Conclusion

Balancing economic development with environmental conservation is critical for long-term sustainability. The Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary serves as a vital ecological and cultural asset, and its preservation should remain a priority while exploring less intrusive development alternatives.

4. Growth in the Livestock Sector in Assam

GS Paper 3: Economy and Agriculture

Introduction

The livestock sector is a critical component of Assam’s agrarian economy, contributing significantly to employment, nutritional security, and rural development. However, the sector faces challenges like low productivity and inadequate infrastructure, which impede its full potential.

Key Points

1. Economic Contribution:
   • Accounts for 13.8% of Assam’s Net State Domestic Product (NSDP) at current prices (Economic Survey, Assam, 2022-23).
   • Major contributors: Cattle, pigs, poultry, and goats.
2. Livestock Census Data:
   • Assam’s livestock population: 18.04 million (20th Livestock Census, 2019).
   • Highest pig population in India, contributing to economic activity in rural areas.
3. Current Productivity:
   • Milk production: 1,069 million liters in 2022-23, with per capita availability of 83 ml/day, far below the recommended 300 ml/day.
   • Meat and egg production also lag behind national averages.

Prelims Pointers

• Lakhimi Cattle: Indigenous breed contributing 53% of Assam’s milk production.
• 20th Livestock Census: Recorded significant growth in poultry and pig populations in Assam.
• National Livestock Mission: Government scheme to enhance productivity and entrepreneurship in livestock farming.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Livestock Sector:

1. Economic Resilience: Diversifies income sources for rural households.
2. Nutritional Security: Addresses protein deficiencies through milk, meat, and eggs.
3. Employment Generation: Provides livelihoods for small and marginal farmers.

Challenges:

1. Low Productivity:
   • Limited genetic improvement in indigenous breeds.
   • Inadequate feeding and veterinary services.
2. Infrastructure Gaps:
   • Lack of processing units, cold chains, and market linkages.
   • Inefficient supply chains for livestock products.
3. Disease Management:
   • High prevalence of livestock diseases due to poor vaccination coverage.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Livestock Mission: Supports skill development and infrastructure creation.
2. Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Focuses on genetic improvement of indigenous cattle breeds.
3. Kisan Credit Cards for Animal Husbandry: Provides financial assistance for livestock farmers.

Way Ahead:

1. Technology Integration:
   • Use of Artificial Insemination (AI) for genetic improvement.
   • Adoption of mobile veterinary units for last-mile delivery of services.
2. Policy Reforms:
   • Strengthen market linkages and incentivize private sector participation.
   • Establish cooperatives for efficient milk and meat distribution.
3. Awareness Campaigns:
   • Educate farmers on sustainable and modern livestock practices.
4. Infrastructure Development:
   • Build processing units and cold storage facilities to reduce post-production losses.

Conclusion

The livestock sector in Assam holds immense potential to uplift rural livelihoods and enhance economic growth. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging government initiatives, Assam can transform its livestock sector into a robust contributor to the state’s development.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Act East Policy and Myanmar Crisis

Question 1:
Consider the following statements about the Act East Policy:

1. It aims to enhance economic cooperation only with ASEAN member states.
2. Myanmar is the only Southeast Asian country that shares a land border with India.
3. The Trilateral Highway Project connects India, Myanmar, and Laos.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 2 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: The Act East Policy extends beyond ASEAN and includes East Asian countries like Japan and South Korea.
• Statement 2 is correct: Myanmar is the only Southeast Asian nation sharing a land border with India.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: The Trilateral Highway connects India, Myanmar, and Thailand, not Laos.

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2. Magh Bihu and its Socio-Economic Implications

Question 2:
Which of the following is/are correct regarding Magh Bihu?

1. It is celebrated at the onset of the harvesting season.
2. The burning of the meji symbolizes the purification of the community.
3. Pitha is a traditional delicacy prepared during Magh Bihu.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 2 and 3 only
• (c) 1 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (b) 2 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is incorrect: Magh Bihu is celebrated at the end of the harvesting season, not the onset.
• Statement 2 is correct: The burning of the meji symbolizes purification and is a significant ritual.
• Statement 3 is correct: Pitha, a rice-based delicacy, is traditionally prepared and consumed during the festival.

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3. Wildlife Drilling in Hollongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

Question 3:
Which of the following is/are correct about the Hollongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary?

1. It is the only sanctuary in India that is home to the Hoolock Gibbon.
2. It is located in Assam and surrounded by tea gardens.
3. Exploratory drilling for hydrocarbons is permitted within the sanctuary boundaries.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 2 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Hollongapar is unique for being home to India’s only ape, the Hoolock Gibbon.
• Statement 2 is correct: The sanctuary is in Jorhat, Assam, and is surrounded by tea plantations.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While exploratory drilling has been approved near the sanctuary’s eco-sensitive zone (ESZ), it is not permitted within the sanctuary itself.

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4. Growth in the Livestock Sector in Assam

Question 4:
Consider the following pairs regarding indigenous livestock breeds in Assam:

Animal	Indigenous Breed
1. Cattle	Lakhimi
2. Pig	Ghungroo
3. Goat	Beetal

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

• (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:

• Pair 1 is correct: Lakhimi is an indigenous cattle breed from Assam.
• Pair 2 is correct: Ghungroo pigs are an indigenous breed widely reared in Assam.
• Pair 3 is incorrect: Beetal is a goat breed native to Punjab, not Assam.

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5. Digitization of Assamese Literature

Question 5:
Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding the digitization of Assamese literature?

1. Xasipat manuscripts are ancient Assamese texts made of bark.
2. AssamArchive.org hosts digitized Assamese literary works.
3. The digitization initiative is a public sector-led project with no private involvement.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 and 2 only
• (b) 1 and 3 only
• (c) 2 and 3 only
• (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

Statement 3 is incorrect: The project involves public-private partnerships, including institutions like Oil India Ltd.

Statement 1 is correct: Xasipat manuscripts are made from the bark of the Sanchi tree and hold significant cultural value.

Statement 2 is correct: AssamArchive.org is an online platform hosting digitized content.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Examine the impact of Myanmar’s political instability on India’s Act East Policy, with special reference to connectivity and security concerns. Suggest measures to address these challenges. (15 marks, 250 words)

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Model Answer

Introduction

India’s Act East Policy aims to enhance economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia, positioning the northeastern region as a gateway. Myanmar’s political instability, characterized by military rule and internal conflicts, poses significant obstacles to this vision, affecting connectivity projects and regional security.

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Body

1. Impact of Myanmar’s Political Instability:

• Connectivity Projects:
  • Trilateral Highway: Delayed due to unrest, affecting trade and integration with ASEAN.
  • Kaladan Multimodal Transit Project: Security concerns in Myanmar hinder seamless operationalization.
• Security Concerns:
  • Insurgency Spillover: Increased cross-border movement of militants and illegal arms.
  • China’s Influence: Myanmar’s reliance on China for infrastructure projects diminishes India’s strategic leverage.
• Economic Disruptions:
  • Trade: Disrupted supply chains and reduced engagement with ASEAN markets.
  • Loss of Confidence: Investors wary of instability in the region.

2. Measures to Address the Challenges:

• Diplomatic Engagement:
  • Balance relations with Myanmar’s military junta and the National Unity Government (NUG).
  • Leverage ASEAN for conflict resolution and regional stability.
• Infrastructure Prioritization:
  • Accelerate alternative connectivity projects, like air and sea routes via Sittwe Port.
  • Strengthen security along border infrastructure to mitigate insurgent threats.
• Economic and Cultural Diplomacy:
  • Promote people-to-people ties and cultural exchanges to sustain goodwill.
  • Identify goods for export from Northeast India to ASEAN to boost trade potential.
• Regional Cooperation:
  • Partner with ASEAN and Japan to counterbalance China’s influence in Myanmar.
  • Support Myanmar with capacity-building initiatives for governance and development.

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Conclusion

Myanmar’s stability is vital for the success of India’s Act East Policy. By fostering diplomatic engagement, accelerating connectivity projects, and ensuring regional cooperation, India can overcome challenges and transform its northeastern region into a thriving economic and strategic hub. This approach will not only benefit India but also contribute to Southeast Asia’s collective development.wareness, this initiative can lead to holistic educational development and global recognition of India’s intellectual contributions.

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