APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (16/01/2025)

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 (16-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. Deepor Beel and Wetland Conservation

GS Paper 3: Environment

Introduction

Deepor Beel, a Ramsar site and a crucial wetland in Assam, is on the verge of ecological collapse due to pollution, encroachment, and industrial pressures. As a vital biodiversity hotspot, it plays a critical role in maintaining the environmental balance of the region, yet it faces significant anthropogenic threats.

Key Points

1. Ecological Significance:
   • Supports over 200 species of birds, including endangered species.
   • Acts as a major stormwater storage basin for Guwahati, mitigating urban flooding.
   • Recharges groundwater and maintains the hydrological balance.
2. Threats to Deepor Beel:
   • Shrinking area due to encroachment, agricultural activities, and unregulated construction.
   • Pollution from untreated sewage and industrial effluents.
   • Siltation caused by deforestation in the surrounding hills.
3. Legal and Institutional Gaps:
   • Ineffective enforcement of the Wetland Conservation Act.
   • Inadequate implementation of National Green Tribunal (NGT) directives.

Prelims Pointers

• Ramsar Site: Recognized as a wetland of international importance under the Ramsar Convention.
• Wetland Conservation Act: Governs the preservation and sustainable use of wetlands in India.
• National Green Tribunal: Legal body addressing environmental issues, including wetland protection.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Deepor Beel:

1. Environmental Role:
   • Mitigates urban flooding by acting as a stormwater reservoir.
   • Maintains regional biodiversity and provides habitat for migratory birds.
2. Economic Significance:
   • Sustains local livelihoods through fishing and tourism.
   • Provides resources like aquatic vegetation for fodder and manure.
3. Cultural Value:
   • Holds spiritual and cultural significance for local communities.

Challenges:

1. Anthropogenic Pressures:
   • Encroachments for agriculture and real estate.
   • Industrial activities and untreated sewage disposal.
2. Policy and Governance Issues:
   • Poor implementation of conservation policies.
   • Lack of inter-agency coordination for wetland management.
3. Ecological Concerns:
   • Siltation and loss of green cover in surrounding hills.
   • Declining water quality impacting aquatic biodiversity.

Government Initiatives:

1. Ramsar Convention Compliance: Measures to align with international wetland preservation norms.
2. NGT Directives: Orders to relocate the municipal dumping site and prevent effluent discharge.
3. Eco-Sensitive Zone Declaration: Restrictions on industrial activities around the wetland.

Way Ahead:

1. Enhanced Monitoring and Regulation:
   • Strict enforcement of wetland protection laws.
   • Periodic environmental impact assessments.
2. Community Participation:
   • Engage local communities in conservation efforts.
   • Promote eco-tourism to generate sustainable livelihoods.
3. Restoration Measures:
   • Dredging to reduce siltation.
   • Afforestation in the surrounding areas to prevent soil erosion.
4. Integrated Management Plan:
   • Collaboration between government, NGOs, and academic institutions for holistic wetland management.

Conclusion

Deepor Beel exemplifies the ecological and cultural wealth of Assam but faces severe threats from anthropogenic activities. Prioritizing its conservation through stringent regulations, restoration efforts, and community participation is essential to ensure the wetland’s survival and its continued benefits for future generations.

2. Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Food Systems in Northeast India

GS Paper 3: Environment and Agriculture

Introduction

Climate change has severely impacted the indigenous food systems of Northeast India, known for their rich agricultural diversity and traditional knowledge. Erratic weather patterns, rising temperatures, and changing rainfall cycles threaten food security and sustainable livelihoods in the region.

Key Points

1. Indigenous Food Systems:
   • Includes traditional crops like rice, millet, and indigenous fruits.
   • Rich in diversity and resilient to local climatic conditions.
2. Impact of Climate Change:
   • Agricultural Productivity: Decline in yields of traditional crops due to changing rainfall patterns.
   • Loss of Biodiversity: Many indigenous crop varieties face extinction.
   • Soil Degradation: Heavy rainfall and floods lead to erosion and nutrient loss.
   • Livelihood Challenges: Farmers face uncertainty in crop cycles and market demand.

Prelims Pointers

• Shifting Cultivation (Jhum): Traditional farming practice in the Northeast, facing challenges due to soil erosion and erratic rainfall.
• Millets Mission: Government initiative to promote millets as climate-resilient crops.
• Agro-Biodiversity Hotspots: The Northeast is one of India’s richest regions in agro-biodiversity.

Mains Pointers

Significance of Indigenous Food Systems:

1. Cultural Identity: Reflects the traditional knowledge and practices of local communities.
2. Climate Resilience: Indigenous crops are naturally adapted to local conditions.
3. Nutritional Value: Provides diverse and nutrient-rich diets.

Challenges:

1. Climate Variability:
   • Increased frequency of floods and droughts disrupt farming cycles.
   • Rising temperatures reduce crop adaptability.
2. Market Pressures:
   • Preference for commercial crops over traditional ones.
   • Lack of market access for indigenous produce.
3. Policy Gaps:
   • Limited support for traditional farming methods.
   • Absence of robust climate adaptation strategies.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC): Focus on sustainable agriculture and biodiversity.
2. Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Promotes organic farming practices.
3. Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH): Supports the cultivation of indigenous fruits and vegetables.

Way Ahead:

1. Strengthen Research and Development:
   • Document and preserve indigenous crop varieties.
   • Develop climate-resilient farming techniques.
2. Community-Centric Policies:
   • Encourage participatory planning with local communities.
   • Provide financial and technical support to farmers.
3. Promote Climate-Resilient Crops:
   • Focus on millets, pulses, and traditional rice varieties.
   • Create value chains for indigenous produce.
4. Capacity Building:
   • Train farmers in sustainable and adaptive farming practices.
   • Raise awareness on the importance of agro-biodiversity.

Conclusion

Preserving indigenous food systems is crucial for ensuring food security and ecological sustainability in Northeast India. By integrating traditional knowledge with modern climate adaptation strategies, the region can mitigate climate impacts while promoting sustainable livelihoods.

3. State Connectivity Projects and Assam’s Economic Growth

GS Paper 3: Economy and Infrastructure

Introduction

Connectivity projects in Assam aim to bridge the state’s geographic isolation and unlock its economic potential. Initiatives like the Bharatmala Project, multimodal waterways, and rail networks are transforming Assam into a critical hub for trade and commerce in the northeastern region.

Key Points

1. Major Connectivity Projects:
   • Bharatmala Pariyojana: Enhancing road infrastructure to link key trade corridors.
   • North-East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS): Focused on improving infrastructure in remote areas.
   • Waterways Development: National Waterway 2 (NW2) on the Brahmaputra River facilitates inland water transport.
2. Economic Impacts:
   • Increased inter-state and international trade, especially with ASEAN nations.
   • Growth in tourism and agro-based industries.
   • Boost in employment opportunities through infrastructure development.

Prelims Pointers

• National Waterway 2 (NW2): Covers the Brahmaputra River from Dhubri to Sadiya, vital for trade.
• Bharatmala Pariyojana: A central government initiative aimed at improving India’s road infrastructure.
• Trans-Arunachal Highway: Connects Assam to Arunachal Pradesh, reducing travel time and costs.

Mains Pointers

Significance of Connectivity Projects:

1. Economic Integration:
   • Facilitates trade between Assam and neighboring states.
   • Supports export of local goods like tea, silk, and oil.
2. Strategic Importance:
   • Enhances border security with improved access to remote areas.
   • Strengthens ties with ASEAN nations through Act East Policy initiatives.
3. Social Benefits:
   • Reduces regional disparities by improving access to education and healthcare.
   • Promotes urbanization and rural development.

Challenges:

1. Geographical Constraints:
   • Flood-prone regions and difficult terrain slow project implementation.
2. Environmental Concerns:
   • Infrastructure development impacts sensitive ecosystems, including wetlands and forests.
3. Funding Issues:
   • Delayed disbursement of funds affects timely project completion.

Government Initiatives:

1. Act East Policy: Strengthens economic and strategic linkages with Southeast Asia.
2. NESIDS: Improves infrastructure in the northeastern states.
3. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encourages private investment in infrastructure projects.

Way Ahead:

1. Integrated Infrastructure Planning:
   • Align projects with regional development goals.
   • Ensure synergy between road, rail, and waterways projects.
2. Sustainability Measures:
   • Conduct environmental impact assessments before initiating projects.
   • Use eco-friendly technologies for construction.
3. Boosting Investments:
   • Leverage international funding for large-scale projects.
   • Offer tax incentives for private sector participation.
4. Community Involvement:
   • Engage local communities in decision-making and project execution.

Conclusion

Connectivity projects in Assam are pivotal for transforming the state into a regional economic powerhouse. By addressing challenges and ensuring sustainable development, these initiatives can catalyze economic growth while preserving the region’s unique cultural and ecological heritage.

4. India’s Progress Towards Ethanol Blending

GS Paper 3: Environment and Economy

Introduction

Ethanol blending in petrol is a key initiative under India’s National Bioenergy Programme aimed at reducing carbon emissions, enhancing energy security, and supporting farmers. The government has set an ambitious target of achieving 20% ethanol blending by 2025.

Key Points

1. Ethanol Blending Programme (EBP):
   • Launched in 2003 to promote the use of ethanol as a transport fuel.
   • Currently at 10% ethanol blending (E10) achieved nationwide.
2. Sources of Ethanol:
   • Derived from sugarcane, maize, and agricultural residues like broken rice and wheat.
   • Expanding the use of 2G (second-generation) ethanol from non-food biomass.
3. Environmental and Economic Benefits:
   • Reduces dependence on imported crude oil, saving foreign exchange.
   • Cuts greenhouse gas emissions and improves air quality.
   • Provides an additional income stream for farmers through crop residue utilization.

Prelims Pointers

• E20 Target: India aims to achieve 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025.
• Second-Generation Ethanol: Produced from non-food biomass like crop residues and forestry waste.
• National Policy on Biofuels (2018): Mandates the use of biofuels in India’s energy mix.

Mains Pointers

Significance of Ethanol Blending:

1. Energy Security:
   • Reduces reliance on imported crude oil.
   • Diversifies India’s energy portfolio.
2. Environmental Benefits:
   • Lowers CO2 emissions by replacing fossil fuels.
   • Promotes sustainable use of crop residues.
3. Rural Empowerment:
   • Provides additional income to farmers through the sale of feedstock for ethanol.
   • Encourages investment in rural ethanol production units.

Challenges:

1. Feedstock Availability:
   • Insufficient supply of sugarcane and other raw materials.
   • Competition between food and fuel crops.
2. Technological and Financial Constraints:
   • High initial cost of setting up ethanol plants.
   • Limited infrastructure for blending and distribution.
3. Environmental Risks:
   • Excessive reliance on water-intensive crops like sugarcane.
   • Risk of soil depletion and monoculture practices.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Bio-Energy Programme: Focus on 2G ethanol plants to ensure sustainable feedstock usage.
2. Viability Gap Funding: Financial assistance for setting up bio-refineries.
3. Public-Private Partnerships: Collaboration with industries to expand ethanol production.

Way Ahead:

1. Diversify Feedstock Sources:
   • Promote crops like maize and sorghum for ethanol production.
   • Scale up 2G ethanol plants for non-food biomass.
2. Technological Advancements:
   • Invest in research to improve ethanol production efficiency.
   • Develop infrastructure for ethanol storage and blending.
3. Policy and Regulatory Reforms:
   • Introduce incentives for private players in the ethanol industry.
   • Implement stricter regulations to ensure sustainable feedstock utilization.

Conclusion India’s progress towards ethanol blending demonstrates its commitment to a cleaner and greener energy future. By addressing challenges and scaling up production sustainably, the country can achieve energy security, environmental conservation, and rural empowerment.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Deepor Beel and Wetland Conservation

Question 1:
Which of the following are threats to Deepor Beel?

1. Siltation caused by deforestation in surrounding areas.
2. Urban encroachment and unregulated construction.
3. Introduction of invasive aquatic species.

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: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:
All three are significant threats affecting the ecological health of Deepor Beel.

---

2. Impact of Climate Change on Indigenous Food Systems in Northeast India

Question 3:
Which of the following crops is promoted under the Millets Mission as a climate-resilient crop?

1. Sorghum
2. Finger Millet
3. Barley

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:
Sorghum and Finger Millet are climate-resilient crops promoted under the Millets Mission. Barley is not included in this initiative.

---

Question 4:
Which of the following is a characteristic of Shifting Cultivation (Jhum)?

1. It involves clearing forested areas for temporary agricultural use.
2. It is a sustainable practice with minimal soil erosion.
3. It is prevalent in the Northeast region of India.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: (b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:
While Jhum cultivation involves clearing forest areas and is prevalent in the Northeast, it is not sustainable due to soil erosion and degradation.

---

3. State Connectivity Projects and Assam’s Economic Growth

Question 5:
Which of the following is/are correct about the Bharatmala Pariyojana?

1. It focuses on developing road infrastructure to enhance trade corridors.
2. It is a scheme exclusive to Northeast India.
3. It is implemented under the Ministry of Road Transport and Highways.

Select the correct answer using the code below:

• (a) 1 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 project aims to enhance trade and connectivity.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: It is a nationwide initiative.
• Statement 3 is correct: The Ministry of Road Transport and Highways implements the scheme.

---

Question 6:
Which of the following waterways passes through Assam?

1. National Waterway 1 (NW1)
2. National Waterway 2 (NW2)
3. National Waterway 16 (NW16)

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation:
National Waterway 2 runs through Assam along the Brahmaputra River. NW1 is on the Ganga River, and NW16 is located elsewhere.

---

4. India’s Progress Towards Ethanol Blending

Question 7:
Consider the following statements about ethanol blending:

1. Ethanol blending reduces carbon emissions.
2. India achieved 20% ethanol blending nationwide by 2023.
3. Second-generation ethanol is produced from crop residues and non-food biomass.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

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

Answer: (c) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct: Ethanol blending lowers carbon emissions.
• Statement 2 is incorrect: India is targeting 20% ethanol blending by 2025.
• Statement 3 is correct: Second-generation ethanol uses non-food biomass.

---

Question 8:
Which of the following is/are sources of ethanol production in India?

1. Sugarcane
2. Rice husk
3. Wheat bran

Select the correct answer using the code below:

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

Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3

Explanation:
Ethanol can be produced from sugarcane, rice husk, wheat bran, and other agricultural residues.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Question: Evaluate the significance of connectivity projects in Assam for regional economic growth and integration with Southeast Asia. Highlight the challenges faced in their implementation and suggest measures to overcome them.
(15 marks, 250 words)

---

Model Answer

Introduction

Assam, located at the crossroads of India’s northeastern region and Southeast Asia, is poised to become a vital economic hub through ongoing connectivity projects. Initiatives like the Bharatmala Pariyojana, National Waterway 2, and the Act East Policy seek to enhance trade, reduce isolation, and promote integration with ASEAN economies.

---

Body

Significance of Connectivity Projects in Assam:

1. Economic Integration:
   • Facilitates trade between Assam and neighboring states, boosting exports of tea, silk, and oil.
   • Strengthens economic ties with Southeast Asian nations under the Act East Policy.
2. Infrastructure-Driven Growth:
   • Development of roadways, railways, and waterways attracts investment in industries like tourism and agro-processing.
   • Bharatmala and NESIDS improve rural-urban connectivity, enhancing market access.
3. Strategic and Social Benefits:
   • Improves border security and accessibility in remote areas.
   • Reduces regional disparities by fostering economic opportunities and improving healthcare and education access.

Challenges in Implementation:

1. Geographical Constraints:
   • Flood-prone regions and hilly terrain slow construction and increase costs.
2. Environmental Concerns:
   • Infrastructure development threatens sensitive ecosystems like wetlands and forests.
3. Funding and Policy Issues:
   • Delayed fund disbursements hinder timely completion.
   • Lack of coordination among stakeholders creates inefficiencies.

Measures to Overcome Challenges:

1. Integrated Planning:
   • Align projects with regional development goals and ensure synergy between road, rail, and waterways.
2. Sustainability Measures:
   • Conduct environmental impact assessments and adopt eco-friendly technologies.
3. Boosting Investments:
   • Leverage international funding and public-private partnerships for large-scale projects.
4. Community Engagement:
   • Include local stakeholders in decision-making and execution to ensure inclusive development.

---

Conclusion Connectivity projects in Assam hold transformative potential for the region’s economy and its integration with Southeast Asia. By addressing implementation challenges through sustainable practices and strategic planning, Assam can emerge as a regional economic powerhouse, ensuring inclusive and long-term development.

✨ 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