APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (05/02/2025)
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 (05-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Asam Sahitya Sabha’s Role in Cultural Preservation
📌 GS Paper 1: Indian Society, Culture, Regional Literature
Introduction
Asam Sahitya Sabha, Assam’s premier literary and cultural organization, has played a pivotal role in preserving and promoting Assamese literature, language, and heritage since its inception in 1917. It has been instrumental in safeguarding indigenous traditions, fostering literary growth, and influencing language policies in the state. Recently, the AASU (All Assam Students’ Union) President acknowledged the Sabha as the “guardian of Assamese identity”, highlighting its continued relevance in contemporary cultural discourse.
Key Points
- Historical Significance
- Established in 1917 in Sibsagar, with Padmanath Gohain Baruah as its first president.
- Played a key role in standardizing Assamese literature, grammar, and lexicon.
- Advocated for Assamese as an official language post-independence.
- Role in Cultural and Literary Preservation
- Organizes literary festivals, research conferences, and publication programs.
- Supports the preservation of Bodo, Mishing, Karbi, and other indigenous languages.
- Publishes books, journals, and dictionaries to enrich Assamese literature.
- Linguistic and Educational Contributions
- Influenced the Assam Official Language Act, 1960, ensuring Assamese as the medium of instruction.
- Advocates for the protection of Assamese against linguistic dilution.
- Encourages translation of Assamese works into national and international languages.
- Recent Initiatives & Contemporary Challenges
- Focus on digital archiving of rare manuscripts and folk literature.
- Struggles with modernization, declining readership, and youth engagement.
- Debates over language imposition vs. multilingual coexistence.
Prelims Pointers
- Asam Sahitya Sabha: Established in 1917 as Assam’s premier literary organization.
- First President: Padmanath Gohain Baruah.
- Headquarters: Guwahati (earlier, it moved among various towns).
- Assam Official Language Act (1960): Ensured Assamese as the state’s official language.
- Recent Digital Initiatives: Efforts to digitize Assamese manuscripts and literature.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Asam Sahitya Sabha in Assamese Cultural Identity
- Promotion of Assamese Literature
- Organizes annual literary meets fostering creative expression.
- Supports emerging writers and poets, ensuring continuity in Assamese literature.
- Safeguarding Indigenous Traditions
- Promotes Bihu, Sattriya dance, and folklore as part of Assamese heritage.
- Works with tribal communities to document and preserve oral histories and folk songs.
- Language Protection Amid Globalization
- Advocates for Assamese language inclusion in education and administration.
- Encourages bilingual policies balancing regional and global linguistic influences.
Challenges Faced by Asam Sahitya Sabha
- Declining Interest Among Youth
- Digital distractions and English-medium dominance affect Assamese readership.
- Fewer students opting for Assamese literature in higher education.
- Financial and Institutional Constraints
- Limited government funding for literary research and preservation.
- Dependence on voluntary donations and non-state support.
- Balancing Tradition and Modernity
- Need to integrate Assamese literature with digital platforms and modern formats.
- Ensuring Assamese literature reaches a global audience through translations.
Government Initiatives for Cultural Preservation
- Assamese Language Digital Archive Initiative – Aims to digitize rare Assamese texts.
- Ekalavya Award for Literature – Recognizing young Assamese writers.
- National Translation Mission – Encouraging translation of Assamese works into other languages.
- Sahitya Akademi Grants – Supporting Assamese literature and folklore research.
Way Ahead
✅ Digital Transformation – Promote Assamese literature via e-books, audiobooks, and podcasts.
✅ Youth Engagement – Introduce Assamese literature in school curricula with innovative storytelling.
✅ State & Private Funding – Encourage corporate sponsorships and government schemes for literary development.
✅ Global Outreach – Facilitate translation of Assamese works into multiple languages.
✅ Preservation of Tribal Dialects – Integrate Bodo, Karbi, and Mishing literature into mainstream Assamese culture.
Conclusion
Asam Sahitya Sabha remains a pillar of Assamese literary and cultural identity. While it faces challenges from modernization and shifting language preferences, it has the potential to adapt, innovate, and preserve Assam’s rich heritage. By embracing digital advancements, multilingualism, and inclusive cultural policies, it can continue to shape Assamese literature for future generations.
2. Supreme Court Slams Assam Govt Over Deportation of Foreigners
📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, International Relations, Constitutional Issues
Introduction
The Supreme Court of India recently criticized the Assam government for its failure to deport illegal immigrants who have been declared as foreigners by the Foreigners Tribunals. The court questioned why detainees were being kept indefinitely in detention centers instead of being deported to their respective countries. This case highlights critical issues related to illegal migration, border security, human rights, and governance challenges in Assam.
Key Points
- SC’s Criticism of Assam Govt
- The SC asked whether the state was “waiting for some muhurat (auspicious time)” to deport foreigners.
- Observed that indefinite detention violated Article 21 (Right to Life and Liberty).
- Ordered the state to expedite the deportation process of 63 detainees whose nationality is confirmed.
- Deportation Delays & Government’s Response
- Assam cited lack of verified addresses in foreign countries as a challenge.
- SC dismissed this excuse, stating deportation can proceed even without exact addresses.
- Directed the Assam government to file a status report in two weeks.
- Foreigners Tribunals & NRC Context
- Assam has 100+ Foreigners Tribunals to determine illegal migrants.
- The NRC (National Register of Citizens) update in 2019 excluded 19 lakh individuals, many still awaiting verification.
- Several detainees claim to be Indian citizens but lack documentation.
- Human Rights & Legal Challenges
- Prolonged detention in centers raises human rights concerns.
- Bangladesh has refused to accept many deportees, complicating diplomatic efforts.
- Supreme Court emphasized the need for a clear policy on foreigner detention & deportation.
Prelims Pointers
- Foreigners Tribunals: Special courts in Assam to decide citizenship status.
- Article 21: Right to Life & Personal Liberty, applicable even to non-citizens.
- National Register of Citizens (NRC): List of legal Indian citizens in Assam.
- Assam Accord (1985): Cutoff date for citizenship set as March 24, 1971.
- Detention Centers in Assam: At least six facilities for illegal immigrants.
Mains Pointers
Significance of the Issue
- Illegal Migration as a Security & Demographic Challenge
- Assam has faced continuous migration from Bangladesh since the Partition and Bangladesh Liberation War (1971).
- Concerns over identity, political representation, and resource distribution.
- Legal and Constitutional Aspects
- Citizenship in India governed by the Citizenship Act, 1955.
- Foreigners Tribunals were set up as per the Foreigners Act, 1946.
- SC’s ruling highlights judicial intervention in executive inaction.
- Human Rights vs. National Security
- Indefinite detention violates fundamental rights, as ruled by SC.
- However, deporting individuals without verification could violate international norms.
Challenges in Deportation
- Diplomatic Roadblocks
- Bangladesh refuses to accept deportees without proof of nationality.
- Myanmar’s Rohingya refugees complicate the humanitarian and legal aspects.
- Lack of Clear Policies
- No comprehensive legal framework for handling stateless individuals.
- NRC exclusions left many in limbo, neither fully deported nor granted Indian citizenship.
- Humanitarian Concerns
- Detention conditions criticized by human rights groups.
- Many detainees lack legal representation, affecting fair trials.
Government Initiatives & Policy Measures
- NRC (2019) – Aimed at identifying illegal migrants, but implementation remains uncertain.
- Foreigners Tribunals Expansion (2019) – Increased tribunals to speed up citizenship verification.
- Assam Accord Implementation – Ongoing efforts to address citizenship and migration issues.
- Border Security Measures – Strengthening India-Bangladesh border to prevent future illegal migration.
Way Ahead
✅ Bilateral Talks with Bangladesh – Establish diplomatic mechanisms for deportation.
✅ Clear Legal Framework – Formulate a law for handling stateless persons & undocumented migrants.
✅ Humane Detention Policy – Ensure better facilities & legal aid for detainees.
✅ Public Awareness & Documentation Drive – Assist genuine Indian citizens who lack papers.
✅ Faster Tribunal Decisions – Improve efficiency in citizenship hearings.
Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s ruling has put the spotlight on Assam’s long-standing issue of illegal migration and governance lapses. While national security concerns must be addressed, policies must also align with constitutional rights and international human rights norms. A balanced approach, integrating legal, diplomatic, and humanitarian efforts, is essential to resolving the crisis.
3. National Games: Lovlina and Abhinav Confirm Medals
📌 GS Paper 2: Sports Development, Government Policies
Introduction
India’s National Games 2025, currently being held in Guwahati, Assam, witnessed a major achievement as Olympic medalist Lovlina Borgohain and shooter Abhinav Sharma confirmed medals in their respective events. Their performances highlight India’s growing sports ecosystem, the impact of government sports policies, and Assam’s emergence as a hub for national and international sporting events.
Key Points
- Lovlina Borgohain’s Performance
- Boxer Lovlina Borgohain secured a finals spot in the Women’s 75kg category.
- Already an Olympic bronze medalist (Tokyo 2020), she continues her dominance in Indian boxing.
- Her success highlights Assam’s sports potential and grassroots talent development.
- Abhinav Sharma’s Achievement
- Young shooter Abhinav Sharma confirmed a podium finish in 10m Air Rifle.
- Rising star in Indian shooting, showcasing India’s growing shooting sports ecosystem.
- National Games 2025 in Assam
- Assam is hosting several key events in the National Games, boosting sports infrastructure.
- The event is helping Assam emerge as a sports hub in Northeast India.
- Impact on Indian Sports
- The success of Lovlina and Abhinav reflects India’s growing global competitiveness in sports.
- Government initiatives such as Khelo India and Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS) played a key role in nurturing talent.
Prelims Pointers
- National Games 2025: Held in Assam, featuring multiple sports disciplines.
- Lovlina Borgohain: Boxer from Assam, won bronze at Tokyo Olympics 2020.
- Abhinav Sharma: Indian shooter securing a medal in 10m Air Rifle.
- Khelo India Scheme: National sports development program for grassroots athletes.
- Target Olympic Podium Scheme (TOPS): Initiative to support elite athletes.
Mains Pointers
Significance of National Games & Athlete Achievements
- Boost to Sports Culture in India
- Encourages youth participation in competitive sports.
- Showcases India’s potential to host international sports events.
- Recognition for Northeast India as a Sports Hub
- Assam’s sports infrastructure has improved with events like National Games & Khelo India Games.
- Lovlina’s success has inspired more young athletes from the region.
- Impact on India’s Olympic Preparations
- Athletes like Lovlina and Abhinav gain experience before international tournaments.
- Enhances India’s medal prospects in the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.
Challenges in Sports Development
- Infrastructure Gaps
- Many states, including Assam, lack world-class sports training facilities.
- Inadequate funding and maintenance issues in stadiums.
- Limited Exposure for Young Athletes
- Need for more international tournaments and training camps.
- Unequal access to quality coaching in rural areas.
- Financial Constraints & Job Security
- Many talented athletes struggle with sponsorship and career stability.
- Need for corporate funding and athlete welfare policies.
Government Initiatives for Sports Development
- Khelo India Youth Games – Focuses on grassroots sports talent identification.
- TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) – Provides financial and training support to elite athletes.
- National Sports Development Fund (NSDF) – Helps athletes access world-class training.
- Fit India Movement – Encourages fitness culture among youth.
- State-Specific Sports Policies – Assam has launched initiatives to support local athletes.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Sports Infrastructure – Build more world-class training academies in the Northeast.
✅ Better Financial Support for Athletes – Expand corporate sponsorship and state funding.
✅ Focus on Rural & Tribal Talent – Provide better scouting and coaching in remote areas.
✅ Encouraging Private Sector Investment – Promote PPP models for sports development.
✅ Regular International Exposure – Organize more global training camps & competitions.
Conclusion
Lovlina and Abhinav’s success at the National Games 2025 symbolizes India’s sporting growth and the Northeast’s emergence as a talent hub. By investing in infrastructure, athlete welfare, and grassroots training, India can continue its journey towards becoming a global sporting powerhouse.
4. India’s Contribution to the UN Budget
📌 GS Paper 2: International Organizations, India’s Foreign Policy, Global Governance
Introduction
India, as a founding member of the United Nations (UN), actively contributes to its budget, peacekeeping operations, and global initiatives. Recently, India increased its financial contributions to the UN, reinforcing its commitment to multilateralism and global governance. This comes at a time when developing nations are demanding greater representation in the UN Security Council (UNSC) and reforms in global institutions.
Key Points
- India’s Financial Contribution to the UN
- India contributes to three key components of the UN budget:
- Regular Budget – Covers the UN’s administrative and operational costs.
- Peacekeeping Operations – Funds UN missions in conflict zones worldwide.
- Voluntary Contributions – Support for UN agencies like UNDP, UNICEF, WHO, and WFP.
- India’s latest assessed contribution for 2025 is expected to increase by 6%, reflecting its growing role.
- India contributes to three key components of the UN budget:
- Comparison with Other Countries
- The United States (22%), China (15%), and Japan (8%) are the largest contributors.
- India contributes less than 1% of the total UN budget, but plays a key role in peacekeeping.
- India’s Role in UN Peacekeeping
- India is one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping missions.
- Actively involved in missions in South Sudan, Congo, Lebanon, and Haiti.
- Advocates for better financial compensation and safety measures for peacekeeping forces.
- India’s Stand on UN Reforms
- Calls for permanent membership in the UN Security Council (UNSC) under the G4 alliance (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil).
- Supports democratization of global financial institutions (IMF, World Bank, WTO).
- Pushes for greater representation of developing countries in decision-making.
Prelims Pointers
- UN Regular Budget: Covers operational costs of the UN Secretariat.
- India’s Contribution: Less than 1% of the total UN budget.
- Top Contributor: USA (22%), followed by China (15%).
- G4 Nations: India, Germany, Japan, Brazil – advocating for UNSC reforms.
- UN Peacekeeping Missions: India ranks among the top 5 troop-contributing countries.
Mains Pointers
Significance of India’s Contribution to the UN
- Strengthening Multilateralism
- India’s growing financial support reinforces its commitment to global governance.
- Advocates for a rules-based international order.
- Peacekeeping & Humanitarian Assistance
- India’s troops have played a crucial role in stabilizing war-torn regions.
- Provides medical aid, disaster relief, and training for UN missions.
- Enhancing India’s Global Leadership
- Increased contributions help India strengthen its case for UNSC permanent membership.
- Expands India’s soft power and diplomatic influence.
Challenges in India’s UN Engagement
- Limited Influence in Decision-Making
- Despite being a major economy, India is not a permanent member of the UNSC.
- UN voting structures favor P5 nations (USA, China, Russia, UK, France).
- Financial Constraints
- India’s contributions are much smaller compared to developed nations.
- Need for better resource allocation towards global governance initiatives.
- Bureaucratic and Political Issues
- UN reforms have stalled due to geopolitical rivalries.
- China opposes India’s permanent seat in the UNSC.
Government Initiatives for Global Leadership
- G20 Presidency (2023) – India highlighted Global South priorities at the UN.
- Vaccine Diplomacy (COVID-19) – Supplied vaccines through COVAX & UN partnerships.
- International Solar Alliance (ISA) – India-led initiative for clean energy under UN programs.
- UNSC Non-Permanent Membership (2021-22) – Advocated for counterterrorism & climate action.
Way Ahead
✅ Push for UN Reforms – Strengthen the G4 alliance for permanent UNSC membership.
✅ Enhance Financial Contributions – Gradually increase India’s UN budget share.
✅ Expand Peacekeeping Role – Provide more troops, training, and logistical support.
✅ Strengthen Soft Power – Use UN platforms to lead climate action & global development.
✅ Leverage Economic Growth – Use India’s G20 leadership to influence UN policies.
Conclusion
India’s increasing contributions to the UN budget and peacekeeping missions reflect its aspiration for greater global influence. However, to secure a permanent UNSC seat and shape global policies, India must continue advocating for multilateral reforms, expanding financial commitments, and strengthening diplomatic alliances.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Asam Sahitya Sabha’s Role in Cultural Preservation
Question 1
Which of the following statements about Asam Sahitya Sabha is/are correct?
- It was founded in 1917 in Sibsagar, Assam.
- The Sabha played a key role in ensuring Assamese became the sole official language of Assam in 1960.
- It primarily focuses on literature and does not engage in cultural preservation.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct – Asam Sahitya Sabha was founded in 1917 in Sibsagar to promote Assamese literature.
- Statement 2 is correct – It influenced the Assam Official Language Act, 1960, which made Assamese the official language.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – The Sabha also preserves culture, folklore, and tribal dialects.
2. Supreme Court Slams Assam Govt Over Deportation of Foreigners
Question 2
Which of the following is true regarding the Foreigners Tribunals in Assam?
- They were established under the Foreigners Act, 1946.
- These tribunals determine the citizenship status of individuals suspected to be illegal immigrants.
- Their decisions can be challenged in the Supreme Court of India.
Select the correct answer using the codes 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:
- Statement 1 is correct – Foreigners Tribunals were established under the Foreigners Act, 1946 to determine the status of suspected illegal immigrants.
- Statement 2 is correct – These tribunals decide whether an individual is an Indian citizen or an illegal migrant.
- Statement 3 is correct – Their decisions can be appealed in the Supreme Court if constitutional rights are violated.
3. National Games: Lovlina and Abhinav Confirm Medals
Question 3
Which of the following statements about the National Games 2025 is/are correct?
- Assam is hosting the National Games for the first time.
- Lovlina Borgohain is competing in the boxing category.
- The National Games are conducted by the Indian Olympic Association (IOA).
Select the correct answer using the codes 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 – Assam has previously hosted Khelo India Games, but this is not its first time hosting a major sporting event.
- Statement 2 is correct – Lovlina Borgohain is competing in the boxing 75kg category.
- Statement 3 is correct – The Indian Olympic Association (IOA) organizes the National Games.
Question 4
Which of the following sports development schemes is aimed at promoting grassroots talent in India?
(a) Khelo India Scheme
(b) TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme)
(c) Fit India Movement
(d) All of the above
✅ Answer: (d) All of the above
🔎 Explanation:
- Khelo India focuses on youth sports development.
- TOPS (Target Olympic Podium Scheme) supports elite athletes preparing for Olympics.
- Fit India Movement promotes fitness awareness.
4. India’s Contribution to the UN Budget
Question 5
Consider the following statements regarding India’s financial contributions to the UN:
- India contributes more than 5% of the total UN budget.
- The United States is the largest contributor to the UN budget.
- India’s financial contributions to the UN include regular budget payments, peacekeeping funds, and voluntary contributions.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(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 – India contributes less than 1% of the total UN budget.
- Statement 2 is correct – The USA is the largest contributor to the UN budget (22%).
- Statement 3 is correct – India contributes through Regular Budget, UN Peacekeeping, and Voluntary Contributions.
Question 6
Which of the following UN peacekeeping missions has seen a significant contribution of Indian troops?
(a) UNIFIL (Lebanon)
(b) MONUSCO (Democratic Republic of Congo)
(c) UNMISS (South Sudan)
(d) All of the above
✅ Answer: (d) All of the above
🔎 Explanation:
- India has provided troops for various UN peacekeeping missions, including Lebanon (UNIFIL), Congo (MONUSCO), and South Sudan (UNMISS).
- India is among the top troop-contributing nations to UN peacekeeping operations.
Question 7
Which grouping does India belong to that advocates UN Security Council (UNSC) reforms and permanent membership?
(a) G7
(b) G4
(c) QUAD
(d) ASEAN
✅ Answer: (b) G4
🔎 Explanation:
ASEAN is a regional bloc of Southeast Asian nations.
G4 (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil) advocates for permanent membership in the UNSC.
G7 is a grouping of advanced economies.
QUAD focuses on Indo-Pacific security.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. India has been a strong advocate of UN reforms, particularly regarding the Security Council. Discuss India’s contribution to the United Nations and analyze the challenges it faces in securing a permanent seat at the UNSC. Suggest measures that India can take to strengthen its global diplomatic position.” (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
India has been a key member of the United Nations (UN) since 1945 and actively contributes to peacekeeping, global governance, and multilateral diplomacy. However, despite its economic and strategic importance, India is yet to secure a permanent seat in the UN Security Council (UNSC). The push for UNSC reform is essential to make global governance more representative and inclusive.
India’s Contributions to the UN
- Financial Contributions
- India contributes to the UN Regular Budget, Peacekeeping Fund, and Voluntary Contributions.
- Increased its UN budget share by 6% in 2025, reinforcing its commitment to multilateralism.
- UN Peacekeeping Missions
- India is one of the largest troop contributors to UN peacekeeping operations in South Sudan, Lebanon, and Congo.
- Deployed women peacekeepers to conflict zones, strengthening India’s soft power.
- Development and Humanitarian Assistance
- India supports UN programs like UNDP, WHO, and WFP.
- Led COVID-19 vaccine distribution through COVAX and Vaccine Maitri Initiative.
- Climate Leadership and Global Diplomacy
- India launched the International Solar Alliance (ISA) under the UN framework.
- Advocates for climate finance and technology transfer at UN summits.
Challenges in Securing a Permanent UNSC Seat
- Opposition from P5 Nations
- China opposes India’s bid, supporting Pakistan instead.
- USA and Russia offer conditional support, but reforms are slow.
- Lack of Consensus on UN Reforms
- The P5 (USA, UK, China, Russia, France) hold veto power and resist change.
- The United for Consensus (UfC) group, led by Italy and Pakistan, opposes expansion.
- Geopolitical Rivalries
- Pakistan and China block India’s candidacy at various UN forums.
- India’s regional conflicts and border tensions affect diplomatic efforts.
- Limited Financial Contributions
- India’s financial share in the UN budget is less than 1%, while the USA contributes 22%.
- Economic power often influences voting dynamics.
Way Forward for India
✅ Strengthening Alliances – Deepen ties with G4 nations (India, Germany, Japan, Brazil) to push for UNSC reforms.
✅ Diplomatic Engagement with P5 – Engage in strategic negotiations with USA, UK, and France to build consensus.
✅ Expanding Financial Commitments – Increase UN funding and leadership in climate action, peacekeeping, and humanitarian aid.
✅ Leveraging G20 and BRICS Presidency – Use platforms like G20, BRICS, and QUAD to highlight the need for UN reforms.
✅ Public Advocacy for UN Reform – Mobilize Global South nations to demand a more democratic UN.
Conclusion India’s contributions to the UN reflect its growing global stature, but securing a permanent UNSC seat remains a challenge. By expanding its financial influence, strengthening strategic partnerships, and continuing diplomatic efforts, India can enhance its position in global governance and shape international decision-making in the future.
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