APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/02/2025)
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 (06-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Assam Rabies Elimination Project Launched
📌 GS Paper 2: Health, Government Initiatives, Public Health Policies
Introduction
The Assam government has launched the Assam Rabies Elimination Project (AREP) to eradicate human deaths due to rabies by 2030, aligning with the National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) and WHO’s Zero by 30 strategy. This initiative focuses on mass vaccination of stray dogs, public awareness, and improved healthcare infrastructure for rabies prevention and treatment.
Key Points
- Rabies in India and Assam
- India accounts for 36% of global rabies deaths, with 20,000 deaths annually.
- Assam is among the high-risk states due to stray dog population and lack of awareness.
- Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear but 100% preventable through vaccination.
- Objectives of the Assam Rabies Elimination Project
- Achieve zero human deaths due to rabies by 2030.
- Implement mass dog vaccination (at least 70% of stray dogs).
- Ensure timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) for all bite victims.
- Strengthen healthcare infrastructure for rabies detection and treatment.
- Key Features of the Project
- Mass Vaccination Campaign: Focus on anti-rabies vaccination for both stray and pet dogs.
- Awareness & Education: Public campaigns in schools, villages, and urban areas.
- Training Healthcare Workers: Upgrading primary health centers (PHCs) and veterinary services.
- Surveillance System: Monitoring dog bite cases and rabies outbreaks.
- Role of WHO, NGOs & Private Sector
- WHO, FAO, and OIE support technical training and global best practices.
- NGOs involved in animal welfare, sterilization, and dog population control.
Prelims Pointers
- Rabies Virus: Caused by Lyssavirus, transmitted through animal bites (mainly dogs).
- Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP): A life-saving rabies treatment given after a bite.
- Zero by 30: WHO-led initiative to eliminate rabies deaths globally by 2030.
- National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP): India’s national strategy for rabies elimination.
- WHO-FAO-OIE Collaboration: The One Health Approach linking human and animal health.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Rabies Eradication in Assam
- Public Health Challenge
- Rabies has a 100% fatality rate once symptoms appear.
- Delayed medical treatment causes avoidable deaths, mostly in rural areas.
- Economic and Social Impact
- High treatment costs for affected individuals and families.
- Psychological and social trauma for bite victims, especially children.
- Need for a Holistic Approach
- Coordinated action between health, veterinary, and municipal departments.
- Dog sterilization and vaccination to prevent transmission.
Challenges in Rabies Eradication
- Stray Dog Population Growth
- Lack of effective animal birth control (ABC) programs.
- Resistance to culling or relocation policies.
- Lack of Public Awareness
- Many victims do not seek timely medical help after a dog bite.
- Superstitions and reliance on traditional remedies delay treatment.
- Inadequate Healthcare Infrastructure
- Shortage of anti-rabies vaccines (ARV) and immunoglobulins in rural PHCs.
- Insufficient trained medical personnel for rabies management.
Government Initiatives for Rabies Control
- National Rabies Control Programme (NRCP) – Implemented under the National Health Mission (NHM) for rabies prevention.
- Animal Birth Control (ABC) Programme – Government initiative to control the stray dog population through sterilization.
- State-Specific Vaccination Drives – Assam’s new project aims to vaccinate 70% of stray dogs annually.
- One Health Approach – Collaborative effort of health, veterinary, and municipal bodies for rabies elimination.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Mass Vaccination – Ensure 70% stray dog vaccination rate annually.
✅ Improving Healthcare Access – Expand anti-rabies vaccine (ARV) availability in all rural PHCs.
✅ Public Awareness Campaigns – Educate citizens about rabies prevention and immediate treatment.
✅ Enhanced Animal Birth Control (ABC) – Reduce stray dog population through sterilization and community adoption.
✅ Cross-Border Coordination – Collaborate with neighboring states and countries (Bangladesh, Bhutan) to control rabies.
Conclusion
The Assam Rabies Elimination Project is a significant step towards public health safety. By ensuring mass dog vaccination, improving healthcare access, and raising awareness, Assam can achieve zero rabies deaths by 2030. This initiative will serve as a model for other states in India’s fight against rabies.
2. Illegal Construction by Bangladesh Along Border – BSF’s Strong Response
📌 GS Paper 2: International Relations, Border Security, India-Bangladesh Relations
Introduction
The Border Security Force (BSF) has raised concerns over illegal construction activities by Bangladesh along the Indo-Bangladesh border, particularly in Assam and Meghalaya. Reports indicate that Bangladeshi authorities and private individuals are constructing permanent structures near the zero line, violating border agreements. The BSF has lodged an official protest, urging immediate action to prevent any security threats.
Key Points
- Nature of the Illegal Construction
- Permanent structures, including houses, shops, and religious buildings, are being built within 150 meters of the Indo-Bangladesh border.
- Such constructions violate the 1975 India-Bangladesh Land Border Agreement.
- BSF’s Response
- Flag meetings held with Border Guards Bangladesh (BGB) to stop illegal activities.
- BSF has increased vigilance and surveillance along border posts.
- Security and Strategic Concerns
- Fear that illegal settlements could be used for smuggling, human trafficking, or infiltration.
- Rising border tensions may affect India-Bangladesh diplomatic relations.
- Bangladesh Government’s Reaction
- Bangladesh has denied state involvement in the construction, calling them private activities.
- Promised to investigate and remove unauthorized structures.
Prelims Pointers
- Indo-Bangladesh Border Length: 4,096 km, the longest land border India shares with any country.
- Border Guards of Both Countries:
- India: Border Security Force (BSF).
- Bangladesh: Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
- 1975 India-Bangladesh Border Agreement: Restricts construction within 150 meters of the border.
- Fencing along Indo-Bangladesh Border: Partially completed to prevent illegal migration and smuggling.
Mains Pointers
Significance of the Issue
- Border Security and Infiltration Risks
- Unregulated settlements increase infiltration, drug smuggling, and human trafficking.
- Rising border tensions may lead to diplomatic strains.
- Impact on Indo-Bangladesh Relations
- India and Bangladesh share strong trade and diplomatic ties.
- Such disputes could hinder cooperation on regional security.
- Challenges in Border Management
- Porous border makes it difficult to control illegal movements.
- Lack of fencing and proper surveillance infrastructure.
Challenges in Resolving the Issue
- Limited Fencing & Border Surveillance
- Flood-prone areas in Assam and Meghalaya make fencing difficult.
- Smugglers take advantage of gaps in security coverage.
- Illegal Migration and Encroachment
- Settlements often include undocumented Bangladeshi migrants.
- Political sensitivities make forced evictions difficult.
- Diplomatic Sensitivities
- Bangladesh denies government involvement, complicating bilateral discussions.
- Need for high-level talks between India and Bangladesh to resolve disputes.
Government Initiatives for Border Management
- Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) – Uses drones and sensors for border security.
- Indo-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (2015) – Resolved long-standing enclaves and border disputes.
- Smart Fencing Project (BOLD-QIT) – Technology-driven fencing for real-time monitoring.
- Joint BSF-BGB Patrols – Ensuring peaceful border management through joint operations.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Fencing and Border Infrastructure – Complete fencing in critical areas.
✅ Enhanced Bilateral Cooperation – Conduct joint surveys and investigations with Bangladesh.
✅ Strict Law Enforcement – Crack down on illegal land occupation and encroachments.
✅ Use of Technology – Deploy drones and AI-based surveillance for border monitoring.
✅ People-Centric Border Management – Improve border area livelihoods to reduce tensions.
Conclusion
The illegal construction along the Indo-Bangladesh border is a serious security concern that requires a balanced diplomatic and security approach. While the BSF has taken firm action, long-term resolution needs strong India-Bangladesh cooperation, better fencing, and modern surveillance systems.
3. Guwahati Airport Terminal Upgradation – Boosting Regional Connectivity
📌 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Economy, Civil Aviation
Introduction
The Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA) in Guwahati is undergoing a major terminal expansion, aimed at enhancing regional connectivity, boosting economic growth, and positioning Assam as a key aviation hub for Northeast India. This initiative aligns with the UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) scheme and India’s broader vision of developing world-class airport infrastructure.
Key Points
- Major Features of the New Terminal
- Capacity to handle 10 million passengers annually (current capacity: 4 million).
- Aerobridges and modern baggage handling systems for faster operations.
- Eco-friendly features including solar power, rainwater harvesting, and green building certification.
- Enhanced cargo facilities to promote Northeast India’s exports (tea, handicrafts, perishable goods).
- Economic and Strategic Importance
- Boost to tourism: Improved air connectivity will attract domestic and international tourists.
- Trade and investment growth: Facilitates business travel and logistics for the Northeast.
- Act East Policy Support: Strengthens trade links with Southeast Asia (Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar, Vietnam).
- Connectivity Expansion Under UDAN Scheme
- More flights to tier-2 and tier-3 cities in Northeast India.
- Strengthens links with Silchar, Dibrugarh, Imphal, Aizawl, and Agartala.
- New international flights to Bangladesh, Bhutan, Thailand, and Singapore.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Model
- The expansion is funded under a PPP model, with participation from AAI and Adani Group.
- Ensures efficient management and modern aviation standards.
Prelims Pointers
- Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA): Assam’s busiest airport.
- UDAN Scheme: Government initiative for affordable regional air connectivity.
- Public-Private Partnership (PPP) in Aviation: Used for airport modernization and efficiency.
- Act East Policy: India’s strategy to enhance ties with Southeast Asian nations.
- Northeast Industrial Corridor: Infrastructure project promoting economic integration in the region.
Mains Pointers
Significance of the Airport Expansion
- Infrastructure Development for Economic Growth
- Enhances investment opportunities in aviation, hospitality, and tourism sectors.
- Encourages air cargo exports, supporting farmers and entrepreneurs in Assam.
- Tourism and Cultural Exchange
- Guwahati as a gateway to Northeast India for national and foreign tourists.
- Promotes Assam’s Bihu festivals, Kaziranga National Park, and tea tourism.
- Regional Connectivity and Act East Policy
- Strengthens air links between Northeast India and Bangladesh, Myanmar, Thailand.
- Facilitates business collaborations and cross-border trade.
Challenges in Airport Expansion
- Land Acquisition Issues
- Resistance from local communities delays infrastructure projects.
- Need for fair compensation and rehabilitation policies.
- Funding and Cost Overruns
- PPP projects often face budget escalations and delays.
- Ensuring efficient project execution is crucial.
- Environmental Impact
- Expansion requires deforestation and land clearance, impacting wildlife and local ecosystems.
- Need for sustainable airport design and carbon offset measures.
Government Initiatives Supporting Airport Development
- UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) Scheme – Affordable regional connectivity.
- Gati Shakti Master Plan – Multi-modal transport infrastructure development.
- North East Industrial Corridor – Strengthening trade and logistics in the region.
- Airport Modernization under PPP Model – Enhancing private sector investment in aviation.
Way Ahead
✅ Fast-Track Project Completion – Ensure timely execution to avoid cost overruns.
✅ Boost International Flights – Expand direct flights to ASEAN and SAARC countries.
✅ Sustainable Infrastructure – Implement eco-friendly designs and renewable energy.
✅ Tourism Promotion – Strengthen Assam’s identity as a cultural and natural heritage hub.
✅ Regional Integration – Improve connectivity between Guwahati, Shillong, and Itanagar for balanced growth.
Conclusion
The Guwahati Airport Terminal Expansion is a transformative step for Northeast India’s infrastructure, economy, and tourism. By leveraging the PPP model, Act East Policy, and UDAN Scheme, Assam can emerge as a strategic air hub for India and Southeast Asia.
4. Indian Army’s MoU with IIT Guwahati for Lightweight Building Materials
📌 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Defense, Infrastructure Development
Introduction
The Indian Army has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with IIT Guwahati to develop lightweight, high-strength building materials for defense infrastructure. This initiative aims to enhance military preparedness, improve rapid construction in border areas, and boost indigenous defense research under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat programs.
Key Points
- Purpose of the MoU
- Develop lightweight, durable construction materials for forward military bases and border outposts.
- Use advanced materials like carbon fiber composites, aerogels, and 3D-printed structures.
- Reduce logistics challenges in extreme weather zones (e.g., Siachen, Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh).
- Strategic and Military Importance
- Faster construction of bunkers, helipads, bridges, and shelters in remote areas.
- Enhances defense infrastructure near India-China and India-Pakistan borders.
- Improves disaster-resilient structures for post-earthquake and flood rehabilitation.
- Role of IIT Guwahati
- Focus on lightweight composite materials for high-altitude military applications.
- Research in modular pre-fabricated buildings that can be assembled on-site.
- Collaboration with DRDO and Indian defense firms for mass production.
- Significance for India’s Defense Sector
- Reduces dependence on imported construction materials.
- Strengthens India’s self-reliance in military technology.
- Supports Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat in defense infrastructure.
Prelims Pointers
- Carbon Fiber Composites: Lightweight, high-strength material used in defense and aerospace.
- Aerogels: Ultra-light materials with high thermal insulation properties, useful for extreme climates.
- 3D-Printed Military Shelters: Structures printed layer-by-layer, reducing construction time.
- Make in India (Defense Sector): Initiative promoting indigenous manufacturing in defense.
- BRO (Border Roads Organisation): Responsible for strategic road and bridge construction in border areas.
Mains Pointers
Strategic Importance of Lightweight Materials for Defense
- Faster and More Efficient Border Infrastructure
- Quick deployment of military shelters, bunkers, and airstrips in tough terrains.
- Helps Indian Army & BRO complete projects faster in extreme conditions.
- Enhanced Troop Mobility and Preparedness
- Lighter materials reduce transportation costs and logistical delays.
- Enables rapid response in border conflicts or natural disasters.
- Boost to Indigenous R&D and Make in India
- Collaboration with IITs and DRDO enhances self-reliance in defense technology.
- Reduces import dependence on high-tech military materials.
Challenges in Implementation
- Cost of Advanced Materials
- Carbon fiber, aerogels, and nanomaterials are expensive to mass-produce.
- Need for cost-effective production techniques.
- Testing and Field Deployment
- Materials must withstand extreme temperatures, humidity, and battlefield conditions.
- Extensive field trials required before full-scale adoption.
- Coordination Between Military and Academia
- Need for efficient collaboration between defense agencies and research institutions.
- Bureaucratic delays can slow down project execution.
Government Initiatives Supporting Indigenous Defense Research
- Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defense – Focus on self-reliance in military infrastructure.
- Defense Research Collaboration with IITs – Encouraging academic participation in defense innovation.
- Innovations for Defense Excellence (iDEX) – Funding startups in defense technology.
- Border Roads Organisation (BRO) Modernization – Upgrading road and bridge networks along borders.
Way Ahead
✅ Scaling Up Research – Strengthen academic-military partnerships for defense innovation.
✅ Reducing Production Costs – Invest in mass manufacturing of lightweight materials.
✅ Faster Field Deployment – Conduct real-world testing in high-altitude areas like Ladakh & Siachen.
✅ Export Potential – Position India as a global supplier of defense-grade materials.
✅ Public-Private Collaboration – Encourage private defense firms to co-develop military infrastructure.
Conclusion
The Indian Army-IIT Guwahati MoU marks a significant step towards self-reliant defense infrastructure. By developing lightweight, high-strength building materials, India can enhance its military preparedness, reduce construction timelines, and strengthen border security. Successful implementation will position India as a global leader in advanced military engineering.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Assam Rabies Elimination Project
Question 1
Which of the following statements about the Assam Rabies Elimination Project (AREP) is/are correct?
- It aims to achieve zero human deaths due to rabies by 2030, aligning with WHO’s “Zero by 30” initiative.
- The project primarily focuses on vaccinating humans against rabies, as rabies is only transmitted between humans.
- Rabies has a 100% mortality rate once symptoms appear, but it is 100% preventable through timely vaccination.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct – The Assam Rabies Elimination Project aligns with WHO’s “Zero by 30” initiative to eliminate human rabies deaths by 2030.
- Statement 2 is incorrect – Rabies is not transmitted between humans; it is caused by animal bites (mainly dogs). The project focuses on mass dog vaccination to break transmission.
- Statement 3 is correct – Rabies is 100% fatal once symptoms appear, but timely post-exposure prophylaxis (PEP) can prevent infection.
2. Illegal Construction by Bangladesh Along Border – BSF’s Response
Question 2
Which of the following statements about the India-Bangladesh border dispute is/are correct?
- The Indo-Bangladesh border is India’s longest land border.
- The Border Security Force (BSF) and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) are responsible for maintaining peace along the border.
- The Indo-Bangladesh Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) 2015 resolved all land-related disputes between the two countries.
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 – The India-Bangladesh border is 4,096 km, making it India’s longest international land border.
- Statement 2 is correct – BSF (India) and BGB (Bangladesh) manage border security and hold flag meetings to resolve issues.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – While the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) resolved most disputes, new tensions arise over illegal encroachments and construction near the zero line.
3. Guwahati Airport Terminal Upgradation – Boosting Regional Connectivity
Question 3
Which of the following statements about Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport (LGBIA), Guwahati is/are correct?
- The expansion project aims to increase passenger handling capacity from 4 million to 10 million per year.
- The UDAN Scheme is focused on making regional air travel more affordable and accessible.
- The expansion is funded entirely by the Government of Assam without any private sector involvement.
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 – The Guwahati Airport expansion aims to increase capacity from 4 million to 10 million passengers annually.
- Statement 2 is correct – UDAN (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik) promotes affordable air travel in tier-2 and tier-3 cities.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – The expansion is under the PPP (Public-Private Partnership) model, involving Adani Group and AAI (Airports Authority of India).
4. Indian Army’s MoU with IIT Guwahati for Lightweight Building Materials
Question 4
Which of the following materials is being researched under the Indian Army’s MoU with IIT Guwahati for defense infrastructure?
- Carbon Fiber Composites
- Aerogels
- Reinforced Concrete
- 3D-Printed Structures
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Carbon Fiber Composites – Lightweight, high-strength material used in defense and aerospace.
- Aerogels – Ultra-light material with high thermal insulation properties, useful for extreme climates.
- 3D-Printed Structures – Allows quick construction of military bunkers and shelters.
- Reinforced Concrete is not lightweight, making it unsuitable for rapid military deployment.
Question 5
Which of the following initiatives support India’s self-reliance in defense infrastructure?
- Make in India
- Atmanirbhar Bharat
- Smart Fencing Project (BOLD-QIT)
- Innovations for Defense Excellence (iDEX)
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
iDEX (Innovations for Defense Excellence) – Encourages startups and academic research in defense innovation.
Make in India – Promotes domestic defense manufacturing.
Atmanirbhar Bharat – Focuses on self-reliance in defense technology.
Smart Fencing Project (BOLD-QIT) – Uses AI and surveillance systems for border security.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Infrastructure development is a key driver of economic growth, regional connectivity, and national security. Discuss the significance of the Guwahati Airport expansion and the Indian Army’s collaboration with IIT Guwahati in strengthening India’s strategic capabilities. What challenges do such projects face, and how can they be effectively addressed? (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
Infrastructure plays a critical role in economic growth, regional development, and national security. The Guwahati Airport expansion enhances regional connectivity and trade, while the Indian Army’s collaboration with IIT Guwahati on lightweight military infrastructure strengthens India’s defense preparedness in high-altitude border areas. These projects are crucial for India’s Act East Policy, defense modernization, and self-reliance in critical sectors.
Significance of Guwahati Airport Expansion
- Boost to Regional Connectivity
- Increased passenger capacity (from 4M to 10M annually).
- Strengthens Assam’s position as a trade and tourism hub.
- Economic and Trade Growth
- Enhances exports of tea, handicrafts, and perishable goods.
- Generates employment and business opportunities.
- Strategic Role in Act East Policy
- Strengthens air connectivity with ASEAN nations (Bangladesh, Thailand, Myanmar).
- Promotes cross-border economic and cultural exchanges.
Significance of Army-IIT Guwahati Collaboration
- Faster Military Infrastructure Deployment
- Lightweight materials enable rapid construction of bunkers, helipads, and bridges in border areas.
- Helps in disaster relief and quick military mobilization.
- Self-Reliance in Defense
- Reduces dependence on imported materials for military construction.
- Strengthens India’s Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat goals.
- Technological Advancements
- Use of 3D printing, carbon fiber composites, and aerogels for high-strength and weather-resistant structures.
- Supports India’s indigenous R&D in military applications.
Challenges in Implementation
- Land Acquisition Issues
- Resistance from local communities and environmental concerns.
- Requires balanced compensation and rehabilitation measures.
- Funding and Project Delays
- PPP model (Public-Private Partnership) can face cost overruns and administrative hurdles.
- Need for better financial planning and project management.
- Geopolitical and Security Concerns
- Military infrastructure near China and Pakistan borders may face opposition or cyber threats.
- Airport expansion must align with safety and strategic planning.
Way Forward
✅ Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Ensure transparent bidding and timely execution of projects.
✅ Using Smart Technology – Implement AI-based project monitoring, drones, and satellite imagery for better oversight.
✅ Faster Environmental Clearances – Streamline regulatory approvals while maintaining ecological balance.
✅ Greater Funding for R&D – Encourage academic-military collaboration for cutting-edge defense materials.
✅ Regional Coordination – Improve stakeholder engagement and diplomatic cooperation for cross-border trade.
Conclusion
The Guwahati Airport expansion and Army-IIT Guwahati collaboration reflect India’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure and strengthening defense capabilities. These projects will play a key role in economic integration, national security, and India’s global positioning, provided the challenges are effectively addressed through policy reforms, technology adoption, and strategic investments.
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