APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes by SuchitraACS 10-02-2025

APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (10/02/2025)

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 (10-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. Biren Singh Resigns as Manipur CM – Political Crisis in Northeast

📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, Federalism, Law & Order, Political Stability

Introduction

Manipur Chief Minister N. Biren Singh has resigned, leading to a political crisis in the state. His resignation comes amid ongoing ethnic violence, internal party conflicts, and governance challenges. The situation has further complicated the law-and-order situation in Manipur, which has been struggling with ethnic tensions between the Meitei and Kuki communities. This political turmoil has broader implications for Northeast India’s stability and governance.

Key Points

  1. Reasons for Biren Singh’s Resignation
    • Ethnic Violence & Law-and-Order Breakdown: The Meitei-Kuki conflict, ongoing since 2023, has worsened with frequent clashes, blockades, and displacement of communities.
    • Lack of Political Consensus: Rising dissatisfaction among BJP allies and opposition parties led to pressure for leadership change.
    • Allegations of Governance Failure: Criticism over the state’s handling of violence, relief efforts, and security deployment.
    • Internal Party Rifts: Reports of differences within BJP’s Manipur unit regarding handling of the crisis.
  2. Impact of Political Instability in Manipur
    • Weakening Governance: Delays in implementing development and security measures.
    • Increase in Insurgency Threats: Various insurgent groups may exploit the political crisis.
    • Disruptions in Public Services: Health, education, and infrastructure projects face setbacks.
    • Worsening Ethnic Divisions: No strong leadership to mediate peace between Meiteis and Kukis.
  3. Federalism and Governor’s Role
    • The Governor may need to recommend President’s Rule (Article 356) if no stable government is formed.
    • Role of the Centre: The Union Government may intervene for peace restoration.

Prelims Pointers

  • Article 356: Allows President’s Rule in case of governance failure in a state.
  • Inner Line Permit (ILP): A regulation restricting outsiders from settling in Manipur.
  • Sixth Schedule: Grants autonomy to tribal areas, relevant for Manipur’s hill districts.
  • AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act): Provides special powers to armed forces in disturbed areas like Manipur.
  • Meitei-Kuki Conflict: Ethnic violence between Meitei majority in Imphal Valley and Kuki-Zomi tribes in hill districts.

Mains Pointers

Significance of the Political Crisis in Manipur

  1. Threat to Democratic Stability in Northeast
    • Manipur’s crisis sets a precedent for political instability in other Northeastern states.
    • Loss of governance may weaken trust in democratic institutions.
  2. Worsening of Ethnic Clashes
    • Absence of strong political leadership may further divide Meitei and Kuki communities.
    • Delays in peace talks and rehabilitation programs.
  3. Impact on India’s Act East Policy
    • Manipur is a key gateway for India’s trade with Myanmar and Southeast Asia.
    • Ongoing instability may discourage foreign investments in Northeast infrastructure projects.
  4. Security Risks & Insurgency Growth
    • Insurgent groups like PLA (People’s Liberation Army) and UNLF (United National Liberation Front) may gain influence.
    • Risk of cross-border infiltration from Myanmar-based militant groups.

Challenges in Resolving the Crisis

  1. Ethnic Polarization and Mistrust
    • Meitei-Kuki tensions prevent a unified political approach to governance.
  2. Weak Security Mechanism
    • Delay in deploying central forces and restoring normalcy in affected areas.
  3. Political Uncertainty
    • Lack of consensus on a new leadership within the ruling party.
  4. Centre-State Coordination Issues
    • Delayed response from the Union Government in addressing violence and governance failure.

Government’s Response & Possible Solutions

  1. Appointment of a Consensus Leader
    • Ensuring a stable leadership transition to prevent further instability.
  2. Stronger Security and Peace Measures
    • Deployment of more central security forces.
    • Restoration of communication networks to curb misinformation and rumors.
  3. Reconciliation Committees
    • Setting up inter-community dialogue platforms for peacebuilding.
  4. Development Initiatives for Conflict Resolution
    • Special economic package to support displaced communities.
  5. Constitutional Measures
    • If instability continues, President’s Rule under Article 356 may be imposed.

Way Ahead

✅ Political Stability First – Quickly elect a new CM or impose President’s Rule.
✅ Stronger Law and Order – Ensure strict security enforcement in violence-hit areas.
✅ Peace Dialogues – Bring Meitei and Kuki leaders together for mediation.
✅ Centre’s Active Role – Faster intervention by Union Government in restoring peace.

Conclusion

The resignation of Biren Singh as Manipur CM has deepened the state’s political crisis, worsening governance and ethnic tensions. Immediate political stability, security reinforcement, and peace-building initiatives are essential to prevent further turmoil. The crisis also highlights the need for stronger Centre-State coordination in handling conflicts in Northeast India.

2. Bangladesh Unrest Fuels Security Threat for India

📌 GS Paper 2: International Relations, India-Bangladesh Relations, Border Security
📌 GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Cross-Border Terrorism, Migration Issues

Introduction

The ongoing political and social unrest in Bangladesh has raised serious security concerns for India, particularly in West Bengal, Assam, Tripura, and Meghalaya. Factors such as violent protests, radicalization, economic instability, and refugee influx pose risks to India’s border security, internal stability, and diplomatic relations with Bangladesh. The unrest also threatens India’s Act East Policy and regional trade.

Key Points

  1. Reasons for the Current Unrest in Bangladesh
    • Political Turmoil: Tensions between ruling Awami League (AL) and opposition BNP-Jamaat have led to widespread protests.
    • Economic Crisis: Rising inflation, unemployment, and currency devaluation are fueling public discontent.
    • Religious Extremism: Increased activities of radical Islamist groups such as Jamaat-e-Islami and Hefazat-e-Islam.
    • Crackdown on Opposition: The Bangladesh government’s suppression of protests is intensifying political instability.
  2. Security Implications for India
    • Cross-Border Infiltration: Increased movement of illegal migrants and refugees into India.
    • Rise in Extremism: Radical elements in Bangladesh could influence extremist groups in India.
    • Disruption in Border Trade: Unrest could hamper India-Bangladesh trade and transit routes.
    • Insurgency Revival in Northeast: Militant groups like ULFA and JMB (Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh) may use unrest for recruitment and smuggling operations.
  3. Impact on India’s Border States
    • Assam & West Bengal: Increased illegal migration and demographic changes.
    • Tripura & Meghalaya: Potential rise in smuggling of arms, drugs, and counterfeit currency.
    • Mizoram: Influx of Rohingya refugees could lead to law-and-order challenges.

Prelims Pointers

  • India-Bangladesh Border: 4,096 km (longest land border India shares with any country).
  • Radical Groups in Bangladesh: Jamaat-e-Islami, Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT), Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB).
  • Illegal Migration Issue: Assam NRC (National Register of Citizens) aims to identify illegal migrants.
  • Teesta River Dispute: Key India-Bangladesh water-sharing issue affecting West Bengal and Bangladesh.
  • India’s Act East Policy: Aims to strengthen economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia via Bangladesh.

Mains Pointers

Why Bangladesh Unrest is a Security Concern for India

  1. Increased Illegal Migration
    • Economic instability and political violence in Bangladesh could push more people into India illegally.
    • Strain on India’s NRC (National Register of Citizens) and border security forces.
  2. Terrorism and Radicalization Risks
    • Bangladesh’s unrest could allow Islamist terror groups like JMB and ABT to expand networks in India.
    • Past attacks in India (Burdwan Blast, 2014) were linked to Bangladesh-based extremists.
  3. Border Management Challenges
    • India-Bangladesh border is porous and difficult to monitor.
    • Risk of arms and drug smuggling by organized criminal syndicates.
  4. Threat to India’s Northeast Security
    • Unrest may allow ULFA and other insurgent groups to regroup in Bangladesh.
    • Increased weapons trafficking from Myanmar-Bangladesh-India routes.
  5. Trade and Economic Disruptions
    • Bangladesh is India’s largest trade partner in South Asia (~$18 billion annual trade).
    • Political instability could impact connectivity projects like BBIN (Bangladesh-Bhutan-India-Nepal) corridor.

Challenges in Managing the Situation

  1. Complex Border Security Issues
    • India’s border fencing is incomplete, making surveillance difficult.
    • Riverine areas (e.g., Sundarbans, Brahmaputra basin) make border monitoring challenging.
  2. Diplomatic Sensitivities
    • India must balance relations with Bangladesh’s ruling Awami League and opposition parties.
    • Heavy-handed actions may strain bilateral ties.
  3. Insufficient Intelligence Cooperation
    • India and Bangladesh have some counter-terrorism cooperation, but intelligence-sharing needs improvement.
  4. Humanitarian Crisis Management
    • India must prepare for a potential refugee influx while ensuring national security.
    • Maintaining human rights standards for displaced populations is crucial.

India’s Response and Way Forward

  1. Strengthening Border Security
    • Fast-tracking India-Bangladesh border fencing.
    • Deploying more BSF and drone surveillance in sensitive areas.
  2. Enhancing Diplomatic Engagement
    • High-level talks with Bangladesh to ensure political stability and economic support.
    • Increase intelligence-sharing on terror threats.
  3. Tackling Illegal Migration
    • Expanding NRC and border control mechanisms in Assam and West Bengal.
    • Strengthening deportation and repatriation processes.
  4. Preventing Terrorist Infiltration
    • Increase counter-terrorism cooperation between Indian and Bangladeshi agencies.
    • Crackdown on sleeper cells operating in India’s border regions.
  5. Ensuring Economic and Trade Stability
    • Protecting bilateral trade and transport agreements to minimize economic disruptions.
    • Strengthening BBIN, BIMSTEC, and SAARC trade frameworks.

Conclusion

The unrest in Bangladesh is a critical security concern for India, with risks of illegal migration, extremism, and economic disruption. India must adopt a balanced approach—strengthening border security while maintaining diplomatic ties with Bangladesh. Proactive counter-terrorism, economic cooperation, and regional stability measures are essential to safeguard India’s strategic interests.

3. 31 Naxalites Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter – Impact on Left-Wing Extremism

📌 GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), Counter-Insurgency Operations

Introduction

In a major counter-insurgency operation, security forces in Chhattisgarh’s Dantewada district eliminated 31 Naxalites, marking one of the largest successes against Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in recent years. This encounter highlights the ongoing efforts of Indian security forces to curb Maoist violence in the Red Corridor. However, the incident also raises concerns about Naxalite resurgence, recruitment, and long-term stability in affected regions.

Key Points

  1. Details of the Encounter
    • Conducted by DRG (District Reserve Guard), CRPF’s COBRA unit, and State Police.
    • Took place in Dantewada, a Maoist stronghold in Bastar region.
    • Seized large amounts of arms, explosives, and Maoist propaganda material.
  2. Significance of the Operation
    • Weakens Naxalite leadership and disrupts their movement.
    • Boosts morale of security forces and local administration.
    • Encourages surrender of more Maoist cadres.
  3. Why Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Still Persists?
    • Geographical Terrain: Maoists operate in dense forests of Chhattisgarh, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Maharashtra.
    • Tribal Alienation: Lack of development, land rights, and displacement issues fuel insurgency.
    • Funding & Arms Supply: Maoists earn money through extortion, illegal mining, and foreign funding.
    • Weak Governance: Poor road connectivity, lack of schools, and minimal healthcare create a vacuum for Maoist influence.

Prelims Pointers

  • Operation SAMADHAN: Centralized strategy for LWE elimination.
  • Salwa Judum: Disbanded civilian anti-Naxalite movement in Chhattisgarh.
  • Red Corridor: Maoist-affected belt across Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, Maharashtra.
  • COBRA (Commando Battalion for Resolute Action): CRPF’s elite anti-Maoist force.
  • Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA): Legal framework to prosecute Maoist groups.

Mains Pointers

Impact of the Encounter on Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)

  1. Weakened Naxalite Networks
    • Loss of top leaders disrupts Maoist organization.
    • Weapons and ammunition seizure cripples their operational strength.
  2. Security Boost in Red Corridor
    • Encourages more surrenders by lower-rank Maoists.
    • Enhances confidence in counter-insurgency forces.
  3. Potential for Retaliation by Maoists
    • History of violent counterattacks after major encounters (e.g., Sukma attacks).
    • Security forces need to remain alert to prevent revenge strikes.
  4. Public and Political Reactions
    • Some human rights groups raise concerns about fake encounters and civilian casualties.
    • Government portrays it as a step toward eradicating Maoism.

Challenges in Ending Left-Wing Extremism

  1. Deep-Rooted Socio-Economic Issues
    • Maoists exploit tribal discontent over land rights, mining projects, and deforestation.
    • Slow implementation of welfare schemes leaves tribal areas underdeveloped.
  2. Recruitment of New Cadres
    • Unemployed tribal youth join Maoist ranks due to lack of opportunities.
    • Education and skill development remain limited.
  3. Difficult Terrain for Security Operations
    • Dense forests of Bastar, Gadchiroli, and Malkangiri provide natural hideouts.
    • Maoists use guerilla warfare tactics, landmines, and IEDs against forces.
  4. State vs. Maoist Influence
    • Maoists run parallel governments in some areas, imposing taxes, conducting trials, and offering protection.
    • Lack of local governance presence strengthens Maoist control.

Government Initiatives Against LWE

  1. SAMADHAN Strategy – Focuses on Security, Development, Political Outreach to counter Maoism.
  2. Aspirational Districts Programme – Develops education, healthcare, and infrastructure in Maoist-hit regions.
  3. Surrender & Rehabilitation Policy – Provides financial aid, jobs, and training to surrendered Naxalites.
  4. Road and Telecom Expansion – Better connectivity in Maoist-affected areas to boost governance.

Way Ahead

✅ Better Intelligence & Surveillance – Use drones, satellite tracking, and local informants to detect Maoist hideouts.
✅ Tribal Welfare & Land Rights – Implement land reforms, better compensation for displaced tribals.
✅ Community Policing & Public Engagement – Increase trust between tribals and security forces.
✅ Strengthening Grassroots Governance – Ensure schools, hospitals, and banking services in LWE areas.
✅ Multi-State Coordination – Improve collaboration between Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Maharashtra, and Odisha for cross-border operations.

Conclusion

The Dantewada encounter, in which 31 Naxalites were killed, marks a major victory for counter-insurgency operations. However, Left-Wing Extremism cannot be defeated through military action alone. A balanced approach—combining strong security measures with socio-economic development—is essential to ensure a long-term solution to the Naxalite problem.

4. Assam’s Brahmaputra Expressway Project: Infrastructure Growth vs. Environmental Concerns

📌 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure Development, Economy, Environment & Ecology

Introduction

The Assam government has announced the Brahmaputra Expressway Project, a 4-lane expressway along both banks of the Brahmaputra River to enhance connectivity, boost trade, and reduce travel time in Northeast India. The project is expected to strengthen Assam’s road infrastructure, support economic growth, and prevent flood erosion along the river. However, it also raises serious environmental concerns, including threats to wetlands, biodiversity, and river hydrology.

Key Points

  1. Objectives of the Brahmaputra Expressway Project
    • Improve Road Connectivity: Provide faster, smoother transport between Assam’s major cities and towns.
    • Boost Economic Growth: Promote trade, tourism, and industrial investments.
    • Strengthen Disaster Resilience: Serve as a flood protection embankment along the Brahmaputra.
    • Facilitate Border Security: Enhance logistical support for border forces in Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
  2. Expected Benefits of the Expressway
    • Faster Transport & Reduced Travel Time: Cuts travel time between Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Tinsukia.
    • Boost to Agriculture & Trade: Easier access to markets for Assam’s tea, petroleum, and handicrafts.
    • Tourism Development: Improves connectivity to Kaziranga, Majuli, and Pobitora wildlife sanctuaries.
    • Flood & Erosion Control: Helps in riverbank stabilization, reducing land erosion.
  3. Environmental Concerns Raised by Experts
    • Wetland Destruction: The project could damage Deepor Beel, Majuli Island, and other wetlands.
    • Threat to River Hydrology: River flow changes due to embankments and construction could worsen flooding.
    • Biodiversity Loss: Impacts habitats of Gangetic dolphins, migratory birds, and aquatic life.
    • Increased Carbon Footprint: Deforestation for road construction could impact the local climate.

Prelims Pointers

  • Brahmaputra River: One of the world’s largest and most sediment-heavy rivers, prone to frequent floods.
  • Majuli Island: World’s largest river island, vulnerable to erosion.
  • Gangetic Dolphin: Endangered species found in Brahmaputra, protected under Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
  • Eco-Sensitive Zones (ESZs): Areas around protected regions (Kaziranga, Pobitora) where construction is restricted.
  • National Green Tribunal (NGT): Regulates infrastructure projects impacting the environment.

Mains Pointers

Significance of the Brahmaputra Expressway for Assam

  1. Infrastructure Growth & Economic Development
    • Expands highway network in Northeast India, reducing logistics costs.
    • Strengthens trade routes with Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Bhutan.
  2. Disaster Resilience & Erosion Control
    • Assam loses thousands of hectares of land annually due to Brahmaputra erosion.
    • A well-planned embankment-road system could prevent further land loss.
  3. Border Security & Strategic Importance
    • Faster troop movement along Assam’s border with China and Myanmar.
    • Enhances defense infrastructure for border monitoring.

Environmental & Ecological Challenges

  1. Threat to Wetlands & Wildlife
    • Construction could affect Deepor Beel (Ramsar site), Majuli, and Pobitora Sanctuary.
    • Impacts fish migration, bird nesting sites, and riverine biodiversity.
  2. River Hydrology & Increased Flood Risks
    • Modifying Brahmaputra’s natural flow may increase flood intensity in lower Assam and Bangladesh.
    • Dredging activities to create embankments could accelerate silt deposition elsewhere.
  3. Deforestation & Carbon Emissions
    • Road construction requires cutting down forests along riverbanks.
    • Increased vehicle use will raise pollution levels in Assam’s fragile ecosystem.
  4. Impact on Local Communities
    • Thousands of fishermen and river-dependent communities may be displaced.
    • Loss of traditional livelihoods, cultural heritage sites along the Brahmaputra.

Government Initiatives to Balance Development & Environment

  1. Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) – Mandatory study on ecological risks before expressway construction.
  2. Flood Mitigation Strategies – Planning eco-friendly embankments and afforestation programs.
  3. Sustainable Construction Techniques – Using permeable materials, elevated roads, and river-friendly designs.
  4. Public Consultation & Tribal Rights Protection – Involving local communities and environmental activists.

Way Ahead

✅ Eco-Friendly Infrastructure Planning – Ensure the expressway does not harm wetlands or floodplains.
✅ Advanced Riverbank Protection – Use geotextiles and bioengineering solutions instead of concrete embankments.
✅ Wildlife Protection Measures – Build animal corridors and buffer zones near sanctuaries.
✅ Public Consultation & Compensation – Ensure fair rehabilitation for displaced communities.

Conclusion

The Brahmaputra Expressway Project has the potential to transform Assam’s connectivity and economy, but careful environmental planning is crucial. A sustainable approach—integrating green technology, river conservation, and community participation—can ensure infrastructure growth without ecological destruction.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Biren Singh Resigns as Manipur CM – Political Crisis in Northeast

Question 1

Which of the following statements about Article 356 (President’s Rule) are correct?

  1. It allows the President to dismiss a state government if constitutional machinery fails.
  2. The Governor of the state recommends its imposition to the President.
  3. It can remain in effect for a maximum of five years with parliamentary approval.
  4. The President can impose it without parliamentary approval for an indefinite period.

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, 3, and 4 only

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct – Article 356 is invoked when a state government fails to function according to the Constitution.
  • Statement 2 is correct – The Governor recommends President’s Rule based on governance failure.
  • Statement 3 is correct – President’s Rule can be extended up to 5 years with Parliamentary approval every 6 months.
  • Statement 4 is incorrect – The President must seek Parliament’s approval within 2 months, making an indefinite imposition unconstitutional.

Question 2

Which of the following factors contributed to the recent political crisis in Manipur?

  1. Ethnic tensions between Meitei and Kuki communities
  2. Breakdown of law and order due to insurgency
  3. Border conflicts with Bangladesh
  4. Internal party disputes within the BJP-led government

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • Meitei-Kuki violence, insurgency issues, and internal party disputes caused the crisis.
  • Manipur does not share a border with Bangladesh, so Statement 3 is incorrect.

2. Bangladesh Unrest Fuels Security Threat for India

Question 3

Which of the following security risks for India arise due to the unrest in Bangladesh?

  1. Increase in illegal migration into India
  2. Rise in Islamist radicalization and cross-border terrorism
  3. Disruption in India-Bangladesh trade and transit routes
  4. Infiltration of Rohingya refugees into Northeast India

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 3 and 4 only

✅ Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4

🔎 Explanation:

  • All four statements are correct – Bangladesh’s unrest has led to migration, extremist activities, trade disruption, and refugee infiltration into Northeast India.

Question 4

Which of the following groups are known for radical activities in Bangladesh?

  1. Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB)
  2. Ansarullah Bangla Team (ABT)
  3. Harkat-ul-Mujahideen (HuM)
  4. Hefazat-e-Islam

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 3 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • JMB, ABT, and Hefazat-e-Islam are active radical groups in Bangladesh.
  • HuM (Harkat-ul-Mujahideen) is based in Pakistan, not Bangladesh.

3. 31 Naxalites Killed in Chhattisgarh Encounter – Impact on Left-Wing Extremism

Question 5

Which of the following Indian states are most affected by Left-Wing Extremism (LWE)?

  1. Chhattisgarh
  2. Jharkhand
  3. Tamil Nadu
  4. Odisha

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, and Odisha are LWE-affected states.
  • Tamil Nadu has no significant Maoist presence, so Statement 3 is incorrect.

Question 6

Which of the following government initiatives aim to counter Left-Wing Extremism in India?

  1. Operation SAMADHAN
  2. Aspirational Districts Programme
  3. Green India Mission
  4. Greyhounds Commando Force

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • Operation SAMADHAN – Comprehensive counter-LWE strategy.
  • Aspirational Districts Programme – Focuses on LWE-affected backward districts.
  • Greyhounds – Specialized anti-Naxal force in Andhra Pradesh & Telangana.
  • Green India Mission (Incorrect) – Focuses on forestation, not LWE.

4. Assam’s Brahmaputra Expressway Project – Infrastructure vs. Environment

Question 7

Which of the following are expected benefits of the Brahmaputra Expressway Project?

  1. Improved connectivity and trade in Assam
  2. Reduced flood and erosion damage along the Brahmaputra River
  3. Boost to eco-tourism in Kaziranga and Majuli
  4. Prevention of illegal migration from Bangladesh

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only

🔎 Explanation:

  • Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – The project will enhance trade, connectivity, flood control, and tourism.
  • Statement 4 is incorrect – The expressway does not address illegal migration from Bangladesh.

Question 8

Which of the following environmental concerns are associated with the Brahmaputra Expressway Project?

  1. Threat to Gangetic dolphin and riverine biodiversity
  2. Destruction of Deepor Beel wetland ecosystem
  3. Increased carbon emissions due to deforestation
  4. Disruption of monsoon rainfall patterns in Assam

Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only

🔎 Explanation:

Statement 4 is incorrect – The expressway does not affect monsoon rainfall patterns.

Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – The project threatens biodiversity, wetlands, and increases deforestation.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. The Brahmaputra Expressway Project aims to enhance Assam’s infrastructure and economic growth but raises significant environmental concerns. Critically analyze the benefits and challenges of the project, and suggest measures to ensure sustainable development. (250 words, 15 marks)

Model Answer

Introduction

The Assam government’s Brahmaputra Expressway Project seeks to develop a 4-lane expressway along both banks of the Brahmaputra River, improving connectivity and reducing flood damage. However, environmentalists warn of biodiversity loss, wetland destruction, and hydrological imbalances, making sustainable implementation crucial.

Benefits of the Brahmaputra Expressway Project

  1. Improved Connectivity & Trade
    • Reduces travel time between major cities like Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Tinsukia.
    • Strengthens regional trade with Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, and Bhutan.
  2. Flood & Erosion Control
    • Acts as a barrier against riverbank erosion, protecting agricultural lands and settlements.
    • Reduces annual flood damage to infrastructure and livelihoods.
  3. Boost to Economy & Employment
    • Enhances logistics for industries, agriculture, and tourism.
    • Generates thousands of jobs in construction, transport, and services.
  4. Strategic & Security Importance
    • Improves troop movement and border security near Arunachal Pradesh and Bhutan.
    • Strengthens disaster response capabilities in flood-prone areas.

Challenges & Environmental Concerns

  1. Destruction of Wetlands & Biodiversity
    • Threat to Deepor Beel, Majuli Island, and Kaziranga’s ecosystem.
    • Loss of habitat for Gangetic dolphins, migratory birds, and aquatic life.
  2. Hydrological & Flooding Issues
    • Construction along riverbanks may alter Brahmaputra’s natural flow, worsening floods.
    • Increased sedimentation could block tributaries.
  3. Deforestation & Climate Impact
    • Large-scale tree-cutting for road construction may increase carbon emissions.
    • Loss of natural flood absorption capacity of forests.
  4. Displacement & Livelihood Loss
    • Thousands of fishermen and river-dependent communities may lose access to traditional resources.
    • Potential land acquisition issues and inadequate rehabilitation.

Measures for Sustainable Development

✅ Eco-Friendly Infrastructure Design – Use elevated roads, permeable materials, and afforestation programs.
✅ Scientific Flood Management – Combine dredging, embankments, and sustainable drainage systems.
✅ Wildlife Protection Measures – Build animal corridors and wetland buffer zones.
✅ Public Consultation & Compensation – Ensure fair rehabilitation for displaced communities.
✅ Strict Environmental Monitoring – Regular impact assessments and compliance with green laws.

Conclusion

The Brahmaputra Expressway Project can transform Assam’s connectivity and economy, but unregulated construction may worsen environmental damage. A balanced approach—integrating infrastructure growth with ecological conservation—is necessary for long-term sustainability.

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