APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (18/02/2025)
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 (18-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord to be Included in State Budget
📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, Assam Accord, Constitutional & Legislative Safeguards
Introduction
The Assam government has announced that the State Budget will include a special chapter on the implementation of Clause 6 of the Assam Accord. This is a major development in ensuring constitutional and legal protection for the indigenous people of Assam.
Clause 6 of the Assam Accord (1985) promises to provide legislative, administrative, and constitutional safeguards to protect Assamese identity, language, and culture.
Key Points
1. Major Provisions in the Budget for Clause 6 Implementation
✅ Protection of Indigenous Land Rights – Restrictions on the sale of land to non-Assamese citizens.
✅ Language Preservation Initiatives – Mandatory Assamese in school curricula and official communication.
✅ Formation of Cultural Protection Committees – To safeguard traditional institutions and local heritage sites.
✅ Reservation in Government Jobs – Proposal to ensure more representation of indigenous Assamese in state jobs.
2. Challenges in Implementation
🚧 Defining ‘Assamese People’ – The lack of a legal definition creates policy roadblocks.
🚧 Opposition from Certain Groups – Some Bengali-speaking communities in Barak Valley oppose mandatory Assamese language policies.
🚧 Political & Legal Complexities – Implementation requires constitutional amendments and approval from the Central Government.
Prelims Pointers
- Clause 6 of Assam Accord (1985) – Provides special constitutional safeguards to protect Assamese identity.
- Biplab Sharma Committee Report – Made 38 recommendations, including land and language safeguards.
- Assamese as an Official Language – Recognized under the Assam Official Language Act, 1960.
Mains Pointers
Why is Clause 6 Implementation Important?
✅ Preserving Assamese Identity – Protects against demographic shifts due to migration.
✅ Fulfilling Long-Standing Demands – A 40-year-old demand finally gaining momentum.
✅ Boosting Indigenous Representation – Ensures job reservations & land rights for Assamese communities.
Way Ahead
✅ Clear Definition of ‘Assamese’ – Ensuring inclusivity while protecting indigenous rights.
✅ Strengthening Legal Frameworks – Amending laws to provide stronger protection mechanisms.
✅ Engagement with Stakeholders – Ensuring community participation in policy implementation.
Conclusion
The inclusion of Clause 6 in the Assam Budget is a step forward in protecting Assamese heritage. However, successful implementation requires legal clarity, consensus-building, and careful execution.
2. Assam Govt Announces New Industrial Policy to Attract Investment
📌 GS Paper 3: Economy, Industrial Growth, Investment & Employment Generation
Introduction
The Assam government has unveiled a New Industrial Policy, 2025, aimed at boosting investment, generating employment, and making Assam a manufacturing hub in Northeast India. The policy focuses on tax incentives, land acquisition reforms, and improved infrastructure to attract both domestic and foreign investors.
The initiative aligns with the Act East Policy, strengthening Assam’s role as a trade and logistics hub for Southeast Asia.
Key Points
1. Major Highlights of the Industrial Policy
✅ Tax Incentives & Subsidies –
- Corporate tax rebates for industries investing in Assam.
- Capital investment subsidies of up to 50% for new manufacturing units.
✅ Single-Window Clearance System –
- Faster approvals for business licenses and land acquisition.
- A digital platform for investors to file applications online.
✅ Sector-Specific Focus Areas –
- Agro-processing: Boosting Assam’s tea, rice, and spice industries.
- IT & Electronics: Setting up special economic zones (SEZs).
- Renewable Energy: Promoting solar & hydropower plants in Assam.
✅ Infrastructure Development –
- Expansion of industrial corridors connecting Assam to Myanmar and Bangladesh.
- Development of Assam Logistics Park to enhance supply chain efficiency.
2. Challenges in Industrial Growth in Assam
🚧 Land Acquisition Hurdles – Opposition from local communities in acquiring industrial land.
🚧 Limited Skilled Workforce – Need for better vocational training & industry-academia collaboration.
🚧 Connectivity Gaps – Dependence on road & rail connectivity instead of waterways & air routes.
Prelims Pointers
- Act East Policy (2014) – India’s strategy to strengthen trade ties with ASEAN.
- North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS, 2017) – Provides financial support to industries in Northeast India.
- Single-Window Clearance System – A mechanism to ensure fast approvals for businesses.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) – Designed to promote export-oriented industries.
Mains Pointers
Why is a New Industrial Policy Important for Assam?
✅ Boosts Employment & Local Economy – More factories and businesses mean more jobs for youth.
✅ Encourages Private Sector Participation – Incentives & tax breaks make Assam attractive for investors.
✅ Reduces Dependence on Agriculture – Promotes diversification into IT, manufacturing, and energy.
✅ Aligns with India’s Act East Policy – Strengthens Assam’s role in Indo-ASEAN trade.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Skill Development Programs – Investing in technical institutes and vocational training.
✅ Improving Connectivity & Logistics – Expanding ports, airports, and inland waterways.
✅ Encouraging Sustainable Industrial Practices – Promoting green industries and pollution-free zones.
Conclusion
Assam’s New Industrial Policy is a game-changer for the state’s economy. By focusing on tax incentives, infrastructure, and sector-specific investments, the government aims to transform Assam into an industrial hub. However, successful implementation will require strong governance, efficient land policies, and continuous skill development.
3. Brahmaputra Dredging Project to Begin Soon – Govt Pushes for Inland Waterways
📌 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Inland Waterways, River Conservation
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the commencement of the Brahmaputra River Dredging Project to improve inland water transport (IWT), reduce flooding, and promote trade. The project aims to remove excess silt and sediment deposits to make the river navigable for large cargo ships and passenger vessels.
The initiative aligns with the National Waterways Act, 2016, under which the Brahmaputra is designated as National Waterway-2 (NW-2), connecting Assam with Bangladesh and the rest of India.
Key Points
1. Objectives of the Brahmaputra Dredging Project
✅ Improve Navigation –
- Ensures year-round movement of cargo & passenger ferries.
- Boosts trade between Assam, Bengal, and Bangladesh.
✅ Flood Mitigation –
- Dredging reduces water congestion & overflow during monsoons.
- Helps prevent erosion in vulnerable riverbank areas.
✅ Boost to Assam’s Inland Water Transport (IWT) –
- Reduces reliance on road & rail transport.
- Establishes modern river ports and jetties.
✅ Strengthens Connectivity with Bangladesh –
- Enhances Assam-Bangladesh bilateral trade via waterways.
- Reduces transportation costs for exports like tea, coal, and petroleum.
2. Challenges & Environmental Concerns
🚧 High Cost of Dredging Operations – Continuous dredging is expensive & requires long-term funding.
🚧 Ecological Impact – Dredging may disrupt river ecosystems, aquatic life, and fisheries.
🚧 Erosion Risks – Excessive dredging in some regions can increase riverbank erosion.
Prelims Pointers
- National Waterway-2 (NW-2) – The Brahmaputra River’s designation as a key trade route.
- Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) – Aims to develop inland waterways as alternative transport networks.
- India-Bangladesh Protocol Routes – Allows seamless movement of cargo vessels between the two countries.
- Dredging – The process of removing sediment and silt from riverbeds to improve navigation.
Mains Pointers
Why is Brahmaputra Dredging Important for Assam?
✅ Reduces Road Traffic & Promotes Green Transport – Waterways reduce fuel consumption & carbon emissions.
✅ Prevents Frequent Flooding – Helps control river overflow and minimizes damage to nearby towns.
✅ Strengthens Assam’s Role in Indo-Bangladesh Trade – Makes exports cheaper & faster.
✅ Encourages Eco-Tourism & Passenger Ferry Services – Expands river tourism & cruise services.
Challenges in Implementation
🚧 Maintaining Navigability Requires Continuous Effort – Silt accumulation is an ongoing issue.
🚧 Environmental Impact on River Ecosystem – Aquatic species may face habitat disruption.
🚧 Coordination with Bangladesh Required – Since Brahmaputra flows into Bangladesh, joint efforts are needed.
Way Ahead
✅ Using Advanced Technology for Eco-Friendly Dredging – Implement scientific riverbed management.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Funding – Encouraging foreign investments in inland water transport.
✅ Strengthening Riverbank Protection Measures – Using bio-engineering techniques to prevent erosion.
Conclusion
The Brahmaputra Dredging Project is a transformative initiative for Assam, ensuring better flood control, improved trade routes, and sustainable river transport. However, to make it a success, balancing economic growth with ecological sustainability is crucial.
4. Assam Launches Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’ to Improve School Education
📌 GS Paper 2: Education, Governance, Skill Development
📌 GS Paper 3: Human Resource Development, Social Justice
Introduction
The Assam government has launched Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’, a flagship initiative to improve the quality of school education, enhance digital learning, and reduce dropout rates in the state. The mission aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, focusing on infrastructure development, teacher training, and curriculum reforms.
The project aims to transform government schools into model institutions, ensuring access to quality education for all children, especially in rural and tribal areas.
Key Points
1. Objectives of Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’
✅ Modernizing Government Schools –
- Smart classrooms with digital content for better learning outcomes.
- Upgrading infrastructure like libraries, science labs, and sanitation facilities.
✅ Teacher Training & Capacity Building –
- Regular workshops & online training programs for teachers.
- Recruitment of specialized subject teachers for mathematics, science, and languages.
✅ Bridging the Digital Divide –
- Distribution of free tablets & e-learning resources to students.
- Expansion of internet access in rural schools.
✅ Reducing Dropout Rates –
- Financial support for underprivileged students.
- Hostel facilities for students from remote areas.
✅ Vocational Training & Skill Development –
- Integration of coding, robotics, and AI courses in high schools.
- Collaboration with IT firms & industries for job-oriented training.
2. Challenges in Assam’s School Education System
🚧 High Dropout Rates in Rural & Tribal Areas – Due to poverty, lack of transport, and child labor.
🚧 Shortage of Qualified Teachers – Many government schools lack subject experts.
🚧 Inadequate Digital Infrastructure – Poor internet connectivity in remote areas affects online learning.
🚧 Language Barriers – Schools in multilingual regions struggle with uniform curriculum implementation.
Prelims Pointers
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 – Focuses on multidisciplinary learning, skill-based education, and digital inclusion.
- Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan – Central government scheme to improve school infrastructure & quality of education.
- Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009 – Guarantees free & compulsory education for children aged 6-14.
- Digital India Initiative – Promotes e-learning and smart classrooms.
Mains Pointers
Why is Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’ Important for Assam?
✅ Improves Literacy & Employment Opportunities – Quality education leads to better job prospects.
✅ Bridges the Rural-Urban Education Gap – Ensures equal learning opportunities for all students.
✅ Enhances Digital Learning – Smart classrooms and online courses make education interactive & accessible.
✅ Reduces Gender Disparity in Education – Encourages more girls to complete schooling.
Challenges in Implementing Educational Reforms
🚧 Lack of Funding for Digital Initiatives – Schools need sustainable financial support.
🚧 Monitoring & Evaluation Issues – Requires real-time tracking of students’ progress.
🚧 Parental Awareness & Community Participation – Need for better engagement with parents.
Way Ahead
✅ Expanding Digital Education Infrastructure – More smart classrooms & internet-equipped schools.
✅ Strengthening Teacher Training Programs – Continuous professional development for teachers.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in Education – Collaboration with corporate CSR initiatives for funding.
✅ Promoting Skill-Based Learning – Focus on AI, IT, and vocational training in high schools.
Conclusion
Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’ is a transformative step in Assam’s education sector. By focusing on digital education, teacher training, and infrastructure improvements, the initiative has the potential to revolutionize government schools. However, its success will depend on effective implementation, continuous funding, and strong governance.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Implementation of Clause 6 of Assam Accord to be Included in State Budget
Question 1
Which of the following statements about Clause 6 of the Assam Accord is/are correct?
- It provides constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards to protect Assamese identity.
- The Assam Accord was signed in 1985 between the Government of India and the United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA).
- Clause 6 aims to prevent illegal migration by implementing strict border controls.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (a) 1 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct – Clause 6 guarantees protection of Assamese identity, culture, and language through legal provisions.
- Statement 2 is incorrect – The Assam Accord (1985) was signed between AASU (All Assam Students’ Union) and the Government of India, not ULFA.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Clause 6 does not deal with border controls or migration policies; it focuses on indigenous rights.
2. Assam Govt Announces New Industrial Policy to Attract Investment
Question 2
Which of the following measures are included in Assam’s New Industrial Policy, 2025?
- Capital investment subsidies for new industries
- Single-window clearance system for faster approvals
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) for the tea industry
- Tax holidays for IT and renewable energy companies
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:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – The policy includes capital investment subsidies, a single-window clearance system, and tax incentives for IT & renewable energy.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – SEZs are planned for IT & electronics, not specifically for the tea industry.
Question 3
Which of the following national initiatives support industrial development in Assam and Northeast India?
- Act East Policy
- North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS)
- Bharatmala Project
- Make in India
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- All statements are correct – Act East Policy promotes Northeast’s trade links with ASEAN, NEIDS provides financial incentives for industries, Bharatmala improves transport networks, and Make in India boosts domestic manufacturing.
3. Brahmaputra Dredging Project to Begin Soon – Govt Pushes for Inland Waterways
Question 4
Which of the following are potential benefits of the Brahmaputra Dredging Project?
- Enhancing navigation and inland water transport
- Reducing flood risks and erosion
- Improving hydroelectric power generation
- Strengthening Indo-Bangladesh trade routes
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:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – The project will improve inland transport, reduce flooding, and enhance Assam-Bangladesh trade connectivity.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Dredging mainly improves waterways, not hydroelectric power generation.
Question 5
Which of the following waterways are designated as National Waterways in Assam?
- Brahmaputra River (NW-2)
- Barak River (NW-16)
- Subansiri River (NW-22)
Select the correct answer using the codes 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:
- NW-2 (Brahmaputra River) and NW-16 (Barak River) are recognized as National Waterways.
- Subansiri River is not yet designated as a National Waterway.
4. Assam Launches Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’ to Improve School Education
Question 6
Which of the following key reforms are part of Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’ in Assam?
- Digital classrooms and free e-learning resources
- Teacher training and recruitment drives
- Establishment of new universities for higher education
- Skill-based education and vocational training
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:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – The initiative includes digital education, teacher training, and vocational courses.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – It focuses on school education, not new universities.
Question 7
Which of the following national policies align with Assam’s Mission ‘Shiksha Unnati’?
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
- Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan
- Skill India Mission
- Digital India Initiative
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:
All statements are correct – NEP focuses on holistic education, Samagra Shiksha supports school infrastructure, Skill India promotes vocational learning, and Digital India expands e-learning access.
APSC Mains Practice Question
The Brahmaputra River plays a crucial role in Assam’s economy and ecology, yet challenges such as flooding, siltation, and navigability issues persist. Critically examine the significance of the Brahmaputra Dredging Project and suggest sustainable measures to balance economic development with environmental conservation.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Brahmaputra River, one of India’s largest and most dynamic rivers, is crucial for agriculture, inland water transport, hydroelectricity, and biodiversity in Assam. However, silt accumulation, seasonal floods, and erosion hinder its economic potential. The Brahmaputra Dredging Project, launched by the Assam government, aims to improve navigability, mitigate floods, and enhance trade connectivity with Bangladesh.
Significance of the Brahmaputra Dredging Project
✅ Boosts Inland Water Transport (IWT)
- Dredging enhances year-round navigability, reducing reliance on road and rail transport.
- Strengthens National Waterway-2 (NW-2) and improves trade with Bangladesh and Northeast India.
✅ Flood Mitigation & Erosion Control
- Reduces waterlogging in urban and rural areas.
- Helps in channelizing excess water to prevent bank erosion.
✅ Economic & Trade Benefits
- Cheaper transport for tea, petroleum, and agricultural products.
- Attracts investment in river tourism and logistics hubs.
✅ Strengthens Indo-Bangladesh Relations
- Improves cross-border water connectivity, promoting bilateral trade and cultural exchanges.
Challenges & Environmental Concerns
🚧 Ecological Disruptions – Dredging may alter aquatic ecosystems, affecting fisheries and riverine biodiversity.
🚧 Continuous Silt Deposition – Brahmaputra’s high sediment load requires frequent dredging, increasing costs.
🚧 Riverbank Erosion Risks – Improper dredging may accelerate soil erosion, threatening settlements.
🚧 Climate Change Impact – Rising glacial melt and rainfall variations complicate long-term water management.
Sustainable Measures for Balancing Development & Conservation
✅ Eco-Friendly Dredging Techniques
- Use scientific riverbed management to minimize habitat destruction.
- Adopt bio-engineering solutions for riverbank stabilization.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for Infrastructure Development
- Encourage private investments in river ports and cargo terminals.
- Develop modern jetties and logistics hubs for efficient trade.
✅ Integrated Flood Management Strategies
- Construct embankments with green buffers to protect flood-prone areas.
- Implement afforestation programs along riverbanks to reduce erosion.
✅ Collaboration with Bangladesh on Water Resource Management
- Joint initiatives under the India-Bangladesh Protocol on Inland Water Transit.
- Data sharing for flood forecasting and disaster preparedness.
Conclusion
The Brahmaputra Dredging Project is a transformative initiative that can unlock Assam’s trade potential, reduce flood hazards, and promote sustainable economic growth. However, a scientific, eco-sensitive approach is essential to balance development with environmental conservation. Integrating modern technology, community participation, and cross-border cooperation can make Assam’s inland waterway system a model for sustainable river management in India.
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