APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (19/02/2025)
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 (19-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Sonowal Dedicates Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) at Jogighopa to the Nation
📌 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Inland Water Transport (IWT), India-Bangladesh Trade
Introduction
Union Minister Sarbananda Sonowal inaugurated the Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) on the Brahmaputra River (National Waterway-2), marking a major step in developing water-based trade and connectivity with Bhutan and Bangladesh. The Rs 82 crore terminal is expected to enhance regional logistics and cargo movement in Assam.
Key Points
1. Importance of Jogighopa IWT
✅ Strategic Location – Located 91 km from Bhutan, 108 km from Bangladesh, making it crucial for India-Bhutan-Bangladesh trade.
✅ Increases Trade Capacity – Expected to handle 1.1 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2027.
✅ Reduces Transport Costs – Cheaper than road and rail, improving logistics efficiency.
✅ Part of India-Bangladesh Protocol on Inland Water Transit & Trade (PIWT&T) – Strengthens bilateral agreements.
2. Challenges in Waterways Development
🚧 Siltation & Dredging Costs – Regular maintenance is required to keep waterways navigable.
🚧 Limited Infrastructure – Need for modern river ports, jetties, and navigation aids.
🚧 Bilateral Coordination with Bangladesh – Ensuring smooth regulatory mechanisms for cross-border cargo movement.
Prelims Pointers
- National Waterway-2 (NW-2) – Brahmaputra River, designated under the National Waterways Act, 2016.
- India-Bangladesh Protocol on Inland Water Transit & Trade (PIWT&T) – Signed to facilitate cross-border river transport.
- Sagarmala Programme – Aims to modernize ports and improve water-based logistics.
Mains Pointers
How Can Inland Waterways Benefit Assam?
✅ Economic Growth – Boosts tea, coal, and construction material exports.
✅ Reduces Road Traffic & Carbon Emissions – Eco-friendly alternative to land transport.
✅ Enhances Regional Trade – Strengthens connectivity with Bhutan & Bangladesh.
Way Ahead
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Funding – Encouraging private investments in port infrastructure.
✅ Eco-Friendly Dredging – Scientific methods to maintain navigability while minimizing ecological impact.
✅ Integrated Transport Model – Rail-road-waterway connectivity to optimize cargo movement.
Conclusion
The Jogighopa IWT is a transformative initiative that strengthens Assam’s position as a key logistics hub in South Asia. However, sustained investments, efficient management, and regional cooperation are necessary to maximize its potential.
2. Assam Government to Introduce Anti-Cybercrime Task Force
📌 GS Paper 3: Cyber Security, Governance, Law & Order
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the formation of a special Anti-Cybercrime Task Force to combat the rising cases of online fraud, identity theft, and digital financial crimes in the state. The move aligns with India’s National Cyber Security Policy, 2013, and focuses on law enforcement modernization, cyber awareness, and international cooperation.
Key Points
1. Why is Assam Strengthening Cybersecurity?
✅ Rise in Cybercrime Cases – Over 2,500 cases of online fraud & phishing scams were reported in 2024.
✅ Financial Fraud Risks – Increasing banking frauds, UPI scams, and crypto-related crimes.
✅ Dark Web & Digital Drug Trade – Online platforms being misused for illegal trade & data breaches.
✅ Threats to Critical Infrastructure – Risk of cyber-attacks on government databases & power grids.
2. Key Features of Assam’s Anti-Cybercrime Task Force
✔️ Dedicated Cyber Police Stations – To handle cyber frauds, hacking, and misinformation campaigns.
✔️ AI-Based Crime Detection – Use of Artificial Intelligence & machine learning for tracking digital threats.
✔️ Public Awareness Campaigns – Workshops on safe online practices, data protection, and digital payments security.
✔️ Collaboration with CERT-In – Strengthening ties with India’s Computer Emergency Response Team.
Prelims Pointers
- National Cyber Security Policy, 2013 – Aims to secure India’s cyber ecosystem.
- CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) – Handles cyber threats & digital forensics.
- Digital India Initiative – Promotes cyber awareness & e-governance.
- Information Technology Act, 2000 – Governs cybercrime laws in India.
Mains Pointers
Challenges in Tackling Cybercrime in Assam
🚧 Lack of Cybercrime Awareness – Many users fall prey to phishing, fake investment scams, and ransomware attacks.
🚧 Shortage of Skilled Cyber Experts – Need for forensic specialists & ethical hackers in law enforcement.
🚧 Cross-Border Cyber Threats – Many cybercrimes originate from international hacking networks.
🚧 Dark Web & Cryptocurrency Challenges – Difficulties in tracking illegal transactions.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Cyber Laws & Quick Investigation Mechanisms.
✅ Training Law Enforcement in Digital Forensics.
✅ Cybersecurity Education in Schools & Colleges.
✅ AI-Driven Cyber Surveillance & Threat Detection.
Conclusion
With the rise of digital financial frauds and cyber threats, Assam’s Anti-Cybercrime Task Force is a much-needed step. However, its success will depend on skilled personnel, public cooperation, and strong technology infrastructure.
3. Assam to Launch ‘Project Jal Shakti’ for Groundwater Conservation
📌 GS Paper 3: Water Resources, Environmental Conservation, Climate Change
Introduction
The Assam government has announced ‘Project Jal Shakti’, an ambitious initiative focused on groundwater conservation, rainwater harvesting, and sustainable water management. The project aims to combat water scarcity, improve irrigation facilities, and ensure water security for rural and urban populations.
The initiative aligns with the Jal Shakti Abhiyan (2019) and the Atal Bhujal Yojana, both of which promote sustainable groundwater management across India.
Key Points
1. Why is Assam Focusing on Groundwater Conservation?
✅ Declining Groundwater Levels – Rapid urbanization and over-extraction have led to falling water tables in central & western Assam.
✅ Seasonal Water Crisis – Several rural districts face drinking water shortages during summer months.
✅ Agricultural Dependence on Groundwater – Nearly 40% of Assam’s farmland relies on groundwater for irrigation.
✅ Flood & Drought Resilience – Improved water storage can help mitigate both droughts and floods.
2. Key Features of Project Jal Shakti
✔️ Statewide Rainwater Harvesting Initiative – Rooftop harvesting structures in schools, hospitals, and public buildings.
✔️ Revival of Traditional Water Bodies – Cleaning and restoration of ponds, lakes, and step wells.
✔️ Micro-Irrigation Systems for Farmers – Encouraging drip & sprinkler irrigation to reduce water wastage.
✔️ Mandatory Water Conservation Policies – Industries & real estate projects must adopt water recycling measures.
Prelims Pointers
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan (2019) – National water conservation campaign.
- Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal, 2020) – Promotes community-led groundwater management.
- Artificial Recharge of Groundwater – Using check dams, percolation tanks, and watershed projects.
- Assam’s Brahmaputra Floodplain Aquifer – One of India’s largest groundwater storage systems.
Mains Pointers
Challenges in Groundwater Conservation in Assam
🚧 Unregulated Borewell Drilling – Over-extraction leads to rapid depletion of underground water.
🚧 Floodwater Wastage – Brahmaputra floods drain excess water into the Bay of Bengal without proper storage.
🚧 Pollution of Water Sources – Industrial waste & untreated sewage contaminate groundwater reserves.
🚧 Lack of Awareness Among Farmers – Overuse of water-intensive crops like paddy worsens the crisis.
Way Ahead
✅ Expanding Community-Led Water Management Initiatives.
✅ Encouraging Drought-Resistant Crop Varieties.
✅ Developing Smart Water Monitoring Systems Using IoT & AI.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Infrastructure Development.
Conclusion
Project Jal Shakti is a crucial step towards sustainable water management in Assam. If implemented effectively, it can boost groundwater recharge, strengthen agricultural resilience, and ensure water security for future generations.
4. Assam to Host First Northeast Green Energy Summit in Guwahati
📌 GS Paper 3: Renewable Energy, Sustainable Development, Climate Change
Introduction
The Assam government has announced that Guwahati will host the First Northeast Green Energy Summit, bringing together policymakers, industry leaders, and environmental experts to promote renewable energy adoption and climate action in the region. The summit will focus on solar, hydro, wind, and bioenergy projects, aligning with India’s Net Zero Target (2070) and the National Green Hydrogen Mission.
Key Points
1. Objectives of the Northeast Green Energy Summit
✅ Boosting Renewable Energy Capacity – Focus on solar, wind, and hydroelectric projects in Northeast India.
✅ Promoting Investment in Green Hydrogen – Encouraging private sector participation in green fuel production.
✅ Reducing Dependence on Fossil Fuels – Assam aims to cut coal-based power consumption by 30% by 2030.
✅ Enhancing Cross-Border Energy Trade – Strengthening India-Bhutan hydroelectric collaboration.
2. Current Status of Renewable Energy in Assam
- Hydropower – Assam has 650 MW installed capacity, with potential for over 2,000 MW.
- Solar Energy – Several projects under the Assam Solar Energy Policy (2022-27).
- Wind Power – Feasibility studies underway for offshore wind projects in Assam & Meghalaya.
- Bioenergy – Bamboo-based biofuel initiatives launched in collaboration with private companies.
3. Challenges in Expanding Green Energy in Assam
🚧 High Initial Investment Costs – Requires subsidies and foreign investments.
🚧 Land Acquisition Issues – Resistance from local communities in forest-rich areas.
🚧 Transmission Infrastructure Gaps – Need for better power grid connectivity.
🚧 Limited R&D & Skilled Workforce – Requires training programs for solar & wind energy engineers.
Prelims Pointers
- National Green Hydrogen Mission (2023) – Aims for 5 MMT of green hydrogen production by 2030.
- Assam Solar Energy Policy (2022-27) – Targets 5 GW of solar power capacity.
- International Solar Alliance (ISA) – India-led initiative to promote solar energy adoption globally.
- Hydropower in Northeast India – Arunachal Pradesh has the highest hydro potential in India.
Mains Pointers
Why is Renewable Energy Important for Northeast India?
✅ Energy Security & Reduced Dependence on Coal.
✅ Job Creation in the Green Economy – New opportunities in solar panel manufacturing & hydro projects.
✅ Eco-Friendly Development – Reduces carbon footprint & air pollution.
✅ Enhancing India’s Leadership in Green Energy – Boosts exports of green hydrogen & solar technologies.
Way Ahead
✅ Encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) for Investments.
✅ Expanding Cross-Border Power Trade with Bhutan & Nepal.
✅ Strengthening Grid Infrastructure for Stable Renewable Energy Supply.
✅ Skill Development Programs for Green Energy Professionals.
Conclusion
The First Northeast Green Energy Summit in Assam is a landmark initiative that can accelerate the transition to renewable energy and boost economic growth. However, financial investments, policy support, and technological advancements will be crucial for its success.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Sonowal Dedicates Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) at Jogighopa to the Nation
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding the Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) are correct?
- It is located on National Waterway-2 (NW-2), which is the Brahmaputra River.
- The terminal is strategically placed near the borders of Bangladesh and Bhutan.
- It is part of the Sagarmala Programme, aimed at modernizing port infrastructure.
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 – Jogighopa IWT is located on NW-2 (Brahmaputra River).
- Statement 2 is correct – It is strategically close to Bangladesh and Bhutan, making it a crucial trade hub.
- Statement 3 is correct – The project is aligned with the Sagarmala Programme, which promotes inland and maritime logistics development.
2. Assam Government to Introduce Anti-Cybercrime Task Force
Question 2
Which of the following are major objectives of Assam’s proposed Anti-Cybercrime Task Force?
- Setting up dedicated cyber police stations.
- Collaborating with CERT-In (Computer Emergency Response Team-India).
- Establishing a national-level cyber command center in Guwahati.
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 task force will set up cyber police stations to handle online fraud, hacking, and digital financial crimes.
- Statement 2 is correct – Assam’s government will collaborate with CERT-In, India’s national cyber emergency agency.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – There is no plan to set up a national-level cyber command center in Guwahati; cyber operations remain under national jurisdiction (MHA & CERT-In).
Question 3
Which of the following laws govern cybersecurity and digital crimes in India?
- Information Technology (IT) Act, 2000
- Indian Penal Code (IPC), 1860
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3
🔎 Explanation:
- IT Act, 2000: The primary law for cybercrime prevention and regulation.
- IPC, 1860: Some sections (e.g., 420 for fraud, 406 for data theft) apply to cyber offenses.
- Digital Personal Data Protection Act, 2023: Regulates data privacy and online security in India.
3. Assam to Launch ‘Project Jal Shakti’ for Groundwater Conservation
Question 4
Which of the following are key objectives of Project Jal Shakti in Assam?
- Rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
- Revival of traditional water bodies such as ponds and lakes.
- Construction of new hydroelectric power plants on the Brahmaputra River.
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 project promotes rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge.
- Statement 2 is correct – It aims to restore ponds, lakes, and other traditional water sources.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – The project is focused on groundwater conservation, not hydroelectric power plants.
Question 5
Which of the following national programs are related to water conservation in India?
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan
- Atal Bhujal Yojana
- National Water Mission
- Namami Gange Programme
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: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan – Focuses on rainwater harvesting and watershed management.
- Atal Bhujal Yojana – Community-led groundwater management scheme.
- National Water Mission – Promotes water-use efficiency and conservation.
- Namami Gange Programme – Aims at cleaning and rejuvenating the Ganga River, but also includes wetland conservation efforts.
4. Assam to Host First Northeast Green Energy Summit in Guwahati
Question 6
Which of the following renewable energy sources will be discussed at the Northeast Green Energy Summit?
- Solar Energy
- Wind Energy
- Green Hydrogen
- Hydropower
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 1 and 3 only
✅ Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- The summit focuses on solar, wind, green hydrogen, and hydropower as key energy sources for Northeast India.
Question 7
Which of the following policies and missions are related to India’s renewable energy goals?
- National Green Hydrogen Mission
- International Solar Alliance (ISA)
- Renewable Energy Development Fund
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) Scheme
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: (c) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
Renewable Energy Development Fund does not exist as an official scheme.
National Green Hydrogen Mission – Promotes green hydrogen production.
International Solar Alliance (ISA) – India-led initiative for global solar energy expansion.
FAME Scheme – Supports electric mobility and vehicle electrification.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
The development of inland waterways in Northeast India is crucial for regional connectivity and trade, yet several challenges hinder its full potential. Discuss the significance of the Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT) and suggest measures to strengthen inland water transport in Assam.
Model Answer
Introduction
The Jogighopa Inland Waterways Terminal (IWT), inaugurated on National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra River), is a key project aimed at enhancing trade connectivity, reducing transport costs, and strengthening Assam’s position as a logistics hub for India-Bhutan-Bangladesh trade. Inland water transport (IWT) is a cheaper, environmentally sustainable, and efficient alternative to road and rail transport.
Significance of the Jogighopa IWT
✅ Boost to Regional Trade & Economy
- Facilitates seamless cargo movement between Assam, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
- Reduces transportation costs for tea, coal, petroleum, and agricultural products.
✅ Reduces Traffic Congestion on Roads & Railways
- Diverts freight movement from overburdened road networks, lowering fuel consumption.
✅ Supports India’s Act East Policy
- Strengthens cross-border trade routes, improving access to ASEAN markets.
✅ Enhances Sustainability & Green Logistics
- Reduces carbon emissions and promotes eco-friendly transport solutions.
Challenges in Developing Inland Waterways in Assam
🚧 Siltation & Dredging Costs – Heavy sedimentation reduces navigability and requires frequent dredging.
🚧 Limited Infrastructure – Lack of modern jetties, warehouses, and navigation systems.
🚧 Regulatory & Bilateral Coordination Issues – Dependence on Bangladesh for transit routes.
🚧 Monsoon-Related Navigability Issues – Seasonal fluctuations affect water depth and cargo movement.
Measures to Strengthen Inland Water Transport (IWT) in Assam
✅ Scientific Riverbed Management – Eco-friendly dredging techniques to maintain navigability.
✅ Investment in Modern Infrastructure – Develop smart ports, digital tracking systems, and cargo terminals.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Encourage private sector investment in logistics and trade hubs.
✅ Cross-Border Cooperation with Bangladesh – Improve Indo-Bangladesh Water Transit agreements.
✅ Integration with Rail & Road Networks – Multimodal transport connectivity for seamless freight movement.
Conclusion
The Jogighopa IWT is a transformative step in making Assam a major trade and logistics hub for South Asia. However, for inland waterways to reach their full potential, sustained investment, infrastructure development, and strategic bilateral cooperation are essential. By integrating eco-friendly practices, digital navigation, and efficient logistics management, Assam can unlock its waterways as a key driver of economic growth and regional connectivity.
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