Table of Contents

APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 07/03/2025

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (07-03-2025).

Mains Question

Forest encroachment in Assam has emerged as a serious environmental and governance challenge, impacting biodiversity, tribal rights, and climate resilience. Discuss the causes and consequences of large-scale encroachment of forest lands in Assam and suggest measures for sustainable conservation and rehabilitation.

Model Answer

Introduction

Assam has witnessed large-scale forest encroachment, with over 3.35 lakh hectares of forest land illegally occupied. This has led to biodiversity loss, increased human-wildlife conflict, deforestation, and political tensions over evictions. The issue is complex, involving population pressure, illegal settlements, weak enforcement, and land-use conflicts between conservation and livelihoods. Addressing this challenge requires a balanced approach that ensures both environmental protection and human rehabilitation.

Causes of Large-Scale Forest Encroachment in Assam

1. Population Growth & Land Shortages

Migration and rural expansion have led to forest clearances for agriculture and habitation.
Rapid urbanization and displacement due to riverbank erosion and floods force people to settle in forest areas.

2. Tribal & Indigenous Land Rights Issues

Ethnic groups like the Bodos, Misings, and Dimasas claim ancestral rights over forest lands.
The absence of proper land titles creates disputes between forest authorities and tribal communities.

3. Illegal Logging & Commercial Activities

Timber mafias exploit protected forests for illegal wood trading.
Encroachments by tea estates, rubber plantations, and mining industries have degraded Assam’s forests.

4. Poor Governance & Weak Enforcement of Conservation Laws

Delay in evictions and legal actions due to political interference.
Inadequate forest monitoring systems and corruption among local officials.

5. Climate Change & Natural Disasters

Deforestation accelerates floods and soil erosion, further displacing people.
Climate-related events (like the Brahmaputra’s changing course) force communities into forest areas.

Consequences of Forest Encroachment

✅ 1. Threat to Biodiversity & Wildlife Habitats

Loss of habitat for endangered species like the Indian Rhino, Asian Elephant, and Hoolock Gibbon.
Increase in human-wildlife conflicts, with frequent elephant attacks in encroached areas.

✅ 2. Increased Risk of Landslides & Soil Erosion

Unregulated deforestation leads to landslides in hill districts (Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong).
Reduced tree cover exacerbates siltation in the Brahmaputra, causing more floods.

✅ 3. Political & Social Conflicts Over Evictions

Eviction drives often trigger violent protests and ethnic tensions.
Some indigenous groups demand legal land rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

✅ 4. Climate Change Impact

Deforestation increases Assam’s carbon footprint, contributing to temperature rise and erratic rainfall.
Loss of tree cover reduces groundwater recharge, worsening drought conditions.

Government Initiatives to Tackle Encroachment

✅ 1. Forest Protection & Anti-Encroachment Drives

State-led eviction operations in reserve forests and national parks.
Use of satellite monitoring and drone surveillance to detect illegal settlements.

✅ 2. Legal Framework & Strengthening Conservation Laws

Forest Conservation Act (Amendment), 2023 for stricter protection.
Recognition of Community Forest Rights (CFRs) under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.

✅ 3. Afforestation & Reforestation Programs

Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAMPA) to restore degraded forests.
Assam’s “Green Mission” to plant 10 million trees by 2030.

✅ 4. Alternative Livelihoods & Community Participation

Promotion of eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture for displaced communities.
Joint Forest Management (JFM) to involve locals in conservation efforts.

Way Forward

✅ 1. Sustainable Resettlement Plans

Identify alternative land for displaced communities, ensuring proper compensation.
Develop forest-friendly housing models that integrate agroforestry and conservation zones.

✅ 2. Strengthening Law Enforcement & Forest Governance

Fast-track land dispute resolution through special environmental courts.
Deploy AI-based surveillance systems for real-time tracking of encroachments.

✅ 3. Encouraging Climate-Resilient Agriculture

Shift farmers from slash-and-burn (jhum) cultivation to agroforestry and permaculture.
Promote bamboo, medicinal plants, and non-timber forest products.

✅ 4. Enhancing Public Awareness & Tribal Cooperation

Educational campaigns to highlight the importance of forests in climate adaptation.
Establish “Forest Protection Committees” with local tribal leaders.

Conclusion

The issue of forest encroachment in Assam reflects deep-rooted socio-economic and governance challenges. A long-term solution requires strict conservation policies, community-driven afforestation, and sustainable resettlement measures. By adopting a balanced approach that prioritizes both ecological integrity and human livelihoods, Assam can restore its forests while ensuring inclusive development for tribal and displaced communities.

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