APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (14/03/2025)
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 (14-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Pollution in Byrnihat – Causes and Action Plan
GS Paper 3: Environment, Pollution Control, Sustainable Development
Introduction
Byrnihat, a major industrial hub on the Assam-Meghalaya border, has been ranked as the world’s most polluted city by a report from IQAir, a Swiss air quality monitoring agency. The alarming pollution levels have raised serious environmental and public health concerns, prompting the Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA), to initiate an action plan to curb pollution and assess industries in the region.
The issue highlights growing industrial pollution, poor waste management, and vehicular emissions, necessitating urgent intervention to restore air quality and prevent long-term ecological damage.
Key Points
✅ 1. Reasons Behind Byrnihat’s High Pollution Levels
- Unregulated Industrial Emissions: The region has 39 large industries, including cement, iron, and coal processing units, many of which violate pollution norms.
- High Vehicular Emissions: Heavy truck movement, poor road conditions, and lack of emission control measures contribute significantly to air pollution.
- Road Dust and Poor Waste Disposal: Unpaved roads, open waste burning, and lack of proper landfill sites worsen air quality.
- Geographical Factors: Byrnihat’s low-lying terrain traps pollutants, leading to high particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) concentration.
✅ 2. Immediate Measures Taken by the Assam Government
- Evaluation of all 39 industries to check compliance with pollution norms.
- Implementation of a Source Apportionment Study to identify major pollutants and sources.
- Development of a Byrnihat-Specific Pollution Action Plan.
- Strict monitoring of air quality and emission levels through real-time surveillance.
✅ 3. Health and Environmental Impacts
- Respiratory Diseases: Increased cases of asthma, lung infections, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD).
- Water and Soil Contamination: Industrial waste leaks into nearby rivers and groundwater sources, affecting agriculture and drinking water safety.
- Biodiversity Loss: Toxic emissions harm local flora and fauna, threatening Assam’s rich biodiversity.
Prelims Pointers
- IQAir Report: Ranks global cities based on Air Quality Index (AQI) and pollution levels.
- Particulate Matter (PM2.5 & PM10): Fine dust particles responsible for severe respiratory diseases.
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): India’s policy to reduce air pollution by 20-30% by 2024.
- Pollution Control Board, Assam (PCBA): State agency responsible for monitoring air and water pollution levels.
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP): A framework to control pollution levels in critical zones like Byrnihat.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. Measures to Control Pollution in Byrnihat
🔹 1. Strengthening Industrial Regulation & Pollution Control
- Strict enforcement of emission norms for factories.
- Mandatory use of air filters, scrubbers, and green technologies in industrial units.
🔹 2. Improving Urban Infrastructure & Traffic Management
- Developing bypass roads to divert heavy vehicle movement from residential areas.
- Encouraging electric vehicle (EV) adoption and enforcing pollution checks for trucks.
🔹 3. Enhancing Green Cover & Eco-Restoration Efforts
- Afforestation campaigns to restore green cover in and around Byrnihat.
- Establishment of green buffer zones around industrial belts.
🔹 4. Community Engagement & Sustainable Waste Management
- Banning open waste burning and introducing scientific waste disposal techniques.
- Engaging local communities in pollution awareness programs.
🔹 5. Adopting Advanced Pollution Monitoring Technology
- Use of real-time air quality monitoring sensors across Byrnihat.
- AI-based pollution forecasting systems for better decision-making.
Challenges in Implementation
✅ 1. Industrial Non-Compliance
- Many industries violate environmental laws due to weak enforcement and corruption.
✅ 2. Financial Constraints for Pollution Control Measures
- Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) lack resources to adopt cleaner technologies.
✅ 3. Lack of Public Awareness & Political Will
- Local resistance and lack of community participation slow down pollution control initiatives.
✅ 4. Cross-Border Pollution Management Issues
- Byrnihat is situated at the Assam-Meghalaya border, requiring inter-state cooperation.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Environmental Laws & Policy Implementation
- Stronger penalties for polluting industries and fast-track environmental court cases.
✅ 2. Investing in Clean Technologies & Sustainable Industries
- Providing incentives for industries to adopt renewable energy sources.
✅ 3. Expanding Green Urban Planning & Air Quality Control
- Developing green parks and artificial lungs to absorb pollutants.
✅ 4. Encouraging Citizen Participation in Pollution Control
- Launching “Clean Byrnihat” Campaigns involving schools, colleges, and NGOs.
✅ 5. Promoting International Collaboration on Air Quality Management
- Seeking technical assistance from global environmental agencies.
Conclusion
The Byrnihat pollution crisis is a wake-up call for urgent environmental reforms in Assam. Through strict industrial regulation, infrastructure upgrades, and sustainable practices, Byrnihat can transition into a model for clean industrial development. The success of this initiative depends on active government enforcement, public cooperation, and technology-driven solutions.
By adopting global best practices in air quality management, Assam can ensure a healthier environment for future generations.
Topic 2: Assam Government Signs MoU with Japan for Infrastructure Development
GS Paper 2 & 3: International Relations, Infrastructure, Investment, Economic Growth
Introduction
The Assam government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japan to boost infrastructure development, industrial growth, and connectivity projects in the state. This strategic partnership focuses on transportation networks, energy projects, and industrial corridor development, strengthening Assam’s role as an economic gateway to Southeast Asia.
The agreement aligns with India’s Act East Policy, promoting regional trade, investment, and economic cooperation with Japan and ASEAN nations.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of the Assam-Japan MoU
- Strengthening transport infrastructure (highways, bridges, railways).
- Enhancing energy sector collaboration (renewable energy, hydroelectric projects).
- Expanding industrial corridors and trade zones to attract investment.
- Promoting Japanese companies’ presence in Assam’s industrial sector.
✅ 2. Key Sectors Covered Under the MoU
- Transport & Connectivity: Development of high-speed rail projects and modern highways.
- Energy & Sustainability: Investment in renewable energy sources, including solar and hydropower.
- Smart Cities & Urban Development: Support for Guwahati’s Smart City initiatives.
- Manufacturing & Skill Development: Establishment of Japanese industrial parks and training centers.
✅ 3. Importance of the Partnership for Assam
- Enhancing trade and investment in Northeast India.
- Improving regional connectivity with Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
- Encouraging Japanese firms to set up industries in Assam, boosting employment.
- Upgrading Assam’s logistics and transport networks, making it a trade hub.
✅ 4. Challenges in Implementing the MoU
- Land acquisition issues delaying infrastructure projects.
- Need for skilled workforce to handle advanced Japanese technologies.
- Bureaucratic delays in approvals and regulatory clearances.
- Ensuring sustainability and environmental safeguards in large-scale projects.
Prelims Pointers
- Act East Policy: India’s strategic policy to enhance economic and diplomatic relations with ASEAN and East Asian nations.
- Japan-India Infrastructure Partnership: Aims to develop transportation, smart cities, and digital connectivity projects.
- North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS): Provides tax incentives and subsidies for industries in Northeast India.
- India-Japan Bullet Train Project: Japan’s Shinkansen technology is being used for India’s Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train—similar projects may be planned for Assam.
- JICA (Japan International Cooperation Agency): Japan’s official development assistance (ODA) body that funds infrastructure projects in India.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How the Assam-Japan MoU Will Boost Economic Growth
🔹 1. Strengthening Transport & Logistics Infrastructure
- New highways, bridges, and railway expansion will improve trade connectivity.
- Guwahati’s integration into India’s high-speed rail network will attract investment.
🔹 2. Expanding Renewable Energy & Green Technology Cooperation
- Investment in Assam’s hydroelectric potential for clean energy.
- Japanese technology to improve Assam’s solar power generation.
🔹 3. Promoting Industrial Development & Employment Generation
- Setting up Japanese Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Assam to boost manufacturing.
- Skill development programs for Assamese youth in advanced Japanese industries.
🔹 4. Strengthening India’s Act East Policy & Regional Trade
- Assam can become a trade corridor for Japanese investments into Southeast Asia.
- New trade routes with Bangladesh, Myanmar, and ASEAN will increase exports.
✅ 2. Challenges in Large-Scale Infrastructure Projects
✅ 1. Land Acquisition & Regulatory Delays
- Delays in acquiring land for highways and rail projects slow down progress.
- Need for transparent land policies and compensation mechanisms.
✅ 2. Ensuring Skilled Workforce Availability
- Japanese industries require highly skilled technical workers.
- Need for Japanese language training & advanced industrial skill development.
✅ 3. Environmental Sustainability & Ecological Concerns
- Large infrastructure projects may lead to deforestation and biodiversity loss.
- Stronger environmental impact assessments (EIA) and mitigation plans are required.
✅ 4. Political & Bureaucratic Hurdles
- Complex regulatory approvals may discourage investors.
- Faster single-window clearances for foreign direct investment (FDI) are needed.
3. Government Measures to Strengthen Infrastructure & Trade Partnerships
✅ 1. Expansion of India-Japan Economic Collaboration in the Northeast
- Joint working groups on trade, infrastructure, and tourism.
- Assam’s inclusion in India-Japan connectivity projects.
✅ 2. Strengthening North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS)
- Offering higher tax incentives and financial grants for Japanese companies.
- Simplifying business registration & clearance processes in Assam.
✅ 3. Enhancing Digital & Smart Infrastructure
- Japanese investment in Assam’s IT parks and smart cities.
- Promoting AI, automation, and robotics in Assam’s industrial sector.
✅ 4. Encouraging Sustainable Urbanization & Green Energy Projects
- Joint solar power, hydroelectric, and electric mobility projects.
- Expanding eco-friendly urban planning with smart transport solutions.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Assam’s Position as a Trade & Industrial Hub
- Developing logistics hubs, multimodal transport, and cross-border trade corridors.
✅ 2. Improving Skill Development & Workforce Training
- Setting up Assam-Japan training institutes for engineering, IT, and industrial skills.
✅ 3. Ensuring Faster Project Implementation & Regulatory Reforms
- Introducing fast-track clearance mechanisms for Japanese investments.
✅ 4. Encouraging Private Sector Participation & PPP Models
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs) in infrastructure, energy, and industrial parks.
✅ 5. Strengthening Diplomatic & Cultural Ties Between Assam & Japan
- Promoting Assam-Japan cultural exchange programs and business delegations.
Conclusion
The Assam-Japan MoU is a major step toward transforming Assam into a regional industrial and logistics hub. By leveraging Japanese technology, infrastructure expertise, and green energy solutions, Assam can boost economic growth and strengthen its position under India’s Act East Policy.
However, successful implementation requires faster approvals, sustainable development strategies, and strong private-sector participation. With proper governance, regulatory reforms, and industry collaboration, Assam can become a gateway for India-Japan economic cooperation in the Northeast.
Topic 3: Assam to Introduce New Agricultural Export Policy
GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Economy, International Trade
Introduction
The Assam government has announced a New Agricultural Export Policy (AEP), 2025 to boost farmers’ income, increase exports of organic and high-value crops, and improve post-harvest infrastructure. The policy aligns with the Government of India’s goal of doubling farmers’ income and Assam’s potential to become a major export hub for agricultural produce in Northeast India.
With abundant production of tea, rice, spices, fruits, and medicinal plants, Assam aims to expand global market access and integrate its agricultural sector with international trade networks.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of the Agricultural Export Policy
- Increasing agricultural exports from Assam to ₹10,000 crore by 2030.
- Strengthening supply chains, cold storage, and food processing infrastructure.
- Promoting organic farming and certification for export quality standards.
- Enhancing Assam’s role in international markets, particularly ASEAN and the Middle East.
✅ 2. Key Features of the Policy
- Creation of Agri-Export Zones (AEZs) in key districts like Jorhat, Dibrugarh, and Tezpur.
- Subsidies for organic farming, cold storage, and value-added processing units.
- Special focus on tea, spices, medicinal plants, and horticultural crops.
- Collaboration with APEDA (Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority) to promote global market access.
✅ 3. Importance of Agricultural Exports for Assam
- Assam is India’s largest tea producer, exporting globally.
- High export potential for Assam lemons, black rice, and organic ginger.
- Expansion of international trade ties under India’s Act East Policy.
- Job creation through agribusiness and food processing industries.
✅ 4. Challenges in Agricultural Exports from Assam
- Lack of post-harvest infrastructure (cold storage, warehouses, logistics).
- High transportation costs due to poor connectivity.
- Strict international quality standards and certification barriers.
- Limited awareness among farmers about export procedures.
Prelims Pointers
- APEDA: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority, responsible for promoting agricultural exports.
- Agri-Export Zones (AEZs): Special zones designated for improving agricultural exports.
- GI Tag Products from Assam: Muga silk, Assam tea, Boka Chaul (soft rice), and Karbi Anglong ginger.
- National Agriculture Market (e-NAM): Digital platform for online trading of agricultural commodities.
- India’s Top Agricultural Export Markets: USA, UAE, Bangladesh, ASEAN, and the EU.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How the Agricultural Export Policy Will Boost Assam’s Economy
🔹 1. Enhancing Farmer Incomes & Reducing Price Fluctuations
- Higher demand for export-quality crops will ensure better prices for farmers.
- Encourages contract farming and direct linkages with global buyers.
🔹 2. Expanding Agribusiness & Food Processing Industry
- Increases value addition through agro-processing and packaging.
- More investments in cold storage, transport, and supply chain logistics.
🔹 3. Strengthening Assam’s Position as an Organic Farming Hub
- Special incentives for organic certification and exports.
- Encourages eco-friendly farming practices with high global demand.
🔹 4. Integrating Assam with Global Markets & Trade Agreements
- Easier exports to Bangladesh, Myanmar, and ASEAN under Act East Policy.
- Negotiations for better trade terms with European and Middle Eastern markets.
✅ 2. Challenges in Implementing an Effective Export Policy
✅ 1. Limited Infrastructure & Storage Facilities
- Assam lacks world-class cold storage, processing units, and export hubs.
- Need for multimodal logistics to connect farms to global markets efficiently.
✅ 2. High Certification & Quality Compliance Costs
- Exporting to EU, US, and Gulf countries requires strict quality certifications.
- Farmers need training in organic and residue-free farming techniques.
✅ 3. Climate Change & Crop Vulnerability
- Floods, soil erosion, and erratic rainfall threaten crop yields.
- Need for climate-resilient farming techniques and crop insurance expansion.
✅ 4. Farmer Awareness & Market Linkages
- Most small farmers lack knowledge about export opportunities.
- Need for training in export documentation, quality control, and global trade.
3. Government Measures to Strengthen Agricultural Exports
✅ 1. Expansion of Agri-Export Zones (AEZs) & Infrastructure
- Setting up state-of-the-art cold storage, processing hubs, and export terminals.
- Strengthening rail, road, and air cargo connectivity for agri-products.
✅ 2. Financial & Policy Support for Farmers & Exporters
- Higher subsidies for organic farming, GI-tagged products, and export promotion.
- Easy credit access for farmers to invest in export-quality crops.
✅ 3. Integration with Digital & Global Trade Platforms
- Expanding e-NAM to connect Assamese farmers with international buyers.
- Using blockchain and AI-based tracking for better supply chain transparency.
✅ 4. Strengthening Climate-Resilient Farming & Sustainability
- Encouraging flood-resistant crop varieties and sustainable water management.
- Providing early warning systems and crop insurance coverage for farmers.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Promoting Assam as an Agricultural Export Hub
- Expanding GI-tagged products and premium organic exports.
- Branding Assam’s tea, black rice, and lemons in global markets.
✅ 2. Public-Private Collaboration in Agri-Processing & Marketing
- Incentivizing agribusiness startups and food processing companies.
- Encouraging export-oriented cooperatives and FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations).
✅ 3. Improving Trade Connectivity & Logistics Networks
- Developing dedicated agri-export corridors with better multimodal transport.
- Strengthening trade agreements with Bangladesh, ASEAN, and the Middle East.
✅ 4. Expanding Skill Development & Farmer Training in Export Standards
- Providing training on packaging, certification, and international trade procedures.
- Setting up Agri-Export Training Centers in partnership with global institutions.
Conclusion
Assam’s New Agricultural Export Policy is a major step toward making the state a global hub for organic and high-value agricultural exports. By investing in logistics, processing, and market access, the policy can increase farmers’ incomes, boost employment, and strengthen Assam’s economy.
However, overcoming infrastructure gaps, ensuring quality compliance, and expanding international market linkages will be crucial. A coordinated effort between the government, private sector, and farmers is necessary for sustainable and long-term export growth.
Topic 4: Assam Government to Launch Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ to Improve School Education
GS Paper 2: Education, Governance, Social Development
Introduction
The Assam government has announced Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’, a comprehensive initiative aimed at improving the quality of school education, reducing dropout rates, and modernizing the education system. The mission aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and aims to bring structural reforms in primary and secondary education across Assam.
With Assam’s dropout rate among the highest in India, this initiative focuses on infrastructure development, digital learning, and teacher training to ensure universal access to quality education.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’
- Reducing dropout rates, especially among girls and marginalized communities.
- Strengthening school infrastructure, including classrooms, libraries, and smart learning facilities.
- Enhancing teacher training and recruitment for better learning outcomes.
- Integrating digital education tools for remote and underprivileged students.
✅ 2. Key Features of the Mission
- Upgradation of 5,000 government schools with modern infrastructure.
- Implementation of AI-based learning tools for personalized education.
- Free distribution of tablets and e-learning materials to students in rural areas.
- Special focus on improving education in tribal and tea garden communities.
✅ 3. Why is This Initiative Important for Assam?
- High School Dropout Rates: Assam has a school dropout rate of over 32% at the secondary level.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Many schools lack basic facilities such as toilets, libraries, and smart classrooms.
- Need for Skilled Teachers: Shortage of qualified teachers affects learning outcomes in rural areas.
- Integration with NEP 2020: The policy promotes multidisciplinary learning, skill-based education, and vocational training.
✅ 4. Challenges in Implementing Educational Reforms
- Teacher shortages and lack of proper training programs.
- Digital divide and lack of internet access in rural areas.
- Funding constraints for large-scale infrastructure development.
- Sociocultural barriers affecting girls’ education.
Prelims Pointers
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020: Aims for universal access to quality education and multidisciplinary learning.
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme: A government program to provide free meals in schools to boost attendance and nutrition.
- PM eVidya Program: A digital initiative for online and remote learning in government schools.
- Right to Education (RTE) Act, 2009: Ensures free and compulsory education for children aged 6-14.
- Digital India Initiative: Focuses on expanding technology-based education across India.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ Will Improve Assam’s Education System
🔹 1. Enhancing School Infrastructure & Digital Learning
- Construction of new classrooms, science labs, and smart learning centers.
- Expanding digital classrooms and internet access in rural schools.
🔹 2. Reducing Dropout Rates & Improving Student Retention
- Special scholarships and incentives for girl students.
- Counseling programs to prevent school dropouts among marginalized groups.
🔹 3. Strengthening Teacher Training & Quality of Education
- Regular training workshops for teachers in line with NEP 2020.
- AI-based assessment tools to track student progress and teacher performance.
🔹 4. Encouraging Skill-Based Learning & Vocational Training
- Integration of coding, robotics, and practical skill courses at the school level.
- Career counseling programs to prepare students for employment opportunities.
✅ 2. Challenges in Implementing Large-Scale Education Reforms
✅ 1. Funding Constraints & Resource Allocation
- Expanding school infrastructure and hiring trained teachers require significant investment.
- Need for private sector involvement and CSR funding for education.
✅ 2. Digital Divide in Rural & Remote Areas
- Many students lack access to digital devices and high-speed internet.
- More focus needed on rural broadband expansion and affordable e-learning solutions.
✅ 3. Teacher Recruitment & Training Gaps
- Shortage of well-trained teachers in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) subjects.
- More incentives needed for teachers working in rural and tribal regions.
✅ 4. Cultural Barriers to Girls’ Education
- Social norms discourage girls from pursuing higher education in some communities.
- More awareness campaigns and financial incentives for girls’ education are needed.
3. Government Measures to Strengthen School Education
✅ 1. Implementation of NEP 2020 in Assam
- Introduction of multilingual education and skill-based subjects in schools.
- Encouraging regional language-based learning methods.
✅ 2. Expansion of Mid-Day Meal & Free Textbook Schemes
- Ensuring nutrition and school attendance through meal programs.
- Providing free digital resources and books to underprivileged students.
✅ 3. Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) in Education
- Encouraging EdTech companies to collaborate with schools for digital learning.
- Building modern classrooms with CSR (Corporate Social Responsibility) funding.
✅ 4. Promoting Skill-Based & Vocational Education at the School Level
- Integrating computer programming, agriculture, and entrepreneurship courses.
- Establishing vocational training centers for students in rural schools.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Digital Education Access & E-Learning Platforms
- Providing free internet access and digital devices to school students.
- Developing AI-powered personalized learning tools.
✅ 2. Strengthening Teacher Training & Recruitment
- Encouraging skilled professionals to join government schools through fellowship programs.
- Providing financial incentives and promotions based on teacher performance.
✅ 3. Encouraging Inclusive Education & Gender Parity
- Special scholarship programs for girls and students from backward communities.
- Ensuring all schools have basic facilities like toilets and safe transport.
✅ 4. Improving Educational Infrastructure Through Foreign Collaborations
- Tying up with global institutions for school modernization projects.
- Using Japan and Singapore’s educational models for vocational learning in Assam.
Conclusion
Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ is a transformative step toward ensuring universal and quality education in Assam. By modernizing school infrastructure, integrating digital learning, and reducing dropout rates, this initiative can significantly improve educational outcomes.
However, effective implementation, funding, and community participation will be necessary to achieve long-term success. Assam must focus on innovative learning models, public-private collaboration, and skill-based education to make schooling accessible and future-ready for all students.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Pollution in Byrnihat – Causes and Action Plan
Question 1
Which of the following are considered major contributors to Byrnihat’s high pollution levels?
- Industrial emissions
- Vehicular exhaust
- Road dust and poor waste management
- High altitude and thin air
Select the correct answer using the code 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:
- Industrial emissions and vehicular exhaust are major sources of air pollution.
- Road dust and improper waste disposal worsen air quality.
- High altitude and thin air are not relevant factors in Byrnihat’s pollution levels.
Question 2
Which of the following initiatives aim to reduce air pollution in India?
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
- Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP)
- Green India Mission
- Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana (PMAY)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- NCAP and GRAP focus on air pollution control.
- Green India Mission promotes afforestation, indirectly helping pollution control.
- PMAY is related to housing, not pollution management.
Topic 2: Assam Government Signs MoU with Japan for Infrastructure Development
Question 3
Which of the following sectors are covered under the Assam-Japan infrastructure MoU?
- Transportation and connectivity
- Energy and sustainability
- Industrial corridor development
- Space exploration
Select the correct answer using the code 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:
- The MoU focuses on transport, energy, and industrial development.
- Space exploration is not part of the agreement.
Question 4
Which of the following statements about Japan’s involvement in India’s infrastructure sector are correct?
- Japan is funding the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project.
- Japan has been a key investor in the North East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS).
- The Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) provides financial assistance for major infrastructure projects in India.
- Japan has signed a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with India for unrestricted infrastructure investment.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- JICA is a major investor in Indian infrastructure projects.
- Japan is funding the Mumbai-Ahmedabad bullet train project.
- Japan has not signed an FTA specifically for infrastructure investment.
Topic 3: Assam to Introduce New Agricultural Export Policy
Question 5
Which of the following agricultural products from Assam have high export potential?
- Assam tea
- Muga silk
- Karbi Anglong ginger
- Sandalwood
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 3 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:
- Assam tea, Muga silk, and Karbi Anglong ginger are major export products.
- Sandalwood is primarily grown in Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, not Assam.
Question 6
Which of the following government schemes support agricultural exports in India?
- Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA)
- Agri-Export Zones (AEZs)
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- APEDA and AEZs focus on boosting agricultural exports.
- NFSM and PMKSY are related to food security and irrigation, not exports.
Topic 4: Assam Government to Launch Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ to Improve School Education
Question 7
Which of the following are objectives of Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’?
- Reducing dropout rates in government schools
- Expanding digital learning and smart classrooms
- Increasing foreign investment in higher education
- Improving teacher training and recruitment
Select the correct answer using the code 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:
- The mission focuses on school education, dropout reduction, digital learning, and teacher training.
- Foreign investment in higher education is not a direct objective.
Question 8
Which of the following national policies and schemes are related to school education reforms in India?
- National Education Policy (NEP) 2020
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme
- Digital India Initiative
- Ayushman Bharat
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
Ayushman Bharat is related to healthcare, not education.
NEP 2020 and Mid-Day Meal Scheme focus on education improvements.
Digital India Initiative promotes technology in education.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
“Educational reforms are essential for social and economic development, especially in states like Assam, which face high dropout rates and infrastructure challenges. Discuss the significance of Assam’s ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ mission in improving the education system and suggest measures to ensure its effective implementation.” (GS Paper 2: Education, Governance, Social Development)
Model Answer
Introduction
Education is the foundation of economic growth, social equity, and skill development. However, Assam faces severe challenges in school education, including high dropout rates, poor infrastructure, and inadequate digital access.
To address these issues, the Assam government has launched Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’, focusing on school modernization, teacher training, and digital learning. This initiative aligns with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to transform Assam’s education sector and equip students with future-ready skills.
Significance of Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’
✅ 1. Reducing School Dropout Rates
- Assam has a dropout rate of over 32% at the secondary level, among the highest in India.
- The mission provides scholarships and career counseling to encourage students to stay in school.
✅ 2. Strengthening Digital Learning & Smart Classrooms
- Expands e-learning infrastructure in government schools.
- Free tablets, AI-based personalized learning apps, and virtual classrooms improve education quality.
✅ 3. Enhancing Teacher Training & Recruitment
- Addresses the shortage of trained educators, especially in rural areas.
- Promotes continuous teacher skill enhancement through digital workshops.
✅ 4. Expanding Vocational Education & Skill-Based Learning
- Integrates coding, robotics, and entrepreneurship training in school curriculums.
- Encourages STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) education for better career prospects.
✅ 5. Improving School Infrastructure & Basic Facilities
- Builds modern classrooms, libraries, and science labs.
- Focuses on safe transport, drinking water, and sanitation facilities to ensure better learning environments.
Challenges in Implementing Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’
✅ 1. Digital Divide & Limited Internet Access in Rural Areas
- Many schools lack proper internet connectivity and smart classroom tools.
- Need for affordable broadband expansion and mobile-based learning solutions.
✅ 2. Shortage of Trained Teachers
- Lack of specialized teachers in subjects like science and mathematics.
- Need for teacher incentives and recruitment in remote districts.
✅ 3. Financial Constraints & Resource Allocation
- Large-scale school modernization requires significant government investment.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) can help fund digital learning projects.
✅ 4. Cultural & Societal Barriers to Girls’ Education
- Early marriage, domestic responsibilities, and lack of safety discourage girls from continuing school.
- Awareness programs and financial incentives are needed to improve girls’ education rates.
✅ 5. Monitoring & Accountability Issues
- Corruption and inefficient resource distribution can hinder progress.
- Stronger governance mechanisms are needed for transparency and timely project implementation.
Government & Policy Measures for Successful Implementation
✅ 1. Expanding School Digitalization & E-Learning Tools
- Providing free tablets and AI-driven personalized learning solutions.
- Encouraging EdTech collaborations to improve rural education access.
✅ 2. Strengthening Teacher Training & Capacity Building
- Introducing AI-based teacher evaluation and feedback systems.
- Conducting regular skill development programs for educators.
✅ 3. Encouraging Private Sector & CSR Funding for Education
- Collaborating with corporate firms to sponsor digital infrastructure projects.
- Offering tax benefits for industries investing in school education.
✅ 4. Special Initiatives for Girls & Marginalized Students
- Expanding scholarships for female students and economically weaker sections.
- Ensuring safe transport and hostel facilities for students in remote areas.
✅ 5. Improving Educational Governance & Transparency
- Implementing real-time school monitoring dashboards.
- Conducting independent audits to prevent misallocation of funds.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Scaling Up Digital & Hybrid Learning Models
- Expanding radio and television-based learning for students in low-internet areas.
- Integrating AI-based education tools for personalized student assessments.
✅ 2. Ensuring Stronger Industry-Academia Partnerships
- Encouraging STEM-based curriculum development with corporate collaboration.
- Setting up technical and vocational training institutes in every district.
✅ 3. Strengthening Community Participation in Education
- Encouraging local self-help groups (SHGs) and NGOs to support school management.
- Promoting public awareness campaigns on the importance of education.
✅ 4. Aligning with NEP 2020 for Holistic Development
- Adopting multilingual education policies to preserve Assam’s linguistic diversity.
- Expanding critical thinking, problem-solving, and creativity-driven curriculums.
Conclusion
Mission ‘Shiksha Jyoti’ is a transformative step toward improving education quality in Assam. By focusing on school modernization, digital learning, and teacher empowerment, the initiative aims to reduce dropout rates and prepare students for future job markets.
However, effective implementation requires stronger governance, better funding mechanisms, and inclusive education policies. With a coordinated effort from the government, private sector, and local communities, Assam can build a robust and future-ready education system.
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