APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (24/03/2025)
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 (24-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Food Safety Concerns in Assam – 12% of Food Samples Fail Laboratory Tests
GS Paper 2: Governance, Public Health, Food Safety Regulations
GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Health & Nutrition
Introduction
A recent State Public Health Laboratory report revealed that over 12% of food samples tested in Assam failed to meet safety standards. This alarming finding raises concerns about food adulteration, excessive pesticide residues, and substandard food quality, posing serious health risks to the public.
During the current financial year, 7,682 food samples were collected, out of which 75 perishable items and 434 non-perishable items were found to be unsafe. Additionally, milk, edible oils, cereals, and spices were identified as substandard, while tea, fruits, and vegetables contained high pesticide residues.
Key Points
✅ 1. Findings of the Food Safety Report
- Unsafe Food Items: Tea, fruits, vegetables, cereals, and spices due to high pesticide residues.
- Substandard Products: Milk and milk products, edible oils, and salt.
- Misbranding Cases: 23 food items found to be misleadingly labeled.
- Surveillance Drive: Special checks conducted across Assam to monitor food safety compliance.
✅ 2. Causes of Food Contamination in Assam
- Pesticide Overuse: Excessive chemical fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture.
- Adulteration in Processed Foods: Chemicals like artificial coloring agents, starch in milk, and synthetic ripening agents in fruits.
- Lack of Regulatory Compliance: Many small-scale food vendors do not follow FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) norms.
- Poor Storage & Transportation: Contaminated food due to unhygienic conditions.
✅ 3. Health Implications of Unsafe Food
- Short-Term Risks: Food poisoning, gastrointestinal infections.
- Long-Term Effects: Cancer, kidney damage, endocrine disorders due to pesticide-laced food.
- Impact on Children: Stunted growth, weak immunity due to poor nutrition quality.
✅ 4. Food Safety Regulatory Framework in India
- FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India) → Regulates food standards.
- Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 → Establishes guidelines for food safety.
- State Public Health Laboratory → Conducts food sample testing and ensures compliance.
✅ 5. Challenges in Strengthening Food Safety in Assam
- Inadequate Enforcement: Limited manpower for food safety inspections.
- Lack of Consumer Awareness: Many people are unaware of adulteration risks.
- Unregulated Street Food Industry: Vendors often bypass food safety norms.
- Corruption & Lack of Accountability: Some food manufacturers bypass regulations for profit.
Prelims Pointers
- FSSAI (Food Safety and Standards Authority of India): The top regulatory body for food safety in India.
- Pesticide Residues: Chemicals used in farming that remain in food and can cause long-term health effects.
- Food Adulteration: The addition of harmful substances to food to increase quantity or preserve it.
- National Food Safety Index: An annual ranking of states based on their food safety measures.
- Artificial Ripening Agents: Chemicals like calcium carbide used to ripen fruits unnaturally.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. Why is Food Safety a Major Concern in India?
🔹 1. Public Health Risks
- High pesticide residues and adulterants cause severe health complications.
- Unsafe food leads to increased burden on healthcare systems.
🔹 2. Economic Impact
- Consumers lose confidence in locally produced food.
- Export restrictions on Indian agricultural products due to safety concerns.
🔹 3. Environmental Consequences
- Overuse of pesticides pollutes soil and water.
- Unregulated chemical use affects biodiversity and ecosystem balance.
🔹 4. Role of Government & Industry in Ensuring Safe Food
- Strict monitoring of food production and supply chains.
- Encouraging organic farming and sustainable agricultural practices.
- Increasing penalties for food adulteration.
Government Initiatives to Improve Food Safety
✅ 1. Eat Right India Movement → Promotes healthy eating habits.
✅ Jaivik Bharat Initiative → Encourages organic food certification.
✅ Food Safety Mitra Scheme → Empowers food safety officers to conduct better surveillance.
✅ Surveillance Drives & Food Testing Labs → Identifies food adulteration patterns.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Food Regulations & Enforcement
- Expanding food testing labs across Assam.
- Stronger penalties for food adulteration offenses.
✅ 2. Promoting Organic & Sustainable Agriculture
- Incentivizing farmers to adopt organic farming techniques.
- Encouraging community-based food safety awareness programs.
✅ 3. Enhancing Consumer Awareness & Participation
- Promoting food safety education in schools.
- Encouraging consumers to report suspected food adulteration.
✅ 4. Strengthening Surveillance Mechanisms
- Leveraging AI and blockchain for food traceability.
- Mandatory QR code labeling on food products for transparency.
Conclusion
Food safety is a crucial public health issue that affects millions of people in Assam and across India. The recent findings of high pesticide residues and unsafe food samples call for stronger regulatory action, consumer awareness, and sustainable farming practices.
By improving food testing infrastructure, implementing stricter laws, and promoting organic agriculture, Assam can ensure safe and healthy food for its people. The government must take urgent steps to protect citizens from the dangers of contaminated and adulterated food.
Topic 2: Assam Government Plans Expansion of Medical Colleges to Address Doctor Shortage
GS Paper 2: Health, Education, Governance
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure Development, Human Resource Management
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the expansion of medical colleges across the state to tackle the acute shortage of doctors and healthcare professionals. This initiative aligns with India’s National Health Policy and aims to increase the number of trained doctors, improve medical education infrastructure, and enhance healthcare access in rural areas.
Currently, Assam has 12 medical colleges, and the government plans to establish 6 more by 2027 to increase MBBS and postgraduate (PG) medical seats. The move is expected to boost healthcare services in Assam, reduce the doctor-patient ratio, and promote medical research.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of Assam’s Medical College Expansion Plan
- Increase the number of doctors and specialists in government hospitals.
- Strengthen medical education infrastructure across urban and rural areas.
- Improve healthcare access in remote districts.
- Promote Assam as a hub for medical education and research.
✅ 2. Current Medical College Infrastructure in Assam
- Existing Medical Colleges: 12 (including Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar).
- New Colleges Proposed: 6 more by 2027.
- Increase in MBBS Seats: From 1,500 to 2,500 per year.
- Expansion of PG Courses: More specializations in surgery, cardiology, and pediatrics.
✅ 3. Why is Medical College Expansion Important for Assam?
- Doctor Shortage: Assam has only 0.6 doctors per 1,000 people, below the WHO recommendation of 1 per 1,000.
- Rural Healthcare Crisis: Many rural hospitals lack trained specialists.
- High Out-Migration: Students move to other states for medical education, leading to a brain drain.
- Strengthening Assam’s Healthcare System: More hospitals with specialists can improve healthcare services.
✅ 4. Challenges in Expanding Medical Colleges
- High Infrastructure Cost: Setting up new colleges requires ₹1,500–2,000 crore investment.
- Shortage of Faculty: Medical teaching professionals are limited in number.
- Regulatory Approvals: Requires clearance from the National Medical Commission (NMC).
- Rural Connectivity Issues: Some proposed locations lack proper infrastructure and transport.
Prelims Pointers
- National Medical Commission (NMC): Governing body for medical education in India.
- National Health Policy 2017: Aims to increase doctor availability and healthcare access.
- Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (ABHIM): Strengthens healthcare infrastructure across India.
- PM Atmanirbhar Swasth Bharat Yojana: Focuses on medical education and human resource development.
- Doctor-Patient Ratio: WHO recommends 1 doctor per 1,000 people; India lags behind in many states.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Will Expanding Medical Colleges Benefit Assam’s Healthcare System?
🔹 1. Reducing Doctor Shortage & Improving Healthcare Delivery
- More medical graduates mean better staffing for government hospitals.
- Specialist doctors for rural healthcare will improve treatment quality.
🔹 2. Boosting Assam’s Medical Education & Research Sector
- New medical colleges can attract students from neighboring states.
- Encouraging research in tropical diseases and public health.
🔹 3. Enhancing Rural Healthcare & Reducing Migration for Treatment
- New district hospitals will be attached to medical colleges, improving services in underserved areas.
- Reducing patient migration to metro cities for specialized treatments.
🔹 4. Strengthening Assam’s Medical Tourism Potential
- With better healthcare infrastructure, Assam can emerge as a healthcare hub in Northeast India.
- Potential for international patients seeking affordable treatment in India.
2. Challenges & Possible Solutions
✅ 1. Faculty & Teaching Staff Shortage
- Solution: Introduce fast-track recruitment for medical professors.
- Encourage doctors to take up teaching roles through financial incentives.
✅ 2. High Costs & Funding Issues
- Solution: Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) to fund medical college expansion.
- Increasing budget allocation for healthcare infrastructure.
✅ 3. Accreditation & Regulatory Hurdles
- Solution: Fast-track approvals from NMC and Medical Council of India (MCI).
- Ensuring compliance with global medical education standards.
✅ 4. Need for More Postgraduate (PG) Specialization Seats
- Solution: Increase PG seats in disciplines like cardiology, oncology, and emergency medicine.
- Encourage foreign collaborations for advanced medical training.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Medical Education Infrastructure Nationwide
- Increase medical seats across all states to address the national doctor shortage.
✅ 2. Strengthening Rural Healthcare Training
- Introducing rural internship programs for medical students.
- Offering financial incentives for doctors to serve in remote areas.
✅ 3. Enhancing Medical Research & Innovation
- Setting up research centers in new medical colleges.
- Focusing on public health studies and epidemiology research.
✅ 4. Improving Medical College Governance & Administration
- Digitizing student records, faculty recruitment, and hospital management.
- Ensuring transparency in admissions and faculty appointments.
Conclusion
Expanding medical colleges in Assam is a major step toward improving healthcare access, reducing the doctor shortage, and promoting medical research. By investing in infrastructure, faculty recruitment, and rural outreach, Assam can become a leading hub for medical education and healthcare in Northeast India.
However, strong policy implementation, financial support, and public-private collaboration will be essential to ensure long-term success. This initiative can set an example for other states looking to improve medical education and healthcare accessibility.
Topic 3: Assam to Boost Bamboo-Based Industries Under ‘Green Economy Mission’
GS Paper 3: Economy, Sustainable Development, Environment
GS Paper 2: Government Policies, Rural Development
Introduction
The Assam government has announced a new initiative under its Green Economy Mission to promote bamboo-based industries and encourage sustainable livelihoods in rural areas. Assam, with over 18% of India’s total bamboo resources, has high potential for bamboo processing, handicrafts, construction, and biofuel production.
The initiative aims to increase bamboo cultivation, support local artisans, and attract private investment in bamboo-based industries, aligning with the National Bamboo Mission and India’s commitment to a sustainable, green economy.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of Assam’s Green Economy Mission for Bamboo
- Expand bamboo cultivation and processing industries in Assam.
- Support rural artisans and MSMEs (Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises) engaged in bamboo-based production.
- Promote bamboo as an eco-friendly alternative to plastic and timber.
- Enhance exports of bamboo-based products to national and international markets.
✅ 2. Why is Bamboo-Based Industry Important for Assam?
- Largest bamboo-growing state in Northeast India.
- High employment potential – Bamboo processing can create millions of jobs in rural areas.
- Eco-friendly alternative – Bamboo grows fast and helps in carbon sequestration.
- Supports multiple industries – Handicrafts, construction, biofuels, furniture, and textiles.
✅ 3. Economic & Environmental Benefits of Bamboo Industries
- Reduces dependency on plastic and wood-based industries.
- Boosts rural economy by supporting bamboo farmers and small businesses.
- Encourages sustainable construction – Bamboo houses are earthquake-resistant.
- Promotes carbon neutrality – Bamboo absorbs 5 times more CO₂ than regular trees.
✅ 4. Challenges in Developing Bamboo-Based Industries
- Lack of processing infrastructure – Most bamboo is sold raw, with little value addition.
- Legal restrictions on bamboo harvesting – Forest laws complicate bamboo trade.
- Low investment from private industries – Need for financial incentives.
- Limited market access for local artisans – MSMEs struggle with branding and sales.
Prelims Pointers
- National Bamboo Mission (NBM): Promotes bamboo farming and industries in India.
- Bamboo as ‘Grass’ (2017 Amendment): Removed bamboo from ‘tree’ category in the Indian Forest Act, easing restrictions on its trade.
- Carbon Sequestration: Process where plants absorb CO₂, reducing greenhouse gases.
- Bamboo Biofuels: Bamboo-based ethanol as a renewable energy source.
- GI Tag for Assam Bamboo Handicrafts: Assam’s bamboo products are known for their unique craftsmanship.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Can Bamboo-Based Industries Boost Assam’s Economy?
🔹 1. Employment & Rural Development
- Encouraging bamboo farming can generate livelihoods for lakhs of farmers.
- Skilled labor training in bamboo-based production to create high-value products.
🔹 2. Strengthening MSMEs & Export Potential
- Promoting bamboo furniture, flooring, and eco-friendly packaging.
- Boosting Assam’s handicraft sector for global markets.
🔹 3. Environmental & Climate Benefits
- Bamboo forests prevent soil erosion and restore degraded lands.
- Acts as a ‘carbon sink’ by absorbing large amounts of CO₂.
🔹 4. Integrating Bamboo with Sustainable Urban Development
- Using bamboo in green architecture and urban housing.
- Encouraging bamboo-based biofuel as a clean energy source.
2. Challenges & Possible Solutions
✅ 1. Weak Market Linkages & Branding Issues
- Solution: Create Bamboo Export Zones to connect local producers with international buyers.
✅ 2. Lack of Processing & Manufacturing Units
- Solution: Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for setting up bamboo processing clusters.
✅ 3. Need for Skill Development & Research in Bamboo Technology
- Solution: Establish Bamboo Technology Training Institutes in Assam.
✅ 4. Policy & Regulatory Bottlenecks
- Solution: Further simplify trade laws and offer tax incentives for bamboo-based industries.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Assam’s Bamboo Industry Through Policy Support
- Government subsidies & low-interest loans for bamboo entrepreneurs.
✅ 2. Promoting Bamboo Exports & E-Commerce Marketplaces
- Creating global demand for Assam’s bamboo handicrafts.
✅ 3. Strengthening Public Awareness & Sustainable Consumption
- Promoting bamboo as a plastic-free alternative in packaging.
✅ 4. Integrating Bamboo in Assam’s Climate Action Plans
- Developing bamboo forests to combat deforestation & carbon emissions.
Conclusion
Bamboo-based industries present a huge economic and environmental opportunity for Assam. With government support, technological advancements, and increased private sector participation, Assam can become a leader in sustainable bamboo production.
By focusing on high-value processing, export promotion, and eco-friendly product development, the state can generate employment, boost the rural economy, and contribute to India’s green development goals.
Topic 4: Assam to Introduce Organic Farming Clusters to Boost Agro-Exports
GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Economy, Sustainable Development
GS Paper 2: Government Policies, Rural Development
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the establishment of Organic Farming Clusters (OFCs) to promote chemical-free agriculture and boost agro-exports. This initiative aligns with the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the Northeast (MOVCD-NER), which aim to increase organic farming acreage, provide premium prices to farmers, and enhance Assam’s agri-export potential.
Organic farming not only improves soil fertility and environmental sustainability but also offers better market opportunities for Assam’s farmers in domestic and global organic markets.
Key Points
✅ 1. Features of Assam’s Organic Farming Cluster Initiative
- Creation of 50+ Organic Clusters → Grouping farmers into cooperative clusters for large-scale organic production.
- Promotion of Indigenous Crops → Encouraging the cultivation of organic rice, pulses, and horticultural crops.
- Certification & Market Linkages → Government-supported organic certification (PGS-India, NPOP) for better market access.
- Incentives for Farmers → Financial support for transitioning from chemical to organic farming.
✅ 2. Why Organic Farming is Important for Assam?
- Reducing Chemical Dependency: Excessive use of pesticides and fertilizers is degrading soil quality.
- Improving Farmers’ Income: Organic produce fetches 30-50% higher prices than conventional crops.
- Boosting Agri-Exports: Assam can emerge as a major supplier of organic tea, turmeric, and spices.
- Environmental Benefits: Organic farming reduces soil erosion, water pollution, and carbon footprint.
✅ 3. Key Crops Targeted Under Organic Farming Clusters
- Organic Assam Tea: Expanding Assam’s global reputation as a leading tea producer.
- Organic Rice (Bao & Joha Varieties): Unique indigenous rice varieties with export demand.
- Turmeric & Spices: High-quality, pesticide-free turmeric and black pepper for international markets.
- Fruits & Vegetables: Organic bananas, pineapples, and ginger grown with natural fertilizers.
✅ 4. Challenges in Scaling Up Organic Farming in Assam
- Transition Period for Certification: Takes 3 years for full organic certification under international standards.
- Limited Market Access for Farmers: Lack of organized organic marketplaces and infrastructure.
- High Cost of Organic Inputs: Biofertilizers and biopesticides are more expensive than chemical alternatives.
- Awareness & Training Gaps: Many farmers lack knowledge of organic farming techniques.
Prelims Pointers
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY): Scheme promoting organic farming through cluster-based approaches.
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for the Northeast (MOVCD-NER): Supports organic certification and export from Northeast India.
- PGS-India Certification: Participatory Guarantee System for organic farming in India.
- National Programme for Organic Production (NPOP): Regulates organic certification for export markets.
- Agroforestry: Integration of trees and agriculture for sustainable organic farming.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Can Organic Farming Benefit Assam’s Agricultural Economy?
🔹 1. Higher Profitability for Farmers
- Organic crops have premium pricing in national and international markets.
- Low input costs after transition, increasing long-term farmer income.
🔹 2. Boost to Agri-Exports & Rural Economy
- Assam’s organic turmeric, rice, and tea have global demand.
- Encouraging food processing industries based on organic produce.
🔹 3. Environmental & Health Benefits
- No chemical pollution in soil and water bodies.
- Healthier food options with no pesticide residues.
🔹 4. Government’s Role in Expanding Organic Farming
- Subsidies for organic manure, compost, and biofertilizers.
- Farmer cooperatives and direct linkages with retailers & e-commerce platforms.
2. Challenges & Possible Solutions
✅ 1. Slow Certification Process for Organic Products
- Solution: Government to expedite certification under PGS-India & NPOP schemes.
✅ 2. Poor Market Linkages for Organic Farmers
- Solution: Develop Organic Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) for direct marketing.
✅ 3. Lack of Awareness & Technical Knowledge
- Solution: Farmer training programs on composting, crop rotation, and natural pest control.
✅ 4. Need for Infrastructure Support
- Solution: Investment in cold storage, organic food processing units, and dedicated organic markets.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Organic Supply Chains & Export Infrastructure
- Setting up organic food processing hubs in Assam.
✅ 2. Digital Platforms for Organic Farmers
- Encouraging e-commerce integration (Amazon Organic, BigBasket, etc.).
✅ 3. Expanding Organic Certification & Branding
- Promoting Assam’s organic produce internationally through certification programs.
✅ 4. Sustainable Agriculture Integration with Climate Resilience
- Encouraging agroforestry and multi-crop organic systems for long-term productivity.
Conclusion
The establishment of Organic Farming Clusters in Assam is a transformative step toward sustainable agriculture, higher farmer incomes, and enhanced agri-exports. With proper certification, financial incentives, and market access, Assam can become a leading organic farming hub in India. However, strong policy support, better infrastructure, and farmer participation are necessary to make organic agriculture a sustainable and profitable model for Assam’s rural economy.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Food Safety Concerns in Assam – 12% of Food Samples Fail Laboratory Tests
Question 1
Which of the following organizations is responsible for regulating food safety standards in India?
- Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)
- Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS)
- Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR)
- Central Drugs Standard Control Organization (CDSCO)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 4 only
✅ Answer: b) 1 only
Explanation:
- FSSAI is the primary regulatory body for food safety in India.
- BIS sets industrial and product quality standards but does not regulate food safety.
- ICMR conducts health research but does not regulate food safety.
- CDSCO oversees drug and pharmaceutical regulation, not food safety.
Question 2
Which of the following are common forms of food adulteration?
- Adding artificial coloring agents to spices
- Using synthetic ripening agents like calcium carbide in fruits
- Mixing starch with milk to increase thickness
- Using organic fertilizers in vegetable farming
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:
- Artificial coloring agents in spices (e.g., lead chromate in turmeric) are a major form of adulteration.
- Synthetic ripening agents like calcium carbide are used to artificially ripen fruits.
- Starch is commonly added to milk to increase thickness.
- Organic fertilizers are not a form of adulteration; they are used for sustainable farming.
Topic 2: Assam Government Plans Expansion of Medical Colleges to Address Doctor Shortage
Question 3
Which of the following measures can help increase the number of doctors in Assam?
- Establishing more medical colleges
- Introducing compulsory rural service for MBBS graduates
- Encouraging private investment in medical education
- Reducing the duration of MBBS courses
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:
- More medical colleges will increase MBBS seats and the number of doctors.
- Mandatory rural service can ensure doctors serve in underserved areas.
- Private sector investment can improve infrastructure and medical education quality.
- Reducing the MBBS course duration is not a viable solution, as it may affect the quality of medical training.
Question 4
Which of the following government schemes aim to strengthen medical education and healthcare infrastructure in India?
- Ayushman Bharat Health Infrastructure Mission (ABHIM)
- National Medical Commission (NMC)
- Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
- Pradhan Mantri Swasthya Suraksha Yojana (PMSSY)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 4 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:
- ABHIM focuses on strengthening healthcare infrastructure.
- NMC regulates medical education and profession standards.
- PMSSY aims to set up new AIIMS institutions and upgrade government medical colleges.
- RKVY is related to agriculture, not healthcare.
Topic 3: Assam to Boost Bamboo-Based Industries Under ‘Green Economy Mission’
Question 5
Which of the following are potential economic and environmental benefits of bamboo-based industries?
- Bamboo grows rapidly and absorbs high amounts of carbon dioxide.
- Bamboo-based industries create employment opportunities in rural areas.
- Bamboo products can replace plastic and timber-based materials.
- Bamboo cultivation requires high amounts of chemical fertilizers.
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:
- Bamboo absorbs carbon dioxide and grows rapidly, making it eco-friendly.
- It provides employment in handicrafts, construction, and biofuel sectors.
- Bamboo products are sustainable alternatives to plastic and wood.
- Bamboo requires minimal fertilizers, making statement 4 incorrect.
Question 6
Which of the following policies support bamboo industry development in India?
- National Bamboo Mission (NBM)
- Indian Forest Act, 1927 (as amended in 2017)
- PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PMFME)
- National Policy on Biofuels, 2018
Select the correct answer using the code 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:
- NBM promotes bamboo farming and industries.
- The 2017 amendment to the Indian Forest Act removed bamboo from the ‘tree’ category, making trade easier.
- The National Policy on Biofuels encourages bamboo-based biofuel production.
- PMFME supports food processing industries, not bamboo industries, making statement 3 incorrect.
Topic 4: Assam to Introduce Organic Farming Clusters to Boost Agro-Exports
Question 7
Which of the following benefits can Assam derive from the promotion of organic farming clusters?
- Higher premium prices for organic produce
- Reduced soil degradation and improved biodiversity
- Increased pesticide usage for better yields
- Greater export potential for Assam’s tea and spices
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1, 2, and 4 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 1, 3, and 4 only
d) 2, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Organic products sell at higher prices in global markets.
- Organic farming restores soil health and promotes biodiversity.
- It reduces pesticide usage, making statement 3 incorrect.
- Organic Assam tea and spices have high demand in international markets.
Question 8
Which of the following schemes support organic farming in India?
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
- Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for Northeast Region (MOVCD-NER)
- National Food Security Mission (NFSM)
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:
NFSM is focused on increasing food grain production, not organic farming.
PKVY promotes organic farming clusters.
RKVY supports sustainable agricultural practices.
MOVCD-NER focuses on organic farming in Northeast India.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
“Organic farming has the potential to transform Assam’s agricultural economy while ensuring environmental sustainability. Discuss the significance of organic farming in Assam, its challenges, and suggest measures to promote it effectively.” (GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Economy, Sustainable Development)
Model Answer
Introduction
Organic farming is a chemical-free agricultural practice that enhances soil health, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability. Assam, with its rich biodiversity, fertile land, and diverse agro-climatic zones, has significant potential to become a leading organic farming hub in India.
The government’s Organic Farming Cluster Initiative under the Green Economy Mission aims to boost agro-exports, reduce environmental degradation, and provide farmers with better incomes. However, challenges such as market accessibility, high certification costs, and low awareness need to be addressed for large-scale adoption.
Significance of Organic Farming in Assam
✅ 1. Economic Benefits for Farmers & Agro-Exports
- Higher market prices: Organic products fetch 30-50% higher prices than conventional crops.
- Growing export demand: Assam’s organic tea, turmeric, and rice varieties have strong demand in global markets.
- Government incentives: Schemes like Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) and Mission Organic Value Chain Development (MOVCD-NER) support organic agriculture.
✅ 2. Environmental Sustainability & Soil Health Improvement
- No chemical pesticides & fertilizers: Protects soil fertility, groundwater, and biodiversity.
- Climate resilience: Organic farming reduces carbon emissions and improves water retention in soil, making crops more drought-resistant.
- Reviving traditional farming methods: Encourages indigenous crop varieties, which are naturally pest-resistant.
✅ 3. Reduction in Health Hazards & Food Security Enhancement
- No pesticide residues: Reduces risk of cancer, kidney diseases, and hormonal disorders.
- Healthier food for consumers: Nutritionally rich, chemical-free produce enhances food security.
- Supports rural nutrition programs: Organic farming can be integrated with mid-day meal schemes and public distribution systems (PDS).
✅ 4. Employment & Rural Development
- More labor-intensive: Organic farming requires more manpower, leading to higher rural employment.
- Promotes farmer cooperatives: Encourages Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to develop local supply chains.
- Agro-tourism potential: Assam can attract eco-tourism by integrating organic farming with rural tourism.
Challenges in Expanding Organic Farming in Assam
✅ 1. Long Transition Period & Certification Delays
- Takes 3 years to convert land into fully certified organic farms.
- Farmers face income loss during this transition period as yields initially decline.
✅ 2. High Cost of Organic Certification & Limited Market Access
- PGS-India and NPOP certification processes are costly and time-consuming.
- Farmers struggle to sell organic produce due to lack of dedicated organic markets.
✅ 3. Lack of Awareness & Training Among Farmers
- Many small-scale farmers lack knowledge about organic composting, bio-pesticides, and sustainable crop rotation.
- No widespread government training programs on organic farming techniques.
✅ 4. Insufficient Processing & Storage Infrastructure
- Lack of cold storage facilities leads to high post-harvest losses for organic fruits and vegetables.
- Poor rural connectivity makes it difficult for farmers to transport organic produce to urban markets.
✅ 5. Competition with Conventional Farming & Productivity Concerns
- Conventional farming provides higher short-term yields, making it difficult for farmers to switch.
- Organic farming requires crop diversification, which some farmers find challenging due to limited knowledge.
Measures to Promote Organic Farming in Assam
✅ 1. Strengthening Government Policies & Financial Incentives
- Expand subsidy programs for organic inputs like compost, bio-fertilizers, and bio-pesticides.
- Provide direct income support to farmers during the 3-year transition period to organic farming.
- Ensure MSP (Minimum Support Price) for organic produce to guarantee fair income for farmers.
✅ 2. Expanding Market Linkages & Certification Support
- Develop Organic Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs) to help farmers get bulk certifications at lower costs.
- Create dedicated organic farmer markets in major cities like Guwahati, Dibrugarh, and Silchar.
- Encourage e-commerce platforms to connect organic farmers with national and international buyers.
✅ 3. Improving Farmer Training & Awareness Programs
- Set up ‘Organic Agriculture Training Centers’ in rural Assam to teach farmers about composting, pest control, and organic techniques.
- Collaborate with agricultural universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) to provide scientific knowledge about organic farming.
- Use digital platforms and mobile apps to educate farmers about organic best practices.
✅ 4. Boosting Infrastructure for Processing & Storage
- Set up organic food processing units to add value to crops like turmeric, ginger, and pulses.
- Develop cold storage & warehousing facilities in rural areas to prevent post-harvest losses.
- Improve rural transport networks to connect organic farms with urban markets.
✅ 5. Encouraging Agroforestry & Sustainable Farming Models
- Promote agroforestry by integrating fruit trees, medicinal plants, and organic crops on the same land.
- Encourage mixed cropping to naturally prevent pests and maintain soil fertility.
- Support integrated organic livestock farming (organic milk, poultry, and manure for composting).
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Assam’s Organic Farming Brand
- Promote ‘Assam Organic’ as a global brand to boost tea, turmeric, and rice exports.
- Secure Geographical Indication (GI) tags for Assam’s organic products.
✅ 2. Scaling Up Organic Farming to Reduce Chemical Agriculture Dependence
- Incentivize farmers to convert at least 30% of their land into organic farms.
- Introduce school and hospital nutrition programs that source organic food from local farmers.
✅ 3. Building International Collaborations for Organic Exports
- Partner with global organic food brands to market Assam’s organic products internationally.
- Align with ASEAN countries for organic certification recognition.
✅ 4. Integrating Organic Farming with Climate Resilience Strategies
- Develop drought-resistant organic crop varieties to tackle climate change.
- Use AI-based soil health monitoring to ensure sustainable organic farming practices.
Conclusion
Organic farming presents a transformative opportunity for Assam’s agricultural sector by ensuring higher farmer incomes, environmental conservation, and increased global competitiveness.
However, its success depends on strong policy support, better infrastructure, and farmer training programs. If implemented effectively, Assam can become a leader in organic agriculture and boost its rural economy while preserving biodiversity.
By focusing on certification, market linkages, and organic research, Assam can set an example for sustainable farming in India and move towards an eco-friendly, self-reliant agricultural system.
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