APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (31/03/2025)
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 (31-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
✅ 1. Operationalization of Sittwe Port – Boost to India’s Act East Policy
📚 GS Paper 2: International Relations | GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Internal Security
Introduction
The activation of Sittwe Port in Myanmar under India’s Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP) marks a major milestone in regional connectivity, linking the North-East to Southeast Asia.
Key Points
Strategic Significance of Sittwe Port
Located in Rakhine State, Myanmar.
Developed by India as part of KMTTP to provide alternative access to Mizoram via sea–river–road route.
Connectivity Boost to North-East
Reduces dependency on the Siliguri Corridor.
Enables quicker cargo movement from Kolkata to Mizoram through Sittwe-Paletwa-Zorinpui.
Part of India’s Act East Policy
Strengthens India’s presence in Southeast Asia.
Counters China’s Belt and Road Initiative in the Bay of Bengal region.
Security and Strategic Gains
Enhances India’s influence in the Indian Ocean Region (IOR).
Supports stability in the conflict-prone Rakhine area through economic engagement.
Prelims Pointers
Sittwe Port Location: Rakhine State, Myanmar – developed by India.
Kaladan Project Components:
Kolkata to Sittwe (Sea)
Sittwe to Paletwa (River)
Paletwa to Zorinpui (Road)
Act East Policy: Focuses on economic and strategic ties with ASEAN nations.
Zorinpui: Indo-Myanmar border point in Mizoram.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Sittwe Port for India
Strategic Connectivity:
Direct link between mainland India and the Northeast via international route.
Reduces economic isolation of NE states.
Regional Trade Integration:
Enhances trade with Myanmar and further with ASEAN.
Port serves as gateway for trilateral highway and BIMSTEC cooperation.
Counterbalance to China:
Offers alternative to China’s influence in Rakhine and Kyaukphyu Port.
India’s soft power projection through developmental diplomacy.
Strengthens Internal Security:
Reduces vulnerability of Siliguri Corridor.
Boosts economic activity in insurgency-prone Mizoram and Manipur.
Challenges
Ethnic Conflicts in Rakhine: Threat to long-term sustainability.
Delayed Project Implementation: Paletwa-Zorinpui road yet to be fully completed.
Logistical Hurdles: Limited capacity, customs and transport coordination with Myanmar.
Government Initiatives
Kaladan Project Funding: Entirely funded by the Government of India.
India-Myanmar Bilateral Engagement: Regular high-level exchanges and border talks.
“Sagarmala” and “Bharatmala” Linkages: Integrating port and land infrastructure.
Way Ahead
Ensure Security of Trade Routes: Joint patrolling with Myanmar Navy and border forces.
Early Completion of Road Connectivity: Focus on Paletwa-Zorinpui road link.
Institutional Mechanism: Set up trade facilitation councils between NE states and Myanmar.
Skill and Market Development: Build logistics hubs and skilling centres in Mizoram.
Conclusion
Sittwe Port is not just a port but a strategic doorway to Southeast Asia for India. Timely execution and regional cooperation can turn it into a model of Act East success.
✅ 2. GST Appellate Tribunal in Guwahati – A Major Tax Reform Milestone
📚 GS Paper 2: Polity & Governance | GS Paper 3: Economy (Tax Reforms)
Introduction
The announcement of setting up a GST Appellate Tribunal (GSTAT) in Guwahati marks a critical step toward resolving GST-related disputes efficiently and strengthening cooperative fiscal federalism.
Key Points
What is GST Appellate Tribunal?
A quasi-judicial body to hear appeals against orders passed by GST authorities.
Operates under Section 109 of the Central GST Act, 2017.
Significance of the Guwahati Bench
Will cater to the Northeastern states.
Reduces dependency on tribunals in metro cities like Kolkata or Delhi.
Boosts legal infrastructure in the North-East.
Structure of the Tribunal
Consists of Principal Bench (Delhi) and State Benches.
Each bench includes one judicial and one technical member each (Centre and State).
Addressing GST Dispute Backlog
Thousands of unresolved cases pending before High Courts due to absence of dedicated GST tribunal.
Prelims Pointers
GST Tribunal Article: Not a Constitutional body; formed under GST Act, 2017.
Section 109, CGST Act: Provides for constitution of Appellate Tribunals.
Principal Bench: Located in New Delhi.
First Appellate Authority: Officer senior to adjudicating officer within GST Department.
One Nation, One Tax: Core principle behind GST reform.
Mains Pointers
Importance of GST Appellate Tribunal
Legal Uniformity Across India:
Brings consistency in interpretation of GST law.
Reduces litigation burden on High Courts.
Ease of Doing Business:
Faster disposal of tax disputes encourages investment.
Boosts taxpayer confidence in NE India.
Fiscal Federalism:
Involvement of both Centre and State members in decision-making.
Reducing Judicial Backlogs:
Nearly 15,000 GST cases pending in various forums across India (Source: CBIC, 2024).
Challenges
Delay in Establishment: More than 5 years after the GST rollout.
Infrastructure and Staffing Issues: Need qualified judicial and technical members.
Interpretation Challenges: Complexity of GST law creates legal grey areas.
Government Initiatives
GST Tribunal (Appointment and Conditions) Rules, 2023: Streamlines selection and service conditions of members.
Zonal Benches Across India: Guwahati, Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, and others.
Digital Filing and Virtual Hearings: Being encouraged for accessibility.
Way Ahead
Capacity Building: Training programs for tribunal members.
Robust IT Infrastructure: Ensure timely and transparent functioning.
Awareness Programs: Especially for MSMEs and local traders in NE.
Coordination with Judiciary: Ensure synergy between GSTAT and High Courts.
Conclusion
The GST Appellate Tribunal in Guwahati is a transformative move for India’s tax architecture, especially for the North-East. Timely implementation and strong institutional support will make it a model for fair and fast tax dispute resolution.
✅ 3. Assam Police’s Cyber Wing to Get AI-Powered Upgrade
📚 GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Science & Technology
Introduction
In a bid to enhance cybersecurity and combat emerging tech-driven crimes, Assam Police is upgrading its cyber wing with AI and forensic tools — a significant move aligning with India’s national cybersecurity strategy.
Key Points
Why AI Upgrade?
Surge in cybercrimes like phishing, crypto fraud, deepfake scams, etc.
Need for real-time response and proactive surveillance.
Key Features of Assam’s Cybersecurity Upgrade
Deployment of AI algorithms to detect fraud patterns.
Automated flagging of suspicious transactions and digital footprints.
Integration with central systems like Cyber Crime Reporting Portal and Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C).
Role in Internal Security
Monitoring social media misinformation.
Countering radicalization and digital propaganda.
Cybersecurity as a part of smart policing.
Capacity Building
Advanced training for cyber wing personnel in collaboration with NIELIT and private firms.
Creation of a centralized cyber forensic lab.
Prelims Pointers
I4C: Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre under Ministry of Home Affairs.
Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: www.cybercrime.gov.in
AI in Policing: Predictive policing using data analytics and facial recognition.
CERT-In: Nodal agency under MEITY for cybersecurity in India.
Mains Pointers
Importance of AI in Cyber Policing
Real-Time Threat Detection:
AI can analyze large datasets to spot irregularities instantly.
Example: Pattern-based detection of phishing scams in banking apps.
Enhanced Surveillance Capability:
Face recognition in public CCTV networks.
Behavioural analysis to detect suspicious movements online.
Efficient Case Solving:
AI-driven evidence clustering and link analysis in cyber frauds.
Citizen Trust and Digital Governance:
Faster redressal and protection of digital identities.
Challenges
Privacy and Ethical Concerns:
Potential misuse of facial recognition or mass surveillance tools.
Data Protection Issues:
India’s Data Protection Act implementation is still in early stages.
Skill Gaps:
Lack of trained personnel in AI, forensic cybercrime investigation.
Infrastructure Deficit:
Limited penetration of high-end digital labs in rural police stations.
Government Initiatives
National Cyber Crime Reporting Portal: Centralized citizen complaint mechanism.
I4C Scheme (2020): Multi-agency coordination for cybercrime response.
Digital India Initiatives: Building e-policing infrastructure.
Cyber Surakshit Bharat Initiative: MEITY initiative for government cybersecurity awareness.
Way Ahead
Robust Legal Framework: Implement recommendations from Joint Parliamentary Committee on Personal Data Protection (2021).
Public-Private Collaboration: Engage tech firms for tools and training.
Awareness Campaigns: Promote cyber hygiene at school, college and community levels.
Cyber Policing in Rural Assam: Expand access to AI tools and train local personnel.
Conclusion
Assam’s AI-driven cyber policing reflects a proactive leap into future-ready governance. With the right checks and collaborations, it can become a blueprint for India’s smart and secure law enforcement.
✅ 4. India’s Wildlife Institute Plans Reintroduction of Cheetahs in Assam
📚 GS Paper 3: Environment & Biodiversity | Conservation Efforts
Introduction
After the reintroduction of cheetahs in Madhya Pradesh’s Kuno National Park, Assam is now being considered for the second phase — a move that blends species revival with ecological tourism.
Key Points
Why Assam?
Vast grasslands like those in Laokhowa-Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary.
Rich biodiversity and history of successful species conservation (e.g., rhinos in Kaziranga).
Lower human-wildlife conflict zones compared to other states.
Role of Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
Technical lead in site selection, species relocation, and ecological monitoring.
Partnering with state forest departments and local conservation NGOs.
Ecological Importance
Cheetahs are top predators – their presence can restore balance in grassland ecosystems.
Helps control overgrazing by regulating herbivore populations.
Tourism and Awareness
Ecotourism boost similar to Kaziranga’s rhino success.
Involvement of local communities in conservation-based livelihoods.
Prelims Pointers
IUCN Status of Cheetah: Vulnerable (African), Extinct in India (Asiatic).
Project Cheetah: MoEFCC + WII initiative for reintroducing cheetahs in India.
Kuno National Park: First cheetah reintroduction site in India.
Laokhowa-Burachapori Sanctuary: Potential second site; lies along Brahmaputra floodplains.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Cheetah Reintroduction
Restoring Ecosystem Dynamics:
Cheetahs play a unique role in open landscapes.
Reduce dominance of meso-predators like jackals, helping prey balance.
Boost to Conservation Branding:
Puts Assam on the global conservation map.
Supports India’s international commitments under CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity).
Socioeconomic Impact:
Enhances ecotourism potential.
Example: Kuno saw a rise in local income post-cheetah release (Source: MoEFCC, 2024).
Challenges
Habitat Suitability:
Grassland fragmentation and flood-prone regions of Assam.
Prey Base Assessment:
Need sufficient population of blackbuck, chital, and other small ungulates.
Human-Wildlife Conflict Risk:
Cattle predation may lead to backlash from fringe villages.
Species Adaptability:
African cheetahs being introduced — need monitoring of climate and terrain adaptation.
Government & Institutional Initiatives
Project Cheetah 2.0: Focus on creating multiple habitats in India.
Compensation Schemes: For livestock loss due to wild predators.
Eco-sensitive Zone Policy: Limits damaging land use near wildlife habitats.
Way Ahead
Scientific Habitat Evaluation: Involve WII and local research institutions.
Community Engagement: Involve locals as eco-guides and conservation workers.
Integrated Conservation Planning: Coordinate with floodplain management and grassland restoration.
Monitor & Adapt: Real-time monitoring of cheetah health and habitat suitability using AI/GIS.
Conclusion Reintroducing cheetahs in Assam represents not just a species revival effort, but a chance to redefine India’s grassland conservation model. With community support and scientific oversight, this initiative could roar Assam into global biodiversity leadership.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
✅ Topic 1: Assam Police Cyber Wing’s AI-Powered Upgrade
Q1. With reference to Artificial Intelligence (AI) in internal security, consider the following statements:
- AI can be used to detect cybercrimes like phishing and ransomware attacks in real-time.
- Indian Cyber Crime Coordination Centre (I4C) operates under the Ministry of Electronics and IT.
- CERT-In is the nodal agency for India’s cybercrime investigation at the state level.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: a) 1 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct — AI is used in cybercrime detection.
- Statement 2 is incorrect — I4C operates under the Ministry of Home Affairs.
- Statement 3 is incorrect — CERT-In (Indian Computer Emergency Response Team) works at the national level under Ministry of Electronics & IT.
Q2. “Cyber Surakshit Bharat” initiative is aimed at:
a) Promoting data localization of critical infrastructure
b) Training government officials in cybersecurity best practices
c) Promoting public-private partnerships in IT education
d) Setting up cyber forensics labs across India
Answer: b) Training government officials in cybersecurity best practices
Explanation: Launched by MEITY in 2018 to strengthen cybersecurity awareness among government departments and officials.
✅ Topic 2: Cheetah Reintroduction Plan in Assam
Q3. Laokhowa-Burachapori Wildlife Sanctuary, recently in news, is located along which river system?
a) Barak
b) Subansiri
c) Brahmaputra
d) Kopili
Answer: c) Brahmaputra
Explanation: The sanctuary lies along the Brahmaputra floodplains in Assam.
Q4. With reference to Cheetah conservation in India, consider the following pairs:
| Project/Initiative | Associated Organisation |
| Project Cheetah | Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change |
| Kuno National Park | Madhya Pradesh |
| Convention on Biodiversity | Legally binding under UNEP |
Which of the pairs are correctly matched?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All pairs are correctly matched. CBD is a legally binding international treaty under UNEP.
Q5. Which of the following is/are objectives of Project Cheetah in India?
- To reintroduce Asiatic cheetahs from Iran.
- To promote grassland conservation.
- To boost ecotourism and biodiversity awareness.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: b) 2 and 3 only
Explanation: India is reintroducing African cheetahs, as Iran has not permitted translocation of Asiatic cheetahs.
✅ Topic 3: Operationalization of Sittwe Port – Boost to India’s Act East Policy
Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the Sittwe Port:
- It is located at the confluence of the Kaladan and Bay of Bengal in Myanmar.
- It is a part of India’s Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project.
- It connects Mizoram with Southeast Asia via a sea route.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2 and 3
d) 1 only
Answer: c) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
- Sittwe Port lies at the mouth of Kaladan River in Myanmar.
- It is part of the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project, which links Kolkata–Sittwe–Paletwa–Mizoram.
- It is key to India’s Act East Policy, facilitating connectivity between Northeast India and ASEAN.
Q7. The Kaladan Multimodal Project, often in news, comprises which of the following components?
- Inland water transport
- Road connectivity in Northeast India
- Railway network in Bangladesh
Select the correct answer:
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:
- It includes sea transport (Kolkata to Sittwe), inland waterway (Sittwe to Paletwa), and road (Paletwa to Mizoram).
- Bangladesh rail connectivity is not part of this project.
✅ Topic 4: GST Appellate Tribunal in Guwahati – A Major Tax Reform Milestone
Q8. With reference to GST Appellate Tribunals (GSTATs), consider the following statements:
- They are constituted under Article 323B of the Constitution.
- Only the High Courts can admit appeals from GSTAT decisions.
- GSTATs are the second appellate authority under the GST regime.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Article 323B allows for tribunals related to taxation.
- GSTAT decisions can be appealed before the High Court or Supreme Court, depending on the case.
- It is the second appellate authority, after the Appellate Authority under GST.
Q9. Recently, India notified the establishment of a GST Appellate Tribunal in Guwahati. In this context, consider the implications:
Which of the following are potential benefits of setting up such tribunals in state capitals like Guwahati?
- Faster resolution of tax disputes
- Uniform interpretation of GST laws across regions
- Decentralized redressal of grievances for small taxpayers
Select the correct answer:
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
GSTATs reduce burden on High Courts, increase legal uniformity, and bring accessibility to taxpayers, especially in remote regions like the Northeast.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question (GS Paper 2 – International Relations):
“How does the operationalization of Sittwe Port enhance India’s Act East Policy and regional connectivity? Discuss its strategic, economic, and geopolitical implications for Northeast India.”
Model Answer:
The Sittwe Port isn’t just a maritime facility—it’s a strategic gateway into Southeast Asia, breathing life into India’s long-aspired Act East Policy while linking the neglected Northeast to global trade routes.
1. Strategic Importance of Sittwe Port
- Location Advantage:
- Located in Rakhine State, Myanmar, at the mouth of Kaladan River.
- Developed under the Kaladan Multimodal Transit Transport Project (KMTTP).
- Alternate Route to the Northeast:
- Reduces dependence on the Chicken’s Neck (Siliguri Corridor).
- Bypasses bottlenecks via sea (Kolkata–Sittwe) and river-road (Paletwa–Zorinpui–Mizoram).
2. Enhancing the Act East Policy
a) Connectivity Integration
- India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway + Kaladan Project = East-West Economic Corridor
- Boosts India’s aim to integrate with ASEAN logistics networks
b) Diplomatic Footprint
- Increases India’s visibility in Bay of Bengal geopolitics
- Strengthens bilateral ties with Myanmar amid growing Chinese presence in the region
3. Economic Implications for Northeast India
| Opportunities | Examples |
| Trade Facilitation | Export of bamboo, spices, handicrafts from Mizoram & Assam to ASEAN |
| Tourism Potential | Buddhist heritage circuits linking India–Myanmar |
| Local Employment | Infrastructure & logistics growth in Mizoram border towns |
4. Geopolitical and Security Dimensions
- Countering China’s Influence:
- Offers strategic counterweight to China’s Kyaukphyu port (Rakhine State, Myanmar)
- Maritime Security:
- Greater engagement in Bay of Bengal security architecture
🔁 Flowchart: Kaladan Project – Seamless Multimodal Corridor
Kolkata (Sea) → Sittwe Port (Sea) → Paletwa (River) → Zorinpui (Road) → Mizoram → India’s Northeast
5. Challenges in Implementation
- Security Instability: Ethnic conflict in Myanmar (e.g., Arakan Army in Rakhine)
- Infrastructure Gaps: Delays in road connectivity from Paletwa to Indian border
- Maintenance & Cost Issues: River navigation and logistics need constant support
📊 Relevant Data and Indices
- World Bank Logistics Performance Index (2023): India ranked 38th – improving, but regional bottlenecks remain.
- India-ASEAN Trade (2022-23): $131 billion; potential to increase via NE corridors.
- Act East Policy (2014 Onwards): Recognized as strategic shift from “Look East” → “Act East” (MEA)
Conclusion
Sittwe Port is not merely an infrastructure project—it is a transformative step in anchoring Northeast India into global economic currents. Its success could redefine India’s regional leadership and economic diplomacy in Southeast Asia.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!
🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!
For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.
Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group
📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?
Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations
