APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/08/2025)
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 (06-08-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
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🛡️ Border Peace Talks Between Assam and Meghalaya: Focus on Remaining Disputed Villages
📘 GS Paper 2: Federalism | Inter-State Relations | Conflict Resolution
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Border Management | Governance Challenges
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Inter-State Issues | NE Regional Dynamics
🔹 Introduction
Following years of tension and skirmishes, Assam and Meghalaya resumed peace talks to resolve disputes in six remaining areas along their shared border. The initiative is a continuation of the earlier resolution of six of twelve contested areas in 2022. The talks aim to institutionalize peace, reduce administrative friction, and prevent further communal unrest in border villages.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| States Involved | Assam and Meghalaya |
| Disputed Areas | 12 areas; 6 resolved in 2022, 6 still pending |
| Recent Talks | Held between Assam CM Himanta Biswa Sarma and Meghalaya CM Conrad Sangma |
| Key Remaining Sites | Langpih, Block I & II (Karbi Anglong), Borduar, Deshdoomreah, Pisi, etc. |
| Background | Disputes date back to Meghalaya’s statehood in 1972 |
| Objective | Permanent administrative and territorial demarcation |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Meghalaya Carved Out: From Assam in 1972 under North Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act
Article 131: Empowers Supreme Court to adjudicate disputes between states
Langpih Dispute: One of the most sensitive areas near Kamrup (Assam) and West Khasi Hills
Regional Committees: Set up by both states in 2021 to study and recommend solutions
Assam’s Border Issues: Assam also shares unresolved boundaries with Arunachal, Nagaland, Mizoram
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Border Resolution
Peace in Border Villages: Frequent clashes cause fear, displacement, and economic hardship
Strengthens Federal Cooperation: Peace talks reflect cooperative federalism in action
Reduces Communal Tension: Border areas are often multi-ethnic, vulnerable to identity-based conflict
Administrative Efficiency: Removes governance duplication in “no man’s land” zones
Development Access: Clarified jurisdiction enables road, school, and healthcare expansion
B. Challenges in Resolution
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Historical Complexity | Disputes rooted in colonial-era maps and tribal boundaries |
| Local Resistance | Communities fear being moved into less favorable administrative setups |
| Political Sensitivities | Risk of losing electoral strongholds in contentious areas |
| Ethnic Sentiments | Land is tied to identity; difficult to draw neutral borders |
| Border Incidents | Past incidents like Mukroh firing affect trust-building |
C. Government Initiatives
2021 MoU: Assam–Meghalaya agreed to resolve disputes via regional committees
Joint Field Surveys: Conducted using old maps, public feedback, and satellite data
Confidence Building Measures (CBMs): Peace committees at village level
Security Deployment: Joint patrols and control rooms in sensitive zones
Inclusive Negotiations: Involving traditional institutions (Dorbar, Village Headmen) in Meghalaya
D. Way Ahead
Finalise Pending Areas: Use 2022 model (consensus-based) to address remaining 6 sectors
Legal and Constitutional Clarity: Establish enforceable demarcation maps agreed upon by both states
Promote Inter-State Development Projects: Build roads, hospitals, and markets jointly to foster harmony
Empower Local Institutions: Give tribal and local self-governing bodies more say in future negotiations
Replicable Model: Use Assam–Meghalaya framework as template for other NE border disputes
🧩 Conclusion
The Assam–Meghalaya border peace talks symbolize a shift from confrontation to collaboration. Resolving these disputes through dialogue, inclusion, and constitutional processes is not only vital for regional harmony but also for the long-term socio-economic integration of the North East. Success here could set a precedent for similar resolutions with other NE states.
🏛️ PM Modi Launches ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’: A Nationwide Environmental Movement
📘 GS Paper 3: Environment | Conservation Efforts | Climate Change Mitigation
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies | Community Participation
📘 GS Paper 1 (Assam/India): Culture & Society – Environmental Ethics
📘 GS Paper 5: Environment in Assam | People’s Movement for Sustainability
🔹 Introduction
On the eve of the 2025 World Tribal Day, PM Narendra Modi launched a people-centric afforestation campaign titled “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” (One Tree in the Name of Mother). The campaign urges every citizen to plant at least one tree as a tribute to motherhood and nature. It aims to merge environmental conservation with emotional and cultural sentiment, ensuring wider community participation.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Launched By | PM Narendra Modi, August 6, 2025 |
| Occasion | Inaugural event of World Tribal Day 2025 in Madhya Pradesh |
| Tagline | “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” – One Tree in the Name of Mother |
| Goal | Promote large-scale tree plantation across India |
| Connection to Culture | Symbolic dedication of a tree to maternal figures & environment |
| Mode of Participation | Voluntary public engagement, schools, panchayats, tribal bodies |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
World Tribal Day: Observed on August 9 every year
UN Recognition: Based on UN Declaration on Rights of Indigenous Peoples (2007)
CAMPA: Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority
Van Mahotsav: Celebrated in India during first week of July – focused on tree plantation
State of Forest Report 2023: India’s forest cover = 21.71% of geographical area
UN SDG 13 & 15: Climate action and life on land respectively support such campaigns
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the Initiative
Cultural Resonance: By linking tree planting with “mother,” the campaign appeals to emotion and tradition
Mass Afforestation: Potential to accelerate India’s commitment to increase forest and tree cover
Community Involvement: Encourages youth, tribal groups, and rural populations to take ownership
Sustainable Lifestyle: Aligns with Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment)
Climate Mitigation: Tree planting enhances carbon sequestration and reduces heat-island effects
B. Key Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Tokenism Risk | Campaigns may remain symbolic if not monitored |
| Survivability of Saplings | High mortality of planted trees without follow-up care |
| Urban Participation | Limited space and awareness in cities |
| Land Ownership Issues | Resistance in plantation on community/tribal lands without consent |
| Monitoring & Data Gaps | Lack of centralized tracking for plantation campaigns |
C. Govt. Initiatives Aligned
National Mission for a Green India (under NAPCC)
CAMPA Funds: Utilized for compensatory afforestation
Amrit Van and Nagar Van Yojana: For developing green spaces in urban and semi-urban areas
Mission LiFE: Focus on lifestyle changes for climate-conscious citizens
Digital Monitoring Tools: Geo-tagging of plantation sites in some states (pilot basis)
D. Way Ahead
Geo-tag Every Tree Planted: Use technology for verification and follow-up
Involve Educational Institutions: Make it part of school curriculum and NSS activities
Ensure Aftercare: Dedicated nurseries, water supply, fencing to ensure sapling survival
Tribal Participation: Involve forest-dwelling communities via Forest Rights Act mechanisms
State-Level Targets: Like Assam setting annual “green cover expansion goals” at district level
🧩 Conclusion
“Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” redefines environmental action by adding a personal and emotional dimension to sustainability. When combined with robust policy execution and community participation, it holds the potential to become India’s largest grassroots-led afforestation movement, advancing both climate goals and environmental consciousness.
🛰️ ISRO’s INSAT-3DS Satellite Ready for Launch: Boost to Weather Forecasting and Disaster Management
📘 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology | Space Technology | Disaster Management
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Government Policies | Institutional Infrastructure
📘 GS Paper 1: Geography – Weather and Climate
🔹 Introduction
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) is preparing to launch the INSAT-3DS, an advanced meteorological satellite designed to enhance weather forecasting, cyclone tracking, and disaster early warning systems. The satellite is a critical part of India’s national mission to strengthen climate resilience and protect lives during extreme weather events.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Satellite Name | INSAT-3DS (Indian National Satellite – 3DS) |
| Purpose | Meteorological observation, cyclone tracking, cloud imaging |
| Replacing | INSAT-3D and INSAT-3DR satellites |
| Developed By | ISRO, in collaboration with Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) |
| Launch Vehicle | Likely GSLV Mk II |
| Key Users | IMD, NDRF, NDMA, Indian Navy, Ministry of Agriculture, state govts |
| Special Features | Improved imager, sounder, lightning mapper, sea surface temperature sensor |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
INSAT Series: India’s multipurpose satellite system (weather, telecom, broadcasting)
Geostationary Orbit: INSAT satellites are placed in geostationary orbit (~36,000 km altitude)
IMD (Indian Meteorological Department): Main user of weather data from INSAT
Disaster Management Act 2005: Empowers NDMA to use tech for early warning systems
Doppler Radar Network: Ground-based supplement to space observation for real-time alerts
GAGAN: GPS Aided Geo Augmented Navigation – another ISRO collaboration for air safety
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of INSAT-3DS
Real-Time Cyclone Tracking: Helps issue early warnings, especially along east coast and NE India
Disaster Preparedness: Assists NDRF and SDMAs in planning flood rescue and evacuation
Agricultural Forecasting: Supports advisories on rainfall, humidity, and drought prediction
Air and Sea Navigation: Helps Indian Navy, Air Force, and maritime forces with climate intelligence
Climate Research: Strengthens India’s data for long-term climate modelling
B. Challenges in Satellite-based Disaster Management
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Last-Mile Connectivity | Rural and tribal regions often do not receive timely warnings |
| Data Interpretation Lag | States may lack skilled personnel to analyze satellite info |
| Duplication of Efforts | Overlap between state and central agencies can reduce coordination |
| Ground Infrastructure | Many parts of India still lack automated weather stations |
| Technological Silos | IMD, ISRO, NDMA operate independently—limited real-time integration |
C. Govt Initiatives & Related Missions
National Monsoon Mission: For improved seasonal forecasts
Digital India Programme: Satellite imagery used for PMFBY and geo-tagging assets
Common Alert Protocol (CAP): Framework for issuing multi-channel disaster alerts
Space-Based Disaster Management Support Programme (DMSP): Run by ISRO
AMRUT 2.0 & Smart Cities: Integrating meteorological infrastructure into urban planning
D. Way Ahead
Integrate INSAT Data with Local Systems: Use AI/ML to make predictions more user-friendly
Create Satellite Dashboard for States: Real-time, color-coded weather and disaster data
Upskill Local Agencies: Training disaster officials in satellite-based tools
Link with Panchayats & ASHAs: For last-mile dissemination of cyclone/flood alerts
Community Drills Based on Space Alerts: Public drills after INSAT-based early warnings
🧩 Conclusion
The INSAT-3DS launch signifies India’s growing reliance on indigenous space technology for safeguarding people from climate extremes. Integrating high-end satellite capabilities with ground-level preparedness will be crucial in building a climate-resilient India, especially in disaster-prone states like Assam and Odisha.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
🔹 Topic 1: Assam–Meghalaya Border Peace Talks
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding inter-state border disputes in India:
- Article 131 of the Constitution empowers the Supreme Court to settle inter-state boundary disputes.
- The North Eastern Areas (Reorganisation) Act, 1971, played a key role in shaping present-day state boundaries in NE India.
- Inter-state border disputes in India are handled solely by the Union Home Ministry.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?
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:
- Article 131 indeed provides the Supreme Court jurisdiction over legal disputes between states.
- The NE Reorganisation Act 1971 led to Meghalaya’s separation from Assam.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: while the MHA plays a coordinating role, states and regional committees are equally involved.
Q2. The Langpih area, recently in the news due to border talks between Assam and Meghalaya, lies at the boundary of:
A. West Garo Hills and Kamrup
B. West Khasi Hills and Kamrup
C. East Jaintia Hills and Cachar
D. Ri Bhoi and Dima Hasao
✅ Answer: B. West Khasi Hills and Kamrup
Explanation: Langpih has long been a sensitive border area between West Khasi Hills (Meghalaya) and Kamrup (Assam), often witnessing tension and conflict.
🔹 Topic 2: ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ Campaign
Q3. Consider the following pairs:
| Initiative | Key Feature |
| 1. CAMPA | Utilization of compensatory afforestation funds |
| 2. Mission LiFE | Promoting sustainable lifestyle practices |
| 3. Nagar Van Yojana | Urban forestry initiative |
Which of the above pairs are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 and 3 only
✅ Answer: C. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation:
All three are official government schemes:
- CAMPA manages afforestation funds.
- Mission LiFE encourages eco-friendly behavioral change.
- Nagar Van aims to create city forests.
Q4. The ‘Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam’ campaign launched in 2025 aims to:
A. Promote maternal healthcare through forest herbal remedies
B. Celebrate women’s contributions in forest conservation
C. Encourage individuals to plant trees as a tribute to motherhood
D. Recognize tribal women’s role in traditional knowledge preservation
✅ Answer: C. Encourage individuals to plant trees as a tribute to motherhood
Explanation:
The campaign links tree plantation with cultural reverence for mothers, aiming for mass afforestation through emotional and symbolic appeal.
🔹 Topic 3: INSAT-3DS Satellite
Q5. Which of the following best describes the function of the INSAT-3DS satellite?
A. Military reconnaissance and border surveillance
B. Direct-to-home (DTH) broadcasting
C. Advanced weather observation and disaster warning
D. Navigation and geolocation services for aircraft
✅ Answer: C. Advanced weather observation and disaster warning
Explanation:
INSAT-3DS is part of ISRO’s meteorological satellite series, intended for cyclone tracking, rainfall prediction, and real-time climate observation.
Q6. With reference to India’s weather forecasting and early warning system, consider the following:
- INSAT satellites are placed in a geostationary orbit to continuously observe the Indian region.
- IMD is the nodal agency for issuing cyclone alerts in India.
- The Disaster Management Act, 2005 mandates ISRO to manage disaster alerts.
Which of the statements above is/are correct?
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:
ISRO supports but is not mandated under the DM Act 2005 to issue alerts; NDMA and MHA have key responsibilities. So, statement 3 is incorrect.
INSAT satellites are indeed in geostationary orbit (~36,000 km).
IMD issues cyclone alerts.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The Assam–Meghalaya border dispute highlights the complexities of inter-state relations in India’s federal structure. Examine the roots of such disputes and suggest a framework for durable resolution.
📘 GS Paper 2: Federalism | Inter-State Relations | Governance Challenges
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Regional Issues | Border Management in North-East
🔹 Introduction
India’s federal structure often experiences friction where state boundaries overlap with ethnic, historical, and administrative claims. The Assam–Meghalaya border dispute, affecting 12 sectors since Meghalaya’s formation in 1972, is emblematic of such tensions. Despite partial resolution, six sectors—like Langpih and Block-I—remain flashpoints, requiring a deeper constitutional and collaborative solution.
🔍 Causes of the Assam–Meghalaya Border Dispute
| Cause | Description |
| Historical Inheritance | Meghalaya was carved out of Assam; boundaries remained ill-defined due to colonial legacy (maps of 1872 vs 1933). |
| Ethnic Identity Concerns | Fear of tribal identity loss among Khasi, Garo, and Karbi populations in border areas. |
| Dual Administration | Villages in disputed zones often receive services from both states, causing confusion. |
| Economic Incentives | States reluctant to cede territory due to resource control, electoral weight, and symbolic dominance. |
| Lack of Legal Finality | No constitutional authority has definitively adjudicated these disputes. |
⚠️ Impacts on Governance and Society
- Recurring Clashes: Violent episodes like the Mukroh incident (2022) deepen distrust.
- Developmental Deficit: Infrastructure projects are stalled due to overlapping claims.
- Social Insecurity: Residents lack clarity on law enforcement and welfare benefits.
- Weakening Federalism: Erodes cooperative relations between states, especially in NE India.
- Rise of Regionalism: May fuel secessionist rhetoric and communal polarization.
🛠️ Existing Resolution Attempts
- 2022 MoU: Assam and Meghalaya resolved 6 out of 12 disputed sectors using regional committees.
- Bilateral CM-Level Talks: Regular engagement between the Chief Ministers of both states.
- Community Consultations: Involvement of local village heads, traditional bodies (Dorbar).
- Joint Surveys: Use of GIS, historical maps, and public hearings to demarcate boundary lines.
🧭 Way Forward: Framework for Durable Resolution
- Institutional Arbitration Mechanism
- Establish a Permanent Inter-State Boundary Commission under Article 263 (Inter-State Council).
- Include constitutional experts, geographers, tribal representatives.
- Constitutional Clarity
- Amend the State Reorganisation Act provisions to allow for boundary correction by consensus.
- Ethno-Cultural Safeguards
- Retain tribal autonomy via Sixth Schedule or Article 371-type arrangements even after jurisdiction shifts.
- Legal Finality
- Allow Supreme Court adjudication under Article 131 in unresolved cases to reduce executive ambiguity.
- Development as Confidence Building
- Launch joint border development projects (schools, roads, hospitals) with shared administrative ownership.
- Model for NE Region
- Replicate the Assam–Meghalaya dialogue approach in other disputes (e.g., Assam–Arunachal, Assam–Mizoram).
🧩 Conclusion
The Assam–Meghalaya border issue reflects not just a territorial disagreement, but the intersection of history, identity, and governance in India’s Northeast. Resolving such disputes demands constitutional innovation, empathy for ethnic aspirations, and a spirit of cooperative federalism. A durable solution here could set the tone for peace across all inter-state borders in the region.
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