APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (04/02/2026)
For APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exam aspirants, staying consistently updated with reliable current affairs is essential for success. This blog provides a well-researched analysis of the most important topics from The Assam Tribune dated 04 February 2026. Each issue has been carefully selected and explained to support both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, ensuring alignment with the APSC CCE syllabus and the evolving trends of the examination.
✨ APSC CCE Prelims Crash Course, 2026
🔐 Right to Privacy vs Big Tech
Supreme Court on WhatsApp–Meta Data Sharing
📘 APSC GS Prelims: Fundamental Rights | Data Protection | Digital Governance
📘 APSC GS Mains – II: Constitution | Judiciary | Rights Issues | Governance
📘 APSC GS Mains – V (Assam): Governance | Digital Rights (Case-based relevance)
🔹 Introduction
The Supreme Court of India has expressed serious concerns over WhatsApp’s data-sharing practices with its parent company Meta, particularly the lack of meaningful consent and the exploitation of users described as “silent customers.” As reported in The Assam Tribune (4 February 2026), the Court’s observations bring the constitutional Right to Privacy into direct confrontation with Big Tech dominance, data monetisation, and digital asymmetry, reopening debates on regulatory capacity, user autonomy, and democratic accountability in India’s digital ecosystem.
🔑 Key Points (From the Newspaper)
| Aspect | Details |
| Case Focus | WhatsApp–Meta data sharing practices |
| Supreme Court Concern | Meaningful consent & monopoly power |
| Key Term Used | “Silent customers” |
| Regulatory Angle | MeitY made a party to proceedings |
| Core Issue | Privacy vs commercial data exploitation |
| Legal Context | Absence of full-fledged data protection enforcement |
| Wider Impact | Digital rights, competition, governance |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Right to Privacy is a Fundamental Right under Article 21 (Puttaswamy judgment).
Personal Data includes any information relating to an identifiable individual.
Consent must be free, informed, specific, and meaningful.
Big Tech platforms often operate as data monopolies.
MeitY is the nodal ministry for digital governance and data policy.
Network effect strengthens monopoly power in digital platforms.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance / Significance
1. Reaffirmation of Constitutional Privacy
Reinforces that digital spaces are not outside constitutional scrutiny.
Protects individual autonomy in an increasingly data-driven society.
2. Judicial Check on Big Tech Power
Addresses imbalance between corporations and users.
Recognises asymmetry in bargaining power and information.
3. Democratic Governance in the Digital Age
Prevents private platforms from becoming unaccountable data sovereigns.
Upholds rule of law in cyberspace.
4. Consumer Rights and Informational Self-Determination
Emphasises that users must control how their data is collected and used.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Weak Consent Architecture | Users accept terms without real choice |
| Regulatory Capacity | State struggles to regulate fast-evolving tech |
| Monopoly Power | Network effects limit user alternatives |
| Enforcement Gaps | Data protection law implementation still evolving |
| Digital Illiteracy | Users unaware of data implications |
C. Government Initiatives / Legal Framework
Right to Privacy jurisprudence (Article 21)
Digital Personal Data Protection framework (emerging regime)
Role of MeitY in regulating digital intermediaries
Competition law oversight for abuse of dominance
IT Rules governing intermediaries
D. Way Forward
Strengthen Data Protection Enforcement
Independent and empowered data protection authority.
Ensure Meaningful Consent
Plain-language policies, opt-in mechanisms, and granular choices.
Curb Data Monopolies
Use competition law to address abuse of dominance.
Digital Literacy and Awareness
Educate citizens on privacy rights and data usage.
Judicial–Regulatory Coordination
Courts and regulators must evolve coherent digital jurisprudence.
🧩 Conclusion
The Supreme Court’s intervention in the WhatsApp–Meta data sharing issue underscores a critical constitutional moment where privacy, technology, and governance intersect. As India’s digital economy expands, protecting individual rights against corporate overreach becomes central to democratic governance. Ensuring privacy-respecting innovation, robust regulation, and informed citizenship will be key to balancing technological progress with constitutional values.
🌐 India–US Trade Deal (18% Tariff)
Opportunities, Sovereignty Concerns & Implications for Assam
📘 APSC GS Prelims: International Trade | Tariffs | Current Affairs
📘 APSC GS Mains – III: Indian Economy | External Trade | Agriculture & Industry
📘 APSC GS Mains – II: Foreign Policy | International Relations
📘 APSC GS Mains – V (Assam): State Economy | Exports (Tea, MSMEs)
🔹 Introduction
As reported in The Assam Tribune (4 February 2026), India and the United States have moved towards a trade arrangement with an average tariff level of about 18%, while explicitly protecting India’s agricultural sector. The development has sparked debate on the balance between export opportunities, strategic partnerships, and economic sovereignty, particularly for sectors sensitive to global competition and for export-oriented States such as Assam.
🔑 Key Points (From the Newspaper)
| Aspect | Details |
| Average Tariff Level | ~18% |
| Agriculture | Protected / excluded from concessions |
| Rationale | Market access + strategic partnership |
| Concerns Raised | Sovereignty, farmer interests, MSME competitiveness |
| Political Debate | Impact on domestic industry and policy autonomy |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Tariff: A tax imposed on imports to protect domestic industry or raise revenue.
Trade Liberalisation: Reduction of tariffs and non-tariff barriers.
Sensitive Sectors: Often excluded to protect livelihoods (e.g., agriculture).
MFN Principle: Non-discrimination in trade (with permitted exceptions).
MSMEs are more vulnerable to sudden import competition.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance / Significance
1. Enhanced Market Access
Lower tariffs can improve Indian exports’ competitiveness in the US market.
Potential gains for manufacturing, services, and select agri-processing segments.
2. Strategic Economic Partnership
Trade engagement complements broader India–US strategic cooperation.
Diversifies India’s trade relations amid global supply-chain reconfiguration.
3. Policy Signal for Investors
Indicates India’s willingness to engage pragmatically while ring-fencing sensitivities.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Sovereignty Concerns | Perceived constraints on independent trade policy |
| MSME Competitiveness | Risk from cheaper imports without adequate safeguards |
| Adjustment Costs | Short-term stress for less competitive sectors |
| Compliance Burden | Standards, rules of origin, and regulatory alignment |
| Uneven Gains | Benefits may concentrate in a few sectors/regions |
C. Government Safeguards / Policy Posture
Protection of Agriculture to secure farmer livelihoods.
Calibrated Liberalisation rather than across-the-board tariff cuts.
Standards & Safeguards to manage import surges.
Export Promotion Measures for value-added goods.
D. Relevance for Assam
Export Opportunities
Tea, agro-processing, handicrafts, and MSMEs could benefit from better access.
Value-Addition Imperative
Need to move up the value chain to remain competitive.
Logistics & Standards
Improved compliance with quality standards and logistics to tap US markets.
Risk Mitigation
Support for MSMEs to withstand import competition.
E. Way Forward
Sector-Specific Impact Assessment
Identify winners/losers and tailor support accordingly.
Strengthen MSMEs
Credit, technology upgradation, and market intelligence.
Promote Value Addition
Branding, GI tagging, and processing for Assam’s products.
Trade Facilitation
Faster customs, quality certification, and export logistics.
Policy Autonomy with Engagement
Maintain flexibility through safeguard clauses and review mechanisms.
🧩 Conclusion
The India–US trade arrangement with an 18% tariff reflects a balanced approach to global integration—opening markets while protecting sensitive sectors. For Assam, the deal offers export potential alongside adjustment challenges. Realising gains will depend on value addition, MSME resilience, and supportive state-level interventions, ensuring that trade openness strengthens—rather than undermines—economic sovereignty and inclusive growth.
⚡ Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (2000 MW)
Energy Security, Federal Cooperation & Environmental Concerns
📘 APSC GS Prelims: Power Sector | Hydropower | Renewable Energy
📘 APSC GS Mains – III: Infrastructure | Energy | Environment
📘 APSC GS Mains – V (Assam): Power Sector | Flood Management | Assam–Arunachal Issues
🔹 Introduction
The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project (SLHEP)—India’s largest hydropower project with an installed capacity of 2000 MW—has moved closer to full commissioning with the commencement of commercial operation of its second 250 MW unit, as reported in The Assam Tribune (4 February 2026). Located on the Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border, the project occupies a critical position in India’s energy transition, while simultaneously raising concerns related to ecology, seismic safety, and downstream impacts in Assam.
🔑 Key Points (From the Newspaper)
| Aspect | Details |
| Project Name | Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project |
| Developer | NHPC Limited |
| Total Capacity | 2000 MW (8 × 250 MW) |
| River | Subansiri (tributary of Brahmaputra) |
| Location | Assam–Arunachal Pradesh border |
| Current Status | 2nd unit commissioned (commercial operation) |
| Strategic Role | NE power surplus & national grid support |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Subansiri River: Largest tributary of the Brahmaputra.
NHPC: India’s premier hydropower PSU.
Hydropower is a renewable but site-specific energy source.
Run-of-the-river projects may still involve large dams.
The North-East has over 40% of India’s hydropower potential.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance / Significance
1. Energy Security and Grid Stability
Adds large base-load renewable power to the national grid.
Helps reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
2. Regional Development of the North-East
Positions the NE as a power surplus region.
Facilitates industrial growth and investment.
3. Fiscal and Economic Benefits for Assam
Potential revenue through power sharing and local employment.
Ancillary infrastructure development.
4. Flood Moderation Potential
Regulated water release may aid flood management downstream if scientifically managed.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Seismic Vulnerability | Project lies in Seismic Zone V |
| Downstream Flood Risk | Sudden water release impacts Assam |
| Ecological Impact | Aquatic biodiversity & sediment flow disruption |
| Public Trust Deficit | Long-standing protests in downstream areas |
| Inter-State Coordination | Assam–Arunachal cooperation issues |
C. Government Initiatives / Safeguards
NHPC safety audits & expert committees
Dam-break analysis & disaster management plans
Real-time monitoring systems
Central Water Commission oversight
Power-sharing arrangements with Assam
D. Way Forward
Transparent Dam Safety Governance
Continuous safety audits and public disclosure.
Downstream Impact Mitigation
Scientific flow regulation and early warning systems.
Strengthen Inter-State Coordination
Institutional mechanisms between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Ecological Compensation
Biodiversity conservation and livelihood support.
Integrated Basin-Level Planning
Treat Subansiri–Brahmaputra basin holistically.
🧩 Conclusion
The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project symbolises both the promise and paradox of large hydropower in the North-East. While it can significantly bolster India’s renewable energy capacity and regional development, its success depends on robust safety assurance, ecological sensitivity, and cooperative federalism. For Assam, balancing energy benefits with environmental security remains the central governance challenge.
🌿 Deepor Beel Under Threat
Wetland Conservation, Urbanisation & Indigenous Livelihoods in Assam
📘 APSC GS Prelims: Environment | Ramsar Sites | Wetlands
📘 APSC GS Mains – III: Environment | Biodiversity | Climate Change
📘 APSC GS Mains – V (Assam): Ecology of Assam | Indigenous Communities | Urban Environmental Governance
🔹 Introduction
Deepor Beel, a permanent freshwater wetland on the south-western fringe of Guwahati, is Assam’s only Ramsar site and a critical ecological asset of the Brahmaputra valley. As highlighted in The Assam Tribune (4 February 2026) on the occasion of World Wetlands Day, the wetland is facing severe stress from urban encroachment, pollution, railway expansion, and marginalisation of indigenous fishing communities, raising urgent concerns about wetland governance and sustainable urban planning in Assam.
🔑 Key Points (From the Newspaper)
| Aspect | Details |
| Wetland Status | Ramsar Site (since 2002) |
| Location | South-west Guwahati |
| Ecological Role | Flood buffering, biodiversity, groundwater recharge |
| Key Threats | Encroachment, pollution, rail line, waste dumping |
| Communities Affected | Indigenous fishing communities |
| Occasion Highlighted | World Wetlands Day, 2026 |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Deepor Beel is Assam’s only Ramsar site.
Ramsar Convention: 1971, Iran; focuses on wetland conservation.
Wetlands act as natural flood buffers and carbon sinks.
Beels are freshwater wetlands typical of Assam.
Urban wetlands are protected under Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance / Significance
1. Ecological Security of Guwahati
Absorbs excess runoff and reduces urban flood intensity.
Supports rich avifaunal and aquatic biodiversity.
2. Climate Change Mitigation & Adaptation
Wetlands regulate microclimate and sequester carbon.
Enhance resilience against extreme rainfall events.
3. Livelihood Support
Sustains traditional fishing communities and associated cultural practices.
4. Urban Sustainability
Acts as a natural infrastructure complementing engineered drainage systems.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Encroachment | Unregulated construction and land filling |
| Pollution | Solid waste, sewage inflow |
| Infrastructure Pressure | Railways and road projects fragment habitat |
| Governance Gaps | Weak enforcement of wetland regulations |
| Social Marginalisation | Exclusion of indigenous voices in planning |
C. Government Initiatives / Legal Framework
Ramsar Convention obligations
Wetlands (Conservation & Management) Rules, 2017
National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Ecosystems (NPCA)
Assam State Wetland Authority
World Wetlands Day awareness initiatives
D. Way Forward
Strict Enforcement of Wetland Boundaries
Demarcation, fencing, and zero-encroachment policy.
Integrated Urban Planning
Align Guwahati Master Plan with ecological zoning.
Pollution Control Measures
Sewage treatment, waste management around the beel.
Community-Centric Conservation
Involve indigenous fishing communities in co-management.
Ecological Restoration
Rejuvenation of feeder channels and degraded zones.
🧩 Conclusion
The crisis facing Deepor Beel is emblematic of the broader conflict between rapid urbanisation and ecological sustainability in Assam. Protecting this Ramsar site is not merely an environmental obligation but a prerequisite for urban resilience, climate adaptation, and social justice. A shift towards eco-sensitive, participatory governance is essential to secure Deepor Beel’s future and Guwahati’s environmental stability.
APSC Prelims MCQs
Q1. The Supreme Court’s recent observations on WhatsApp–Meta data sharing primarily relate to which Fundamental Right?
A. Equality before law
B. Freedom of speech and expression
C. Right to life and personal liberty
D. Right to religion
✅ Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Right to Privacy, which is central to the WhatsApp–Meta case, is a part of Article 21 (Right to Life and Personal Liberty) as recognised in the Puttaswamy judgment.
Q2. In the context of digital governance, the term “silent customers” refers to:
A. Consumers who do not pay subscription fees
B. Users whose data is monetised without meaningful consent
C. Users who opt out of digital platforms
D. Victims of cyber fraud
✅ Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Supreme Court used the term “silent customers” to highlight users whose personal data is commercially exploited without informed and effective consent.
Q3. The India–US trade arrangement discussed in the newspaper proposes an average tariff level of approximately:
A. 10%
B. 15%
C. 18%
D. 25%
✅ Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The Assam Tribune reported that the India–US trade deal envisages an average tariff level of about 18%.
Q4. Which sector has been explicitly protected by India in the India–US trade deal?
A. Agriculture
B. Automobiles
C. Pharmaceuticals
D. Textiles
✅ Correct Answer: A
Explanation:
India has excluded agriculture from tariff concessions to safeguard farmer livelihoods and food security.
Q5. The Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project is being developed by:
A. National Thermal Power Corporation
B. National Hydroelectric Power Corporation
C. North Eastern Electric Power Corporation
D. Power Grid Corporation of India
✅ Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The NHPC (National Hydroelectric Power Corporation) is the developer of the Subansiri Lower Hydroelectric Project.
Q6. The Subansiri River is a tributary of the:
A. Barak
B. Brahmaputra
C. Dibang
D. Lohit
✅ Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Subansiri River is the largest tributary of the Brahmaputra River.
Q7. Deepor Beel is significant because it is:
A. Assam’s largest artificial lake
B. India’s first urban Ramsar site
C. The only Ramsar site in Assam
D. The source of the Bharalu River
✅ Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
Deepor Beel is the only Ramsar-listed wetland in Assam, designated in 2002.
Q8. Which of the following is NOT a key ecological function of wetlands like Deepor Beel?
A. Carbon sequestration
B. Flood buffering
C. Groundwater recharge
D. Mineral extraction
✅ Correct Answer: D
Explanation:
Wetlands provide ecological services such as flood control, groundwater recharge, and carbon sequestration, but mineral extraction is not a wetland function.
Q9. The Ramsar Convention, often mentioned in wetland conservation, was adopted in:
A. 1962 in Stockholm
B. 1971 in Iran
C. 1987 in Nairobi
D. 1992 in Rio de Janeiro
✅ Correct Answer: B
Explanation:
The Ramsar Convention was adopted in 1971 in Ramsar, Iran, for the conservation of wetlands.
Q10. Which of the following best explains why large hydropower projects in the North-East face heightened scrutiny?
A. Excess coal availability
B. Low power demand
C. Seismic vulnerability and ecological sensitivity
D. Uniform terrain conditions
✅ Correct Answer: C
Explanation:
The North-East lies in high seismic zones and has fragile ecosystems, making large hydropower projects environmentally and socially sensitive.
APSC Mains Practice Question
GS Mains Model Question
Paper: General Studies – III (Environment, Biodiversity, Climate Change)
Q. Urban wetlands like Deepor Beel are critical ecological assets, yet they are increasingly threatened by unplanned urbanisation and governance failures.
Examine the ecological and socio-economic significance of Deepor Beel and discuss the challenges involved in its conservation. Suggest a sustainable way forward.
(15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
Deepor Beel, located on the south-western fringe of Guwahati, is Assam’s only Ramsar-listed wetland and an integral part of the Brahmaputra valley ecosystem. As highlighted in The Assam Tribune (4 February 2026) on the occasion of World Wetlands Day, the wetland is under severe stress due to encroachment, pollution, infrastructure expansion, and neglect of indigenous livelihoods, raising serious concerns about urban ecological sustainability in Assam.
Body
A. Ecological and Socio-Economic Significance
- Flood Regulation and Climate Resilience
- Acts as a natural flood buffer by absorbing excess runoff during heavy rainfall.
- Enhances Guwahati’s resilience against climate-induced extreme events.
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Supports rich aquatic life and serves as a habitat for migratory birds.
- Contributes to ecological balance and carbon sequestration.
- Livelihood and Cultural Value
- Sustains traditional fishing communities and indigenous knowledge systems.
- Forms part of the socio-cultural fabric of local communities.
- Urban Environmental Support
- Complements engineered drainage systems and groundwater recharge.
B. Challenges in Conservation
- Encroachment and Land Filling driven by rapid urban expansion.
- Pollution from solid waste dumping and untreated sewage inflow.
- Infrastructure Pressure, including rail and road projects fragmenting habitats.
- Governance Deficits, marked by weak enforcement of wetland regulations.
- Marginalisation of Local Communities in planning and decision-making.
C. Way Forward
- Strict Enforcement of Wetland Protection Laws
- Clear demarcation and zero-tolerance towards encroachment.
- Integrated Urban Planning
- Align city master plans with ecological zoning and wetland conservation.
- Community-Based Conservation
- Involve indigenous fishing communities in co-management frameworks.
- Pollution Control and Restoration
- Sewage treatment, waste management, and restoration of feeder channels.
- Awareness and Institutional Accountability
- Strengthen the role of wetland authorities and promote public stewardship.
Conclusion
The crisis facing Deepor Beel reflects a broader conflict between urban growth and ecological sustainability. Protecting this Ramsar site is not merely an environmental obligation but a prerequisite for urban resilience, climate adaptation, and social justice. A participatory, ecosystem-based governance approach is essential to ensure that Deepor Beel continues to function as Guwahati’s ecological lifeline rather than becoming a casualty of unplanned development.
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