APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 28/02/2026

For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, practicing Daily Answer Writing is vital. This blog covers the most important Main question and its model Answer from the Assam Tribune today (28-02-2026).

GS Mains Model Question & Answer

Model Question (250 Words)

“Inland water transport has the potential to transform the economic geography of Northeast India. Examine the strategic and economic significance of developing National Waterway-2 (NW-2) along the Brahmaputra, with special reference to recent infrastructure initiatives in Assam.”

Model Answer

Introduction

The Brahmaputra, declared as National Waterway-2 (NW-2) under the National Waterways Act, 2016, is emerging as a strategic logistics artery for Northeast India. Recent inauguration of Customs and Immigration complexes at Bogibeel and Dhubri, along with upgraded IWAI infrastructure in Dibrugarh, reflects a renewed thrust towards inland water transport (IWT) development.

Strategic Significance

1. Gateway to Act East Policy:
   NW-2 strengthens connectivity with Bangladesh through Protocol routes, reducing logistical isolation of the Northeast.
2. Border & Security Relevance:
   Enhanced river infrastructure improves surveillance, disaster response, and border management capacity.
3. Multimodal Integration:
   Alignment with PM Gati Shakti enables seamless integration of road–rail–river networks.

Economic Significance

1. Reduction in Logistics Cost:
   IWT offers lower per tonne-kilometre freight cost compared to road transport.
2. Trade Facilitation:
   Customs-integrated terminals at Bogibeel and Dhubri promote cross-border commerce with Bangladesh and Bhutan.
3. Industrial & Tourism Growth:
   River cruise tourism and cargo transport (tea, petroleum, agri-products) stimulate local employment and regional value chains.

Challenges

• Siltation and seasonal navigability issues.
• Ecological fragility of the Brahmaputra basin.
• Limited private sector participation.

Way Forward

• Assured dredging and fairway maintenance.
• Digital customs clearance systems.
• Promotion of containerisation and PPP models.
• Environmental safeguards with riverbank stabilisation.

Conclusion

The development of NW-2 marks a paradigm shift in Northeast connectivity. If supported by sustained infrastructural investment and environmental prudence, the Brahmaputra can evolve from a symbolic lifeline into a competitive economic corridor, reshaping Assam’s growth trajectory and strengthening India’s eastern strategic footprint.

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