APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (29/07/2026)
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 29 July 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 Foundation Course, 2026
Assam Higher Education Council Bill, 2026
- GS Paper II: Governance | Government Policies & Interventions | Education | Social Sector
- GS Paper V (Assam Specific): Education | Governance | Public Policy
🔴 Introduction
- Introduced in the Assam Legislative Assembly (July 2026) to establish the Assam Higher Education Council (AHEC).
- Objective: To act as an apex coordinating mechanism for higher education in the state.
- Need: Bridges the existing gap between the State Government, the University Grants Commission (UGC), and higher educational institutions by facilitating governance, academic coordination, and quality assurance in alignment with the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
🔴 Key Features of the Bill
- Introduced By: Education Minister.
- Institutional Structure: Two-tier system comprising a General Council and an Executive Council.
- Coverage: Universities, autonomous colleges, and affiliated colleges.
- Primary Focus: Governance, academic planning, higher education reforms, and acting as a state-level intermediary.
🔴 Why was the Council Needed?
- Fragmented Governance: Currently, UGC regulates nationally, universities maintain statutory autonomy, and the Directorate of Higher Education manages administrative functions independently.
- Institutional Gap: Assam lacked a dedicated state-level institution for long-term planning and academic coordination among stakeholders.
🔴 Proposed Structure of the Council
- 1. General Council:
- Composition: Representatives from universities, colleges (autonomous/general), a UGC nominee, and other stakeholders.
- Role: Policy guidance, academic planning, long-term vision, and institutional coordination.
- 2. Executive Council:
- Composition: Headed by senior Government officials.
- Role: Implementation of Council decisions, reform coordination, administrative supervision, and resource planning.
🔴 Objectives of the Council
- Academic Coordination: Synchronize curriculum, promote multidisciplinary education, and facilitate credit transfers and collaborations.
- Governance: Improve institutional coordination, enhance transparency, ensure accountability, and foster data-driven policymaking.
- Quality Assurance: Promote National Assessment and Accreditation Council (NAAC) accreditation, improve rankings, and enhance teaching and research standards.
- NEP Implementation: Enable Multiple Entry-Multiple Exit (MEME), the Academic Bank of Credits (ABC), skill-based, and digital education.
🔴 Connection with NEP 2020
- Institutional Restructuring: Supports the shift toward large multidisciplinary institutions with academic flexibility and autonomy.
- Quality & Research: Aligns with outcome-based education, continuous improvement, and building a strong research ecosystem.
- Governance & Digital Transition: Reduces regulatory overlap, promotes professional management, and implements technology-enabled governance (e.g., digital admissions and data management).
🔴 Comparison with Other States
- Assam’s proposed model mirrors successful Higher Education Councils in other states designed for academic planning and quality improvement, such as the Tamil Nadu State Council for Higher Education (TANSCHE), and similar councils in Karnataka, Kerala, and Maharashtra.
🔴 Prelims Specific
- National Education Policy (NEP), 2020: Approved in 2020 (replacing 1986 policy). Key reforms include MEME, ABC, four-year undergraduate programmes, and digital learning.
- Constitutional Status: Education falls under the Concurrent List (Entry 25, List III).
- University Grants Commission (UGC): Statutory body under the UGC Act, 1956 to coordinate and maintain higher education standards.
- Higher Education Commission of India (HECI): A proposed apex body under NEP 2020 to streamline regulation.
- SAMARTH Portal: A digital platform adopted by Assam for academic processes and student migration.
- Other Key Terms: Pradhan Mantri Uchchatar Shiksha Abhiyan (PM-USHA), State Higher Education Councils.
🔴 Mains Pointers
A. Importance & Benefits for Assam:
- Better Governance: Reduces institutional fragmentation and ensures uniform implementation of NEP 2020.
- Academic Excellence: Promotes innovation, improves curriculum, and strengthens the state-wide research ecosystem.
- Quality Assurance: Encourages accreditation, enhances outcome-based education, and improves institutional rankings.
- Policy Planning: Creates a state-wide database for evidence-based policymaking, leading to improved employability and monitoring.
B. Challenges:
- Institutional Autonomy: Universities may fear excessive governmental interference.
- Resource Deficits: Funding constraints and faculty shortages.
- Infrastructure & Digital Divide: Uneven digital access and poor physical infrastructure in rural colleges.
- Coordination: Harmonizing policies across diverse institutions will be complex.
C. Government Initiatives:
- National: NEP 2020, ABC, PM-USHA (formerly RUSA), proposed National Digital University, National Research Foundation (NRF), and Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 4.
- Assam: AHEC Bill, 2026, SAMARTH Portal implementation, expansion of institutions, and digital governance drives.
🔴 Way Forward
- Autonomy with Accountability: Ensure transparent oversight without compromising statutory university autonomy.
- Outcome-Based Governance: Use measurable indicators for quality, employability, and research output.
- Digital Ecosystem: Expand integrated digital platforms for admissions, exams, and records.
- Promote Research: Strengthen funding, university-industry ties, and incubation centres.
- Inclusive Capacity Building: Invest in faculty development and ensure access for rural, tribal, differently-abled, and economically weaker students.
🔴 Conclusion
The Assam Higher Education Council Bill, 2026 is a vital reform to create an efficient, quality-oriented higher education ecosystem. By bridging the State Government, UGC, and institutions, it accelerates NEP 2020 objectives. Its ultimate success relies on securing adequate funding, protecting institutional autonomy, and ensuring sustained capacity building across Assam.
NER Animal Health Security for Viksit Bharat
- GS Paper III: Agriculture | Animal Husbandry | Science & Technology | Food Security | Economic Development
- GS Paper II: Government Policies | Health | Governance
- GS Paper V (Assam Specific): Animal Husbandry | Fisheries | Agriculture | Rural Economy
🔴 Introduction
- The Regional Conference on “NER Animal Health Security for Viksit Bharat” was inaugurated on 28 July 2026 at the Assam Veterinary and Fishery University (AVFU), Khanapara, by the Assam Governor.
- Objective: To bring together scientists, policymakers, and Northeastern states to strengthen animal disease surveillance, veterinary infrastructure, livestock productivity, and regional cooperation.
- Vision: Emphasized that healthy livestock and the One Health approach are indispensable for achieving Viksit Bharat by 2047.
🔴 Key Points
- Organiser: College of Veterinary Science, AVFU.
- Participants: Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) scientists, veterinary experts, policymakers, and all Northeastern states.
- Major Theme: Disease surveillance, diagnostics, One Health, and digital veterinary systems.
🔴 Why is Animal Health Security Important?
- Involves the prevention, early detection, surveillance, and control of animal diseases.
- Protects: Livestock productivity, public health, food security, farmers’ livelihoods, national economy, biodiversity, and international trade.
- It is an essential component of national biosecurity and resilience.
🔴 Why is the Northeast Region Strategically Important?
- International Borders: Shares boundaries with Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, Myanmar, and Nepal, increasing risks of transboundary animal diseases.
- Environment: Rich biodiversity, extensive wildlife-livestock interaction, and high rainfall/humidity favorable to pathogens.
- Livelihoods: Heavy rural dependence on livestock, poultry, pigs, goats, and fisheries.
🔴 Major Objectives of the Conference
- Disease Surveillance: Early detection of outbreaks, real-time reporting, and improved laboratory networks.
- Diagnostic Capacity: Modernizing labs, utilizing molecular diagnostics, and enabling faster disease confirmation.
- Promote One Health: Integrating veterinary, medical, and environmental sectors for a joint response to zoonotic diseases.
- Regional Coordination: Cooperation among Northeastern states for sharing data and best practices.
- Digital Veterinary Governance: Launch of two digital applications (NER-LDF and PDDES) by the Governor to improve disease management and surveillance.
🔴 One Health Approach
- Definition: An integrated approach recognizing that the health of humans, animals, plants, and the environment are interconnected.
- Importance: Controls zoonotic diseases, improves food safety, supports Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) control, strengthens pandemic preparedness, and protects biodiversity.
🔴 Major Animal Diseases Relevant to India & Northeast
- Viral Diseases: Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD), Lumpy Skin Disease (LSD), African Swine Fever (ASF), Classical Swine Fever (CSF), Peste des Petits Ruminants (PPR), Avian Influenza (Bird Flu).
- Bacterial Diseases: Brucellosis, Anthrax, Tuberculosis.
- Parasitic Diseases: Trypanosomiasis, Helminth infections.
🔴 Government Initiatives
- National:
- National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP): Nationwide vaccination to eradicate FMD and control Brucellosis.
- Livestock Health & Disease Control Programme (LHDCP): Focuses on vaccination, surveillance, diagnostic labs, and veterinary infrastructure.
- Rashtriya Gokul Mission: Enhances indigenous cattle genetics.
- National Livestock Mission (NLM): Supports breed improvement, feed/fodder development, and entrepreneurship.
- e-Gopala App: Provides digital livestock services and breed information.
- Assam Specific:
- Strengthening veterinary hospitals/dispensaries, vaccination campaigns, Commercial Poultry Policy, and utilizing AVFU for specialized research.
🔴 Prelims Pointers
- Assam Veterinary and Fishery University (AVFU): Public university in Guwahati specializing in veterinary and fishery sciences.
- Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR): Apex body for agricultural research under the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare.
- One Health: Supported globally by the World Health Organization (WHO), Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH), and United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
- WOAH: Formerly OIE; sets international standards for animal health reporting.
- Zoonotic Diseases: Transmitted from animals to humans (e.g., Rabies, Brucellosis, Avian Influenza, Nipah, Anthrax).
🔴 Mains Pointers
A. Importance:
- Food Security & Income: Healthy livestock boosts milk, meat, and egg production, reducing economic losses for farmers.
- Public Health & Biosecurity: Curbs zoonotic diseases and reduces transboundary disease risks.
- Economic Growth: Boosts exports, allied industries, and contributes to inclusive growth for Viksit Bharat 2047.
B. Challenges:
- Border Vulnerability: Cross-border transmission of pathogens.
- Infrastructure Deficits: Limited diagnostic facilities and a shortage of veterinary manpower in remote areas.
- Environmental Factors: Climate change expanding disease vectors; rising wildlife-livestock interactions.
- Health & Tech: Rising AMR due to indiscriminate antibiotic use; digital gaps in remote surveillance.
C. Government Initiatives:
- Implementation of NADCP, LHDCP, NLM, and digital surveillance systems (NER-LDF, PDDES) to combat these challenges comprehensively.
🔴 Way Forward
- Strengthen Surveillance & Infrastructure: Develop integrated real-time networks linking labs, border check-posts, and upgraded mobile clinics/cold-chains.
- Operationalise One Health: Institutionalize collaboration across health, veterinary, wildlife, and environmental departments.
- Digital & Regional Integration: Scale up GIS mapping, AI outbreak prediction, and cooperation among Northeastern states and neighboring countries.
- Research & Innovation: Support genomic surveillance and indigenous vaccine development via ICAR and AVFU.
🔴 Relevant Reports & Organisations
- NADCP, LHDCP, NLM, WOAH, FAO, WHO, UNEP.
- One Health Joint Plan of Action (2022–2026).
🔴 Conclusion
The conference marks a strategic shift towards a preventive, technology-driven animal health system. By integrating One Health, robust digital surveillance, and regional cooperation, the Northeast can build a resilient livestock ecosystem, safeguarding food security and driving the vision of Viksit Bharat 2047.
Assam Floods: Scientific Flood Management and the Way Forward
- GS Paper III: Disaster Management | Environment | Climate Change | Water Resources
- GS Paper II: Governance | Centre–State Coordination | Public Policy
- GS Paper V (Assam Specific): Floods & River Erosion | Disaster Management | Environment | Rural Development
🔴 Introduction
- The 2026 floods in Upper Assam (Sivasagar, Charaideo, Jorhat) exposed the limitations of conventional flood-control measures.
- Core Argument: Assam requires a shift from a relief-centric approach to scientific, basin-wide flood management combining engineering solutions, ecological restoration, regional cooperation, and community preparedness.
- Immediate Causes: Heavy rainfall, runoff from Nagaland hills, and overflowing tributaries of the Brahmaputra.
- Underlying Factors: Deforestation, hill cutting, encroachment, siltation, wetland degradation, and climate change.
🔴 Why are Floods Becoming More Severe in Assam?
- Geographical Factors: The Brahmaputra is a massive braided river joined by over 50 tributaries, handling enormous runoff from steep Himalayan catchments and intense monsoons.
- Deforestation in Catchment Areas: Illegal logging, hill cutting, and encroachments increase soil erosion and river sediment load.
- Excessive Siltation: Heavy sediment deposition raises riverbeds, reducing carrying capacity and increasing overflow frequency.
- Climate Change: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) indicates rising occurrences of extreme rainfall, cloudbursts, flash floods, and monsoon variability in Northeast India.
- Wetland Degradation: Encroachment and degradation of wetlands (beels) severely reduce their natural capacity to store floodwater.
- Unplanned Development: Construction on floodplains, roads blocking natural drainage, and poor urban drainage amplify flood intensity.
🔴 Brahmaputra Basin: Why Basin-Level Planning is Essential?
- The Brahmaputra Basin spans China (Tibet), India, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
- Flood management cannot be limited to Assam; it requires a basin-wide approach that accounts for upstream rainfall, tributary inflows, sediment movement, reservoir operations, and land-use changes.
🔴 Ecological Solutions (Nature-based Solutions)
- Wetland Restoration: Revive beels to act as natural flood reservoirs and improve groundwater recharge.
- Afforestation: Restore degraded forests to curb surface runoff and soil erosion.
- Catchment Area Treatment: Implement soil conservation, check dams, contour trenching, and vegetative barriers.
- River Corridor Protection: Prevent floodplain encroachment and preserve natural drainage channels.
🔴 Technology-Based Flood Management
- Remote Sensing & Geographic Information System (GIS): Essential for flood mapping, hazard zonation, and vulnerability planning.
- Doppler Weather Radar: Enables short-term, accurate rainfall forecasting.
- Satellite Monitoring: Tracks river morphology, sediment movement, and land-use changes.
- Artificial Intelligence (AI): AI-based forecasting predicts flood peaks and aids in evacuation planning.
- Community-Based Early Warning Systems: Utilizes Short Message Service (SMS) alerts, mobile apps, and village volunteers.
🔴 Disaster Preparedness & Regional Cooperation
- Preparedness: Shift from response to readiness by pre-positioning rescue boats, stockpiling supplies, building elevated shelters, and conducting mock drills.
- Inter-State/Regional Cooperation: Coordinated management with Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Bhutan, and the Central Government is critical for rainfall data sharing, reservoir coordination, and disaster response.
🔴 Prelims Pointers
- Brahmaputra River: Originates at the Angsi Glacier (Tibet). Known as Yarlung Tsangpo (China), Siang/Dihang (Arunachal Pradesh), Brahmaputra (Assam), and Jamuna (Bangladesh).
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Established under the Disaster Management Act, 2005; chaired by the Prime Minister.
- Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA): State agency responsible for disaster preparedness, mitigation, response, and rehabilitation.
- Sendai Framework (2015–2030): Global framework focusing on disaster risk reduction, resilience, and “Build Back Better”.
- Flood Plain Zoning: A non-structural mitigation strategy that regulates land use in highly flood-prone areas.
🔴 Mains Pointers A. Importance of Scientific Flood Management:
- Environmental: Protects wetlands and biodiversity; curbs land degradation.
- Economic: Minimizes crop/infrastructure loss and lowers disaster expenditure.
- Social & Governance: Saves lives, prevents displacement, and strengthens institutional coordination.
B. Challenges:
- More frequent extreme rainfall (climate change).
- Heavy sediment load raising riverbeds.
- Encroachment on floodplains/wetlands and weak urban drainage.
- Complex interstate coordination and a lack of real-time hydrological data.
- Over-reliance on structural measures (embankments) that frequently breach.
C. Government Initiatives:
- National: Disaster Management Act, 2005, National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP), Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP), National Hydrology Project, Dam Safety Act, 2021, and the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF).
- Assam: ASDMA, river embankment strengthening, flood early warning systems, and wetland conservation initiatives.
🔴 Way Forward
- Adopt Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM): Plan comprehensively across the entire Brahmaputra basin.
- Restore Natural Ecosystems: Protect forests and wetlands to enhance natural flood buffering.
- Strengthen Early Warning Systems: Utilize satellite data, AI forecasting, and community dissemination.
- Build Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Construct elevated roads, schools, and hospitals in vulnerable zones.
- Promote Community Participation & Regional Cooperation: Empower Panchayats and institutionalize data-sharing/joint watershed management among Northeastern states and neighboring countries.
🔴 Relevant Reports & APSC/UPSC Relevance
- Policies & Reports: NDMP 2019, Sendai Framework, FMBAP, Assam State Action Plan on Climate Change, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) 11, 13, and 15.
- Prelims Relevance: NDMA, ASDMA, Disaster Management Act, Sendai Framework, IRBM, and Brahmaputra geography.
- Mains Relevance: Centre-State coordination (GS II), nature-based disaster mitigation (GS III), and Brahmaputra basin management and resilience (GS V).
🔴 Conclusion
The 2026 floods demonstrate that Assam’s vulnerability is a complex mix of geography, climate change, and ecological degradation. Achieving long-term resilience requires transitioning from reactive relief to science-based, basin-level governance that integrates engineering, ecosystem restoration, and community preparedness.
South East Guwahati Water Supply Project
- GS Paper II: Governance | Urban Development | Government Policies & Interventions | Public Service Delivery
- GS Paper III: Infrastructure | Urban Planning | Sustainable Development
- GS Paper V (Assam Specific): Urban Infrastructure | Water Resource Management | Sustainable Cities
🔴 Introduction
- A major urban infrastructure initiative to provide safe, reliable, and sustainable piped drinking water to the rapidly expanding southeastern parts of Guwahati.
- Expected to be commissioned by May 2029, reducing dependence on groundwater extraction and private water tankers.
- Part of Assam’s broader strategy to modernize urban infrastructure and enhance capital city living standards.
🔴 Key Features
- Project: South East Guwahati Water Supply Project.
- Objective: Provide continuous (treated and safe) drinking water to the underserved southeastern localities.
- Focus: Urban water security, public health, and sustainable urban development.
🔴 Why is the Project Needed?
- Guwahati is facing rapid population growth and urban expansion, leading to soaring potable water demand.
- Challenges: Inadequate piped water coverage, heavy reliance on borewells, seasonal water scarcity, water quality concerns, unequal distribution, and massive pressure on existing infrastructure.
🔴 Objectives of the Project
- Universal Access: Ensure reliable piped drinking water in underserved households.
- Improve Public Health: Supply treated water to curb water-borne diseases.
- Reduce Groundwater Exploitation: Curtail reliance on private borewells.
- Support Urban Growth & Sustainability: Meet expanding residential/commercial needs while developing a resilient, future-ready system.
🔴 Components of a Modern Urban Water Supply System
- Water intake structures, Water Treatment Plant (WTP), pumping stations, transmission mains, service reservoirs, and distribution pipelines.
- Household connections coupled with smart metering and leak detection systems.
- Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) for real-time monitoring and efficient operations.
🔴 Importance for Guwahati
- Water Security & Health: Ensures long-term availability of safe drinking water and reduces risks of cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
- Urban & Economic Growth: Supports industries, institutions, and housing, thereby attracting investment and boosting productivity.
- Environmental Benefits: Mitigates excessive groundwater extraction for sustainable resource management.
🔴 Prelims Pointers
- Jal Jeevan Mission (Urban): Aims at universal urban drinking water access via integrated management.
- Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 6: Focuses on the availability and sustainable management of water and sanitation for all (targets universal safe drinking water and efficient use).
- Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Focuses on water supply, sewerage, stormwater drainage, and green spaces.
- Smart Cities Mission: Complements water supply investments with digital services and urban governance upgrades in Guwahati.
🔴 Mains Pointers A. Importance:
- Ensures urban water security for a growing metropolis.
- Lowers disease burden, fostering better public health.
- Supports sustainable urbanization and climate resilience against changing rainfall patterns.
B. Challenges:
- Demand vs. Supply: Urban expansion outpaces infrastructure development.
- Non-Revenue Water (NRW): Efficiency loss due to leakages and illegal connections.
- Sustainability: High capital/maintenance costs and ensuring year-round raw water availability.
- Vulnerabilities: Urban flooding can disrupt water infrastructure and treatment plants.
C. Government Initiatives:
- National: Jal Jeevan Mission, AMRUT 2.0, Smart Cities Mission, National Water Policy (2012), and Atal Bhujal Yojana (groundwater management).
- Assam: South East Guwahati Water Supply Project, Guwahati Metropolitan Drinking Water and Sewerage Board (GMDWSB), and ongoing urban infrastructure drives.
🔴 Way Forward
- Adopt Integrated Urban Water Management (IUWM): Coordinate water supply, wastewater, stormwater, and groundwater management.
- Reduce NRW: Deploy smart metering, leak detection tech, and regular maintenance.
- Promote Conservation: Encourage rainwater harvesting, water-efficient fixtures, and wastewater reuse.
- Digital Water Governance: Utilize SCADA, Geographic Information System (GIS)-based pipeline mapping, and real-time monitoring.
- Climate-Resilient Infrastructure & Community Participation: Design flood-resistant networks and promote citizen awareness on conservation and leak reporting.
🔴 Relevant Reports & Policies
- National Water Policy (2012), AMRUT 2.0, Jal Jeevan Mission, Smart Cities Mission, SDG 6 (Clean Water) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities).
🔴 APSC/UPSC Relevance
- Prelims: Jal Jeevan Mission, AMRUT 2.0, SDG 6, IUWM, NRW, and SCADA systems.
- Mains: Urban governance and public utility delivery (GS II); Sustainable development, climate-resilient planning, and water resource management (GS III); Urbanization challenges and infrastructure in Assam (GS V).
🔴 Conclusion
The South East Guwahati Water Supply Project is a pivotal investment in Assam’s urban future. By providing safe, reliable drinking water, it directly supports public health and sustainable economic growth. Its ultimate success relies on minimizing leakage, integrating digital monitoring, and strictly adhering to integrated urban water management principles.
APSC Prelims MCQs
Q1. With reference to the proposed Assam Higher Education Council, 2026, consider the following statements:
- It is proposed as an intermediary institution between the State Government, UGC and universities.
- It seeks to facilitate implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020.
- It will replace the University Grants Commission (UGC) in Assam.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation: The proposed Council is intended to improve coordination and governance in higher education under NEP 2020. It does not replace the UGC, which remains the national statutory regulator.
Q2. Consider the following features of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:
- Academic Bank of Credits
- Multiple Entry and Multiple Exit
- National Research Foundation
- Rigid disciplinary boundaries in higher education
Which of the above are provisions of NEP 2020?
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: A
Explanation: NEP 2020 promotes multidisciplinary education and flexibility; it removes rigid disciplinary boundaries.
Q3. Which one of the following best describes the “One Health” approach?
A. Integration of human, animal and environmental health for disease prevention.
B. Universal health insurance for livestock owners.
C. Exclusive disease surveillance in wildlife.
D. Digitalization of hospitals using artificial intelligence.
Answer: A
Explanation: One Health recognizes the interdependence of human, animal and environmental health, particularly for controlling zoonotic diseases.
Q4. Which of the following diseases are primarily targeted under the National Animal Disease Control Programme (NADCP)?
- Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD)
- Brucellosis
- African Swine Fever
- Lumpy Skin Disease
Select the correct answer using the code below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: A
Explanation: NADCP focuses on eradication of Foot and Mouth Disease and control of Brucellosis.
Q5. Which one of the following organizations is the international standard-setting body for animal health?
A. FAO
B. WHO
C. World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH)
D. UNEP
Answer: C
Explanation: WOAH (formerly OIE) develops international standards for animal health, disease reporting and veterinary services.
Q6. Consider the following factors contributing to recurrent floods in Assam:
- Heavy sediment deposition in the Brahmaputra.
- Degradation of wetlands.
- Deforestation in upstream catchments.
- Expansion of floodplains through natural restoration.
Which of the above contribute to increased flood vulnerability?
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: A
Explanation: Floodplain restoration reduces flood risk, whereas siltation, wetland degradation and deforestation increase vulnerability.
Q7. Which one of the following is the most appropriate objective of Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM)?
A. Construction of embankments along the entire river course.
B. Management of rivers considering the entire catchment, ecology and water resources.
C. Diversion of river water for irrigation only.
D. Restricting river management to district-level authorities.
Answer: B
Explanation: IRBM integrates hydrology, ecology, land use and stakeholder participation across the entire river basin.
Q8. Which of the following are examples of structural flood mitigation measures?
- Embankments
- Flood forecasting
- Dams
- Floodplain zoning
Select the correct answer using the code below.
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 3 and 4 only
Answer: A
Explanation: Embankments and dams are structural measures. Flood forecasting and floodplain zoning are non-structural measures.
Q9. The Sendai Framework, frequently seen in the news, primarily deals with:
A. Biodiversity conservation
B. Disaster Risk Reduction
C. Climate finance
D. Marine pollution
Answer: B
Explanation: The Sendai Framework (2015–2030) is the global framework for Disaster Risk Reduction.
Q10. With reference to urban water supply systems, consider the following statements:
- Water Treatment Plants (WTPs) ensure potable water before distribution.
- SCADA systems enable real-time monitoring of water supply networks.
- Non-Revenue Water (NRW) refers only to water supplied free of cost by governments.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation: NRW includes losses due to leakages, theft, meter inaccuracies and unbilled consumption, not merely free supply.
Q11. Which of the following Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) are directly related to the South East Guwahati Water Supply Project?
- SDG 6 – Clean Water and Sanitation
- SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities
- SDG 13 – Climate Action
Select the correct answer using the code below.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only
Answer: C
Explanation: Urban water infrastructure contributes to safe water access, sustainable cities and climate resilience.
Q12. Consider the following pairs:
| Institution | Primary Function |
| 1. UGC | Coordination and maintenance of standards in higher education |
| 2. ICAR | Agricultural research and education |
| 3. WOAH | International standards for animal health |
How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?
A. Only one
B. Only two
C. All three
D. None
Answer: C
Explanation: All three institutions are correctly matched with their primary functions.
Q13. Which one of the following measures would be most effective in reducing both flood risk and groundwater depletion?
A. Increasing groundwater extraction
B. Restoration of wetlands
C. Concreting riverbanks
D. Straightening river channels
Answer: B
Explanation: Wetlands act as natural sponges, reducing flood peaks while enhancing groundwater recharge.
Q14. Consider the following statements regarding zoonotic diseases:
- They are diseases naturally transmitted between animals and humans.
- The One Health approach is relevant for their prevention and control.
- Rabies and Brucellosis are examples of zoonotic diseases.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: D
Explanation: All three statements are correct. Rabies and Brucellosis are important zoonoses, and One Health provides an integrated framework for managing them.
Q15. Consider the following statements:
- Scientific flood management emphasizes river-basin planning rather than isolated structural interventions.
- Nature-based solutions such as wetland restoration can reduce flood intensity.
- Climate change has no significant influence on extreme rainfall events in Northeast India.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation: Scientific flood management integrates basin-level planning with ecosystem restoration. Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme rainfall events, making Statement 3 incorrect.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📘 GS Mains Model Question (APSC CCE)
📝 Question
Q. “Recurring floods in Assam require a paradigm shift from relief-centric measures to scientific and integrated river basin management.” Discuss in the light of the recent floods in Assam. (15 Marks, 250 Words)
Model Answer
Introduction
The 2026 floods in Upper Assam, particularly in Sivasagar, Charaideo and Jorhat, highlighted the growing vulnerability of the Brahmaputra basin to climate-induced disasters. As noted in the Assam Tribune editorial, sustainable flood management requires scientific planning, ecological restoration and regional cooperation, rather than relying solely on post-disaster relief.
Body
1. Why Floods in Assam are Becoming More Severe
- Climate change has increased the frequency of extreme rainfall events and cloudbursts.
- Deforestation and hill cutting in upstream catchments accelerate runoff and soil erosion.
- Heavy siltation has reduced the carrying capacity of the Brahmaputra and its tributaries.
- Encroachment of wetlands and floodplains has diminished natural water retention.
- Rapid urbanisation with inadequate drainage has aggravated urban flooding.
2. Why Relief-Centric Management is Inadequate
- Focuses mainly on rescue and compensation after disasters.
- Does not address root causes such as watershed degradation and land-use changes.
- Recurrent expenditure on relief creates a significant fiscal burden.
- Communities remain vulnerable due to inadequate preparedness and resilience.
3. Scientific and Integrated Flood Management
(a) Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM)
- Basin-level planning for the entire Brahmaputra river system.
- Coordination among Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Bhutan and Bangladesh.
- Scientific sediment management and catchment conservation.
(b) Nature-based Solutions
- Restoration of wetlands (beels) as natural flood buffers.
- Afforestation in upper catchments.
- Protection of floodplains and natural drainage channels.
- Riverbank stabilization using bioengineering techniques.
(c) Technology-driven Disaster Management
- GIS and Remote Sensing for flood-risk mapping.
- AI-enabled flood forecasting and hydrological modelling.
- Doppler Weather Radars and satellite-based early warning systems.
- Real-time data sharing among disaster management agencies.
(d) Community-Centred Preparedness
- Village Disaster Management Committees.
- Mock drills and awareness campaigns.
- Raised community shelters and livestock shelters.
- Strengthening local disaster volunteers under the Incident Response System (IRS).
4. Government Initiatives
- Disaster Management Act, 2005
- National Disaster Management Plan (NDMP)
- Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP)
- Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA)
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030)
Way Forward
- Adopt Integrated River Basin Management for the Brahmaputra basin.
- Establish a Brahmaputra Basin Authority for coordinated planning and data sharing.
- Promote ecosystem-based adaptation, including wetland restoration and afforestation.
- Modernise flood forecasting with AI, GIS and satellite technologies.
- Enforce floodplain zoning regulations and climate-resilient infrastructure standards.
- Strengthen transboundary cooperation with neighbouring States and countries for sustainable watershed management.
Conclusion
Floods in Assam are no longer merely seasonal hydrological events but complex manifestations of climate change, ecological degradation and governance challenges. A transition from reactive relief to scientific, basin-wide and ecosystem-based flood governance, supported by technology and community participation, is essential for safeguarding lives, livelihoods and ensuring sustainable development in the Brahmaputra valley. Such an approach aligns with the vision of “Build Back Better” under the Sendai Framework and contributes to a resilient and climate-ready Assam.
✨ APSC CCE Courses, 2025-26 offered by SuchitraACS
🔔 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
