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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 03/12/2024

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 (03-12-2024).

Topic: Project INROAD: Rubber Plantation Expansion
GS Paper 3: Economy, Agriculture

The Northeast region’s inclusion in Project INROAD aims to enhance India’s rubber production while fostering economic growth and sustainability. Discuss the economic and environmental implications of this initiative. Highlight the challenges and suggest measures for its effective implementation.

Model Answer

Introduction:
Project INROAD (Indian Natural Rubber Operations for Assisted Development) is a transformative initiative targeting the Northeast and West Bengal for rubber plantation expansion. With a goal to cover 2 lakh hectares over 8–10 years, the project seeks to increase the region’s share in India’s rubber production from 16% to 32%.

Economic and Environmental Implications:

Economic Implications:
- Boost to Farmers’ Income: Provides a steady source of income for small and marginal farmers.
- Employment Generation: Creates direct and indirect jobs, particularly in rural and tribal areas.
- Reduced Import Dependency: Strengthens India’s position in rubber production, reducing reliance on imports.
- Industry Growth: Supports tyre manufacturing companies, ensuring a consistent supply chain.
Environmental Implications:
- Sustainable Practices: Encourages eco-friendly plantation techniques, reducing environmental degradation.
- Carbon Sequestration: Rubber plantations contribute to mitigating climate change by acting as carbon sinks.
- Biodiversity Concerns: Risk of monoculture plantations impacting local ecosystems.

Challenges:

Climatic Vulnerabilities: Unpredictable weather patterns in the Northeast can affect yield.
Logistical Constraints: Poor infrastructure hampers transportation of raw rubber to processing units.
Farmer Training: Lack of awareness and expertise in modern rubber cultivation techniques.
Ecological Risks: Potential loss of biodiversity and soil degradation due to large-scale monoculture.

Measures for Effective Implementation:

Infrastructure Development:
- Improve road and rail connectivity for seamless transportation of raw materials.
Capacity Building:
- Conduct farmer training programs on sustainable practices and efficient plantation methods.
Market Access:
- Develop local processing units and promote direct market linkages to increase profitability for farmers.
Environmental Safeguards:
- Encourage intercropping and diversified plantation models to preserve biodiversity.
Government-Industry Collaboration:
- Strengthen partnerships between the Rubber Board, tyre manufacturers, and local governments for funding and technical support.

Conclusion:
Project INROAD has the potential to transform the Northeast into a hub for rubber production, contributing to economic development and national self-reliance. Balancing economic growth with environmental sustainability and addressing logistical and training gaps are essential to realizing the project’s full potential.

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