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APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 09/03/2026

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 (09-03-2026).

📝 GS Mains Model Question

📘 GS Paper III: Environment | Biodiversity | Sustainable Development
📘 GS Paper V (Assam): Forest Resources & Environmental Governance

Question

Large-scale tree felling for infrastructure and development projects poses significant ecological challenges.
In the context of Assam, discuss the environmental implications of large-scale tree felling and evaluate whether compensatory afforestation can adequately offset such ecological losses.

(Answer in ~250 words)

Model Answer

Introduction

Forests play a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance by regulating climate, supporting biodiversity, and providing ecosystem services. However, recent data indicates that over one lakh mature trees have been felled in Assam since 2016 for infrastructure projects such as highways, oil exploration and construction activities.

This has raised concerns about the long-term environmental impact of development activities in the state.

Environmental Implications of Large-Scale Tree Felling

1. Loss of Biodiversity

Mature trees provide habitats for numerous species. Their removal disrupts local ecosystems and wildlife corridors.

2. Climate Impact

Trees act as carbon sinks, storing large amounts of carbon. Large-scale deforestation contributes to increased greenhouse gas emissions.

3. Soil Erosion and Flood Risk

Tree roots help stabilize soil. Their removal can increase soil erosion and sedimentation in rivers, aggravating floods in Assam.

4. Microclimate Alteration

Deforestation can raise local temperatures and reduce humidity, affecting agriculture and human health.

5. Decline in Ecosystem Services

Mature forests provide services such as air purification, groundwater recharge, and climate regulation.

Limitations of Compensatory Afforestation

1. Ecological Inequality

Planting saplings cannot immediately replace the ecological value of decades-old mature trees.

2. Low Survival Rates

Many plantation drives suffer from low survival rates due to poor maintenance.

3. Biodiversity Loss

Plantations often involve monoculture species, which do not support diverse ecosystems.

4. Time Lag

It may take several decades for saplings to provide ecosystem services comparable to mature trees.

Way Forward

Strengthen Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) before clearing forests.
Promote sustainable infrastructure planning.
Encourage native species plantation and long-term monitoring.
Integrate community participation in forest conservation.

Conclusion

While infrastructure development is essential for economic progress, it must be balanced with ecological sustainability. Scientific forest management, effective compensatory afforestation, and strict environmental governance are necessary to protect Assam’s rich biodiversity while pursuing development.

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