APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (02/12/2024)
For APSC CCE and other Assam Competitive examinations aspirants, staying updated with current affairs is vital. This blog covers most important topics from the Assam Tribune today (02-12-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. HIV/AIDS Reduction in India
Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Health; GS Paper 3: Social Issues
Introduction:
India has significantly reduced its HIV prevalence and AIDS-related deaths through sustained efforts. However, challenges like vertical transmission remain a concern.
Key Facts:
Progress: 44% reduction in new infections since 2010; AIDS-related deaths down by 79%.
Current Burden: 25.44 lakh HIV cases in India as of 2023, with 44% among women.
State Prevalence: Mizoram and Nagaland have the highest adult prevalence rates.
Global Recognition: India supplies 92% of antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs worldwide.
Prelims Pointers:
1. 90-90-90 Target: Detect 90% of cases, provide ART to 90%, and suppress viral loads in 90% by 2020.
2. Vertical Transmission: Mother-to-child transmission during pregnancy or delivery.
3. ART: Essential treatment for HIV-positive individuals to suppress the virus.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
1. Public Health: Reduces disease burden and enhances productivity.
2. Global Leadership: Establishes India as a key player in the global fight against AIDS.
3. Economic Impact: Reduces healthcare costs by preventing new infections.
Challenges:
1. Vertical Transmission: One-third of HIV-positive mothers do not follow up for ART.
2. Testing Gaps: About 23% of HIV cases remain undetected.
3. Stigma: Societal discrimination hinders testing and treatment access.
Government Initiatives:
1. National AIDS Control Programme (NACP).
2. Free ART provision through public healthcare facilities.
3. Campaigns promoting HIV self-testing and awareness.
Way Ahead:
1. Expand PrEP (pre-exposure prophylaxis) for high-risk groups.
2. Ensure follow-up care for HIV-positive mothers to prevent vertical transmission.
3. Boost self-testing access to increase early detection rates.
Conclusion:
India’s efforts against HIV/AIDS showcase its commitment to global health goals. Addressing challenges like vertical transmission and stigma is crucial for achieving the 2030 target of ending AIDS.
2. Deployment of Additional Forces in Manipur
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Internal Security
Introduction:
Amid ethnic tensions and armed violence in Manipur, the central government has deployed additional forces to maintain peace and security in the region.
Key Facts:
1. Ethnic Violence: Over 250 deaths since May 2023, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
2. Weapon Looting: 5,000 weapons looted from government armories during clashes.
3. Geopolitical Links: Cross-border arms influx from Myanmar.
Prelims Pointers:
1. Ethnic Diversity in Manipur: Includes Meitei, Kuki-Zo, and Naga communities.
2. Arms Trafficking: A persistent challenge due to proximity to Myanmar.
3. Border Challenges: Porous borders allow easy movement of insurgents and weapons.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
1. National Security: Prevents further escalation of violence and cross-border threats.
2. Humanitarian Concerns: Addresses displacement and ensures civilian safety.
3. Regional Stability: Protects neighboring states like Assam from spillover effects.
Challenges:
1. Ethnic Polarization: Deep-rooted ethnic hatred complicates peace-building efforts.
2. Weapon Proliferation: Persistent availability of illegal arms exacerbates violence.
3. Diplomatic Hurdles: Addressing insurgent sanctuaries in Myanmar.
Government Initiatives:
1. Deployment of additional forces, including CRPF and Army personnel.
2. Strengthened border management to curb arms trafficking.
3. Initiatives for dialogue between community leaders.
Way Ahead:
1. Enhance intelligence-sharing with Myanmar to counter arms trafficking.
2. Promote grassroots peace initiatives involving community leaders.
3. Address grievances through socio-economic development in affected areas.
Conclusion:
Ensuring peace in Manipur requires a mix of strong enforcement, community engagement, and regional diplomacy. Sustainable solutions must address the root causes of conflict.
3. North-East Frontier Railway Freight Growth
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Infrastructure Development; Economy
Introduction:
The North-East Frontier Railway (NFR) registered significant growth in freight operations for October 2024, reflecting increased economic activity and improved logistics efficiency.
Key Facts:
1. Freight Operations: NFR unloaded 921 freight-carrying rakes, including essential commodities like food grains, cement, and coal.
2. Regional Impact:
a. 534 rakes unloaded in Assam, including 304 carrying essential commodities.
b. Significant contributions also in Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram.
3. Cement Loading: Jumped by 118.8%; dolomite loading increased by 30.5% compared to the previous year.
4. Overall Freight Loading: Reached 6.15 million tonnes, marking a 6.6% rise year-on-year.
Prelims Pointers:
1. NFR: Operational zone of Indian Railways, headquartered in Maligaon, Guwahati.
2. Freight Commodities: Cement, dolomite, food grains, coal, etc.
3. Rail Freight Turnaround: Reflects logistical efficiency improvements.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
1. Boosts regional economic activity by improving supply chain connectivity.
2. Reduces transportation costs for essential commodities.
3. Strengthens India’s northeast as a logistics hub.
4. Generates revenue for Indian Railways.
Challenges:
1. Dependence on monsoonal infrastructure resilience.
2. Coordination with state agencies for last-mile connectivity.
3. Ensuring environmental sustainability in freight operations.
Government Initiatives:
1. Dedicated freight corridors under Indian Railways modernization plans.
2. Enhancing terminal handling facilities to expedite loading/unloading operations.
Way Ahead:
1. Expansion of freight corridors in the Northeast.
2. Improved rail-road connectivity for efficient multimodal logistics.
Conclusion:
The NFR’s freight growth underlines the transformative potential of efficient logistics systems in boosting regional economies and integrating the Northeast with national supply chains.
4. Development of Floating Solar Plant at Dipor Bil
Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Environment; Renewable Energy
Introduction:
The Assam government, in collaboration with the Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI), has launched a floating solar power project at Dipor Bil to promote renewable energy while preserving the Ramsar site’s ecosystem.
Key Facts:
1. Location: Dipor Bil, a Ramsar wetland near Guwahati.
2. Capacity: Initial 25 MW, with plans for expansion to 50 MW.
3. Investment: ₹300 crore from the State Renewable Energy Fund and SECI.
Prelims Pointers:
1. Floating Solar Plants: Solar installations on water bodies to maximize land use and energy efficiency.
2. Dipor Bil: Ramsar site and critical habitat for migratory birds.
3. SECI: Central government entity promoting solar energy initiatives.
Mains Pointers:
Importance:
1. Diversifies Assam’s energy sources, reducing fossil fuel dependency.
2. Promotes sustainability while maintaining ecological balance.
3. Supports India’s renewable energy targets under the Paris Agreement.
4. Encourages regional investment and job creation.
Challenges:
1. High initial capital costs.
2. Potential risks to Dipor Bil’s biodiversity.
3. Maintenance issues for water-based installations.
Government Initiatives:
1. Assam Solar Policy 2022 promoting decentralized renewable energy.
2. Collaboration with private players for renewable energy expansion.
Way Ahead:
1. Conduct detailed environmental impact assessments for all phases.
2. Ensure local community involvement in the project for better ownership and monitoring.
3. Expand the floating solar project to other suitable water bodies in Assam.
Conclusion:
The floating solar power plant at Dipor Bil represents a significant step toward achieving Assam’s green energy goals while balancing ecological preservation and economic development.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. North-East Frontier Railway Freight Growth
Question:
Which of the following statements regarding the North-East Frontier Railway (NFR) is/are correct?
- It is headquartered in Maligaon, Guwahati.
- The NFR has recorded significant growth in freight loading operations, including cement and dolomite.
- The NFR primarily caters to regions in western India for freight transportation.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. The headquarters of NFR is located in Maligaon, Guwahati.
- Statement 2: Correct. NFR has recorded significant growth in freight loading operations, with a focus on essential commodities like cement and dolomite.
- Statement 3: Incorrect. NFR primarily caters to the northeastern states, including Assam, Tripura, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram.
2. Development of Floating Solar Plant at Dipor Bil
Question:
Which of the following is/are correct about Dipor Bil in Assam?
- It is a Ramsar site recognized for its ecological importance.
- The site hosts one of the largest traditional coal-based power plants in Northeast India.
- Dipor Bil is now home to Assam’s first floating solar power plant.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Dipor Bil is a Ramsar site known for its biodiversity and importance as a wetland ecosystem.
- Statement 2: Incorrect. Dipor Bil is not associated with coal-based power plants but is now being utilized for renewable energy projects.
- Statement 3: Correct. Assam’s first floating solar power plant is being developed at Dipor Bil.
3. HIV/AIDS Reduction in India
Question:
Which of the following is NOT true about India’s efforts in reducing HIV/AIDS prevalence?
A. India has achieved a 44% reduction in new HIV infections since 2010.
B. AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 79% since 2010.
C. India relies entirely on foreign manufacturers for antiretroviral therapy (ART) drugs.
D. Vertical transmission remains a significant challenge in reducing HIV infections.
Answer: C
Explanation:
- Option A: Correct. India has successfully reduced new HIV infections by 44% since 2010.
- Option B: Correct. AIDS-related deaths have decreased by 79% during the same period.
- Option C: Incorrect. India is a global leader in ART production, supplying 92% of these drugs worldwide.
- Option D: Correct. Vertical transmission remains a critical challenge in HIV/AIDS prevention.
4. Deployment of Additional Forces in Manipur
Question:
Which of the following statements regarding the ethnic conflict in Manipur is/are correct?
- The primary ethnic groups involved are the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities.
- Arms trafficking across the Myanmar border exacerbates violence in the region.
- The Indian government has suspended all bilateral agreements with Myanmar as a response to the conflict.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 3: Incorrect. The Indian government has not suspended bilateral agreements with Myanmar; instead, it focuses on intelligence sharing and border security.
Statement 1: Correct. The Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities are the primary ethnic groups involved in the conflict.
Statement 2: Correct. Cross-border arms trafficking from Myanmar worsens the violence.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Topic: Deployment of Additional Forces in Manipur
GS Paper 3: Internal Security and Border Management
Q. Ethnic conflicts in regions like Manipur often pose challenges to national security and social stability. Discuss the root causes of such conflicts and analyze the role of law enforcement and governance in managing them. Suggest measures to ensure lasting peace and development in conflict-prone regions.
Model Answer
Introduction:
Manipur, a northeastern state, has been grappling with ethnic violence, primarily between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities, leading to over 250 deaths since 2023. The conflict, fueled by historical grievances, resource competition, and cross-border issues, threatens regional stability and India’s internal security.
Root Causes of Ethnic Conflicts in Manipur:
- Ethnic Divisions:
- Historical mistrust between the Meitei (valley dwellers) and Kuki-Zo tribes (hill communities).
- Disputes over Scheduled Tribe (ST) status for the Meitei community.
- Resource Competition:
- Conflicts over land, forest rights, and access to resources in hill and valley regions.
- Cross-Border Issues:
- Arms trafficking and insurgent activities facilitated by porous borders with Myanmar.
- Weak Governance:
- Inefficiencies in addressing long-standing grievances and delays in justice delivery.
Role of Law Enforcement and Governance in Conflict Management:
- Law Enforcement:
- Deployment of additional forces ensures immediate peace and prevents further violence.
- Strengthening border security curtails arms smuggling and insurgent infiltration.
- Governance:
- Dialogue with community leaders fosters trust and addresses grievances.
- Socio-economic initiatives promote inclusive development and reduce ethnic tensions.
- Judicial Measures:
- Expedited resolution of land disputes and fair compensation for displaced communities.
- Confidence-Building Measures:
- Rehabilitation programs for affected families and transparent handling of grievances.
Measures to Ensure Lasting Peace and Development:
- Strengthening Border Management:
- Enhance surveillance and intelligence-sharing with neighboring countries like Myanmar.
- Promoting Inclusivity:
- Ensure equitable distribution of resources and representation for all communities.
- Development Projects:
- Invest in infrastructure, education, and healthcare in conflict-prone regions.
- Community Engagement:
- Foster inter-community dialogue through cultural exchange programs and peace committees.
- De-radicalization Programs:
- Address extremist ideologies through education, awareness campaigns, and livelihood programs.
Conclusion:
Ethnic conflicts in Manipur reflect deeper socio-political and economic challenges that require a multi-pronged approach. By strengthening governance, ensuring equitable development, and fostering community participation, lasting peace and stability can be achieved in conflict-prone regions, contributing to India’s internal security and progress.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!
🔔 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
