APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (03/04/2025)
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 (03-04-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Expansion
GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Governance, International Relations
Introduction
India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) has emerged as a global model for digital governance and financial inclusion. With platforms like UPI, Aadhaar, and DigiLocker, India is expanding its digital ecosystem to other countries, fostering international technological cooperation.
Key Points
What is Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)?
DPI refers to foundational digital systems that enable seamless public and private service delivery.
Examples include identity verification (Aadhaar), payments (UPI), and data governance (DigiLocker).
India’s Key DPI Initiatives:
Aadhaar: Biometric-based digital identity for over 1.3 billion people.
UPI (Unified Payments Interface): Facilitates instant digital transactions, revolutionizing payments.
DigiLocker: A cloud-based platform for paperless documentation.
ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce): A decentralized e-commerce platform to counter platform monopolies.
Global Adoption of India’s DPI Model:
Countries adopting UPI-based payment systems: Singapore, UAE, Bhutan, Nepal.
World Bank and IMF recognition of India’s DPI model as a scalable digital governance system.
Africa and Southeast Asia collaborations to implement DPI in governance and financial sectors.
Economic and Social Impact:
Financial Inclusion: UPI has democratized digital payments, bringing small businesses into the formal economy.
Cost Efficiency: Aadhaar-based direct benefit transfers (DBT) have saved India ₹2.23 lakh crore (World Bank, 2022).
Job Creation: The digital economy in India is projected to contribute $1 trillion to GDP by 2025 (NASSCOM).
Prelims Pointers
Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI): Foundational digital systems for identity, payments, and governance.
UPI International Expansion: Countries integrating UPI for cross-border payments.
ONDC: An open network framework for digital commerce.
DigiLocker: Government initiative for paperless documentation.
Mains Pointers
Importance of DPI for India:
Economic Growth:
Boosts digital payments and commerce, reducing reliance on cash-based transactions.
Strengthens MSMEs by providing access to financial services.
Governance & Service Delivery:
Aadhaar-enabled DBT reduces leakages in welfare schemes.
Improves efficiency in taxation, land records, and healthcare services.
Diplomatic Leverage:
DPI expansion strengthens India’s soft power and economic partnerships.
Enhances technological cooperation with Global South countries.
Challenges in DPI Implementation:
Data Privacy & Security:
Risks of data breaches and misuse of personal information.
Need for a robust Data Protection Law.
Digital Divide:
Limited digital literacy and internet access in rural India.
Need for last-mile connectivity infrastructure.
Cybersecurity Threats:
Rising cyber-attacks on financial and government platforms.
Need for stronger encryption and AI-based threat detection.
Government Initiatives:
India Stack: A set of APIs to promote interoperability in DPI.
National Digital Health Mission (NDHM): Digital health records for citizens.
Bhashini Project: AI-driven multilingual digital governance.
Way Ahead:
Strengthening Data Security Frameworks to prevent cyber threats.
Promoting DPI Diplomacy to expand India’s digital influence globally.
Bridging the Digital Divide with better internet access and digital literacy programs.
Encouraging Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for innovative DPI solutions.
Conclusion
India’s DPI expansion is transforming governance, financial inclusion, and international cooperation. By addressing cybersecurity and accessibility concerns, India can establish itself as a global leader in digital governance.
Gaganyaan Mission: India’s Human Spaceflight Preparation
GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Space Exploration
Introduction
India is set to become the fourth nation to send humans into space with the Gaganyaan Mission, a historic step in the country’s space exploration journey. Led by ISRO, this mission aims to demonstrate India’s capability for human spaceflight and strengthen its position in global space diplomacy.
Key Points
Overview of Gaganyaan Mission
Objective: To send a three-member crew to Low Earth Orbit (LEO) (~400 km altitude) for up to 3 days and safely return them to Earth.
Significance: India’s first human spaceflight mission, advancing indigenous space technology.
Launch Vehicle: LVM3 (GSLV Mk III), India’s most powerful rocket.
Mission Timeline and Components
Vyommitra (2024): A female humanoid robot will be sent in a test flight before the crewed mission.
G1 & G2 (2024-25): Two uncrewed test flights to validate safety and performance.
Manned Mission (2025): The first human spaceflight with Indian astronauts (“Gagannauts”).
Technological Developments
Crew Module: Pressurized capsule with life support and emergency escape systems.
Orbital Module: Houses crew and mission systems, ensuring safety and communication.
Crew Escape System: Emergency abort system for astronaut safety.
Global Collaborations & Training
Astronaut Training: Conducted at Russia’s Gagarin Cosmonaut Training Center and ISRO’s Astronaut Training Facility in Bengaluru.
International Support: Collaboration with NASA, Roscosmos, and CNES (France) for space technology and training.
Strategic & Scientific Importance
Boost to Space Diplomacy: Strengthens India’s status as a major space power.
Technology Spin-offs: Advances in robotics, medicine, and material sciences.
Future Missions: Lays foundation for Indian Space Station (2035) and Moon-Mars missions.
Prelims Pointers
Gaganyaan Mission: India’s first crewed spaceflight.
Vyommitra: ISRO’s humanoid robot for space research.
LVM3 (GSLV Mk III): India’s heavy-lift rocket for human spaceflight.
Crew Escape System: Emergency ejection system for astronaut safety.
LEO (Low Earth Orbit): Space zone where the mission will operate (~400 km altitude).
Mains Pointers
Significance of Gaganyaan Mission
Scientific & Technological Advancement
Enhances India’s space capabilities for future planetary exploration.
Stimulates innovation in space medicine, material sciences, and AI.
Economic & Strategic Impact
Strengthens India’s indigenous aerospace industry and startup ecosystem.
Boosts India’s participation in global space partnerships and commercial launches.
Inspiration & Human Resource Development
Encourages STEM education and careers in space technology.
Provides opportunities for Indian astronauts and space scientists.
Challenges in Gaganyaan Mission
Technological Barriers
Human spaceflight requires advanced life support and radiation shielding.
Risk of microgravity-related health impacts on astronauts.
Financial & Infrastructure Constraints
Estimated budget: ₹10,000 crore, requiring efficient resource management.
Need for dedicated human spaceflight centers for long-term sustainability.
International Competition & Collaboration
Competing with space programs like NASA’s Artemis and China’s Tiangong space station.
Need for global partnerships to enhance mission success.
Government Initiatives & Future Prospects
IN-SPACe & NSIL: Encourage private sector participation in space missions.
Space Policy 2023: Strengthens India’s commercial space sector.
Indian Space Station (2035): Gaganyaan is a stepping stone for a permanent Indian presence in space.
Way Ahead
Enhancing Indigenous Capabilities for self-reliance in human spaceflight.
Developing Advanced Life Support Systems for future deep-space missions.
Encouraging Private Sector Collaboration to accelerate space innovations.
International Cooperation for joint space exploration missions.
Conclusion
The Gaganyaan Mission is a landmark moment in India’s space journey, paving the way for advanced scientific exploration and global collaborations. With continued innovation and investment, India is set to become a leading spacefaring nation.
India’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Push: Key Developments & Challenges
📌 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Economy, Industrial Development
Introduction
Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology, driving industries from electronics to defense. India’s recent push for semiconductor manufacturing aims to reduce dependence on imports and position itself as a global hub for chip production.
Key Developments in India’s Semiconductor Industry
1. Policy Initiatives
Semicon India Program (2021): ₹76,000 crore incentive scheme to attract chip manufacturers.
PLI Scheme for Semiconductors (2021): Provides financial support for domestic chip manufacturing.
Digital India Initiative: Aims to boost the semiconductor and electronics ecosystem.
2. Investment & Partnerships
Foxconn-Vedanta Deal: Plans for India’s first semiconductor fabrication unit (fab).
Micron Technology’s India Plant: Announced a semiconductor assembly and testing facility in Gujarat.
Tata Group’s Entry: Collaborating with global players for semiconductor manufacturing.
3. Strategic Importance
Supply Chain Resilience: Reducing dependency on China, Taiwan, and the U.S.
Boost to Electronics Manufacturing: Strengthening India’s position in consumer electronics.
Employment & Economic Growth: Potential to create thousands of high-tech jobs.
Prelims Pointers
✔ Fabless Semiconductor Model: Semiconductor firms design chips but outsource manufacturing (e.g., Qualcomm, NVIDIA).
✔ Moore’s Law: The number of transistors in an integrated circuit doubles every two years.
✔ Silicon Valley of India: Bengaluru is the hub of semiconductor and IT industries.
✔ Gallium Nitride (GaN): A next-gen semiconductor material used in high-power applications.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Semiconductor Manufacturing in India
Economic & Industrial Growth:
Boosts India’s electronics and automobile sector.
Attracts FDI and technology transfer.
Strategic Autonomy & Security:
Reduces reliance on China and Taiwan for critical semiconductor components.
Strengthens India’s position in global tech supply chains.
Employment & Skill Development:
Expands job opportunities in VLSI design, fabrication, and R&D.
Encourages skill-building programs in engineering and IT sectors.
Challenges in India’s Semiconductor Push
Lack of Advanced Infrastructure:
High-cost setup (over $10 billion for a single fab unit).
Need for stable power and water supply for chip production.
Skilled Workforce Shortage:
VLSI design and semiconductor expertise are limited in India.
Need for collaborations with global universities and research institutions.
Global Market Competition:
Taiwan, South Korea, and the U.S. dominate semiconductor production.
Need to offer competitive incentives to attract global investors.
Supply Chain Dependencies:
Raw materials like silicon wafers and rare earth elements are majorly imported.
Need for domestic sourcing and partnerships.
Government Initiatives Supporting Semiconductor Development
🟢 Semicon India Program: Provides financial support and policy framework.
🟢 India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): Focuses on R&D, design innovation, and fabrication.
🟢 PLI Scheme for Electronics & Chip Manufacturing: Incentivizes domestic production.
Way Forward
✔ Develop Local Ecosystem: Strengthen domestic supply chains for raw materials.
✔ Enhance R&D & Talent Pool: Set up dedicated semiconductor research centers in IITs and NITs.
✔ Attract Global Players: Offer tax benefits and infrastructure support to top semiconductor firms.
✔ Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage investments from tech giants like Intel, TSMC, and Samsung.
Conclusion
India’s semiconductor push is a crucial step towards technological self-reliance and economic growth. By addressing infrastructure gaps and skill shortages, India can emerge as a global semiconductor hub in the coming decade.
Assam’s Preparedness for the Monsoon: Disaster Management Strategies
📌 GS Paper 3: Disaster Management, Environment & Climate Change
Introduction
Assam faces annual monsoon floods, affecting millions and causing loss of life, property, and biodiversity. With climate change intensifying rainfall patterns, effective disaster management strategies are crucial for minimizing damage.
Key Challenges in Assam’s Monsoon Preparedness
1. Geographical & Climatic Factors
Brahmaputra River Basin: Prone to flash floods and riverbank erosion.
Extreme Rainfall Events: Climate change has increased the intensity and frequency of monsoon rains.
2. Infrastructure & Drainage Issues
Encroachment on Wetlands & Rivers: Reduces flood absorption capacity.
Weak Embankments: Many flood control structures are outdated or breached annually.
3. Urban Flooding
Poor Drainage in Cities: Guwahati and other cities experience waterlogging due to clogged drains.
Unplanned Urbanization: Construction on floodplains increases vulnerability.
4. Socio-Economic Impact
Displacement of People: Lakhs of people are forced to relocate each year.
Loss of Agriculture & Livelihoods: Crops and livestock are severely affected.
Prelims Pointers
✔ Kaziranga National Park & Floods: Annual floods in Assam’s Kaziranga help rejuvenate the ecosystem but also pose threats to wildlife.
✔ Dhemaji & Lakhimpur: Most flood-prone districts in Assam.
✔ Brahmaputra Board (1980): Formed to manage the river’s flood and erosion issues.
✔ NDMA Guidelines (2005): National-level disaster management framework for flood mitigation.
Mains Pointers
1. Disaster Management Strategies for Assam’s Monsoon Preparedness
A. Structural Measures
Flood-Control Embankments: Strengthening and maintaining river embankments.
Wetland Conservation: Protecting natural flood buffers like Deepor Beel.
Improved Drainage Systems: Clearing silted drains and constructing flood-resistant infrastructure.
B. Non-Structural Measures
Early Warning Systems: IMD & Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) issue flood alerts.
Community Awareness Programs: Training locals in disaster response and evacuation drills.
Resilient Housing Models: Promoting stilt houses in flood-prone areas.
C. Technological & Scientific Approaches
GIS & Satellite Monitoring: Real-time flood mapping using ISRO satellites.
Drones for Disaster Response: Assessing flood damage and aiding in rescue missions.
Climate-Resilient Crops: Encouraging flood-tolerant rice varieties like ‘Swarna Sub1’.
D. Government Initiatives
Assam State Action Plan on Climate Change (2015): Focuses on flood and erosion control.
National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC): Funds climate-resilient projects.
World Bank’s Assam Integrated River Basin Management Project (AIRBMP): Supports flood control measures.
Way Forward
✔ Integrated River Basin Management: Coordinated efforts between Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Bhutan.
✔ Eco-Friendly Urban Planning: Restricting construction on floodplains.
✔ Sustainable Agriculture Practices: Promoting floating farms and water-resistant crops.
✔ Improved Disaster Relief Mechanism: Faster deployment of NDRF and SDRF teams.
Conclusion
With a proactive disaster management strategy, Assam can mitigate the adverse effects of monsoon floods. By integrating scientific solutions, infrastructure upgrades, and community participation, the state can build long-term resilience against future flood disasters.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1️⃣ India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) Expansion
Q1. Consider the following components of Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI) in India:
- Unified Payments Interface (UPI)
- Aadhaar
- ONDC (Open Network for Digital Commerce)
- Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission
How many of the above are correctly classified as part of India’s Digital Public Infrastructure?
(A) Only one
(B) Only two
(C) Only three
(D) All four
Answer: (D) All four
Explanation:
- DPI consists of digital identity, payments, and data exchange layers.
- Aadhaar provides digital identity.
- UPI is a real-time payments system.
- ONDC aims to democratize e-commerce.
- Ayushman Bharat Digital Mission enables digital health records.
These are all key components of DPI in India.
Q2. With reference to India’s Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI), consider the following statements:
- DPI is fully controlled by the Government of India with no private sector involvement.
- DigiLocker is a part of India’s DPI ecosystem.
- India Stack is a subset of Digital Public Infrastructure.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) All of the above
Answer: (B) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- DPI is not fully government-controlled; it follows a public-private partnership model (e.g., UPI includes private banks).
- DigiLocker is a part of DPI as it enables digital storage of official documents.
- India Stack (which includes Aadhaar, UPI, and DigiLocker) is a subset of DPI.
2️⃣ Gaganyaan Mission: India’s Human Spaceflight Preparation
Q3. With reference to India’s Gaganyaan Mission, consider the following statements:
- The Gaganyaan Mission will be India’s first attempt at sending humans into space.
- It will be launched using ISRO’s LVM-3 rocket.
- Vyommitra, a humanoid robot, will be sent to space before human astronauts.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) All of the above
Answer: (B) 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
- India’s first human space mission was in 1984 when Rakesh Sharma flew aboard Soyuz T-11. Hence, statement 1 is incorrect.
- The LVM-3 (formerly GSLV Mk III) is India’s heaviest launch vehicle and will be used for Gaganyaan.
- Vyommitra, an ISRO-developed humanoid, will be sent on a test mission before human astronauts.
Q4. Which of the following agencies/countries have successfully conducted human spaceflights?
- ISRO (India)
- NASA (USA)
- Roscosmos (Russia)
- CNSA (China)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
(A) 1, 2, and 3 only
(B) 2, 3, and 4 only
(C) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(D) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (B) 2, 3, and 4 only
Explanation:
- NASA (USA), Roscosmos (Russia), and CNSA (China) have all successfully conducted human spaceflights.
- ISRO has not yet conducted a human spaceflight (Gaganyaan is still in preparation).
3️⃣ Assam’s Preparedness for the Monsoon: Disaster Management Strategies
Q5. Which of the following measures are commonly used for flood management in Assam?
- River embankments
- Dredging of riverbeds
- Wetland conservation
- Cloud seeding to prevent excessive rainfall
Which of the above are correct?
(A) 1, 2, and 3 only
(B) 1 and 3 only
(C) 2, 3, and 4 only
(D) All of the above
Answer: (A) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Embankments, dredging, and wetland conservation are key flood management strategies in Assam.
- Cloud seeding is used to increase rainfall, not prevent it, making statement 4 incorrect.
Q6. Kaziranga National Park is prone to annual flooding due to which of the following factors?
- Overflow of the Brahmaputra River
- Release of excess water from dams upstream
- Sudden glacial melting in the Himalayas
Select the correct answer:
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1 and 3 only
(D) All of the above
Answer: (A) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Kaziranga’s annual floods are primarily due to the Brahmaputra overflowing and dam releases.
- Glacial melting affects river flows over time but is not a primary cause of annual floods.
4️⃣ India’s Semiconductor Manufacturing Push: Key Developments & Challenges
Q7. Consider the following statements regarding India’s semiconductor industry:
- The ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ was launched to promote domestic chip manufacturing.
- Taiwan is the leading producer of semiconductors globally.
- The semiconductor fabrication process requires enormous amounts of water and cleanroom environments.
Which of the above statements are correct?
(A) 1 and 2 only
(B) 2 and 3 only
(C) 1, 2, and 3
(D) 1 and 3 only
Answer: (C) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
- India Semiconductor Mission (ISM) was launched to promote chip fabrication in India.
- Taiwan dominates global semiconductor production, with companies like TSMC leading the market.
- Semiconductor fabrication is highly water-intensive and requires specialized cleanroom environments.
Q8. Which of the following are major global semiconductor manufacturers?
- TSMC
- Intel
- Samsung
- Qualcomm
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(A) 1, 2, and 3 only
(B) 2 and 4 only
(C) 1, 3, and 4 only
(D) All of the above
Answer: (D) All of the above
Explanation:
Qualcomm designs chips but outsources manufacturing.
TSMC (Taiwan), Intel (USA), Samsung (South Korea), and Qualcomm (USA) are major semiconductor players.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question & Model Answer
Question:
“India’s semiconductor manufacturing push is a crucial step towards self-reliance in technology and economic security. Examine the challenges and opportunities in India’s semiconductor industry and suggest a strategic roadmap for its development.”
Model Answer
Introduction:
Semiconductors are the backbone of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to defense systems. India’s push for domestic semiconductor manufacturing under the ‘India Semiconductor Mission’ is a strategic move to reduce import dependency and become a global hub.
Opportunities in India’s Semiconductor Industry
1️⃣ Economic and Strategic Benefits
- Reducing Import Dependency: India currently imports over 90% of its semiconductors (MeitY, 2024).
- Enhancing Digital and Defense Sectors: Essential for 5G, AI, and defense technologies.
2️⃣ Government Support and Policy Initiatives
- India Semiconductor Mission (ISM): ₹76,000 crore incentive package (Union Budget 2023-24).
- PLI Scheme for Semiconductors: Encourages investment from global chipmakers.
- MoUs with Global Giants: Foxconn, Vedanta, and TSMC exploring Indian partnerships.
3️⃣ Demographic and Market Advantage
- Skilled Workforce: India produces 2.5 million STEM graduates annually (AISHE, 2023).
- Growing Electronics Market: The Indian electronics industry is projected to reach $400 billion by 2026.
Challenges Hindering Semiconductor Growth
1️⃣ Lack of Fabrication Facilities (Fabs)
- India lacks advanced fabrication plants (fabs), which require ultra-pure water and stable electricity supply.
- High initial investment (>$10 billion per fab) acts as a deterrent.
2️⃣ Global Supply Chain Dependencies
- Critical raw materials like silicon wafers and rare earth metals are import-dependent.
- The global semiconductor supply chain is dominated by Taiwan (TSMC) and South Korea (Samsung).
3️⃣ Technological and R&D Gaps
- India lags in cutting-edge chip manufacturing (below 7 nm nodes).
- Limited patent filings and indigenous chip design ecosystem.
4️⃣ Infrastructure and Energy Constraints
- Semiconductor fabs require uninterrupted power and high-quality water supply.
- Issues like land acquisition and environmental clearances slow down projects.
Strategic Roadmap for India’s Semiconductor Industry
1️⃣ Strengthening Domestic Manufacturing
✅ Developing Indigenous Foundries: Invest in fabs in Gujarat, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
✅ Special Economic Zones (SEZs): Establish dedicated semiconductor hubs with tax incentives.
2️⃣ Enhancing R&D and Innovation
✅ Collaboration with IITs and Global Universities: Set up chip-design labs and research centers.
✅ Encouraging Startups: Promote semiconductor startups under the Startup India Mission.
3️⃣ Strengthening Global Partnerships
✅ Strategic Alliances with Taiwan, USA, Japan for technology transfer.
✅ Joining International Semiconductor Alliances (like CHIPS Act, US-EU Trade Council).
4️⃣ Infrastructure & Policy Reforms
✅ Improving Power and Water Supply for Fabs (24×7 uninterrupted supply).
✅ Reducing Bureaucratic Delays in project clearances and approvals.
Conclusion:
India’s semiconductor journey is at a critical juncture. By focusing on manufacturing, R&D, and global collaborations, India can become a key player in the global chip supply chain. With the right policies and investments, India can transition from a semiconductor importer to a global leader in chip production.
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