APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes (05/03/2025)

APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (05/03/2025)

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 (05-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

Topic 1: Search Operations Ongoing for Missing Fighter Jet

GS Paper 3: Security & Defense Technology, Aviation Safety

Introduction

A fighter jet of the Indian Air Force (IAF) went missing during a routine training exercise over northeastern India, triggering a large-scale search and rescue operation. The incident highlights concerns over air safety, technological limitations in tracking military aircraft, and operational challenges in difficult terrain.

Key Points

  • Aircraft Involved: The missing jet is suspected to be a Sukhoi Su-30 or a MiG-29, both used for air superiority and combat training missions.
  • Last Contact: The aircraft lost contact with ground control over mountainous terrain near Arunachal Pradesh.
  • Ongoing Search Operations:
    • IAF helicopters, UAVs, and satellite imagery are being used to locate the wreckage.
    • Army and paramilitary forces deployed in remote areas for ground searches.
  • Challenges in Search & Rescue:
    • Dense forest cover and hilly terrain make aerial and ground searches difficult.
    • Harsh weather conditions impact visibility and rescue operations.
    • Lack of real-time tracking technology in certain military jets affects response time.

Prelims Pointers

  • Sukhoi Su-30 MKI: India’s primary air superiority fighter, developed in collaboration with Russia’s Sukhoi and HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.).
  • MiG-29: A twin-engine multirole fighter jet used by the IAF for air combat and interception.
  • Black Box (Flight Data Recorder): Stores crucial flight data; helps in crash investigations.
  • IAF’s Search & Rescue Squadrons:
    • Sarang Helicopter Display Team: Specializes in aerial rescue.
    • Garud Commando Force: Conducts airfield protection and combat search-and-rescue missions.
  • GAGAN Navigation System: India’s satellite-based augmentation system to improve air navigation safety.

Mains Pointers

1. Importance of Fighter Jet Training Missions

  • Pilot Skill Development: Routine air exercises help in combat readiness and technical proficiency.
  • Tactical Preparedness: Helps test IAF’s air defense capabilities, especially near China and Pakistan borders.
  • Joint Military Operations: Exercises with the Army and Navy improve tri-service coordination.

2. Challenges in Military Aircraft Operations

  1. Aging Fighter Fleet:
    • Several aircraft, including MiG-21s, are outdated and prone to accidents.
    • India has lost over 200 MiG-21s due to crashes since their induction.
  2. Difficult Terrain & Weather Conditions:
    • High-altitude regions like Arunachal Pradesh, Ladakh, and the Northeast pose risks for pilots.
    • Unpredictable weather and wind currents increase the difficulty of rescue missions.
  3. Limitations in Tracking & Recovery:
    • Lack of real-time tracking systems in some older fighter jets.
    • Black boxes often difficult to recover in dense forests and remote crash sites.
  4. High Crash Rate in IAF:
    • Between 2011 and 2023, the IAF reported over 50 fighter jet crashes, mostly due to:
      • Technical failures (engine, avionics, hydraulics).
      • Bird strikes and weather-related issues.
      • Pilot error in high-stress combat training scenarios.

3. Government & IAF Initiatives for Air Safety

  • Phasing Out Old Fighter Jets:
    • MiG-21 squadrons being replaced with modern Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
    • Induction of Rafale jets to strengthen air superiority.
  • Upgrading Air Navigation Systems:
    • ISRO’s GAGAN system helps in satellite-based air traffic monitoring.
    • Automatic Dependent Surveillance-Broadcast (ADS-B) technology improves real-time aircraft tracking.
  • Enhancing Pilot Training & Simulation:
    • Use of AI-based flight simulators for emergency response training.
    • More joint Indo-US, Indo-France aerial exercises to boost operational experience.

Way Forward

  1. Deploy AI-Based Aircraft Monitoring Systems:
    • Install advanced sensors and AI-driven predictive maintenance for early fault detection.
    • Expand the use of automatic tracking beacons on all fighter jets.
  2. Strengthen Rescue & Search Operations:
    • Deploy more UAVs (drones) for real-time aerial monitoring.
    • Train specialized search-and-rescue teams for military aircraft crashes.
  3. Speed Up Fighter Jet Modernization:
    • Prioritize induction of Tejas Mk2, Rafale-M, and AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft).
    • Enhance partnerships with France (Dassault) and Russia (Sukhoi Design Bureau) for fighter jet co-development.
  4. Improving Aviation Infrastructure:
    • Build more forward air bases in Arunachal Pradesh and Northeast India.
    • Install all-weather airstrips and emergency landing sites near border areas.

Conclusion

The missing fighter jet incident highlights the challenges faced by the Indian Air Force in operational preparedness, air safety, and search-and-rescue capabilities. Moving forward, modernizing aircraft fleets, improving tracking systems, and strengthening military infrastructure will be crucial for reducing accidents and ensuring India’s aerial dominance.

Topic 2: Granting ST Status to Six Communities – Government Panel Submits Report

GS Paper 2: Governance, Social Justice, Tribal Affairs

Introduction

A government panel has submitted its final report on granting Scheduled Tribe (ST) status to six communities in Assam: Koch-Rajbongshi, Tai Ahom, Chutia, Matak, Moran, and Tea Tribes. This issue has been a long-standing demand due to concerns over tribal identity, socio-economic benefits, and political representation. However, it also raises legal, administrative, and socio-political challenges.

Key Points

  • Communities Seeking ST Status:
    • Koch-Rajbongshi: A socio-cultural group spread across Assam, Bengal, and Bihar.
    • Tai Ahom: Descendants of the Ahom dynasty, which ruled Assam for 600 years.
    • Chutia: A historical Assamese community with a distinct identity.
    • Matak & Moran: Prominent communities in Upper Assam, historically associated with the Ahom rule.
    • Tea Tribes: Migrant workers brought to Assam during the British era for tea plantations.
  • Panel’s Key Recommendations:
    • Recognizing these groups as Scheduled Tribes to ensure constitutional safeguards.
    • Creating a separate sub-category within STs to prevent dilution of benefits for existing tribes.
    • Implementing economic upliftment programs to enhance tribal welfare.
  • Political Significance:
    • The move can impact Assam’s electoral politics, as ST status brings reservation benefits in jobs, education, and politics.
    • Strengthens BJP’s tribal outreach strategy ahead of elections.

Prelims Pointers

  • Article 342: Empowers the President of India to notify Scheduled Tribes, with Parliament’s approval.
  • Constitutional Safeguards for STs:
    • Fifth & Sixth Schedule – Provides autonomy to tribal areas.
    • Reservation in Jobs & Education – STs receive quota benefits under Articles 15(4), 16(4), and 46.
    • Scheduled Tribes and Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition of Forest Rights) Act, 2006 (FRA): Protects tribal land and forest rights.
  • Assam’s Tribal Population: Over 12.4% of Assam’s population belongs to existing ST communities like Bodos, Karbis, and Mishings.

Mains Pointers

1. Importance of Granting ST Status

  1. Socio-Economic Upliftment:
    • Ensures reservation in education, employment, and welfare schemes.
    • Provides access to ST-specific scholarships and financial support.
  2. Political Representation:
    • Allows these communities to contest in ST-reserved constituencies.
    • Strengthens tribal participation in local governance.
  3. Historical & Cultural Recognition:
    • Many of these groups claim historical tribal heritage, which they seek official acknowledgment for.
  4. Economic Empowerment:
    • Helps communities improve their socio-economic status through government grants and special programs.

2. Challenges in Implementing ST Status

  1. Opposition from Existing ST Communities:
    • Existing ST groups (like Bodos, Karbis, and Misings) fear that new entrants may dilute their benefits.
  2. Legal & Administrative Hurdles:
    • The Supreme Court has ruled that ST classification must be based on “social backwardness” and not just historical identity.
    • Complexities in redefining eligibility criteria for ST status.
  3. Impact on Reservation Quotas:
    • Assam has a fixed ST reservation percentage; adding new groups may reduce benefits for current STs.
  4. Integration with Sixth Schedule Areas:
    • Granting ST status may lead to demands for inclusion in autonomous tribal councils, increasing governance challenges.

Government’s Approach & Policy Measures

  • Tribal Affairs Ministry’s Review:
    • A detailed ethnographic study was conducted before submitting the final report.
  • Proposal for Separate Sub-Category:
    • To prevent dilution of benefits, the government may create a new “ST (Plains)” category for these groups.
  • Balancing Tribal Demands & Existing ST Rights:
    • Special packages may be introduced without altering the existing ST quotas.
  • Infrastructure & Development Measures:
    • Expanding Eklavya Model Residential Schools (EMRS) for newly recognized ST communities.
    • Strengthening ST entrepreneurship schemes under MUDRA and Stand-Up India programs.

Way Forward

  1. Constitutional Clarity & Judicial Scrutiny:
    • A transparent framework for ST classification is needed to ensure fair and justifiable inclusion.
  2. Protecting Rights of Existing ST Communities:
    • Ensuring that benefits are not diluted for vulnerable Scheduled Tribes.
  3. Tribal Welfare Beyond ST Status:
    • Focusing on economic development, skill training, and literacy programs for all underprivileged groups.
  4. Addressing Political & Electoral Concerns:
    • A balanced approach is required to avoid creating ethnic and political tensions in Assam.

Conclusion

Granting ST status to six Assamese communities is a historic step, but it requires careful planning to ensure fair distribution of benefits without harming existing ST groups. A holistic approach that includes legal clarity, economic development, and political consensus will be essential to implement this policy without triggering new social conflicts.

Topic 3: Manipur Situation Post-President’s Rule – Security & Reconciliation Efforts

GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Governance, Ethnic Conflicts

Introduction

Following the imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur, the central government has initiated security and reconciliation measures to restore stability in the state. Ethnic violence between Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities continues to pose law and order challenges, while efforts are being made to rehabilitate displaced persons and bring insurgent groups into peace talks. The government’s strategy focuses on military control, political dialogue, and economic reconstruction.

Key Points

  • President’s Rule (Article 356) Imposed:
    • The state government was dismissed due to failure in maintaining law and order.
    • The Centre has direct administrative control over Manipur.
  • Ongoing Security Measures:
    • Additional deployment of Assam Rifles, CRPF, and Army battalions.
    • Crackdown on illegal weapons and insurgent hideouts near the Myanmar border.
  • Reconciliation & Peace Talks:
    • Engaging Meitei and Kuki-Zomi leaders in negotiations.
    • Exploring options for autonomous councils for tribal regions.
  • Humanitarian Crisis & Rehabilitation Efforts:
    • Over 60,000 people displaced due to the conflict.
    • Special relief packages announced for affected families.

Prelims Pointers

  • Article 356: Allows President’s Rule in a state if the government fails to function as per the Constitution.
  • Sixth Schedule: Provides for autonomous district councils in tribal areas.
  • Armed Forces Special Powers Act (AFSPA): Grants special powers to security forces in disturbed areas.
  • Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement: A ceasefire deal between the government and Kuki insurgent groups.
  • Indo-Myanmar Free Movement Regime (FMR): Allows border residents free movement up to 16 km, but is now under review due to security concerns.

Mains Pointers

1. Root Causes of the Manipur Conflict

  1. Ethnic Rivalries & Identity Politics:
    • The Meiteis (53%) demand Scheduled Tribe (ST) status, opposed by Kuki-Zomi tribes (16%).
    • Conflicts over land rights, job reservations, and political representation.
  2. Insurgency & Militant Groups:
    • Armed groups like United National Liberation Front (UNLF) and Kuki National Army (KNA) operate in the region.
    • Cross-border insurgency links with Myanmar create security threats.
  3. Weak Governance & Law Enforcement:
    • Accusations of bias in security operations, leading to mistrust between communities and government forces.
  4. Drug Trafficking & Criminal Networks:
    • Manipur is a key transit point in the “Golden Triangle” (Myanmar-Thailand-Laos), increasing drug-related violence.

2. Government’s Response to the Crisis

  • Security & Counter-Insurgency Operations:
    • Deployment of additional Assam Rifles and NDRF units.
    • Use of drones and AI-based surveillance to track militant movements.
  • Humanitarian & Relief Measures:
    • ₹500 crore relief package for displaced families.
    • Rehabilitation of victims and restoration of burned villages.
  • Political Negotiations & Reconciliation:
    • Formation of a peace committee with neutral mediators.
    • Proposal for greater autonomy for tribal regions under the Sixth Schedule.

3. Challenges in Conflict Resolution

  1. Mistrust Between Communities:
    • Meitei and Kuki-Zomi communities refuse to engage in direct talks due to deep-rooted hostilities.
  2. Armed Insurgency & External Influence:
    • Some militant groups receive support from Myanmar-based outfits.
  3. Failure of Past Peace Accords:
    • Previous agreements, such as the Naga Framework Agreement (2015), have not fully resolved conflicts.
  4. Restoring Law & Order:
    • Frequent curfews, blockades, and shutdowns affect normal life and economic activities.

Way Forward

  1. Strengthening Security & Border Control:
    • Enhance fencing along the Indo-Myanmar border to prevent infiltration.
    • Expand intelligence-sharing with Myanmar and Bhutan to track insurgents.
  2. Promoting Inclusive Political Dialogue:
    • Ensure neutral mediators to bring all stakeholders to the table.
    • Explore the option of autonomous district councils to address tribal demands.
  3. Economic Reconstruction & Livelihood Support:
    • Invest in infrastructure projects, education, and employment generation in conflict zones.
    • Expand vocational training for youth to prevent insurgency recruitment.
  4. Implementing Long-Term Peacebuilding Measures:
    • Introduce truth & reconciliation commissions to address human rights violations.
    • Strengthen community policing initiatives to rebuild trust in law enforcement.

Conclusion

The crisis in Manipur requires a multi-pronged approach combining security enforcement, political reconciliation, and economic reconstruction. Restoring peace will depend on inclusive governance, diplomatic engagement with Myanmar, and confidence-building measures between ethnic communities. A long-term vision focusing on sustainable development and conflict resolution will be key to ensuring lasting stability in the region.

Topic 4: Climate Change and Rising Risk of Urban Fires – A Global Study

GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management, Climate Change

Introduction

A recent global study has highlighted the alarming increase in urban fires due to climate change. Rising temperatures, prolonged heatwaves, and rapid urbanization have intensified fire risks in major cities worldwide, including India. Factors such as poor urban planning, lack of fire safety regulations, and inadequate firefighting infrastructure further exacerbate the problem. The study emphasizes the need for climate-resilient urban planning and improved disaster response mechanisms.

Key Points

  • Major Findings of the Global Study:
    • Increase in Heat-Induced Fires: Higher temperatures and dry conditions are increasing the frequency and intensity of urban fires.
    • Cities Most at Risk: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata in India; Los Angeles, Sydney, and Athens globally.
    • Rising Infrastructure Damage: Poorly ventilated buildings and flammable construction materials contribute to rapid fire spread.
    • Forest Fires Near Urban Areas: Urban sprawl near forests (e.g., Amazon, Western Ghats) has increased the risk of wildfires spreading into cities.
  • Causes of Rising Urban Fires:
    • Climate Change: Higher temperatures dry out vegetation and increase flammability of materials.
    • Unplanned Urban Growth: Slums and densely populated areas lack proper fire exits and hydrants.
    • Energy Overload: Increased air conditioning and electrical usage in heatwaves raises electrical fire risks.
    • Lack of Fire Safety Regulations: Many buildings do not comply with National Building Code (NBC) fire norms.

Prelims Pointers

  • Urban Heat Island Effect: Cities experience higher temperatures than surrounding areas due to concrete surfaces trapping heat.
  • National Building Code (NBC) of India: Lays down fire safety and building design norms for urban planning.
  • Red Flag Days: Meteorological term for high fire-risk weather conditions due to low humidity and strong winds.
  • Forest Fire Susceptibility Index (FFSI): Used to predict wildfire risk in India based on climatic and vegetation factors.
  • Fire Suppression Techniques: Includes controlled burns, firebreaks, water cannons, and AI-based fire detection systems.

Mains Pointers

1. Impact of Climate Change on Urban Fires

  1. Increase in Fire Incidents:
    • Extreme heat and dry conditions accelerate the ignition of fires.
    • 2023 Delhi Fire saw record-breaking temperatures causing multiple market and slum fires.
  2. Health Hazards & Air Pollution:
    • Fires release toxic smoke and particulate matter (PM2.5 & PM10), worsening respiratory diseases.
    • Indoor air pollution in slum areas leads to higher mortality rates from burns and suffocation.
  3. Economic Losses & Infrastructure Damage:
    • Fires cause billions in property damage, especially in commercial hubs and factories.
    • Industrial areas in Mumbai and Chennai have suffered major financial losses due to fire-related accidents.
  4. Increased Insurance Costs & Disaster Management Challenges:
    • Insurers are raising premiums in fire-prone cities.
    • Fire departments lack funding and modern equipment to handle large-scale fires.

2. Challenges in Urban Fire Management

  1. Outdated Fire Safety Infrastructure:
    • Many fire stations lack modern firefighting equipment.
    • Narrow roads and encroachments prevent fire trucks from reaching burning buildings.
  2. Weak Implementation of Fire Safety Laws:
    • Many buildings violate NBC fire safety norms with improper wiring and flammable materials.
    • In slums, illegal electrical connections increase fire hazards.
  3. Lack of Public Awareness:
    • Many residents do not know how to use fire extinguishers or respond in case of a fire emergency.
  4. Forest Fires Threatening Urban Areas:
    • Urban expansion near forests (e.g., Bengaluru, Uttarakhand, Maharashtra’s Western Ghats) has increased human-caused wildfires.

3. Government Measures & Policies for Fire Safety

  • National Building Code (NBC), 2016:
    • Specifies fire-resistant materials, escape routes, and mandatory hydrants in high-rise buildings.
  • Fire Safety Audit (FSA) Guidelines:
    • Mandates annual inspections for commercial buildings, schools, and hospitals.
  • Smart City Mission Fire Safety Initiative:
    • Integrates AI-based fire detection and GIS mapping for real-time fire monitoring.
  • National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC):
    • Includes adaptive strategies for heatwave and fire risk mitigation in urban planning.

Way Forward

1. Climate-Resilient Urban Planning

  • Mandate green roofs, heat-resistant materials, and fireproof designs for new buildings.
  • Expand urban green spaces and artificial lakes to reduce fire risk.

2. Strengthening Fire Departments & Response Systems

  • Equip fire brigades with drones, thermal imaging cameras, and AI-based fire alarms.
  • Improve emergency response times by upgrading fire station infrastructure.

3. Strict Enforcement of Fire Safety Laws

  • Ensure mandatory fire safety audits for all high-rise buildings.
  • Penalize violations of NBC fire codes with higher fines and license suspensions.

4. Community Awareness & Participation

  • Conduct school and workplace fire drills regularly.
  • Promote public awareness campaigns on fire safety and first-aid training.

Conclusion

Climate change has increased the risk of urban fires, requiring urgent policy interventions and infrastructure upgrades. India must adopt a holistic approach, integrating fireproof urban planning, modern firefighting technology, and strict regulatory enforcement to reduce fire hazards and protect lives. Investing in climate-adaptive fire safety measures will be key to making cities safer and more resilient in the future.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

Topic 1: Search Operations Ongoing for Missing Fighter Jet

Question 1

Which of the following statements regarding the Sukhoi Su-30 MKI fighter jet is/are correct?

  1. It is jointly developed by Russia’s Sukhoi and India’s HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Ltd.).
  2. It is primarily used for air-to-ground attack missions rather than air superiority roles.
  3. It is equipped with supermaneuverability features and can perform advanced combat maneuvers.

Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3

✅ Answer: b) 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

  • Statement 1 is correct: The Sukhoi Su-30 MKI is developed by Russia’s Sukhoi Design Bureau and produced under license by HAL in India.
  • Statement 2 is incorrect: The Su-30 MKI is a multi-role fighter, but it is primarily designed for air superiority and aerial combat, not just air-to-ground missions.
  • Statement 3 is correct: It features “supermaneuverability” capabilities, allowing advanced aerial combat maneuvers such as the Pugachev’s Cobra.

Question 2

The Black Box (Flight Data Recorder), often mentioned in aircraft crash investigations, primarily records:

a) Real-time video footage of the cockpit
b) Weather conditions outside the aircraft
c) Flight parameters like altitude, speed, and pilot communications
d) GPS location tracking throughout the flight

✅ Answer: c) Flight parameters like altitude, speed, and pilot communications

Explanation:

  • The Black Box (Flight Data Recorder and Cockpit Voice Recorder) stores critical flight data, including:
    • Altitude, speed, and direction
    • Engine performance and system functions
    • Cockpit conversations and pilot communications
  • It does not record video footage or GPS tracking but provides essential information for crash investigations.

Topic 2: Granting ST Status to Six Communities – Government Panel Submits Report

Question 3

Which of the following communities in Assam were recommended for inclusion in the Scheduled Tribes (ST) category?

  1. Koch-Rajbongshi
  2. Tai Ahom
  3. Chutia
  4. Matak
  5. Moran
  6. Tea Tribes

Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1, 2, 3, and 4 only
b) 2, 3, 5, and 6 only
c) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6
d) 1, 3, and 6 only

✅ Answer: c) 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6

Explanation:

  • The Government Panel recommended ST status for all six communities: Koch-Rajbongshi, Tai Ahom, Chutia, Matak, Moran, and Tea Tribes.
  • This move aims to provide constitutional safeguards and socio-economic benefits to these communities.

Question 4

Under which article of the Indian Constitution can the President notify a Scheduled Tribe (ST) list for a state?

a) Article 244
b) Article 342
c) Article 330
d) Article 16(4)

✅ Answer: b) Article 342

Explanation:

  • Article 342 empowers the President of India to notify a list of Scheduled Tribes in a state or union territory.
  • The Parliament must approve any modifications to the ST list.
  • Other articles mentioned:
    • Article 244 → Provisions for Fifth & Sixth Schedule areas (Tribal Administration).
    • Article 330 → Reservation of seats for SCs & STs in Parliament.
    • Article 16(4) → Provides for reservation in public employment for SCs, STs, and OBCs.

Topic 3: Manipur Situation Post-President’s Rule – Security & Reconciliation Efforts

Question 5

Which of the following laws allows the imposition of President’s Rule in a state?

a) Article 352
b) Article 356
c) Article 360
d) Article 370

✅ Answer: b) Article 356

Explanation:

  • Article 356 allows the President of India to impose President’s Rule in a state when:
    • The state government fails to function as per the Constitution.
    • There is a breakdown of law and order.
  • Other articles:
    • Article 352 → National Emergency
    • Article 360 → Financial Emergency
    • Article 370 → Special status of Jammu & Kashmir (abrogated in 2019).

Question 6

The Suspension of Operations (SoO) Agreement, often seen in news regarding Manipur, refers to:

a) A temporary truce between the Indian government and insurgent groups
b) A UN peacekeeping operation in conflict zones
c) A security doctrine for counter-insurgency in Northeast India
d) A ceasefire agreement between India and Myanmar

✅ Answer: a) A temporary truce between the Indian government and insurgent groups

Explanation:

  • The SoO agreement is a temporary ceasefire deal between the Indian government and Kuki insurgent groups in Manipur.
  • It allows insurgents to suspend violent activities while negotiations take place.

Topic 4: Climate Change and Rising Risk of Urban Fires – A Global Study

Question 7

Which of the following factors contribute to the rising risk of urban fires due to climate change?

  1. Increasing heatwaves and dry weather
  2. Poor urban planning and overcrowding
  3. High energy consumption leading to electrical overload
  4. Lack of fire-resistant building materials

Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 3 and 4 only
c) 1, 2, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Explanation:

  • All four factors contribute to increasing urban fire risks:
    • Heatwaves & dry conditions → Increase fire incidents.
    • Poor urban planning → Leads to slums, illegal electrical connections, and lack of fire exits.
    • Energy overload → Causes electrical short circuits, a major cause of fires.
    • Lack of fire-resistant materials → Buildings catch fire more easily.

Question 8

Which of the following initiatives aim to improve fire safety in Indian cities?

  1. National Building Code (NBC)
  2. Smart Cities Mission
  3. Red Flag Days warning system
  4. Forest Fire Susceptibility Index (FFSI)

Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 3 and 4 only
c) 1, 2, and 3 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

✅ Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4

Explanation:

FFSI (Forest Fire Susceptibility Index) → Predicts wildfire risks in urban-adjacent forest zones.

NBC (National Building Code) → Sets fire safety norms for urban planning.

Smart Cities Mission → Includes GIS-based fire risk mapping.

Red Flag Days → Issued by meteorological agencies to warn of high fire-risk weather conditions.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Mains Question

Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of urban fires, posing new challenges for disaster management and urban planning. Analyze the causes behind rising urban fires and suggest policy measures to enhance fire resilience in Indian cities. (GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management, Urban Planning)

Model Answer

Introduction

Urban fires have become a growing disaster risk due to climate change, rapid urbanization, and weak fire safety infrastructure. Rising heatwaves, prolonged dry spells, and energy consumption overloads have led to increased fire incidents in densely populated cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach combining urban planning, fire safety regulations, and climate adaptation measures.

Causes Behind Rising Urban Fires

1. Climate Change-Induced Heatwaves & Dry Weather

  • Rising global temperatures cause prolonged heatwaves, increasing flammability of materials in cities.
  • Dry and windy conditions accelerate fire spread, particularly in industrial zones and informal settlements.
  • Example: Delhi recorded its highest-ever temperature in 2023 (49.2°C), leading to multiple market and factory fires.

2. Unplanned Urbanization & Poor Infrastructure

  • Overcrowded slums and illegal settlements lack proper ventilation and fire exits.
  • Unauthorized electrical connections increase fire hazards due to overloaded circuits and short circuits.
  • Lack of firefighting access in congested areas delays emergency response.

3. Increased Energy Consumption & Electrical Fires

  • Rising use of air conditioners, industrial cooling systems, and faulty electrical wiring leads to overheating.
  • Poor maintenance of old electrical grids leads to sparks and explosions in transformers.
  • Example: Mumbai’s Kamala Mills fire (2017) was caused by short-circuiting due to electrical overload.

4. Weak Implementation of Fire Safety Norms

  • Many buildings do not comply with the National Building Code (NBC) fire safety standards.
  • Industrial areas and commercial hubs often store flammable materials without adequate safety measures.
  • Fire safety audits are often ignored or poorly enforced by municipal bodies.

5. Urban Encroachment into Forested Areas & Wildfire Spread

  • Expansion of cities into forest-adjacent zones (e.g., Western Ghats, Uttarakhand, and Bengaluru outskirts) has led to increased forest fire risks spreading into urban settlements.
  • Example: The 2023 Chile wildfires burned homes in urban-fringe areas due to strong winds and high temperatures.

Impact of Rising Urban Fires

1. Human Casualties & Health Hazards

  • Fires cause direct loss of lives and severe burn injuries.
  • Smoke from fires releases toxic pollutants (PM2.5, CO, SO2), leading to respiratory diseases.

2. Economic & Infrastructure Losses

  • Fires destroy businesses, factories, and residential areas, causing billions in losses annually.
  • Example: The Surat Textile Market fire (2021) resulted in ₹500 crore in damages.

3. Pressure on Fire Departments & Emergency Response

  • India has only 3,000 fire stations, whereas 8,500 are required as per international standards (NDMA report).
  • Lack of trained firefighters and modern equipment slows down rescue operations.

Government Measures to Address Fire Risks

1. Strengthening Fire Safety Regulations

  • National Building Code (NBC), 2016:
    • Mandates fire-resistant materials, emergency exits, and sprinklers in high-rises.
  • Fire Safety Audits:
    • Annual audits must be strictly enforced in commercial and industrial zones.
  • Smart City Fire Safety Plan:
    • GIS-based real-time fire monitoring and AI-based fire alarm systems.

2. Improving Fire Department Infrastructure

  • Increasing the number of fire stations in all major cities.
  • Modernizing firefighting equipment, including:
    • Drones for early fire detection.
    • Robotic firefighting systems for high-risk areas.
    • AI-based predictive analytics for risk assessment.

3. Promoting Climate-Resilient Urban Planning

  • Implementing heat-resistant and fireproof building materials in city planning.
  • Creating green belts and water reservoirs in cities to control fire spread.
  • Designing fire-resistant roofs and facades in slums and low-income housing.

4. Community Awareness & Public Participation

  • Conducting fire drills in schools, workplaces, and residential areas.
  • Promoting fire safety education through TV, social media, and municipal campaigns.
  • Establishing local volunteer firefighting units to assist emergency responders.

Way Forward

1. Making Fire Safety Compliance Mandatory

  • Strict implementation of NBC guidelines and industrial fire safety rules.
  • Penalizing non-compliant builders and industries.

2. Integrating Climate Science into Fire Risk Management

  • Using heatwave prediction models to issue “Red Flag Days” for fire-prone areas.
  • Expanding Forest Fire Susceptibility Index (FFSI) monitoring to urban peripheries.

3. Developing Smart City Fire Resilience Strategies

  • Implementing IoT-based fire detection sensors in high-risk zones.
  • Installing automatic water sprinklers and fire suppression systems in public buildings.

4. Strengthening Global Collaboration on Urban Fire Management

  • Learning from Japan’s fire-resistant architecture and Australia’s wildfire management techniques.
  • Participating in UN’s Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (SFDRR) to improve fire resilience.

Conclusion

Urban fires, exacerbated by climate change and unplanned growth, require a multi-pronged strategy focusing on fire safety regulations, urban planning, and public awareness. India must adopt a preventive approach rather than a reactive one, integrating technology-driven fire management, strict enforcement of safety laws, and climate-resilient infrastructure to reduce fire risks and protect lives.

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