APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (05/05/2025)
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 (05-05-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
⨠Current Affairs Crash Course for the APSC Prelims 2025
đ Mismanagement of Waqf Properties in Assam: Reform Imperative
đ GS Paper 2: Governance | Minority Rights | Statutory & Non-Constitutional Bodies
đ GS Paper 1: Indian Society | Role of Religion in Public Institutions
đš Introduction
Waqf properties in India, especially in Assam, have come under scrutiny following the enactment of a new central law that aims to enhance transparency and accountability. Reports of corruption, poor record-keeping, encroachments, and weak institutional oversight have sparked debate, with calls from within the Muslim community for systemic reforms.
đ Key Facts & Figures
| Parameter | Detail |
| Total Waqf Properties in Assam | ~2,654 (as per Ministry of Minority Affairs portal) |
| Under Mutawalli System | 880 |
| Under Committees | 724 |
| Unmanaged/Unknown Status | 1,033 properties |
| Under Litigation | 25 |
| Properties Without Info | 192 |
| Education Institutions | ~1,315 Madrasas |
| Commercial Units | ~724 shops |
| District with Highest Concentration | Kamrup Metro (1,070+ properties) |
đ§ Prelims Pointers
Waqf: A permanent endowment made by Muslims for religious or charitable purposes.
Mutawalli: A person appointed to manage a Waqf property.
Waqf Act: Governs management and administration of Waqf properties through State Waqf Boards.
Limitation Act, 1963: Now applicable to Waqf property disputes, triggering debate on adverse possession.
Ministry of Minority Affairs: Nodal ministry for Waqf-related policy in India.
đ Mains Pointers
A. Significance of Reform
| Area | Explanation |
| Community Welfare | Waqf properties are meant for education, health, and socio-economic upliftment of Muslims. |
| Governance Efficiency | Reduces corruption, enhances transparency. |
| Legal Clarity | Avoids encroachment and illegal transfers. |
| Data Management | Boosts digitization, e-governance of properties. |
B. Challenges Identified
| Challenge | Explanation |
| No Comprehensive Survey | No full mapping or GPS tagging of Waqf land ever undertaken. |
| Income Decline | From âš70 lakh (2015â16) to âš15 lakh (2019â20). |
| Poor Auditing | No regular financial audits conducted. |
| Encroachments & Misuse | Properties in Silchar reportedly sold off; widespread illegal occupation. |
| Opaque Management | Many properties lack updated management information. |
| Litigation | 25 properties under dispute, many more untracked. |
C. Features & Criticism of New Law
| Provision | Concern |
| Central Govt Control | Seen as excessive interference in religious affairs |
| Inclusion of Non-Muslims in Boards | Sparks concerns about religious autonomy |
| Application of Limitation Act | May enable encroachers to claim Waqf land |
D. Community & Expert Voices
Dr. Nurul Amin: Emphasized the lack of awareness among Muslims regarding Waqf utility and beneficiaries.
Nekibur Zaman (Former Chairman): Highlighted urgent need for reform to curb corruption and misuse.
đ Policy Suggestions & Reforms
đ Comprehensive GIS Mapping of all Waqf assets in Assam
𧞠Mandatory Audits & Public Disclosure of income, usage, and beneficiaries
đ§ââī¸ Special Waqf Tribunals to fast-track property disputes
đ§âđŧ Professional Training of Mutawallis and strict tenure rules
đ Awareness Campaigns within the community to ensure greater public oversight
đī¸ Model Waqf Administration Units for urban & rural areas
đ§ Way Forward
Build Waqf Management Portals for transparency (modelled after e-Property Tax systems).
Involve community organizations and minority scholars in decision-making.
Align reforms with Article 26 (Freedom to manage religious affairs) while ensuring public accountability.
Empower State Waqf Boards with digital and human resource support from Central schemes.
𧊠Conclusion
The mismanagement of Waqf properties in Assam reveals a larger crisis of institutional capacity and community participation. If reformed earnestly, Waqf assets can become powerful tools for socio-economic development, especially in education and healthcare. The government must strike a balance between oversight and autonomy, with the larger goal of fulfilling the Waqif’s will and public interest.
đŖī¸ IndiaâSoutheast Asia Connectivity via Trilateral Highway
đš Introduction:
Indiaâs strategic outreach to Southeast Asia hinges on physical and economic connectivity, with the IndiaâMyanmarâThailand Trilateral Highway (IMT-TH) forming the backbone of the Act East Policy. The project aims to link Moreh (Manipur) to Mae Sot (Thailand) through Myanmar, thereby strengthening trade, tourism, and strategic relations.
đš Key Features:
Route: Imphal (India) â Moreh â Tamu (Myanmar) â Mandalay â Myawaddy â Mae Sot (Thailand)
Length: Approx. 1,360 km
Spearheaded by: Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India
Extensions Planned: To Laos, Cambodia, and Vietnam
đš Current Status:
India is funding construction & upgradation of major sections in Myanmar:
Kalewa-Yagyi road (120.74 km)
Yagyi-Monywa section under DPR
Progress delayed due to:
Political instability in Myanmar post-2021 coup
Security issues in border zones
Logistical hurdles and contractor delays
đ Prelims Pointers:
IMT Highway connects which countries? â India, Myanmar, Thailand
Which Indian border town connects to IMT Highway? â Moreh (Manipur)
Associated Policy: Act East Policy
Regional group supported: BIMSTEC
Expected Benefits: Boost to ASEAN trade, North-East Indiaâs development, Tourism
đ§ Mains Pointers:
đ¸ Significance:
Strategic Outreach: Establishes a direct land route to ASEAN.
Economic Integration: Reduces cost and time of freight transport.
North-East Development: Enhances employment, logistics, and investment.
Geopolitical Counter: Counters Chinaâs Belt and Road Initiative in the region.
đ¸ Challenges:
Political instability in Myanmar
Infrastructural bottlenecks and poor road conditions
Insurgency and cross-border crimes
Funding and inter-agency coordination delays
đ¸ Government Initiatives:
Indiaâs Line of Credit for Myanmarâs road development
Talks with Thailand and Myanmar on fast-tracking project
India-ASEAN Connectivity Plans under review
Use of satellite data and drones for alignment and safety checks
đ¸ Way Forward:
Diplomatic Engagement: Stabilize Myanmar cooperation
Multilateral Funding: Include JICA, ADB for project financing
Security Measures: Joint patrolling with Myanmar army
Local Capacity Building: Train local contractors, enhance logistics
Extension to Vietnam & Cambodia to realize full ASEAN integration
đ Conclusion:
The Trilateral Highway is not just a transport projectâitâs a geopolitical, economic, and strategic pivot for Indiaâs regional outreach. Timely completion, coupled with regional cooperation, will cement Indiaâs role in a multi-polar Asia.
UGCâs Crackdown on Fake Universities in India
đ Introduction
The University Grants Commission (UGC) has taken significant steps to curb the menace of fake universities across India. In its latest initiative, it has identified and issued warnings against institutions operating without recognition, thereby misleading students and tarnishing the credibility of Indiaâs higher education system.
đ Key Points from the News
UGC has published a fresh list of fake universities operating in various states including Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal.
Assam is not on the list, indicating compliance or less proliferation of such institutions in the state.
UGC reiterated that only institutions established through a central or state act or declared deemed-to-be universities under Section 3 of the UGC Act, 1956, are valid.
The public advisory aims to prevent students from enrolling in unrecognized institutes.
The UGC has sought cooperation from state governments in legal and enforcement actions.
đ§ Prelims Pointers
UGC is a statutory body under Ministry of Education, established in 1956.
Fake universities are those not established under law and lack UGC recognition.
Section 22 of the UGC Act prohibits the use of the term “university” by unauthorized institutions.
UGC has authority to regulate standards of higher education, grant recognition, and disburse funds.
âī¸ Mains Pointers
𧊠Significance
Protects students from fraudulent educational practices.
Ensures standardization and quality assurance in higher education.
Reinforces academic integrity in Indiaâs global education brand.
â ī¸ Challenges
Lack of awareness among rural students.
State-level enforcement is often weak.
Some fake institutions continue to operate due to legal loopholes or political patronage.
đī¸ Government Initiatives
UGCâs online portal for student verification.
Public notice campaigns through newspapers and official websites.
Coordination with state police and education departments.
đ Way Forward
Strengthen monitoring mechanisms with help from AI tools.
Introduce centralized university verification system accessible to all.
Conduct awareness programs in schools and colleges.
đ Conclusion
The UGC’s crackdown on fake universities is a proactive step towards ensuring academic credibility and protecting student interests. Stronger cooperation between the Centre, states, and the public is essential to fully eliminate the threat of unrecognized institutions in India.
Assam-Mizoram Border Peace Talks
Introduction
The Assam-Mizoram border dispute, rooted in colonial-era demarcations, has historically led to tensions and occasional clashes. The two states recently resumed peace talks aiming to resolve long-standing disagreements and foster cooperative development along the border.
Key Points
A joint meeting was held between Assam and Mizoram officials to discuss confidence-building measures.
Both states agreed to maintain the status quo and avoid any new encroachments until a resolution is finalized.
Civil society groups and student unions are being consulted to ensure a people-centric solution.
The peace process emphasizes coordination between local administrations to prevent future clashes.
Prelims Pointers
States involved: Assam and Mizoram
Primary issue: Border demarcation from 1875 (Inner Line) vs. 1933 boundary
Recent action: Confidence-building joint talks
Associated groups: Local administration, civil society, student unions
Mains Pointers
Significance:
Peace talks reduce the risk of violence and foster inter-state cooperation.
Ensures better law-and-order management in sensitive border regions.
Challenges:
Historical mistrust and competing narratives about rightful boundaries.
Political interests may influence the negotiation process.
Local resistance due to perceived threats to land rights.
Government Initiatives:
Ministry of Home Affairsâ involvement in inter-state dialogue.
Deployment of neutral central forces to maintain peace.
Initiatives to digitize and clarify boundary maps.
Way Ahead:
Establishing a permanent boundary commission.
Encouraging cultural and economic exchanges between border populations.
Ensuring political neutrality and transparency in dispute resolution.
Conclusion
The peaceful dialogue between Assam and Mizoram marks a positive shift from past hostilities. Sustained engagement and inclusive decision-making are key to lasting peace and cooperative development in the Northeast.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
đ Topic 1: Mismanagement of Waqf Properties in Assam
Q1. Which of the following statements about Waqf properties in Assam is/are correct?
- The majority of Waqf properties in Assam are managed under the Mutawalli system.
- The application of the Limitation Act, 1963, to Waqf property disputes has raised concerns about potential adverse possession claims.
- Kamrup Metro district has the highest concentration of Waqf properties in Assam.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
đŖī¸ Topic 2: IndiaâSoutheast Asia Connectivity via Trilateral Highway
Q2. The IndiaâMyanmarâThailand Trilateral Highway aims to connect which of the following Indian towns to Thailand?
A. Imphal
B. Moreh
C. Silchar
D. Aizawl
Answer: B. Moreh
Q3. Which of the following is a significant challenge in the completion of the IndiaâMyanmarâThailand Trilateral Highway project?
A. Lack of funding from the Indian government
B. Political instability in Myanmar
C. Opposition from Thailand
D. Environmental concerns in Northeast India
Answer: B. Political instability in Myanmar
đ Topic 3: UGCâs Crackdown on Fake Universities in India
Q4. Under which section of the UGC Act, 1956, is the term “university” prohibited from being used by unauthorized institutions?
A. Section 12
B. Section 20
C. Section 22
D. Section 25
Answer: C. Section 22
Q5. Which of the following is NOT a criterion for an institution to be recognized as a university under the UGC Act, 1956?
A. Established by a central or state act
B. Declared as a deemed university under Section 3 of the UGC Act
C. Affiliated to a foreign university
D. Recognized by the UGC
Answer: C. Affiliated to a foreign university
đī¸ Topic 4: Assam-Mizoram Border Peace Talks
Q6. The Assam-Mizoram border dispute primarily arises from differing interpretations of which historical demarcations?
A. 1875 Inner Line and 1933 boundary demarcations
B. 1950 State Reorganization boundaries
C. 1972 North-Eastern Areas Reorganization Act
D. 1987 Mizoram Statehood Act
Answer: A. 1875 Inner Line and 1933 boundary demarcations
Q7. Which of the following measures have Assam and Mizoram agreed upon to maintain peace along their shared border?
- Maintain the status quo and avoid new encroachments
- Consult civil society groups and student unions
- Deploy central armed forces to the disputed areas
- Exchange territories to resolve the dispute
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2, and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
APSC Mains Practice Question
đ Mains Question
Q. The management and regulation of Waqf properties in India faces challenges of mismanagement, encroachment, and inadequate governance. Examine the key issues and suggest measures for effective administration and utilization of Waqf assets, with special reference to Assam.
â Model Answer
Introduction:
Waqf properties, donated for religious or charitable purposes in Islam, are governed under the Waqf Act, 1995. India has over 6 lakh registered Waqf properties, the third-largest landholding after defence and railways. However, a significant proportion is under encroachment, mismanagement, or embroiled in legal disputes. Assam, with over 6,000 Waqf estates, reflects these systemic issues.
Key Issues in Waqf Property Management:
- Encroachment and Illegal Occupation:
- More than 50% of Waqf land in Assam is encroached.
- Lack of digitized land records worsens the problem.
- Lack of Transparency and Auditing:
- Many Waqf Boards have not conducted regular audits.
- In Assam, reports indicate irregularities in financial disclosures.
- Weak Governance by State Waqf Boards:
- Boards often lack technical, legal, and financial expertise.
- Political interference undermines independence.
- Legal Disputes and Application of Limitation Act, 1963:
- Recent debates on the applicability of adverse possession pose threats to Waqf land recovery.
- Poor Utilization of Assets:
- Vast prime urban land remains under-utilized or misused.
- Estimated annual revenue loss exceeds âš10,000 crore nationally.
Case Study: Assam
- The Kamrup Metro district has the highest concentration of Waqf properties.
- The State Waqf Board lacks GIS mapping, leading to vulnerability to land grab.
- Assamâs religious bodies have voiced concern over inclusion of Waqf under the Limitation Act, fearing large-scale losses.
Government Initiatives:
- Digitalization drive through the Waqf Management System of India (WAMSI).
- Central Waqf Council set up to advise on administration.
- Proposed Waqf Development Corporation for better asset utilization.
Suggested Measures:
- Digitization and GIS Mapping:
- Complete and update land records to prevent encroachment.
- Independent Regulatory Oversight:
- Establish a quasi-judicial authority for faster resolution of disputes.
- Professionalization of Waqf Boards:
- Recruitment of legal experts, land surveyors, and financial managers.
- Amend the Waqf Act, 1995:
- Clarify provisions regarding Limitation Act and property protection.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Develop Waqf lands for education, healthcare, and housing while retaining ownership.
- Civil Society Engagement:
- Encourage community monitoring and awareness on Waqf rights.
Conclusion:
Waqf properties have immense socio-economic potential if managed transparently. A combination of legal reforms, technology integration, and participative governance is needed to unlock their utility. In Assamâs context, targeted state-level reforms and public accountability can transform Waqf assets into instruments of community development.
⨠APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
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