APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/03/2025)
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 (06-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: 263 Illegal Rat-Hole Coal Mines Detected in Central Assam
GS Paper 3: Environment, Governance, Mining Regulation
Introduction
A recent survey by environmental agencies and state authorities has detected 263 illegal rat-hole coal mines operating in Central Assam, raising concerns over environmental degradation, human safety, and unregulated coal mining. Despite being banned by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) since 2014, rat-hole mining continues due to loopholes in enforcement, political backing, and local economic dependency.
Key Points
- What is Rat-Hole Mining?
- A hazardous coal extraction technique where narrow tunnels are dug to extract coal.
- Miners crawl through tunnels barely big enough for a human to manually extract coal.
- Locations Affected:
- Illegal mining detected in Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, and Upper Assam districts.
- Close to Nagaon and Kaziranga National Park, posing risks to wildlife and water bodies.
- Who is Involved?
- Local coal syndicates operate these mines, with links to political networks and insurgent groups.
- Migrants and daily-wage laborers, including minors, work under hazardous conditions.
- Environmental & Humanitarian Concerns:
- Causes land subsidence, air and water pollution, and biodiversity destruction.
- Risk of fatal accidents due to tunnel collapses and gas exposure.
- Children and underpaid laborers work in unsafe conditions, leading to severe health risks.
Prelims Pointers
- National Green Tribunal (NGT): A judicial body for environmental protection; banned rat-hole mining in 2014.
- Rat-Hole Mining: A small-scale manual coal mining technique banned due to safety and environmental concerns.
- Coal Mines (Special Provisions) Act, 2015: Governs coal allocation and regulation in India.
- Jaintia Hills, Meghalaya: A hotspot for illegal rat-hole mining before NGT’s intervention.
- Acid Mine Drainage: The release of toxic acids from coal mines into rivers, harming aquatic life.
Mains Pointers
1. Why Does Illegal Rat-Hole Mining Continue?
- Weak Enforcement & Corruption:
- Mining operations continue despite government bans, often with local political support.
- Lack of regular inspections and strict penalties encourages violations.
- Economic Dependency on Coal Mining:
- Coal mining provides livelihoods for thousands of unskilled laborers in Assam.
- Many villagers depend on coal syndicates due to the absence of alternative employment.
- Demand for Cheap Coal by Industries:
- Unregulated coal is cheaper and is used by local brick kilns, cement plants, and tea factories.
- Buyers avoid legal coal due to high taxes and transport costs.
- Involvement of Insurgent Groups:
- Groups like ULFA (I) and NDFB are allegedly involved in coal extortion rackets.
- Mining revenue funds arms smuggling and militant operations.
2. Impact of Illegal Rat-Hole Mining
✅ Environmental Damage
- Deforestation & Land Degradation:
- Coal mines destroy forest cover in Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao.
- Water Pollution & Acid Drainage:
- Coal deposits release sulfuric acid, contaminating rivers and harming aquatic ecosystems.
- Air Pollution & Health Hazards:
- Mining dust causes respiratory diseases like silicosis and lung infections.
✅ Humanitarian & Labor Exploitation
- Child Labor & Unsafe Working Conditions:
- Minors work in narrow pits, exposed to toxic fumes, mine collapses, and suffocation.
- Frequent Mine Accidents:
- Lack of safety equipment, emergency exits, and oxygen supply leads to worker deaths.
✅ Loss to Government Revenue
- No Royalties or Taxes Paid:
- Illegal coal evades taxation, causing significant economic losses to the exchequer.
- Encourages Criminal Syndicates:
- Profits from illegal coal fuel organized crime and insurgency in Assam.
3. Government Measures to Curb Illegal Coal Mining
✅ NGT’s Total Ban on Rat-Hole Mining (2014)
- Declared illegal under environmental laws due to its destructive impact on nature and human life.
✅ Assam Government’s Special Task Force
- Increased surveillance and sealing of illegal mines in Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao.
✅ Regulating Coal Supply Chain
- Strict tracking of coal movement via GPS to prevent illegal distribution.
✅ Compensatory Afforestation Measures
- Restoration of mining-affected lands through afforestation programs.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strict Law Enforcement & Accountability
- Strengthening the Assam Pollution Control Board (APCB) to ensure compliance.
- Fast-track courts for environmental crimes related to illegal mining.
✅ 2. Economic Diversification & Employment Alternatives
- Promoting eco-tourism, sustainable agriculture, and rural industries to reduce dependency on coal mining.
- Vocational training for displaced coal miners to transition them into alternative livelihoods.
✅ 3. Adoption of Safer Mining Technologies
- Encouraging scientific and sustainable coal extraction under government supervision.
- Establishing modernized coal-washing units to reduce pollution from raw coal.
✅ 4. Community Participation & Public Awareness
- Launching awareness campaigns about the hazards of illegal mining and alternative livelihoods.
- Strengthening village monitoring committees to prevent further illegal coal extraction.
Conclusion
Illegal rat-hole mining remains a major challenge in Assam, causing environmental destruction, labor exploitation, and economic losses. While government crackdowns have increased, a holistic approach involving strict law enforcement, economic alternatives, and sustainable mining practices is essential to end this practice permanently. The focus should be on long-term economic reforms that uplift mining-dependent communities without harming the environment.
Topic 2: Steps on for Climate Change Mitigation in Assam
GS Paper 3: Climate Change, Disaster Management, Agriculture
Introduction
The Assam government has intensified efforts to mitigate climate change by adopting a multi-sectoral approach, focusing on flood control, renewable energy, afforestation, and sustainable agriculture. Assam, being highly vulnerable to climate-related disasters like floods, soil erosion, and droughts, requires long-term climate resilience strategies to protect its people, biodiversity, and economy.
Key Points
- Why Assam is Climate-Vulnerable?
- Frequent Floods & Riverbank Erosion: Brahmaputra and Barak river systems cause massive floods annually.
- Rising Temperatures & Heatwaves: Northeast India is experiencing higher-than-normal temperature variations.
- Deforestation & Biodiversity Loss: Illegal logging and tea plantation expansion threaten forest cover.
- Glacier Melt & Changing Monsoon Patterns: Impacting water availability and agriculture cycles.
- Assam Government’s Climate Mitigation Measures:
- Implementation of Assam Climate Action Plan (ACAP) focusing on sustainable energy and disaster resilience.
- Expansion of solar energy projects to reduce dependence on fossil fuels.
- Reforestation initiatives in degraded areas to restore the ecosystem.
- Smart agriculture techniques to support farmers affected by erratic weather.
Prelims Pointers
- State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC): Assam’s framework under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
- Brahmaputra River Floods: Caused by glacier melt, heavy monsoons, and sedimentation.
- Kaziranga National Park Flooding: Affected due to climate change-induced rise in Brahmaputra levels.
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Government initiative to promote water conservation in drought-prone areas.
- PM-KUSUM Scheme: Encourages solar-powered irrigation pumps for farmers.
Mains Pointers
1. Climate Change Challenges in Assam
✅ 1. Floods & River Erosion
- Brahmaputra floods affect 40% of Assam’s population annually.
- Riverbank erosion leads to loss of agricultural land and displacement of people.
✅ 2. Loss of Forest Cover & Biodiversity
- Illegal logging and encroachments threaten Assam’s rainforests and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Decreasing elephant corridors and rhino habitats due to rising temperatures.
✅ 3. Impact on Agriculture & Food Security
- Unpredictable rainfall patterns affect rice and tea production.
- Soil degradation due to extreme weather conditions.
✅ 4. Rising Incidences of Heatwaves & Droughts
- Northeast India recorded its hottest summer in decades in 2023.
- Urban heat islands developing in Guwahati and other cities.
2. Assam Government’s Climate Mitigation Strategies
✅ 1. Flood Control & River Management
- Construction of high-rise embankments and flood-resistant infrastructure.
- Implementation of “Room for River” projects to allow excess water storage.
- Use of satellite data to predict floods and early warning systems.
✅ 2. Renewable Energy & Green Technology
- Expansion of solar parks in Assam to reduce carbon footprint.
- Promotion of biogas and ethanol-based fuels to replace traditional energy sources.
✅ 3. Sustainable Agriculture & Water Conservation
- Adoption of climate-resilient paddy varieties that can survive floods and droughts.
- Drip irrigation and rainwater harvesting promoted in rural districts.
✅ 4. Reforestation & Carbon Sequestration
- “Green Assam Mission” aims to increase forest cover to 40% by 2030.
- Agroforestry projects integrating tree plantations with farming.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Climate Governance
- Implementation of a state-wide carbon reduction framework.
- Setting up a Climate Resilience Authority to monitor policies.
✅ 2. Technology-Driven Climate Solutions
- Use of AI-based weather forecasting to alert farmers before extreme climate events.
- Encouraging urban green rooftops and vertical farming to reduce heatwaves.
✅ 3. Community Participation & Awareness
- Involving local communities in reforestation programs to ensure long-term impact.
- Launching climate literacy campaigns in schools to raise awareness.
✅ 4. Strengthening Disaster Resilience
- Expanding early warning systems for floods and landslides.
- Improving rural housing infrastructure to withstand extreme weather.
Conclusion
Assam’s climate vulnerability requires a multi-dimensional strategy, integrating renewable energy, afforestation, flood control, and sustainable farming. By strengthening policy implementation and engaging local communities, Assam can emerge as a leader in climate resilience while ensuring environmental sustainability and economic security for future generations.
Topic 3: Indo-Myanmar Region Hit by 4 Earthquakes in 12 Hours
GS Paper 1 & 3: Geography, Disaster Management, Seismology
Introduction
The Indo-Myanmar region experienced four back-to-back earthquakes within 12 hours, with magnitudes ranging between 5.0 and 6.8 on the Richter scale. This has raised concerns about seismic vulnerability, preparedness, and disaster response in Northeast India, which lies in Seismic Zone V, the most earthquake-prone category. The tremors were felt in Assam, Manipur, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Arunachal Pradesh, leading to minor structural damage but no immediate casualties.
Key Points
- Location of Earthquakes:
- The epicenters were located in Myanmar’s Sagaing region, close to the Indo-Myanmar border.
- Strong tremors were recorded in Imphal, Aizawl, and Kohima, with aftershocks felt in Guwahati.
- Seismic Characteristics of Northeast India:
- The region lies on the Indo-Burmese Tectonic Plate, making it highly prone to earthquakes.
- The collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates creates stress along fault lines, triggering seismic activity.
- Concerns Over Infrastructure Resilience:
- Traditional wooden houses in the region withstood tremors, but concrete buildings showed cracks.
- Poorly constructed high-rises in urban areas risk collapse in major earthquakes.
- Government’s Immediate Response:
- NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) teams deployed in high-risk areas.
- Local administrations conducting damage assessment and issuing public advisories.
Prelims Pointers
- Seismic Zones of India: Northeast India falls in Seismic Zone V, the highest risk category.
- Indo-Burmese Plate: A subduction zone where the Indian Plate is sliding under the Burmese Plate, generating earthquakes.
- Richter Scale vs. Mercalli Scale:
- Richter Scale: Measures magnitude (energy released).
- Mercalli Scale: Measures intensity (effects on structures and people).
- National Seismological Network: Monitors earthquakes in India under the Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES).
- “Drop, Cover, and Hold” Technique: The recommended earthquake safety practice.
Mains Pointers
1. Why is Northeast India Prone to Earthquakes?
✅ 1. Tectonic Plate Movement
- Indian Plate collides with the Eurasian Plate, causing stress accumulation.
- The Indo-Burmese Subduction Zone is one of the world’s most active seismic belts.
✅ 2. Presence of Fault Lines
- The Dauki Fault, Kopili Fault, and Sagaing Fault run through the region, making it seismically active.
✅ 3. High Frequency of Aftershocks
- Previous major quakes (e.g., Assam Earthquake, 1950) show that the region experiences tremors for months after a major quake.
✅ 4. Unregulated Construction & Population Density
- Many urban structures do not follow earthquake-resistant designs, increasing disaster risks.
2. Impact of Earthquakes in the Indo-Myanmar Region
✅ 1. Human & Economic Losses
- Past earthquakes (1897, 1950, 2016) caused thousands of deaths and extensive damage.
- Disrupts businesses, road networks, and trade routes with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
✅ 2. Risk to Hydropower & Infrastructure
- Dams in Northeast India (Subansiri, Ranganadi) are at risk of structural failure.
- Bridges and railway lines suffer from ground instability.
✅ 3. Landslides & Soil Liquefaction
- Hilly regions of Nagaland, Manipur, and Arunachal Pradesh face landslides after earthquakes.
- Soft soils near riverbanks (e.g., in Guwahati) cause soil liquefaction, making buildings sink.
✅ 4. Impact on Indo-Myanmar Relations
- Myanmar’s Sagaing region is prone to quakes, affecting border trade and diplomatic coordination.
3. Government Initiatives for Earthquake Preparedness
✅ 1. Building Earthquake-Resistant Infrastructure
- BIS (Bureau of Indian Standards) 1893 Code for earthquake-resistant building design.
- Retrofitting of government buildings, hospitals, and schools in seismic zones.
✅ 2. Strengthening Disaster Response Mechanisms
- Deployment of NDRF and SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) teams in Northeast India.
- Earthquake Early Warning Systems being tested in high-risk zones.
✅ 3. Promoting Public Awareness & Preparedness
- Conducting regular earthquake drills in schools and offices.
- Developing community response teams in remote villages.
✅ 4. International Cooperation & Scientific Research
- Collaboration with Japan and the US Geological Survey (USGS) for seismic monitoring.
- Expansion of the Seismological Network in Northeast India to track tremors in real-time.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Building Codes & Construction Practices
- Strict enforcement of earthquake-resistant designs for high-rise buildings.
- Implementing “seismic micro-zonation” to identify high-risk areas for future planning.
✅ 2. Expanding Early Warning Systems
- Using satellite-based earthquake prediction models for faster alerts.
- Deploying smartphone-based seismic alert systems like Japan’s J-Alert system.
✅ 3. Investing in Climate-Resilient Infrastructure
- Strengthening bridges, railways, and water pipelines in earthquake-prone districts.
- Developing shock-absorbing building materials for new urban projects.
✅ 4. Enhancing Cross-Border Disaster Cooperation
- Establishing an Indo-Myanmar Earthquake Response Task Force.
- Conducting joint disaster management drills with Southeast Asian nations.
Conclusion
The recent Indo-Myanmar earthquakes highlight the urgent need for better disaster preparedness, resilient infrastructure, and public awareness. By enforcing earthquake-resistant building norms, expanding early warning systems, and strengthening regional cooperation, India can minimize loss of life and economic damage from future seismic events.
Topic 4: Life-Support System for Pilots Onboard Tejas Jets Successfully Tested by DRDO
GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Defense Modernization, Indigenization of Defense Technology
Introduction
The Defense Research and Development Organization (DRDO) has successfully tested an Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) for fighter jet pilots, specifically designed for the Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA). This system is crucial for ensuring pilot safety, endurance, and combat effectiveness at high altitudes and extreme conditions. The success of this test strengthens India’s self-reliance in defense technology under the Aatmanirbhar Bharat initiative.
Key Points
- What is an Integrated Life Support System (ILSS)?
- A cockpit-based system that supplies oxygen, temperature regulation, and anti-gravity support to pilots.
- Ensures optimal pilot performance in high-altitude, low-oxygen environments.
- Significance for Tejas Fighter Jets:
- Tejas LCA is India’s indigenously developed multi-role fighter jet.
- ILSS enhances pilot survivability and combat endurance, especially in dogfights and long-range missions.
- How It Works:
- Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS) eliminates the need for heavy oxygen cylinders.
- Anti-G Strain Systems prevent pilots from losing consciousness during high-speed maneuvers.
- Cooling & Humidity Control Mechanisms ensure comfort in extreme weather conditions.
- Successful Testing & Future Deployment:
- The system was tested at high-altitude simulation labs and live flight trials.
- Expected to be integrated into the Tejas Mk2 and future AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft).
Prelims Pointers
- Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA):
- Developed by HAL (Hindustan Aeronautics Limited) under DRDO’s Aeronautical Development Agency (ADA).
- Fourth-generation, multi-role, supersonic fighter jet.
- Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS):
- Uses engine bleed air to produce pure oxygen for pilots.
- Reduces the need for pre-filled oxygen cylinders, improving mission endurance.
- Anti-G Strain Suit:
- Worn by pilots to prevent G-force-induced blackouts during high-speed aerial maneuvers.
- Aatmanirbhar Bharat in Defense:
- India aims to indigenize 70% of its defense equipment by 2030.
- Other indigenous projects include INS Vikrant (Aircraft Carrier), Astra Missiles, and S-400 Integration.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of ILSS for Fighter Jet Pilots
✅ 1. Enhances Pilot Endurance in High-Stress Combat
- Ensures continuous oxygen supply at altitudes above 30,000 feet.
- Reduces pilot fatigue and hypoxia (oxygen deficiency).
✅ 2. Increases Aircraft Mission Time & Range
- Removes the need for oxygen refueling mid-flight.
- Allows longer-duration missions, especially for border patrol and strategic operations.
✅ 3. Critical for High-G Combat Maneuvers
- Prevents G-LOC (G-force induced Loss of Consciousness) in dogfights.
- Ensures pilots remain alert and responsive in high-speed chases.
✅ 4. Indigenization of Military Aviation Technology
- Reduces dependency on foreign defense suppliers (e.g., Russia, France).
- Supports Make in India & Aatmanirbhar Bharat in defense production.
2. Role of DRDO in India’s Fighter Jet Modernization
- Development of Advanced Avionics:
- Radar, communication systems, and electronic warfare capabilities.
- Upgrading Tejas LCA to Tejas Mk2:
- Improved range, weapons load, and next-gen flight control systems.
- Supporting the AMCA Program:
- The ILSS will also be used in India’s upcoming fifth-generation stealth fighter (AMCA).
- Global Military Collaboration:
- Potential export of Tejas and ILSS technology to friendly nations.
3. Challenges in ILSS Implementation
✅ 1. Complex Technology Development
- Ensuring seamless integration of ILSS with different fighter jet models.
- Overcoming technical glitches in oxygen generation at extreme altitudes.
✅ 2. Testing & Certification Delays
- Strict certification standards under the Defense Acquisition Council (DAC).
- Need for extensive live combat testing before full deployment.
✅ 3. Cost & Production Scaling
- Initial production costs are high for indigenous systems.
- Requires scaling up production to equip all IAF fighter jets.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Faster Integration into IAF Fleet
- Deploy ILSS in all Tejas Mk1A, Tejas Mk2, and future AMCA jets.
- Ensure real-time testing in high-altitude airbases (e.g., Leh, Tezpur, Tawang).
✅ 2. Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs)
- Encourage Indian startups and aerospace firms to collaborate on ILSS production.
- Incentivize joint ventures with HAL, DRDO, and private defense manufacturers.
✅ 3. Global Market Expansion & Export Potential
- Offer Tejas fighter jets with ILSS as a competitive package for export.
- Countries like Malaysia, Argentina, and Egypt have expressed interest in Tejas.
✅ 4. Aligning with India’s Defense Modernization Roadmap
- Integrate ILSS with future projects like:
- Twin Engine Deck-Based Fighter (TEDBF) for the Navy.
- GAGAN-based satellite navigation for precision strikes.
- Next-gen air combat drones under the CATS Warrior program.
Conclusion
The successful testing of the Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) marks a significant leap in India’s indigenous fighter jet technology. By enhancing pilot endurance, reducing operational costs, and improving combat readiness, the ILSS will play a key role in modernizing the Indian Air Force (IAF) and strengthening India’s aerospace industry. Moving forward, faster implementation, increased production, and global defense collaboration will be essential to maximizing its impact.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: 263 Illegal Rat-Hole Coal Mines Detected in Central Assam
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding rat-hole mining is/are correct?
- It involves manually excavating coal through narrow tunnels.
- It is banned in India by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) due to environmental concerns.
- It is mainly practiced in Jharkhand and Odisha.
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: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Rat-hole mining is a manual coal extraction technique using small, unsafe tunnels.
- Statement 2 is correct: The NGT banned rat-hole mining in 2014 due to its hazardous effects on the environment and workers’ safety.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: Rat-hole mining is not common in Jharkhand and Odisha, but rather in Meghalaya and Assam.
Question 2
Which of the following environmental issues are caused by illegal rat-hole mining?
- Acid mine drainage
- Deforestation and land subsidence
- Increased carbon sequestration in forests
- Contamination of rivers and groundwater
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1, 2, and 4 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Rat-hole mining leads to severe environmental degradation, including:
- Acid mine drainage (AMD), which pollutes water bodies.
- Deforestation due to unchecked mining expansion.
- Land subsidence, making areas prone to collapses.
- Contamination of groundwater with toxic chemicals.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: Rat-hole mining reduces forest cover, thereby decreasing carbon sequestration.
Topic 2: Steps on for Climate Change Mitigation in Assam
Question 3
Which of the following schemes is aimed at climate adaptation and flood control in Assam?
a) Jal Shakti Abhiyan
b) Assam Climate Action Plan (ACAP)
c) PM-KISAN
d) Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
✅ Answer: b) Assam Climate Action Plan (ACAP)
Explanation:
- The Assam Climate Action Plan (ACAP) is a state initiative under the National Action Plan on Climate Change (NAPCC).
- It focuses on flood resilience, renewable energy, and afforestation to tackle climate risks in Assam.
- Jal Shakti Abhiyan deals with water conservation at a national level.
- PM-KISAN is a direct income support scheme for farmers, and AMRUT is focused on urban development.
Question 4
Which of the following factors contribute to climate change vulnerability in Assam?
- Glacial melt affecting Brahmaputra River levels
- Shifting monsoon patterns
- Increased urban heat island effect in Guwahati
- Expansion of climate-resilient agriculture
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1, 2, and 3 only
b) 2 and 4 only
c) 1 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: a) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Glacial melt in the Himalayas increases Brahmaputra’s flood risks.
- Shifting monsoon patterns lead to erratic rainfall, affecting agriculture.
- Urban heat island (UHI) effect in Guwahati worsens heatwaves and energy demand.
- Statement 4 is incorrect: Climate-resilient agriculture reduces vulnerability, not increases it.
Topic 3: Indo-Myanmar Region Hit by 4 Earthquakes in 12 Hours
Question 5
Which of the following tectonic features are responsible for frequent earthquakes in Northeast India?
- Indo-Burmese Subduction Zone
- Sagaing Fault
- Kopili Fault
- Himalayan Thrust Belt
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:
- The Indo-Burmese Subduction Zone and Sagaing Fault (Myanmar) are major seismic zones affecting Northeast India.
- The Kopili Fault in Assam is highly active.
- The Himalayan Thrust Belt contributes to earthquakes in Arunachal Pradesh and northern Assam.
Question 6
The Richter Scale and Mercalli Scale are used to measure which aspects of an earthquake?
a) Richter Scale measures intensity, while Mercalli Scale measures magnitude
b) Richter Scale measures magnitude, while Mercalli Scale measures intensity
c) Both measure intensity
d) Both measure magnitude
✅ Answer: b) Richter Scale measures magnitude, while Mercalli Scale measures intensity
Explanation:
- Richter Scale: Measures the magnitude (energy released) of an earthquake.
- Mercalli Scale: Measures the intensity (damage and human perception) of an earthquake.
Topic 4: Life-Support System for Pilots Onboard Tejas Jets Successfully Tested by DRDO
Question 7
The Integrated Life Support System (ILSS) recently tested for the Tejas fighter jet includes which of the following components?
- Onboard Oxygen Generation System (OBOGS)
- Anti-G Strain Suit
- Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS)
- Ejection Seat Safety Enhancements
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1, 2, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: c) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- ILSS Components:
- OBOGS supplies oxygen without external cylinders.
- Anti-G Strain Suit prevents blackouts due to high G-forces.
- Ejection Seat Safety Enhancements improve pilot survival in emergencies.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The Helmet-Mounted Display System (HMDS) is part of avionics, not ILSS.
Question 8
Which of the following fighter jets is India’s first indigenous supersonic aircraft?
a) Rafale
b) Sukhoi Su-30MKI
c) Tejas LCA
d) Mirage 2000
✅ Answer: c) Tejas LCA
Explanation:
Sukhoi Su-30MKI is jointly developed with Russia.
Tejas Light Combat Aircraft (LCA) is India’s first indigenous supersonic jet, developed by HAL & DRDO.
Rafale & Mirage 2000 are French aircraft.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
Northeast India is one of the most seismically active regions in the world. Analyze the reasons behind frequent earthquakes in the region and suggest measures to enhance earthquake preparedness and disaster resilience. (GS Paper 1 & 3: Geography, Disaster Management, Seismology)
Model Answer
Introduction
Northeast India is located in Seismic Zone V, the most earthquake-prone category in India. The region has experienced multiple high-magnitude earthquakes, including the 1897 Assam earthquake (8.1 magnitude) and 1950 Assam-Tibet earthquake (8.6 magnitude). The recent series of earthquakes in the Indo-Myanmar region further highlight the urgent need for seismic preparedness and disaster mitigation measures.
Reasons Behind Frequent Earthquakes in Northeast India
1. Tectonic Plate Movements
✅ Indo-Burmese Subduction Zone:
- The Indian Plate is subducting under the Burmese Plate, creating immense geological stress.
- This leads to deep-focus earthquakes along the Indo-Myanmar border.
✅ Himalayan Thrust Fault System:
- The Indian Plate is colliding with the Eurasian Plate, leading to continental compression and upliftment.
- This generates major earthquakes across Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, and Bhutan.
✅ Sagaing and Kopili Faults:
- The Sagaing Fault (Myanmar) and Kopili Fault (Assam-Meghalaya border) are active strike-slip faults causing frequent tremors.
- The Kopili Fault is linked to shallow earthquakes in Assam and Nagaland.
2. High Seismic Energy Accumulation
- Due to constant tectonic stress, the region accumulates large amounts of seismic energy.
- When the energy is released suddenly, it results in high-intensity earthquakes.
3. Soil Liquefaction & Riverbank Instability
- The Brahmaputra and Barak river basins contain alluvial soil, which amplifies seismic waves.
- Soil liquefaction occurs, leading to building collapses and land subsidence during earthquakes.
4. Unregulated Urbanization & Weak Infrastructure
- Many buildings in Guwahati, Imphal, and Aizawl do not follow seismic-resistant designs.
- Encroachments along riverbanks and hillslopes increase landslide risks after earthquakes.
Impact of Earthquakes in Northeast India
✅ 1. Human Casualties & Infrastructure Damage
- Past earthquakes in Assam, Manipur, and Mizoram have destroyed thousands of homes.
- Weak buildings in rural and hilly areas collapse easily, causing high mortality rates.
✅ 2. Economic Losses & Disruptions
- Damaged roads, bridges, and railway lines disrupt trade and transport.
- Industries and businesses face huge losses due to supply chain interruptions.
✅ 3. Risk to Hydropower Projects & Dams
- Northeast India has several large dams, including the Subansiri and Ranganadi hydropower projects.
- Earthquakes increase dam failure risks, leading to flooding disasters.
✅ 4. Landslides & Secondary Disasters
- Earthquakes in Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Meghalaya trigger massive landslides.
- Landslides block river channels, leading to artificial damming and flash floods.
Government Initiatives for Earthquake Preparedness
✅ 1. Seismic Zonation & Microzonation Mapping
- The Seismological Network of India monitors active fault lines and seismic activity.
- Microzonation mapping of Guwahati, Shillong, and Imphal helps identify high-risk zones.
✅ 2. Earthquake-Resistant Building Codes (BIS 1893:2016)
- The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has issued guidelines for earthquake-resistant structures.
- Mandatory retrofitting of old buildings in seismic zones.
✅ 3. National Disaster Response Mechanisms
- NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) & SDRF (State Disaster Response Force) are deployed in high-risk areas.
- Mock drills and early warning systems improve community preparedness.
✅ 4. International Collaboration & Technology Adoption
- Collaboration with Japan and the US Geological Survey (USGS) for advanced earthquake monitoring.
- Use of AI-based sensors for real-time earthquake detection and alert systems.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Earthquake-Resistant Infrastructure
- Enforce strict compliance with seismic-resistant building designs in urban planning.
- Retrofitting old government buildings, schools, and hospitals to meet earthquake safety standards.
✅ 2. Early Warning Systems & Seismic Monitoring
- Expand seismic sensor networks across Assam, Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland.
- Implement smartphone-based earthquake alert systems, like Japan’s J-ALERT.
✅ 3. Disaster Education & Community Preparedness
- Conduct mandatory earthquake drills in schools and workplaces.
- Establish local disaster response teams for quick rescue operations.
✅ 4. Cross-Border Cooperation with Myanmar, Bhutan, and Bangladesh
- Develop an Indo-Myanmar Earthquake Response Task Force.
- Conduct joint military-civilian disaster management exercises.
Conclusion
Northeast India’s seismic vulnerability requires urgent policy action to enhance earthquake resilience, disaster preparedness, and infrastructure safety. By focusing on early warning systems, stricter urban planning, and public awareness, India can mitigate risks and reduce earthquake-related casualties and economic losses. Strengthening regional and international collaboration will further ensure a scientifically driven and proactive disaster management strategy.
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