APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/08/2025)
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 (06-08-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
✨ APSC CCE Online Coaching, 2026
🛑 India’s Position on PoK and the Rebuttal of Pakistan’s Statements on Article 370
📘 GS Paper 2: International Relations | India-Pakistan Relations | Constitutional Provisions
📘 GS Paper 1: Post-Independence Consolidation | Modern History
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Cross-border Terrorism
📘 GS Paper 5: Assam-Specific Angle – Impacts of regional instability on NE border states
🔹 Introduction
Marking five years since the abrogation of Article 370, the Government of India has reiterated its firm position that Jammu and Kashmir, including Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), is an integral part of the country. This came in response to Pakistan’s renewed attempts to raise the issue internationally and conduct “solidarity” events. The timing and tone reflect India’s assertive diplomatic and constitutional stance.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Date of Response | August 5, 2025 – on 5th anniversary of Article 370 abrogation |
| Pak’s Attempt | Held “Kashmir Solidarity Day,” raised issue at OIC and UN platforms |
| India’s Response | Firm rejection of Pakistan’s claim; reiterated PoK is Indian territory |
| Legal Standpoint | Jammu & Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019 |
| Strategic Background | Article 370 revoked in August 2019 to integrate J&K into Indian Union |
| Diplomatic Signal | Reaffirmed sovereignty over PoK and Gilgit-Baltistan |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Article 370: Provided special status to J&K; abrogated on 5 August 2019
PoK: Part of J&K illegally occupied by Pakistan since 1947-48 war
Simla Agreement (1972): Both countries agreed to resolve issues bilaterally
J&K Reorganisation Act, 2019: Split J&K into two UTs – J&K and Ladakh
OIC (Organisation of Islamic Cooperation): Often used by Pakistan to internationalise Kashmir
Gilgit-Baltistan: Strategically located area under Pakistan’s control, part of India’s legal territory
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of the Issue
Territorial Integrity: Asserting sovereignty over PoK reinforces India’s constitutional position.
Diplomatic Signaling: India’s firm rebuttal signals continuity in foreign policy despite global pressure.
Security Implications: PoK is used by terrorist groups as a launchpad into India.
Internal Consolidation: Reinforces India’s stand on post-370 integration of J&K and Ladakh.
B. Key Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Internationalisation by Pakistan | Attempts to raise Kashmir at UN, OIC forums despite bilateral agreements |
| Terror Infrastructure in PoK | Groups like LeT and JeM operate with support from Pakistani agencies |
| China-Pak Nexus in Gilgit-Baltistan | CPEC passes through Indian territory illegally occupied by Pakistan |
| Human Rights Allegations | India faces global scrutiny despite constitutional integration |
C. Government Measures
Diplomatic Countermeasures: Strong statements at UN, OIC, and bilateral forums
Border Infrastructure Boost: Roads, tunnels, and advanced deployment along LoC
J&K Development Initiatives: Infrastructure push, elections, security normalization in UT
Abrogation of Article 370: Legislative measure to remove constitutional anomaly
Strengthening Northern Command: Focused military strategy for border defense
D. Way Ahead
Sustained Diplomatic Campaign: Continue exposing Pakistan’s role in cross-border terrorism
Strengthen Legal Narratives: Reinforce claims over PoK in international and bilateral treaties
Engage NE and Border States: Ensure regional security in areas like Assam facing spillover effects
PoK Rights Campaign: Highlight lack of political freedom and repression in PoK and Gilgit
Unified Development Agenda: Focus on integration of J&K and Ladakh with the Indian growth story
🧩 Conclusion
India’s rejection of Pakistan’s narrative on Kashmir and reaffirmation of sovereignty over PoK signals an unyielding foreign and security policy rooted in constitutional clarity. As instability in PoK continues, India must match its diplomatic rhetoric with on-ground development, defense, and global engagement to assert both its claim and credibility.
🛣️ Assam CM Inaugurates Roads under PMGSY: Boost to Rural Connectivity and Infrastructure
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Schemes | Rural Development | Governance in Assam
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure | Inclusive Growth | Road Connectivity
📘 GS Paper 5: Assam-Specific Governance | Regional Development
🔹 Introduction
Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated numerous road projects under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) during his visit to Dhubri and South Salmara. The projects aim to strengthen last-mile connectivity, enhance rural livelihoods, and bridge regional development gaps in Lower Assam—an area historically underdeveloped and flood-prone.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Event | Inauguration of PMGSY roads in Dhubri and South Salmara |
| Scheme | Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY) |
| Objective | All-weather road connectivity to unconnected habitations |
| State CM’s Statement | Roads are key to development and social transformation |
| Target Areas | Minority-majority, backward districts in Western Assam |
| Context | Assam government’s focus on infrastructure in border regions |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
PMGSY Launched: 2000, under Ministry of Rural Development
Latest Phase (PMGSY-III): Launched in 2019 for upgradation of 1.25 lakh km of rural roads
Core Feature: Provides all-weather roads to habitations with population over 500 (250 in tribal areas)
Implementation Model: Funded by Centre and State (60:40 ratio for Assam)
Key Agencies: National Rural Infrastructure Development Agency (NRIDA), state PWDs
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Rural Roads in Assam
Inclusive Development: Improves access to education, healthcare, markets in remote villages
Disaster Preparedness: In flood-prone areas like Dhubri, raised all-weather roads improve evacuation and relief efforts
Border Security: Enhances movement of security forces and administration in Indo-Bangladesh border districts
Social Integration: Connects marginalised communities to governance and welfare systems
Economic Opportunities: Facilitates rural entrepreneurship, agri-markets, and skill-based employment
B. Key Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Monsoon Damage | Flooding frequently washes away rural roads in Assam |
| Slow Implementation | Contractor delays, land acquisition issues hinder targets |
| Quality Control Issues | Poor construction and lack of third-party audit |
| Low Maintenance Funding | PMGSY lacks a robust long-term maintenance mechanism |
| Inclusion Gaps | Some habitations still remain outside coverage due to geographic isolation |
C. Government Initiatives
PMGSY-III (Assam): Focus on upgrading rural roads to support rural economies
Mukhya Mantri Pakipath Nirman Achani: Assam’s state scheme for rural roads
Road Asset Management System (RAMS): GIS-based tool to monitor rural roads’ health
Special Focus on Char Areas: Road development in river islands and sandbanks
Convergence with MGNREGA: For drainage, plantation and maintenance of rural road assets
D. Way Ahead
Geo-Climatic Customization: Roads should be designed to withstand Assam’s floods and high rainfall
Public Participation: Gram Sabhas should help in prioritizing and monitoring local road projects
Third-Party Quality Audits: Independent agencies must certify progress and durability
Eco-Friendly Technologies: Use plastic waste, cold-mix asphalt for sustainability
Integrated Rural Connectivity Plan: Align with Digital India, Jal Jeevan Mission and Health infra expansion
🧩 Conclusion
The inauguration of roads under PMGSY in Lower Assam reflects the state’s commitment to rural transformation through infrastructure. However, for connectivity to catalyze social and economic progress, a focus on quality, resilience, and local participation is imperative. Rural roads must become not just channels of transport but arteries of inclusive development.
🚨 Manipur Violence: Armed Attacks Continue Amidst Ethnic Conflict
📘 GS Paper 1: Post-Independence Consolidation | Regionalism | Communalism
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Internal Security | Role of Civil Administration
📘 GS Paper 3: Security Challenges | Ethnic Conflict | Border Management
📘 GS Paper 5: NE Region | Inter-Ethnic Relations | Role of State in Conflict Resolution
🔹 Introduction
The ongoing ethnic conflict in Manipur escalated further as reports emerged of continued armed attacks in hill districts and security personnel being targeted. Despite repeated appeals for peace, the violence—rooted in longstanding tensions between the Meitei and Kuki-Zo communities—has exposed serious lapses in governance, internal security, and the state’s ability to manage ethnic diversity.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Description |
| Recent Incident | Attack on Manipur Police Commando personnel by suspected armed groups |
| Location | Tengnoupal district, Manipur (bordering Myanmar) |
| Casualties | 2 security personnel injured |
| Context | Ongoing ethnic violence since May 2023 involving Meitei and Kuki-Zo groups |
| Government’s Appeal | Urging people to surrender arms and restore peace |
| Security Concerns | Proliferation of illegal weapons, role of insurgent groups |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Tengnoupal: Border district of Manipur, part of India–Myanmar border; vulnerable to infiltration
Meitei Community: Predominantly Hindu, reside in the Imphal valley
Kuki-Zo Tribes: Primarily Christian, inhabit the hill districts
Article 371C: Special provisions for Manipur’s hill areas
AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Powers Act): Still partially applicable in Manipur
Naga-Kuki Conflict (1990s): Historical inter-ethnic tensions in the same region
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the Issue
Ethnic Fragility in NE: Highlights the structural ethnic faultlines in the North East
Governance Crisis: State government’s delayed and ineffective response erodes public trust
Security Vacuum: Lack of coordination between state police and central forces enables armed groups
Geostrategic Impact: Proximity to the India–Myanmar border creates vulnerabilities to arms smuggling and insurgent hideouts
Humanitarian Fallout: Over 70,000 displaced, dozens dead, large-scale destruction of property
B. Key Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Militarisation of Ethnic Groups | Civilian populations being armed; rise of ‘village defense groups’ |
| Institutional Bias Allegations | Accusations of partisanship against state police and officials |
| Breakdown of Dialogue Channels | All-party peace processes remain stalled |
| Internet Shutdowns | Used as a control mechanism but affects education, economy, and transparency |
| Regional Spillover | Ethnic solidarity in Assam, Mizoram and Nagaland affects inter-state harmony |
C. Government and Civil Society Response
Deployment of Central Forces: Assam Rifles, CRPF, BSF deployed for containment
High-Level Committee on Peace: Constituted by the Centre to review grievances and propose reforms
NIA Investigations: Probing linkages of extremist groups with foreign funding and arms
Peace Marches & Tribal Solidarity Movements: Civil society-led reconciliatory attempts in both hill and valley regions
State Outreach: CM and Governor’s visits to affected districts, but with limited success
D. Way Ahead
Neutral Peace Enforcement: Deploy unbiased, multi-agency task forces to restore law and order
Truth & Reconciliation Commission: Document atrocities and facilitate justice for all sides
Inclusive Governance Mechanism: Ensure tribal and valley community representation in all state institutions
Inter-Ethnic Dialogue Platforms: Facilitated by NE states or civil society, focusing on long-term integration
Border Security Reinforcement: Fencing vulnerable stretches, increased patrolling along India–Myanmar border
🧩 Conclusion
The Manipur crisis is not merely a law-and-order problem but a deep-rooted ethnic, political, and institutional failure. A multi-pronged strategy—balancing peace enforcement, justice, inclusive governance, and regional diplomacy—is essential to restore long-term peace and preserve the delicate social fabric of Manipur and the broader North East.
🌾 Drought-like Situation in Assam: Rain Deficit Hits Agriculture Hard
📘 GS Paper 1: Geography – Monsoon Patterns, Agro-climatic Zones
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Schemes | Rural Welfare | Federalism
📘 GS Paper 3: Agriculture | Climate Change | Disaster Management
📘 GS Paper 5: Assam Economy | Agriculture & Food Security in the NE
🔹 Introduction
Assam is facing a severe drought-like condition due to a prolonged shortfall in monsoon rainfall, causing crop loss, delayed sowing, and growing fears of food insecurity in many districts. This has prompted farmer distress, reduced water tables, and renewed calls for climate-resilient agriculture in the state.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Rainfall Deficit | ~40% shortfall reported in many parts of Assam compared to average |
| Affected Crops | Sali paddy (main kharif crop), vegetables, oilseeds |
| Districts Worst-Hit | Barpeta, Nalbari, Darrang, Morigaon, Sonitpur, Nagaon |
| Sowing Delayed | Kharif sowing missed optimal window due to dry spells |
| Govt Monitoring | State Agriculture Dept coordinating with Revenue & Disaster Dept |
| Compensation Plans | Crop damage assessment underway for financial relief |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Sali Paddy: Main kharif rice variety in Assam, dependent on monsoon rainfall
IMD Rainfall Classification: Rainfall departure of -20% to -59% is classified as “deficient”
PMFBY (Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana): Crop insurance for risk due to drought, floods, pests
Assam Agriculture Climate Zones: 6 zones based on rainfall and topography
Drought Declaration: State subject, requires approval by Revenue Dept after field-level surveys
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the Issue
Agriculture Backbone: Over 70% of Assam’s population is rural and dependent on farming
Food Security Impact: Disruption in rice production may affect local PDS and state food reserves
Water Stress: Rain-fed areas are experiencing groundwater depletion and dry ponds
Livelihood Risk: Small and marginal farmers face severe income loss and debt risk
Economic Ripple Effects: Reduced agri-output can hit inflation, labour migration, and market cycles
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Over-dependence on Monsoon | ~90% of cultivated land in Assam is rain-fed |
| Poor Irrigation Coverage | Less than 20% of net sown area covered by irrigation |
| Delayed Government Response | Delay in crop assessment, input relief hampers farmer trust |
| Climate Variability | Unpredictable rainfall due to El Niño and climate change |
| Insurance Awareness Gaps | PMFBY not widely adopted due to literacy, procedural bottlenecks |
C. Government Initiatives
State Crop Contingency Plans: Issued for drought-prone districts
Micro-irrigation Push: Schemes under PMKSY (Per Drop More Crop)
Seed Distribution: Short-duration paddy seeds distributed in drought-hit areas
PMFBY: Targeted enrolment drives underway
Disaster Relief Fund: Coordination with Assam SDRF for early compensation
D. Way Ahead
Drought-Proofing Agriculture: Promote climate-resilient seed varieties, dry farming techniques
Expand Irrigation: Tap Brahmaputra and tributaries via minor irrigation and lift irrigation projects
Digitize Crop Monitoring: Use remote sensing, GIS to predict crop stress early
Farmer Awareness Campaigns: PMFBY enrolment, crop advisories in local languages
Agro-Ecological Zoning: Realign cropping patterns as per soil and rainfall variability
🧩 Conclusion The drought-like situation in Assam is a stark reminder of the vulnerability of rain-fed agriculture in the face of climate change. While state intervention is essential, a paradigm shift toward resilient and sustainable agriculture, supported by early warning systems and farmer-centric governance, is critical for long-term food and livelihood security.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
🔹 Topic 1: India’s Stand on PoK and Article 370
Q1. With reference to Article 370 of the Indian Constitution, consider the following statements:
- It conferred special status to the erstwhile state of Jammu & Kashmir.
- It was abrogated by a Constitutional Amendment passed by Parliament.
- Post-abrogation, Jammu & Kashmir was reorganized into two Union Territories.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
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: Article 370 was abrogated through a Presidential Order under Article 370(3), not a Constitutional Amendment. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Q2. Which of the following are relevant to India’s legal or diplomatic position on PoK?
- Simla Agreement
- Instrument of Accession (1947)
- UN Resolution 47
- Tashkent Declaration
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2, 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 these documents are relevant in India–Pakistan discussions or legal history on Kashmir. UN Res 47 asked for plebiscite; the Instrument of Accession made J&K part of India.
🔹 Topic 2: PMGSY and Rural Roads in Assam
Q3. Consider the following features of the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY):
- It is fully funded by the central government.
- It aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to habitations with a population of over 500.
- It is implemented only in Aspirational Districts.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: ✅ B. 2 only
Explanation: PMGSY is centrally sponsored (not fully funded). Also, it is implemented across all eligible rural areas, not just Aspirational Districts.
Q4. Match the following schemes with their key objectives:
| Scheme | Objective |
| A. PMGSY | 1. Skill training in rural areas |
| B. PMKSY | 2. Road connectivity to rural habitations |
| C. RSETI | 3. Micro-irrigation and water management |
| D. DDU-GKY | 4. Skill and entrepreneurship development |
Correct Pairing:
A. 2, B. 3, C. 4, D. 1
Answer: ✅ A. 2, B. 3, C. 4, D. 1
Explanation: These are standard government schemes, and this question tests familiarity with flagship rural development programs.
🔹 Topic 3: Manipur Ethnic Violence
Q5. Which of the following provisions is/are applicable to the governance of tribal areas in Manipur?
- Sixth Schedule
- Article 371C
- Autonomous District Councils
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: ✅ B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation: Manipur is not covered under the Sixth Schedule. Article 371C and Autonomous District Councils apply in its hill areas.
Q6. Consider the following statements regarding the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act (AFSPA):
- It can be imposed both in border areas and internal regions.
- It gives powers to the armed forces to arrest without warrant.
- Once imposed, it cannot be withdrawn by the state government.
Which of the above is/are correct?
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: AFSPA can be withdrawn by the Union Government, not state governments alone. Statement 3 is incorrect.
🔹 Topic 4: Drought in Assam and Rain Deficit
Q7. A drought-like situation is declared in India when:
- The rainfall departure is more than 20% below normal.
- Soil moisture and reservoir levels fall below critical thresholds.
- The state government officially declares it after due procedure.
Which of the above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: ✅ D. 1, 2 and 3
Explanation: All factors contribute to declaring a drought; declaration is a state subject but guided by central guidelines.
Q8. Consider the following crop-related terms and their correct descriptions:
| Term | Description |
| A. Sali Paddy | 1. Kharif season rice in Assam |
| B. Boro Paddy | 2. Winter rice crop grown under irrigation |
| C. Rabi Crop | 3. Grown in October–March |
Which of the following is the correct match?
A. A-1, B-2, C-3
B. A-2, B-1, C-3
C. A-1, B-3, C-2
D. A-3, B-1, C-2
Answer: ✅ A. A-1, B-2, C-3
Explanation: Sali = Kharif (rain-fed), Boro = Winter (requires irrigation), Rabi = Oct–Mar season crops.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Drought-like conditions in Assam due to monsoon failure reveal deeper structural vulnerabilities in the state’s agriculture. Discuss the key impacts, underlying causes, and suggest a sustainable roadmap for drought resilience in Assam.
📘 GS Paper 3: Agriculture | Climate Change | Disaster Management
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Economy | Environmental Challenges | Agriculture in Assam
🔹 Introduction
Assam, traditionally known for abundant rainfall and fertile plains, is now facing drought-like conditions due to deficient monsoon rains in 2025. This marks a significant shift in the state’s climate profile and exposes deep structural problems in agriculture such as overdependence on monsoons, poor irrigation, and fragile livelihoods.
🔍 Impact of Drought in Assam
- Agricultural Disruption
- Failure/delay in sowing of Sali paddy, the main kharif crop.
- Crop stress across barpeta, nalbari, nagaon, morigaon, etc.
- Reduction in vegetable and oilseed output.
- Water Stress and Ecological Pressure
- Decline in groundwater recharge and surface water levels.
- Drying up of seasonal ponds and wetlands.
- Livelihood and Economic Distress
- Income loss for small and marginal farmers.
- Increased borrowing and risk of debt traps.
- Distress migration to cities for alternate income.
- Food Security and Inflation
- Disruption in Public Distribution System (PDS) supplies.
- Risk of rise in food prices and rural inflation.
⚠️ Structural Causes Behind the Crisis
| Factor | Description |
| Monsoon Variability | Climate change-linked irregularities; possible El Niño effect. |
| Low Irrigation Coverage | <20% of cultivable land is irrigated; rest dependent on rain. |
| Poor Risk Management | Low penetration of crop insurance under PMFBY. |
| Lack of Diversification | Excessive dependence on paddy; poor adoption of drought-tolerant crops. |
| Weak Extension Services | Gap in dissemination of weather forecasts and drought advisories. |
🛠️ Government Initiatives
- PMFBY: Crop insurance to cover losses—but awareness remains low.
- PMKSY (Per Drop More Crop): Encourages micro-irrigation like drip and sprinkler.
- Assam State Action Plan on Climate Change: Includes agriculture resilience as a focus.
- Seed Replacement Programs: Distribution of short-duration drought-tolerant varieties.
🧭 Way Forward: Building Drought Resilience in Assam
- Expand Irrigation Network
- Tap into Brahmaputra and tributaries via minor irrigation schemes.
- Develop solar-powered lift irrigation in floodplains.
- Climate-Resilient Agriculture
- Promote crop diversification and dryland farming.
- Support R&D on local adaptive varieties (e.g., drought-resistant rice).
- Strengthen Early Warning Systems
- Deploy real-time satellite-based monitoring for rainfall and soil moisture.
- Community-level advisories in regional languages.
- Boost Crop Insurance Penetration
- Simplify PMFBY enrolment with digital platforms and local agents.
- Ensure timely compensation disbursal.
- Water Harvesting and Storage
- Construct farm ponds and check dams.
- Promote zero-budget natural farming and mulching to retain soil moisture.
🧩 Conclusion
Drought in Assam is no longer an anomaly—it signals a climate-induced reality. The solution lies in moving beyond relief-centric measures to a preventive, adaptive, and inclusive agricultural policy. A resilient Assam must empower its farmers with irrigation, information, and innovation.
✨ APSC CCE Courses, 2025-26 offered by SuchitraACS
🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!
For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.
Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group
📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?
Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations
