APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/12/2024)

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 (06-12-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. India-Bhutan Relations and Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav

GS Paper 2: International Relations, Culture, and Economic Development

Introduction

India and Bhutan share a time-tested partnership that stands as a beacon of trust, mutual respect, and shared development goals in the Himalayan region. With deep-rooted cultural ties, strategic cooperation, and a focus on sustainable growth, the relationship has flourished in recent years. The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav, recently inaugurated by Prime Minister Modi, is a reflection of Northeast India’s economic and cultural potential while also symbolizing India’s vision for regional integration and cultural diplomacy.

Key Points

• Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav: A three-day event showcasing the rich crafts, cuisine, and cultural heritage of Northeast India.
• Economic Dialogue: Talks focused on hydropower projects, clean energy partnerships, and enhanced trade and technology exchange.
• Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City: A visionary initiative for sustainable urban development near the India-Bhutan border.
• Increased Developmental Assistance: India doubled its financial commitment for Bhutan’s 13th Five-Year Plan, signaling stronger bilateral ties.

Prelims Pointers

• Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav: Highlighted NE crafts, tourism, and agri-products.
• Hydropower Projects: Major ventures include Tala, Chhukha, and Mangdechhu.
• Gelephu Initiative: Bhutan’s urban development model focusing on eco-sustainability.

Mains Pointers

Importance:

1. Cultural Diplomacy:
   • Reinforces people-to-people ties between Northeast India and Bhutan.
   • Establishes Northeast India as a cultural and economic bridge for India’s Act East Policy.
2. Strategic Relations:
   • Strengthens India’s position in the Himalayan region amidst growing external influences.
   • Ensures long-term stability and security for both nations through cooperative strategies.
3. Economic Impact:
   • Promotes Northeast India as a hub for investments, tourism, and traditional crafts.
   • Enhances Bhutan’s hydropower capabilities, with India as its largest market.
4. Regional Integration:
   • Connects Northeast India and Bhutan through trade corridors and cultural initiatives, reducing regional economic disparities.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Deficit:
   • Poor road and rail connectivity in remote regions hinders trade and people-to-people movement.
2. Hydropower Dependency:
   • Bhutan’s economy heavily relies on India for hydropower exports, leading to an overdependence.
3. Geopolitical Sensitivities:
   • Growing Chinese influence in Bhutan’s foreign policy creates challenges for India.
4. Environmental Concerns:
   • Hydropower projects face threats from climate change, such as glacier melts and erratic rainfall patterns.

Government Initiatives:

• Hydropower Projects: Joint ventures like Tala and Mangdechhu contribute significantly to Bhutan’s GDP.
• BADP (Border Area Development Programme): Enhances connectivity and development in border areas.
• Trade Facilitation: Simplified customs procedures and digital trade mechanisms.
• Capacity Building: Scholarships, training programs, and digital initiatives under India-Bhutan agreements.

Way Ahead:

1. Focus on Sustainable Tourism:
   • Promote eco-tourism in Bhutan and the Northeast, highlighting their rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
2. Strengthen Infrastructure:
   • Develop highways and rail links to ensure seamless connectivity between the Northeast and Bhutan.
3. Expand Energy Collaboration:
   • Diversify Bhutan’s energy portfolio with renewable sources like solar and wind, reducing dependency on hydropower alone.
4. Address Geopolitical Challenges:
   • Strengthen diplomatic engagements to ensure Bhutan’s alignment with India’s regional interests.

Conclusion

India-Bhutan relations symbolize an enduring partnership built on shared values and developmental aspirations. The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav serves as a vibrant reminder of the region’s cultural wealth and economic potential. By fostering deeper economic cooperation, enhancing connectivity, and addressing shared challenges, India and Bhutan can set a global benchmark for sustainable regional integration and mutual prosperity.

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2. Pollution in Assam’s Water Bodies

GS Paper 3: Environment and Biodiversity

Introduction

Assam, with its extensive network of rivers and wetlands, is grappling with severe water pollution. Urban water bodies like the Bharalu River in Guwahati suffer from dangerously high Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) levels, indicating severe organic pollution. This pollution not only endangers biodiversity but also poses public health risks and economic challenges.

Key Points

• BOD Levels: The Bharalu River consistently records BOD levels exceeding 30 mg/L, placing it in the Priority I category under CPCB norms.
• Causes of Pollution:
  • Untreated sewage and solid waste dumping.
  • Encroachments on wetlands and natural drainage channels.
  • Absence of adequate sewage treatment infrastructure.
• Impact:
  • Threatens aquatic biodiversity in wetlands like Deepor Beel.
  • Increases waterborne diseases due to contamination.
  • Disrupts livelihoods dependent on fisheries and eco-tourism.

Prelims Pointers

• BOD (Biological Oxygen Demand): A measure of organic pollution in water.
• Deepor Beel: A Ramsar wetland and biodiversity hotspot.
• Priority Classification by CPCB: Priority I (BOD > 30 mg/L), indicating critical pollution levels.

Mains Pointers

Importance:

1. Biodiversity Conservation:
   • Preserves critical habitats for species like the greater adjutant stork in wetlands such as Deepor Beel.
2. Public Health:
   • Ensures access to clean water, reducing disease prevalence and improving quality of life.
3. Economic Sustainability:
   • Supports fisheries, eco-tourism, and other livelihoods dependent on clean water.
4. Climate Resilience:
   • Healthy wetlands act as natural flood buffers and carbon sinks.

Challenges:

1. Inadequate Waste Management:
   • Guwahati generates significant waste, much of which ends up untreated in water bodies.
2. Encroachments and Urbanization:
   • Rapid urban sprawl has disrupted natural drainage channels and wetlands.
3. Poor Enforcement of Regulations:
   • Limited implementation of water pollution control laws and guidelines.
4. Lack of Public Awareness:
   • Insufficient community participation in addressing water pollution.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Wetland Conservation Programme (NWCP): Focused on the restoration of critical wetlands like Deepor Beel.
2. Clean Brahmaputra Campaign: Aims to improve water quality and reduce industrial and urban pollution.
3. Local Measures:
   • Pollution Control Board’s action plans.
   • Use of geo-bags for erosion control and restoration.

Way Ahead:

1. Integrated Waste Management Systems:
   • Establish centralized sewage treatment plants (STPs) for urban centers like Guwahati.
2. Community Engagement:
   • Conduct awareness campaigns on sustainable waste disposal practices.
3. Strengthen Regulations:
   • Enforce penalties for industries and households violating pollution control norms.
4. Wetland Restoration:
   • Expand conservation projects for wetlands like Deepor Beel, ensuring their ecological health.
5. Smart Infrastructure:
   • Invest in modern drainage and water treatment technologies.

Conclusion

Addressing water pollution in Assam requires a multi-pronged approach involving the government, industries, and local communities. By implementing stricter regulations, enhancing infrastructure, and promoting awareness, Assam can restore the health of its water bodies, ensuring biodiversity conservation, public health, and sustainable development.

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3. Proposal for a Mega Reservoir in Dibrugarh

GS Paper 3: Infrastructure and Disaster Management

Introduction

Flooding has been a perennial challenge for Assam, with rivers like the Brahmaputra causing widespread damage annually. To address this, the Assam government has proposed constructing a mega reservoir near Dibrugarh. This initiative aims to mitigate floods, ensure water availability, and strengthen the region’s disaster resilience.

Key Points

• Proposed Structure: A reservoir 13 km long and 150 meters wide.
• Dual Purpose: Designed to control floods and store water for irrigation and drinking purposes.
• Location: Near Greenwood Tea Estate, strategically placed to manage water from nearby areas.
• Flood Mitigation: Equipped with sluice gates to regulate water release and prevent overflow.

Prelims Pointers

• Flood Control Mechanisms: Sluice gates and retention basins.
• Anti-Erosion Measures: Geo-bags and embankment strengthening along the Brahmaputra.
• National Hydrology Project (NHP): A World Bank-funded initiative to improve India’s water management systems.

Mains Pointers

Importance:

1. Flood Mitigation:
   • Reduces the severity of floods in urban and rural areas of Dibrugarh.
   • Protects agricultural lands from inundation, safeguarding livelihoods.
2. Water Security:
   • Ensures consistent water supply for drinking, irrigation, and industrial use.
3. Disaster Preparedness:
   • Improves the state’s ability to manage water during periods of excessive rainfall.
4. Economic Impact:
   • Protects tea estates and other industries critical to Assam’s economy.
   • Reduces flood-related damages, saving public resources.

Challenges:

1. Environmental Concerns:
   • Potential impact on local flora and fauna, especially aquatic ecosystems.
2. Land Acquisition Issues:
   • Challenges in acquiring private and community-owned lands.
3. High Costs and Delays:
   • Significant financial outlay required for construction, with risks of project delays.
4. Community Resistance:
   • Possible displacement of people residing in project-affected areas.

Government Initiatives:

1. National Hydrology Project (NHP): Focuses on improving water infrastructure.
2. Brahmaputra River Management Programme: Includes anti-erosion and flood control measures.
3. Local Initiatives: Geo-bagging, embankment repairs, and dredging to manage flood risks in Dibrugarh.

Way Ahead:

1. Comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA):
   • Conduct a detailed EIA to address ecological concerns.
2. Stakeholder Engagement:
   • Include local communities in decision-making to minimize resistance and ensure inclusivity.
3. Integrated Flood Management:
   • Combine reservoir construction with other measures like reforestation and wetland restoration.
4. Securing Funding:
   • Leverage international funding and public-private partnerships for financial support.
5. Technology Integration:
   • Use real-time data systems for effective reservoir management and flood forecasting.

Conclusion

The proposed mega reservoir in Dibrugarh is a visionary step towards mitigating Assam’s flood woes and ensuring water security. With strategic planning, robust stakeholder engagement, and adherence to environmental safeguards, this project can become a benchmark for sustainable water management in flood-prone regions.

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4. Digitization of Legacy Registration Records in Assam

GS Paper 2: Governance and Technology

Introduction

The Assam government has initiated the digitization of legacy registration records to enhance transparency, efficiency, and accessibility in public service delivery. This project aligns with the broader goals of Digital India, aiming to modernize governance and streamline citizen services through a secure Document Management System (DMS).

Key Points

• Project Overview:
  • Digitization involves converting physical records into digital formats and integrating them into the DMS platform.
  • Tender process initiated via the GeM portal; pre-bid meeting scheduled for December 6, 2024.
  • Aimed at reducing corruption, delays, and inaccuracies in land and property transactions.
• Expected Outcomes:
  • Faster retrieval of records for citizens.
  • Reduced instances of tampering and fraud.
  • Enhanced administrative efficiency in managing land records.

Prelims Pointers

• GeM Portal (Government e-Marketplace): A central procurement platform for government projects.
• Document Management System (DMS): A digital repository for managing, storing, and accessing records securely.
• Assam Land Records Modernization Programme: A state initiative to digitize land and property records.

Mains Pointers

Importance:

1. Transparency and Accountability:
   • Reduces opportunities for corruption in land transactions.
   • Enables public scrutiny of records, promoting trust in governance.
2. Administrative Efficiency:
   • Speeds up property registration and dispute resolution processes.
   • Simplifies record retrieval for both citizens and officials.
3. Citizen Empowerment:
   • Provides easier access to vital documents, reducing dependency on intermediaries.
4. Disaster Resilience:
   • Protects critical data from physical damage caused by natural disasters like floods.

Challenges:

1. Data Accuracy:
   • Ensuring the integrity and accuracy of data during the digitization process.
2. Cybersecurity Risks:
   • Protecting sensitive digital records from hacking and data breaches.
3. Capacity Building:
   • Training government staff to operate and maintain the new digital systems.
4. Resistance to Change:
   • Overcoming resistance from traditional stakeholders accustomed to manual processes.

Government Initiatives:

1. Assam Land Records Modernization Programme: Focuses on digitizing and integrating land records into digital platforms.
2. Digital India Campaign: Enhances digital infrastructure and governance frameworks nationwide.
3. Capacity Building Initiatives: Training programs for officials to manage and operate digital systems efficiently.

Way Ahead:

1. Ensure Data Integrity:
   • Implement robust data validation processes during digitization.
2. Strengthen Cybersecurity:
   • Develop secure firewalls and encryption systems to protect digital records.
3. Promote Awareness:
   • Conduct public outreach programs to educate citizens about accessing digital services.
4. Expand Infrastructure:
   • Establish dedicated data centers and upgrade existing IT infrastructure.
5. Regular Updates:
   • Ensure periodic updating of digital records to reflect real-time changes and prevent discrepancies.

Conclusion

The digitization of legacy registration records in Assam is a transformative step toward modern governance. By addressing challenges related to data security, accuracy, and public awareness, the initiative can ensure efficient service delivery, reduce corruption, and empower citizens, paving the way for a transparent and accountable system.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

India-Bhutan Relations and Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav

Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav:

1. It is an annual event held to promote the cultural heritage of Northeast India.
2. The event exclusively focuses on traditional handicrafts and agri-products of the region.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 2 only
c) Both 1 and 2
d) Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: d) Neither 1 nor 2

Explanation:

• The Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav is not an annual event; it was recently organized to showcase the culture and economic potential of Northeast India.
• While handicrafts and agri-products are part of the focus, the event also includes tourism promotion, music, and cultural performances, making it more comprehensive.

Pollution in Assam’s Water Bodies

Q2. Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD) is used as a standard for assessing water quality. What does a high BOD value indicate?
a) Low level of organic pollution
b) High level of organic pollution
c) High dissolved oxygen levels
d) Presence of heavy metals in water

Answer: b) High level of organic pollution

Explanation:

• BOD measures the amount of oxygen required by microorganisms to decompose organic matter in water. A high BOD value indicates a high level of organic pollution, making the water unfit for aquatic life and human use.

Proposal for a Mega Reservoir in Dibrugarh

Q3. Consider the following features of the proposed mega reservoir in Dibrugarh:

1. It aims to mitigate floods and store water for irrigation purposes.
2. It will use advanced geo-bags for erosion control along its embankments.
3. It will be the first project under the National Hydrology Project in Assam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statements 1 and 2 are correct: The reservoir aims to reduce flood intensity and provide water storage. Geo-bags are a common erosion control measure.
• Statement 3 is incorrect: While the reservoir aligns with flood management goals, it is not explicitly the first project under the National Hydrology Project in Assam.

Digitization of Legacy Registration Records in Assam

Q4. What is the primary objective of digitizing legacy registration records in Assam?
a) Reduce property taxes
b) Ensure transparency and accessibility in public services
c) Enhance agricultural productivity
d) Improve tourism potential

Answer: b) Ensure transparency and accessibility in public services

Explanation:

Digitizing legacy records ensures efficient service delivery, reduces corruption, and makes records easily accessible to citizens.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. India and Bhutan share a unique partnership characterized by cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions. Discuss the relevance of recent initiatives like the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and the Gelephu Mindfulness City in strengthening this bilateral relationship. (250 words)

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Model Answer

Introduction

India and Bhutan share a time-tested partnership built on mutual respect, cultural affinity, and shared developmental goals. Recent initiatives, such as the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and Bhutan’s Gelephu Mindfulness City, underscore the evolving dynamics of this relationship, highlighting cultural unity, economic interdependence, and regional stability.

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Cultural Dimension

• Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav:
  • Promoted Northeast India’s crafts, cuisines, and cultural heritage, emphasizing its role as a bridge to Bhutan.
  • Strengthened people-to-people ties, fostering cross-cultural appreciation.
• Cultural Diplomacy:
  • Such events align with India’s Act East Policy, integrating the Northeast into global cultural and economic circuits.

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Economic Dimension

• Hydropower Collaboration:
  • Bhutan’s hydropower exports to India (e.g., Tala, Mangdechhu) contribute 30% of its GDP, reinforcing economic interdependence.
  • Gelephu Mindfulness City, a sustainable urban development project, aims to boost trade and tourism in the region.
• Trade Boost:
  • India accounts for over 80% of Bhutan’s trade, with recent talks focusing on renewable energy and technology exchange.

Supporting Data:

• India doubled its development assistance to Bhutan for the 13th Five-Year Plan.
• Bhutan’s exports to India grew by 8.4% in FY 2023-24, with significant contributions from hydropower and tourism.

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Strategic Dimension

• Geopolitical Stability:
  • Collaborative projects like Gelephu strengthen Bhutan’s border regions, countering potential external influences.
  • Joint efforts in disaster management, particularly in addressing glacial lake outburst floods (GLOFs), enhance climate resilience.
• Regional Connectivity:
  • Infrastructure investments under the Border Area Development Programme (BADP) improve cross-border trade and mobility.

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Diagram: Key Aspects of India-Bhutan Relations

(Illustrative Diagram – Venn Diagram highlighting cultural, economic, and strategic dimensions with overlapping areas like people-to-people ties and hydropower collaboration.)

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Conclusion India-Bhutan relations exemplify the synergy of shared culture, economic interdependence, and strategic priorities. Initiatives like the Ashtalakshmi Mahotsav and Gelephu Mindfulness City reflect a forward-looking approach to deepening ties. By leveraging such efforts, the partnership can address emerging challenges while ensuring mutual growth and regional stability.

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