APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (07/03/2025)
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 (07-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Hindustan Power to Invest ₹620 Crore in Assam
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Energy Sector, Industrial Growth
Introduction
Hindustan Power has announced an investment of ₹620 crore in Assam’s renewable energy and industrial infrastructure sector. The project aims to boost Assam’s power generation capacity, attract private sector investments, and promote industrial growth. This investment aligns with India’s energy transition goals and Assam’s “Power for All” policy to improve electricity accessibility and efficiency.
Key Points
- Investment Details:
- ₹620 crore allocated for solar power plants, transmission networks, and industrial energy solutions.
- Focus on reducing Assam’s dependence on fossil fuels and ensuring 24×7 power supply.
- Significance for Assam:
- Assam currently imports power from other states, leading to high costs and energy shortages.
- New investment will help in local power production and employment generation.
- Strengthens Assam’s role in India’s Renewable Energy Mission (450 GW by 2030).
- Planned Developments:
- Establishment of solar power parks in lower Assam districts.
- Upgradation of existing hydro and thermal plants for better efficiency.
- Setting up high-voltage transmission corridors to improve connectivity.
- Potential Economic Impact:
- Creation of over 2,000 jobs in Assam’s energy sector.
- Encouragement for private investment in Assam’s industrial hubs.
- Reduction in power tariffs for businesses and households.
Prelims Pointers
- Renewable Energy Capacity in Assam: ~500 MW (solar, hydro, biomass).
- “Power for All” Policy: Assam’s initiative to ensure universal electricity access by 2026.
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME): Supports EV charging infrastructure development.
- Green Energy Corridor: A government project to strengthen transmission for renewable energy.
- Saubhagya Scheme: Provides subsidized electricity connections to rural households.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of Renewable Energy in Assam
✅ 1. Reducing Energy Deficit
- Assam’s peak demand exceeds 2,500 MW, but local generation is only ~1,200 MW.
- Renewable projects can reduce Assam’s dependency on imported electricity.
✅ 2. Economic Growth & Industrial Development
- Reliable power supply attracts industries like tea processing, textiles, and IT.
- Reduces cost of production for businesses, making Assam more competitive.
✅ 3. Climate Change & Environmental Benefits
- Solar energy reduces coal dependency and carbon emissions.
- Supports India’s Net Zero Emissions target by 2070.
✅ 4. Employment & Skill Development
- Solar and hydro projects create jobs in construction, maintenance, and technical sectors.
- Boosts local entrepreneurship in clean energy startups.
2. Challenges in Assam’s Power Sector
✅ 1. Poor Infrastructure & Transmission Losses
- Outdated grid infrastructure causes high power losses (~25%).
- Frequent power cuts affect industrial productivity.
✅ 2. Financing & Investment Risks
- Private sector hesitant due to land acquisition hurdles and regulatory delays.
- Need for favorable policies to attract investors.
✅ 3. Seasonal Dependence on Hydro Power
- Heavy monsoons increase flood risks, affecting hydro power plants.
- Droughts lead to energy shortages in dry months.
✅ 4. Slow Renewable Energy Adoption
- Assam has low rooftop solar adoption due to high installation costs.
- Lack of EV charging stations slows electric mobility progress.
3. Government Initiatives to Strengthen Power Sector
✅ 1. Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS):
- Aims to reduce electricity losses and modernize grid infrastructure.
✅ 2. Assam Solar Policy 2022:
- Targets 3,000 MW of solar power capacity by 2030.
✅ 3. Hydro & Biomass Expansion:
- Revival of Subansiri Hydropower Project (2,000 MW capacity).
- Encouraging biomass and waste-to-energy plants in rural Assam.
✅ 4. Incentives for Private Investors:
- Tax benefits and subsidies for renewable energy projects.
- PPP model (Public-Private Partnership) to accelerate power reforms.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Power Grid Infrastructure
- Upgrading smart grids with AI-based power load monitoring.
- Expanding cross-border power trade with Bhutan and Bangladesh.
✅ 2. Encouraging Solar Rooftop Adoption
- Provide subsidies and easy loans for rooftop solar installations.
- Introduce solar net-metering policy for households to sell surplus energy.
✅ 3. Policy & Regulatory Reforms
- Fast-tracking land acquisition for energy projects.
- Simplifying approval process for private investors.
✅ 4. Skill Development in Renewable Energy
- Setting up Green Energy Skill Development Centers for youth employment.
- Encouraging universities to offer specialized courses in clean energy.
Conclusion
Hindustan Power’s ₹620 crore investment in Assam’s energy sector marks a significant step towards industrialization and energy security. By enhancing renewable capacity, upgrading power infrastructure, and promoting private sector participation, Assam can emerge as a sustainable energy hub, supporting economic growth and climate resilience.
Topic 2: Archaeological Survey Unveils Rich Heritage of Dimasa Kachari Kingdom
GS Paper 1: History, Culture, Archaeology
Introduction
A recent archaeological survey in Assam has uncovered significant artifacts and ruins linked to the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom, one of the oldest medieval tribal dynasties of Northeast India. The discoveries include stone inscriptions, temple remnants, ancient fortifications, and pottery, highlighting the rich cultural and architectural heritage of the Dimasas. These findings provide valuable insights into Assam’s medieval history, tribal governance, and socio-religious traditions.
Key Points
- Location of Discoveries:
- The excavation took place in Dimapur (Nagaland) and Khaspur (Assam’s Cachar district), known as historical centers of the Dimasa rule.
- Findings also reported in Maibang (Dima Hasao district), which was once the capital of the Dimasa Kingdom.
- Major Archaeological Findings:
- Stone inscriptions in the Dimasa script, detailing administrative records and rituals.
- Ruins of fortified palaces, showcasing advanced defensive architecture.
- Temple sculptures and artifacts, indicating Hindu-Buddhist influences on Dimasa culture.
- Weapons and armor, revealing insights into their military strategies.
- Historical Significance of Dimasa Kachari Kingdom:
- The Dimasas were one of the earliest ruling dynasties in Assam, with origins tracing back to the 10th century CE.
- Known for their warrior clans and sophisticated water management systems.
- The kingdom declined after Ahom invasions in the 18th century, but the Dimasa people remain a vital ethnic group in Assam today.
Prelims Pointers
- Dimasa Kachari Kingdom: A powerful medieval kingdom in Assam, primarily ruling from Dimapur, Maibang, and Khaspur.
- Dimasa Language & Script: Belongs to the Tibeto-Burman language family.
- Kachari Architecture: Characterized by fortified city planning, temple sculptures, and stone inscriptions.
- Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution: Provides autonomous status to tribal areas, including Dima Hasao Autonomous Council.
- ASI (Archaeological Survey of India): The central agency responsible for excavations, conservation, and heritage preservation.
Mains Pointers
1. Historical Importance of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom
✅ 1. Early State Formation in Northeast India
- The Dimasa Kachari Kingdom was among the first organized tribal polities in Assam.
- Their administrative structure included hereditary kingship, military governance, and decentralized village councils.
✅ 2. Advanced Agricultural & Water Management Practices
- The Dimasas built irrigation canals and step-wells, enabling sustainable agriculture.
- Introduced rice cultivation techniques that influenced Assam’s agrarian economy.
✅ 3. Rich Cultural & Religious Traditions
- A unique blend of animism, Hinduism, and Buddhism was observed in Dimasa religious practices.
- Temple inscriptions show Shaivism and Vaishnavism influences in their belief system.
✅ 4. Strategic Military & Trade Networks
- Controlled important trade routes connecting Assam with Bengal and Myanmar.
- Maintained a strong cavalry and elephant corps for regional warfare.
2. Challenges in Preserving Dimasa Heritage
✅ 1. Urbanization & Encroachments on Historical Sites
- Rapid expansion of towns like Dimapur and Haflong has led to destruction of ancient ruins.
- Illegal settlements in heritage zones threaten preservation efforts.
✅ 2. Lack of Awareness & Documentation
- Dimasa history remains underrepresented in mainstream Indian history textbooks.
- Few academic research projects focus on medieval Northeast Indian dynasties.
✅ 3. Natural & Human-Induced Damage
- Heavy monsoons and landslides in Dima Hasao erode ancient structures.
- Deforestation around archaeological sites affects long-term conservation.
✅ 4. Limited Government Initiatives for Tribal Heritage Conservation
- ASI’s presence in Assam is limited compared to North and South India.
- Few museum exhibits focus on Dimasa artifacts, reducing public awareness.
3. Government & ASI Initiatives for Cultural Heritage Preservation
✅ 1. Inclusion of Dimasa Sites in National Heritage List
- The Assam government is pushing for Dimasa archaeological sites to be recognized under ASI-protected monuments.
✅ 2. Digital Documentation & Archiving of Dimasa Inscriptions
- Use of 3D laser scanning technology to preserve stone inscriptions and temple ruins.
- Digitization of Dimasa historical texts and oral traditions.
✅ 3. Tribal Heritage Promotion Under Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat
- Encouraging school curriculum updates to include Dimasa history.
- Promoting cultural tourism in Maibang and Khaspur through eco-tourism projects.
✅ 4. Strengthening Archaeological Excavations & Research Grants
- More funding for universities and ASI to conduct deeper research on Dimasa civilization.
- Establishment of regional museums showcasing Dimasa artifacts.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Cultural Tourism & Local Economy
- Develop heritage tourism circuits linking Dimapur, Maibang, and Khaspur.
- Provide training to locals as heritage guides to promote Dimasa history.
✅ 2. Community-Led Conservation Initiatives
- Engage Dimasa tribal councils in site protection efforts.
- Conduct heritage awareness campaigns to educate younger generations.
✅ 3. Integrating Dimasa History into National Academic Research
- Encourage universities to include Dimasa history in history syllabi.
- Establish a dedicated research center on Northeast India’s medieval heritage.
✅ 4. Legal Protection Against Encroachments
- Implement strict regulations on illegal land use in heritage zones.
- Collaborate with the Ministry of Tribal Affairs & ASI for site preservation grants.
Conclusion The recent archaeological discoveries related to the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom are a major breakthrough in understanding Assam’s medieval history. However, conserving this heritage requires urgent action in terms of site protection, academic research, and community-driven conservation efforts. By documenting, preserving, and promoting tribal history, India can ensure a more inclusive and comprehensive representation of its diverse cultural heritage.
Topic 3: State Assembly Passes Bills Related to Seven Autonomous Councils
GS Paper 2: Governance, Federalism, Tribal Welfare, Decentralization
Introduction
The Assam State Assembly has passed several bills aimed at strengthening the governance and administration of seven Autonomous Councils. These councils, which represent various Scheduled Tribes (STs) in Assam, play a crucial role in ensuring self-governance, cultural preservation, and development in tribal-dominated areas. The new legislative measures aim to increase financial autonomy, improve local governance, and enhance resource allocation for these councils.
Key Points
- What are Autonomous Councils?
- Constitutionally recognized bodies that govern tribal areas in Assam.
- Established under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution to provide self-rule and protect tribal identity.
- Seven Autonomous Councils in Assam Affected by the Bills:
Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR)
Karbi Anglong Autonomous Council (KAAC)
Dima Hasao Autonomous Council (DHAC)
Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC)
Mising Autonomous Council (MAC)
Sonowal Kachari Autonomous Council (SKAC)
Thengal Kachari Autonomous Council (TKAC)
- Major Provisions of the Bills Passed:
- Greater financial autonomy to allow councils to collect and allocate funds independently.
- Devolution of administrative powers to strengthen decision-making at the local level.
- Creation of new departments within councils for education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
- Increased reservation in government jobs for tribals residing in autonomous areas.
- Expected Benefits:
- Empowers local tribal communities to manage their own development programs.
- Reduces dependency on the state government for funds and policy decisions.
- Helps preserve indigenous languages, traditions, and cultural institutions.
Prelims Pointers
- Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution: Provides for self-rule in tribal areas of Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) Accord (2020): Agreement granting political and economic rights to Bodo groups.
- Article 244 (2): Allows special provisions for administration of tribal areas under the Sixth Schedule.
- Article 275: Grants financial assistance to Sixth Schedule areas from the central government.
- Bodoland, Karbi, and Dimasa Movements: Ethnic struggles demanding greater autonomy and recognition of tribal rights.
Mains Pointers
1. Significance of Autonomous Councils in Assam
✅ 1. Ensuring Self-Governance for Tribals
- Gives tribal communities greater control over local governance and development.
- Encourages decentralized decision-making, reducing bureaucratic delays.
✅ 2. Preserving Tribal Identity & Culture
- Councils work to protect tribal customs, languages, and traditional governance systems.
- Financial support for ethnic festivals, literature, and local art forms.
✅ 3. Addressing Historical Marginalization
- Many ST groups in Assam have faced socio-economic neglect and land encroachments.
- Autonomous Councils empower them with legal rights over land and natural resources.
✅ 4. Strengthening Grassroots Democracy
- Councils function as mini-legislative bodies, ensuring greater participation of local representatives.
- Tribal leadership is directly involved in policy formulation for their communities.
2. Challenges Faced by Autonomous Councils
✅ 1. Financial Dependence on State & Central Government
- Councils lack direct taxation powers, making them dependent on state grants.
- Delays in fund allocation impact development projects.
✅ 2. Inter-Council & Ethnic Conflicts
- Boundary disputes between councils (e.g., Bodoland and Karbi Anglong) lead to political tensions.
- Some groups feel underrepresented in council administration, causing internal divisions.
✅ 3. Bureaucratic Delays & Corruption
- Slow policy implementation due to administrative inefficiencies.
- Reports of mismanagement of funds and lack of accountability.
✅ 4. Limited Legislative & Executive Powers
- Councils lack authority over law enforcement, judiciary, and industrial policies.
- Need for greater devolution of powers to make councils fully functional.
3. Government Initiatives to Strengthen Autonomous Councils
✅ 1. 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill (Proposed)
- Seeks to increase financial and administrative autonomy of Sixth Schedule councils.
- Proposes direct fund allocation from the Union Government.
✅ 2. Bodoland Accord (2020) & Karbi Peace Agreement (2021)
- Signed to end decades-long insurgencies and ethnic conflicts in these regions.
- Provides for greater political representation and economic grants to tribal groups.
✅ 3. E-Governance & Digitalization of Council Administration
- Introduction of online portals for council budget allocation and policy tracking.
- Plans to digitally map tribal land records for better management.
✅ 4. Skill Development & Employment Initiatives
- Launch of tribal entrepreneurship programs under Stand-Up India and Skill India.
- Establishment of educational institutions focused on tribal history and governance.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Granting Full Financial Autonomy to Councils
- Provide direct funding from the Union Government to councils for efficient governance.
- Enable councils to generate their own revenue through taxation and tourism.
✅ 2. Strengthening Tribal Representation & Political Rights
- Ensure fair elections and reservation policies within council administrations.
- Promote youth participation in governance through leadership training programs.
✅ 3. Resolving Ethnic Conflicts Through Dialogue
- Conduct inter-council coordination meetings to resolve disputes peacefully.
- Strengthen grassroots peace-building initiatives led by tribal elders.
✅ 4. Encouraging Economic Development in Council Areas
- Set up Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in tribal areas for employment opportunities.
- Promote eco-tourism and cultural tourism in Bodoland, Karbi Anglong, and Dima Hasao.
Conclusion The passage of new bills for Autonomous Councils in Assam is a significant step toward empowering tribal communities. However, for these councils to be truly effective, greater financial independence, stronger political representation, and conflict resolution mechanisms are necessary. By ensuring self-governance and inclusive development, Assam can promote peace, prosperity, and cultural preservation in its diverse tribal regions.
Topic 4: 3.35 Lakh Hectares of Forest Land Encroached in Assam
GS Paper 3: Environment, Conservation, Governance
Introduction
A recent report has revealed that 3.35 lakh hectares of forest land in Assam have been encroached upon, posing a serious threat to the state’s biodiversity, wildlife habitats, and ecological balance. The encroachments are driven by illegal settlements, agricultural expansion, and infrastructure development. The Assam government has announced strict eviction measures and afforestation projects to address the crisis, but the issue remains highly sensitive due to human displacement concerns.
Key Points
- Scale of Encroachment:
- The highest encroachments are reported in reserve forests, wildlife sanctuaries, and eco-sensitive zones.
- Major affected areas include Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park, and Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary.
- Primary Causes of Encroachment:
- Population pressure & migration: Rising rural-to-forest migration for agricultural land.
- Illegal timber and poaching networks: Deforestation due to wood smuggling and wildlife trafficking.
- Infrastructure projects & industries: Mining, road construction, and hydroelectric projects.
- Environmental & Ecological Impact:
- Loss of wildlife habitats: Threatens species like the Indian Rhino, Asian Elephants, and Hoolock Gibbons.
- Increased human-wildlife conflict: More incidents of elephants raiding villages and leopards entering urban areas.
- Climate impact: Deforestation leads to higher temperatures and unpredictable rainfall patterns in Assam.
Prelims Pointers
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Regulates deforestation and protects reserve forests.
- Compensatory Afforestation Programme: Ensures replanting of trees for every deforested area.
- Joint Forest Management (JFM): Involves local communities in protecting and managing forests.
- Indian Rhino Vision 2020: Aims to increase the rhino population and restore their habitats.
- Kaziranga’s UNESCO Heritage Status: Recognized for rich biodiversity and anti-poaching measures.
Mains Pointers
1. Causes of Large-Scale Forest Encroachment in Assam
✅ 1. Illegal Settlements & Population Growth
- Tribal and migrant communities clear forests for agriculture and housing.
- Political tensions arise over evictions and land rights of indigenous groups.
✅ 2. Expansion of Tea Estates & Commercial Plantations
- Large areas of forest are converted into tea plantations and rubber estates.
- Deforestation by private tea companies is often overlooked by authorities.
✅ 3. Timber Mafia & Poaching Gangs
- Illegal felling of Sal, Teak, and Mahogany trees for timber exports.
- Poaching networks target rhinos, elephants, and pangolins, disrupting ecosystems.
✅ 4. Climate Change & Natural Disasters
- Frequent floods and erosion along the Brahmaputra force people to migrate into forested regions.
- Rising temperatures affect forest regeneration and biodiversity.
2. Consequences of Forest Encroachment
✅ 1. Threat to Assam’s Biodiversity
- Loss of critical tiger corridors and elephant migration routes.
- Increase in human-wildlife conflict as animals stray into human settlements.
✅ 2. Soil Erosion & Riverbank Destabilization
- Deforestation weakens soil structure, leading to more landslides and sedimentation in rivers.
✅ 3. Rising Carbon Emissions & Climate Vulnerability
- Assam’s green cover is shrinking, worsening the impact of floods and droughts.
✅ 4. Legal & Political Conflicts Over Evictions
- Tribal and ethnic groups resist forced eviction, demanding land rights and compensation.
3. Government Measures to Control Encroachment
✅ 1. Assam Forest Protection Drive
- Anti-encroachment operations launched in forest reserves and protected areas.
- Use of satellite imagery and drone surveillance to monitor deforestation.
✅ 2. Rehabilitation & Resettlement for Affected Communities
- Providing alternative land, jobs, and housing for displaced communities.
- Introducing agroforestry programs to balance livelihoods and conservation.
✅ 3. Strengthening Laws & Penalties
- Forest Conservation (Amendment) Bill, 2023: Tougher penalties for illegal tree-cutting and land grabbing.
- Empowering Assam State Forest Department to take strict action.
✅ 4. Afforestation & Reforestation Projects
- Green Assam Initiative: Targets planting 10 million trees by 2030.
- Restoration of degraded forests under the Compensatory Afforestation Fund.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Sustainable Forest Management Strategies
- Promote community-led forest protection through Joint Forest Management (JFM).
- Encourage bamboo and medicinal plant cultivation as eco-friendly alternatives.
✅ 2. Eco-Tourism & Wildlife Conservation
- Expand eco-tourism projects to provide jobs while preserving forests.
- Strengthen anti-poaching patrols and wildlife corridors.
✅ 3. Political & Legal Resolution for Land Rights
- Establish legal frameworks for community forest ownership in tribal areas.
- Balance forest conservation with human settlement rights.
✅ 4. Strengthening International Conservation Partnerships
- Collaboration with WWF, UNEP, and CITES to protect Assam’s biodiversity.
- Implement cross-border conservation efforts with Bhutan and Myanmar.
Conclusion The large-scale forest encroachment in Assam highlights critical environmental governance issues. While the government’s anti-encroachment measures are necessary, it is equally important to address livelihood concerns, strengthen forest protection laws, and promote sustainable alternatives. By balancing conservation with human needs, Assam can restore its ecological balance while ensuring equitable development.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Hindustan Power to Invest ₹620 Crore in Assam
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding Assam’s power sector is/are correct?
- Assam primarily relies on hydropower as its main source of electricity.
- The state imports a significant portion of its electricity from other states.
- The Assam government has launched the “Power for All” policy to ensure universal electricity access.
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
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect: While Assam has hydropower projects, it still depends heavily on thermal and imported electricity.
- Statement 2 is correct: Assam imports electricity from neighboring states and national grids to meet its demand.
- Statement 3 is correct: The “Power for All” initiative aims to provide 100% electrification in Assam.
Question 2
The Green Energy Corridor Project, often mentioned in power sector reforms, is aimed at:
a) Reducing coal-based electricity production in India
b) Creating dedicated transmission networks for renewable energy
c) Setting up microgrids for rural electrification
d) Enhancing nuclear power generation in India
✅ Answer: b) Creating dedicated transmission networks for renewable energy
Explanation:
- The Green Energy Corridor Project is a national initiative to build high-voltage transmission lines for solar and wind energy projects.
- It ensures efficient integration of renewable power into India’s electricity grid.
Topic 2: Archaeological Survey Unveils Rich Heritage of Dimasa Kachari Kingdom
Question 3
Which of the following was a major capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom?
a) Dimapur
b) Sibsagar
c) Tezpur
d) Jorhat
✅ Answer: a) Dimapur
Explanation:
- Dimapur was the ancient capital of the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom, known for its fortified palaces and stone inscriptions.
- Other capitals: Maibang (Dima Hasao) and Khaspur (Cachar).
Question 4
Which of the following cultural influences were visible in the Dimasa Kachari Kingdom?
- Hinduism and Shaivism
- Animism and tribal worship
- Buddhist architectural elements
- Persian and Mughal cultural influences
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 3 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- The Dimasa Kacharis followed animism, ancestor worship, and later Hinduism (Shaivism & Vaishnavism).
- Buddhist influences were seen in temple architecture and stone carvings.
- Mughal and Persian cultural influences were minimal in Dimasa history.
Topic 3: State Assembly Passes Bills Related to Seven Autonomous Councils
Question 5
Which article of the Indian Constitution provides for autonomous councils in the Sixth Schedule areas?
a) Article 244
b) Article 275
c) Article 280
d) Article 330
✅ Answer: a) Article 244
Explanation:
- Article 244 of the Indian Constitution provides for special provisions for tribal areas, including autonomous councils under the Sixth Schedule.
- Article 275: Grants financial aid to tribal areas.
- Article 280: Deals with the Finance Commission.
- Article 330: Reserves seats for SCs/STs in legislatures.
Question 6
Which of the following statements about the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution is correct?
a) It applies to all tribal areas in India
b) It provides for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram
c) It allows autonomous councils to form independent governments
d) It removes the jurisdiction of the Indian Parliament from these areas
✅ Answer: b) It provides for the administration of tribal areas in Assam, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Mizoram
Explanation:
- The Sixth Schedule applies only to select Northeastern states and grants limited autonomy to tribal councils.
- Parliament still retains legislative authority over these areas.
Topic 4: 3.35 Lakh Hectares of Forest Land Encroached in Assam
Question 7
Which of the following protected areas in Assam has been severely affected by forest encroachment?
- Kaziranga National Park
- Manas National Park
- Dehing Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
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: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation:
- All four protected areas have been affected by illegal settlements and deforestation.
- Kaziranga and Manas are UNESCO-listed biosphere reserves.
- Dehing Patkai is India’s only rainforest sanctuary.
- Pobitora has the highest density of Indian rhinos in the world.
Question 8
Which of the following government initiatives aim to control forest encroachment and protect biodiversity?
- Forest Conservation Act, 1980
- Green India Mission
- Joint Forest Management (JFM)
- CAMPA (Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 3, and 4 only
c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
d) 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation:
CAMPA: Uses compensatory afforestation funds to restore forests.
Forest Conservation Act, 1980: Regulates deforestation.
Green India Mission: Focuses on afforestation.
JFM: Encourages local communities to protect forests.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
Forest encroachment in Assam has emerged as a serious environmental and governance challenge, impacting biodiversity, tribal rights, and climate resilience. Discuss the causes and consequences of large-scale encroachment of forest lands in Assam and suggest measures for sustainable conservation and rehabilitation.
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam has witnessed large-scale forest encroachment, with over 3.35 lakh hectares of forest land illegally occupied. This has led to biodiversity loss, increased human-wildlife conflict, deforestation, and political tensions over evictions. The issue is complex, involving population pressure, illegal settlements, weak enforcement, and land-use conflicts between conservation and livelihoods. Addressing this challenge requires a balanced approach that ensures both environmental protection and human rehabilitation.
Causes of Large-Scale Forest Encroachment in Assam
1. Population Growth & Land Shortages
- Migration and rural expansion have led to forest clearances for agriculture and habitation.
- Rapid urbanization and displacement due to riverbank erosion and floods force people to settle in forest areas.
2. Tribal & Indigenous Land Rights Issues
- Ethnic groups like the Bodos, Misings, and Dimasas claim ancestral rights over forest lands.
- The absence of proper land titles creates disputes between forest authorities and tribal communities.
3. Illegal Logging & Commercial Activities
- Timber mafias exploit protected forests for illegal wood trading.
- Encroachments by tea estates, rubber plantations, and mining industries have degraded Assam’s forests.
4. Poor Governance & Weak Enforcement of Conservation Laws
- Delay in evictions and legal actions due to political interference.
- Inadequate forest monitoring systems and corruption among local officials.
5. Climate Change & Natural Disasters
- Deforestation accelerates floods and soil erosion, further displacing people.
- Climate-related events (like the Brahmaputra’s changing course) force communities into forest areas.
Consequences of Forest Encroachment
✅ 1. Threat to Biodiversity & Wildlife Habitats
- Loss of habitat for endangered species like the Indian Rhino, Asian Elephant, and Hoolock Gibbon.
- Increase in human-wildlife conflicts, with frequent elephant attacks in encroached areas.
✅ 2. Increased Risk of Landslides & Soil Erosion
- Unregulated deforestation leads to landslides in hill districts (Dima Hasao, Karbi Anglong).
- Reduced tree cover exacerbates siltation in the Brahmaputra, causing more floods.
✅ 3. Political & Social Conflicts Over Evictions
- Eviction drives often trigger violent protests and ethnic tensions.
- Some indigenous groups demand legal land rights under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
✅ 4. Climate Change Impact
- Deforestation increases Assam’s carbon footprint, contributing to temperature rise and erratic rainfall.
- Loss of tree cover reduces groundwater recharge, worsening drought conditions.
Government Initiatives to Tackle Encroachment
✅ 1. Forest Protection & Anti-Encroachment Drives
- State-led eviction operations in reserve forests and national parks.
- Use of satellite monitoring and drone surveillance to detect illegal settlements.
✅ 2. Legal Framework & Strengthening Conservation Laws
- Forest Conservation Act (Amendment), 2023 for stricter protection.
- Recognition of Community Forest Rights (CFRs) under the Forest Rights Act, 2006.
✅ 3. Afforestation & Reforestation Programs
- Compensatory Afforestation Fund (CAMPA) to restore degraded forests.
- Assam’s “Green Mission” to plant 10 million trees by 2030.
✅ 4. Alternative Livelihoods & Community Participation
- Promotion of eco-tourism and sustainable agriculture for displaced communities.
- Joint Forest Management (JFM) to involve locals in conservation efforts.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Sustainable Resettlement Plans
- Identify alternative land for displaced communities, ensuring proper compensation.
- Develop forest-friendly housing models that integrate agroforestry and conservation zones.
✅ 2. Strengthening Law Enforcement & Forest Governance
- Fast-track land dispute resolution through special environmental courts.
- Deploy AI-based surveillance systems for real-time tracking of encroachments.
✅ 3. Encouraging Climate-Resilient Agriculture
- Shift farmers from slash-and-burn (jhum) cultivation to agroforestry and permaculture.
- Promote bamboo, medicinal plants, and non-timber forest products.
✅ 4. Enhancing Public Awareness & Tribal Cooperation
- Educational campaigns to highlight the importance of forests in climate adaptation.
- Establish “Forest Protection Committees” with local tribal leaders.
Conclusion
The issue of forest encroachment in Assam reflects deep-rooted socio-economic and governance challenges. A long-term solution requires strict conservation policies, community-driven afforestation, and sustainable resettlement measures. By adopting a balanced approach that prioritizes both ecological integrity and human livelihoods, Assam can restore its forests while ensuring inclusive development for tribal and displaced communities.
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