APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (07/04/2025)
In this post
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 (07-04-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
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From The Assam Tribune, 7 April 2025
India–Russia Explore Rupee-Ruble Payment System
Why in News
India and Russia are in advanced negotiations to institutionalize a Rupee-Ruble payment system to bypass Western sanctions and reduce dependency on the US dollar.
Background
Context: The payment system discussion accelerated post-Russia’s exclusion from SWIFT in 2022 due to the Ukraine war.
Trade Shift: India’s import of discounted Russian crude oil has soared (over $35 billion in 2023-24).
Existing payments are routed via banks in third countries (e.g., UAE dirham), which is costly and indirect.
Objectives
| Objective | Explanation |
| 💱 De-dollarisation | Reduce dependency on the USD in bilateral trade. |
| 🛡️ Sanction-proof trade | Ensure secure trade routes amidst Western financial restrictions. |
| 🚢 Boost exports/imports | Facilitate smoother oil imports from Russia and Indian pharma, textiles exports. |
| 🔄 Bilateral trade balance | Use local currencies to promote balanced trade flows. |
Strategic Significance
1. Economic Sovereignty
Aligns with BRICS and SCO’s push for alternative global payment networks.
Enables rupee internationalisation.
2. Energy Security
Assures steady oil supply through non-dollar payments.
Reduces forex burden and hedges against USD volatility.
3. Geopolitical Autonomy
Reflects India’s multi-alignment strategy — trading with both West and Russia.
Challenges
| Challenge | Description |
| 📉 Trade Imbalance | India imports more than it exports to Russia — Ruble accumulation may be inefficient. |
| 💱 Exchange rate risk | Lack of a stable conversion mechanism for Ruble-Rupee. |
| 🏦 Banking channels | Limited number of Indian banks authorized to deal in Ruble. |
| 🌐 Global pressure | Risk of secondary sanctions from Western countries. |
Global Trend: De-Dollarisation
Examples
China-Russia: Using Yuan-Ruble for energy trade.
BRICS: Developing a joint digital currency platform.
Middle East: Oil contracts shifting to Yuan.
Relevant Reports & Data
IMF (2024): US Dollar’s share in global reserves fell to 58% (from 71% in 1999).
RBI Bulletin (Feb 2024): Rupee settlement framework activated with 22 countries.
Way Forward
Set up currency swap arrangements and a clearing mechanism under RBI and Russian Central Bank.
Promote exports to Russia to balance trade (agri, pharma, IT).
Learn from India-UAE rupee-dirham settlement model.
Conclusion
The Rupee-Ruble payment system is more than an economic arrangement—it is a strategic step toward monetary sovereignty in a multipolar world.
📝 Example: India’s rupee trade mechanism with Iran during US sanctions helped sustain crude oil imports.
Record Heatwaves Hit Eastern and Northeastern India
Why in News
In April 2025, Eastern and Northeastern states, including Assam, West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand, and Tripura, are witnessing record-breaking heatwaves, unusual for these regions in early summer.
What is a Heatwave?
According to the IMD, a heatwave is declared when:
Maximum temperature ≥ 40°C in plains / 30°C in hilly areas
Temperature departure from normal ≥ 4.5°C to 6.4°C
OR actual max temperature ≥ 45°C
Data and Observations
| Region | Temperature (April 2025) | Deviation |
| Guwahati (Assam) | 39.2°C | +6.1°C |
| Kolkata (WB) | 42.5°C | +4.8°C |
| Ranchi (Jharkhand) | 43.1°C | +5.5°C |
IMD: 11 heatwave days recorded in March-April, highest since 2010.
NDMA warning: Vulnerable population (elderly, outdoor workers, urban poor).
Causes of the Heatwave
1. Climate Change
Long-term temperature rise: India saw a 0.7°C rise (1901–2020) – IMD
More frequent and intense extreme weather events – IPCC AR6
2. Deficient Pre-Monsoon Rainfall
IMD: 50% below-normal rainfall in March 2025 → Dry soil, intensified heating
3. Urban Heat Island (UHI) Effect
Dense concrete surfaces trap heat in cities (e.g., Guwahati, Kolkata)
4. Jet Stream Anomalies
Upper atmosphere changes delayed Western Disturbances in April
Impact
A. Health and Livelihood
Spike in heatstroke cases, school closures
Reduced productivity in outdoor sectors (e.g., MGNREGA)
B. Agriculture
Stress on pre-monsoon sowing (jute, summer paddy)
Higher irrigation demand, depleting groundwater
C. Environment
Increased forest fire incidents in Assam and Tripura
Drying wetlands and wildlife stress
D. Energy Sector
Higher power demand → load shedding & pressure on coal-based plants
Vulnerability of Eastern & Northeastern India
| Factors | Explanation |
| 🌿 Lush landscape | Not climatologically adapted to extreme heat |
| 🌊 High humidity | Exacerbates heat stress (heat index higher) |
| 🧍 Dense rural population | Low access to cooling infrastructure |
| 🛑 Limited planning | Inadequate Heat Action Plans (HAPs) in Northeast |
Government Response
IMD advisories to states for early school closures
State Disaster Response Forces (SDRF) activated
Assam planning Heat Action Plan on lines of Gujarat model
Global Context
WMO: 2023 was Earth’s hottest year on record
Heatwaves becoming more widespread: From Europe to South Asia
Way Forward
Implement Heat Action Plans (HAPs)
Early warning, public advisories, water booths
Urban Cooling Strategies
Increase green cover, cool roofs, water bodies
Climate-Resilient Agriculture
Drought-resistant varieties, better irrigation
Regional Coordination
NE states must integrate climate adaptation into development
Conclusion
The recurring and expanding footprint of heatwaves signals a new climate reality for regions previously considered immune. Building long-term resilience is no longer optional but essential.
📝 Example: Ahmedabad’s Heat Action Plan (2013) reduced heat mortality by 30%.
North East Industrial Corridor Gets Centre’s Approval
Why in News
The Union Government has approved the proposal to establish a North East Industrial Corridor (NEIC) to catalyze industrial development and integration of the North Eastern Region (NER) with the national and global economy.
Objective of the Corridor
To promote industrialization, connectivity, and employment in the North Eastern Region by leveraging its geographic location and resources.
Key Features of NEIC
| Feature | Details |
| 📍 States Covered | Assam, Meghalaya, Manipur, Tripura, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim |
| 🔧 Focus Sectors | Agro-processing, handloom & handicrafts, pharmaceuticals, electronics, tourism, and renewable energy |
| 🛣️ Infrastructure | Industrial clusters, logistic parks, skill development centers |
| 🔗 Connectivity | Integration with East-West Industrial Corridor and Act East Policy |
| 🌐 Trade Link | Access to BBIN countries and ASEAN markets via Bangladesh and Myanmar |
Significance
1. Boost to Act East Policy
Facilitates connectivity with Southeast Asia.
Example: Linkage with India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway.
2. Industrial Development of NER
Converts region from resource-supplier to value-adder.
Enhances employment and entrepreneurship in backward districts.
3. Strategic Importance
Strengthens India’s hold over a region with sensitive borders (China, Bangladesh, Myanmar).
Helps in inclusive national growth and regional integration.
4. Economic Potential
Harnesses NER’s strengths: Tea, bamboo, oil & gas, tourism.
Unlocks potential of underutilized border trade points (e.g., Moreh, Dawki, Agartala ICP).
Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| 🏞️ Terrain | Difficult topography increases construction cost |
| 🔌 Power Deficit | Industrial hubs need consistent power supply |
| 🚧 Insurgency Risks | Some areas still face security threats |
| 📉 Investment Hesitation | Private sector wary due to low ROI and connectivity |
| 🧑🏫 Skill Deficit | Skilled manpower availability is limited |
Comparison with Other Corridors
| Corridor | Focus |
| DMIC | Delhi-Mumbai industrial growth |
| AKIC | Agricultural and industrial integration in East |
| CBIC | Chennai-Bangalore industrial synergy |
| NEIC | Border economy, connectivity, green growth in NER |
Government Measures
PM-DevINE: Infrastructure and development support
North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS)
Startup & Stand-up India NE edition
Engagement with Japan for investment in NER (e.g., ADB-backed projects)
Map: Location of Proposed NEIC Nodes
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CopyEdit
[Map not displayed here; visualize states with nodes: Guwahati, Agartala, Imphal, Dimapur, Itanagar, Shillong, Aizawl, Gangtok]
Way Forward
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) models for industrial parks
Integrated Transport Planning under PM Gati Shakti
Cross-border trade protocols with Myanmar and Bangladesh
Skill hubs and training institutes in each corridor node
Green Infrastructure focus for sustainable industrialization
Conclusion
The North East Industrial Corridor can transform the region from a geographical periphery to an economic core, provided it is implemented with sensitivity to the region’s socio-political dynamics and ecological balance.
🔍 Example: Assam’s Bongaigaon-Baihata corridor zone planned as green industrial cluster.
Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to CAA Rules
The Supreme Court of India is set to hear a series of petitions challenging the Citizenship (Amendment) Act (CAA), 2019, and the recently notified Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024. These rules operationalize the CAA, which aims to provide expedited Indian citizenship to persecuted minorities—Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians—from Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Afghanistan who entered India on or before December 31, 2014.JURISTThe Economic Times
Background
The CAA was enacted in December 2019, leading to widespread debates and protests across the country.
The Citizenship (Amendment) Rules, 2024, were notified on March 11, 2024, effectively bringing the CAA into force.
Legal Developments
Numerous petitions have been filed challenging the constitutional validity of the CAA, arguing that it discriminates based on religion and violates Article 14 (Right to Equality) of the Indian Constitution.
On March 19, 2024, the Supreme Court declined to pass an interim order staying the implementation of the CAA rules. The bench, led by Chief Justice D.Y. Chandrachud, emphasized the need to grant the Union government reasonable time to respond to the interlocutory applications challenging the rules.
The Court directed all petitioners seeking a stay on the rules to file a common affidavit by April 2, 2024, with the Union required to respond by April 8, 2024. The matter was scheduled for further hearing on April 9, 2024.
Arguments Presented
Petitioners contend that implementing the CAA during pending legal challenges could lead to irreversible changes, complicating the situation if the Act is later deemed unconstitutional.
The Union government maintains that the CAA does not take away the citizenship of any person but provides a pathway for certain persecuted minorities to acquire Indian citizenship.
Current Status
As of April 7, 2025, the Supreme Court has not issued a stay on the implementation of the CAA and its associated rules. The matter remains under judicial consideration, with the next hearing date to be confirmed.
Implications
The Court’s decision will have significant implications for India’s citizenship laws and secular framework.
The outcome may also influence India’s international relations, particularly with neighboring countries mentioned in the Act. Given the complexity and sensitivity of the issue, stakeholders and citizens are closely monitoring the proceedings for further developments.
APSC Prelims MCQs
Practice questions on the topics above
1. India, Russia Explore Rupee-Ruble Payment System
Question:
With reference to India-Russia bilateral trade, consider the following statements:
- The Rupee-Ruble payment system aims to reduce dependence on the US dollar in bilateral trade.
- The Reserve Bank of India has officially launched a permanent Rupee-Ruble exchange mechanism.
- The proposed system will help India purchase Russian crude oil while bypassing SWIFT sanctions.
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
Show answer
Answer: B. 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The idea behind the Rupee-Ruble system is to de-dollarize trade and reduce reliance on Western payment mechanisms.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: The RBI has not officially launched a permanent Rupee-Ruble mechanism, although talks and trials have taken place.
- Statement 3 is correct: This mechanism allows India to bypass Western financial sanctions on Russia and continue importing essential commodities like crude oil.
2. Record Heatwaves Hit Eastern and Northeastern India
Question:
Which of the following conditions contribute to heatwaves in India?
- Prolonged absence of rainfall
- Anti-cyclonic circulation over land areas
- Jet stream disturbance in the lower troposphere
- Large-scale deforestation
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 4 only
B. 1, 2 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Show answer
Answer: D. All of the above
Explanation:
- Absence of rainfall leads to dry and hot land surfaces.
- Anti-cyclonic conditions trap heat near the surface.
- Jet stream disturbances can stall weather systems, leading to prolonged high temperatures.
- Deforestation increases surface heating and reduces evapotranspiration, worsening heatwave conditions.
3. North East Industrial Corridor Gets Centre’s Approval
Question:
Which of the following correctly explains the significance of the North East Industrial Corridor?
A. It connects major ports with manufacturing hubs in southern India.
B. It is part of India’s Blue Economy strategy focused on fisheries.
C. It aims to promote industrialization and connectivity in Northeast India to integrate with the Act East Policy.
D. It is a defence corridor intended for boosting indigenous arms manufacturing in Assam.
Show answer
Answer: C. It aims to promote industrialization and connectivity in Northeast India to integrate with the Act East Policy.
Explanation:
The North East Industrial Corridor (NEIC) is aligned with India’s Act East Policy, aiming to boost regional trade and economic activity in the northeastern states and enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia via Myanmar and beyond.
4. Supreme Court to Hear Challenge to CAA Rules
Question:
With reference to the Citizenship (Amendment) Act, 2019 and its associated rules notified in 2024, consider the following statements:
- The CAA applies only to persons who entered India before 2019.
- The law grants Indian citizenship to illegal migrants of all religions from neighbouring countries.
- The Supreme Court has stayed the implementation of the CAA Rules, 2024.
Which of the statements given above is/are incorrect?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Show answer
Answer: B. 2 and 3 only
Explanation:
Statement 3 is incorrect: As of April 2025, the Supreme Court has not stayed the implementation of the CAA Rules.
Statement 1 is correct: CAA applies to minorities from Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bangladesh who entered India before December 31, 2014.
Statement 2 is incorrect: The Act applies only to non-Muslim minorities (Hindus, Sikhs, Jains, Buddhists, Parsis, Christians) and not to all religions.
Mains Answer Writing
One exam-style question with a model answer
Q. Discuss the significance and challenges of establishing a Rupee-Ruble trade settlement mechanism between India and Russia in the current global geopolitical context. (15 Marks)
Model answer
Introduction:
Amid evolving global geopolitics and Western sanctions on Russia, India’s exploration of a Rupee-Ruble payment system marks a pivotal shift in bilateral trade and financial autonomy.
Body
I. Why the Rupee-Ruble Mechanism is Significant
- De-dollarization of Trade
- Reduces dependence on the US Dollar and SWIFT system.
- Enhances financial sovereignty in global trade.
- Example: Similar models used by Russia-China (Yuan-Ruble).
- Continuity in Energy Imports
- Allows uninterrupted import of Russian crude oil and defense equipment despite sanctions.
- India’s Russian oil imports surged post-2022.
- Boost to Bilateral Trade
- Facilitates trade in local currencies → less exchange rate risk.
- Bilateral trade target: $30 billion by 2025 (MEA, India).
- Strategic Autonomy in Foreign Policy
- Strengthens India’s stance as a multipolar actor in international relations.
- Avoids Western pressure while preserving strategic ties with Russia.
II. Challenges in Implementing the Mechanism
- Trade Imbalance
- India imports far more from Russia than it exports.
- Accumulation of Rupees by Russia is of limited utility.
Source: DGFT data (2024)
- Currency Convertibility Issues
- Rupee is not fully convertible on capital account → restricts usability in global markets.
- Banking Infrastructure
- Lack of established correspondent banks and settlement protocols.
- Risk of triggering secondary sanctions on Indian banks.
- Legal and Regulatory Barriers
- RBI norms, FEMA compliance, and SWIFT alternatives need framework adaptation.
III. Geopolitical Context and International Implications
| Factor | Implication |
| Western Sanctions on Russia | Push for alternative financial systems |
| BRICS De-dollarization Talks | Aligns with India’s wider strategic goals |
| G20 Presidency Initiatives | India’s advocacy for inclusive financial architecture |
Conclusion
The Rupee-Ruble trade mechanism is a pragmatic step toward strategic autonomy and regional financial resilience. A well-calibrated and phased approach—backed by multilateral coordination and robust financial safeguards—can make India a key player in shaping future global trade norms.
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