APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (08/03/2025)
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 (08-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: HC Allows PWD to Carry Out Ancillary Works at Kamakhya
GS Paper 2: Governance, Infrastructure Development, Judicial Oversight
Introduction
The Gauhati High Court (HC) has permitted the Public Works Department (PWD) to carry out ancillary development works at the Kamakhya Temple premises, despite earlier concerns raised by environmentalists and heritage conservationists. The decision highlights the balance between infrastructure modernization and heritage preservation, a key issue in urban planning and governance.
Key Points
- Kamakhya Temple:
- One of the most sacred Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya.
- Located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, attracting millions of pilgrims annually.
- Background of the Dispute:
- The PWD proposed renovation, parking facilities, drainage, and pathway improvements around the temple.
- Conservationists opposed major alterations, fearing damage to historical and religious significance.
- Legal petitions were filed, questioning environmental clearances and impact on temple heritage.
- High Court’s Ruling:
- Allowed PWD to continue minor developmental works, ensuring no structural damage to the temple.
- Mandated strict environmental and heritage impact assessments.
- Instructed authorities to consult temple trust, historians, and local bodies.
- Significance of the Verdict:
- Enables improved infrastructure for pilgrims while maintaining cultural and religious sanctity.
- Highlights judicial oversight on heritage conservation versus development projects.
Prelims Pointers
- Kamakhya Temple: A Shakti Peetha, associated with Tantric traditions.
- Shakti Peethas: 51 sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.
- Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958: Protects heritage sites from unregulated development.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Mandates studies before large-scale infrastructure projects.
- Public Works Department (PWD): Responsible for infrastructure projects in roads, bridges, and public buildings.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of Infrastructure Development at Religious Heritage Sites
✅ 1. Improving Pilgrim Experience
- High footfall at Kamakhya Temple causes congestion and sanitation issues.
- Infrastructure upgrades help in better crowd management and tourism growth.
✅ 2. Economic & Tourism Boost
- Kamakhya is a major religious tourism destination, contributing to Assam’s economy.
- Improved access roads, parking, and drainage can boost local businesses and employment.
✅ 3. Preservation of Cultural Heritage
- Development must not compromise the temple’s ancient architecture.
- Use of traditional materials and designs ensures historical authenticity.
2. Challenges in Balancing Development & Heritage Conservation
✅ 1. Risk of Structural Damage
- Heavy construction near temples can cause long-term damage to foundations.
- Example: Jagannath Temple (Puri) faced similar controversies over infrastructural changes.
✅ 2. Environmental Concerns
- Unregulated construction on Nilachal Hill can trigger landslides and deforestation.
- Drainage system upgrades must ensure no pollution of Brahmaputra River.
✅ 3. Legal & Community Opposition
- Conservationists argue that PWD projects lack historical sensitivity.
- Some religious groups fear over-commercialization of pilgrimage sites.
✅ 4. Bureaucratic Delays & Legal Hurdles
- Frequent court cases stall infrastructure projects, leading to cost overruns.
- Example: Ram Janmabhoomi Corridor (Ayodhya) faced similar delays over land disputes.
3. Government & Judicial Interventions for Sustainable Development
✅ 1. High Court’s Monitoring of Heritage Projects
- Ensuring PWD’s compliance with heritage and environmental regulations.
- Directing state agencies to involve ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) in planning.
✅ 2. Sustainable Development Guidelines for Religious Sites
- Adoption of eco-friendly materials and non-intrusive construction techniques.
- Promoting green transport options like electric buses for pilgrims.
✅ 3. Public Participation in Decision-Making
- Formation of Temple Development Committees including priests, historians, and local stakeholders.
- Use of opinion surveys to incorporate citizen feedback in planning.
✅ 4. Strengthening Laws & Regulations
- Stringent environmental clearance norms for religious site infrastructure projects.
- Strict penalties for illegal constructions in heritage zones.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Implementing a Smart Pilgrimage Management Plan
- Use of digital crowd control systems and mobile navigation apps for pilgrims.
- Expansion of queue management and sanitation facilities.
✅ 2. Integrating Heritage Conservation with Urban Development
- Promotion of heritage-friendly urban designs in temple towns.
- Strict zoning laws to regulate commercial activities around temples.
✅ 3. Encouraging Community-Led Heritage Protection
- Local stakeholders must be involved in monitoring temple conservation projects.
- Temple trusts and conservation NGOs should play an active role in preservation efforts.
✅ 4. Expanding Religious Tourism in Assam
- Development of a “Shakti Peetha Circuit” linking Kamakhya with other major temples.
- Encouraging responsible tourism policies to prevent overcrowding.
Conclusion
The HC’s decision to allow PWD’s ancillary works at Kamakhya highlights the need for a balanced approach between infrastructure development and heritage conservation. While improving facilities for pilgrims is essential, cultural and environmental sensitivities must be respected. Going forward, a sustainable development framework involving judicial oversight, community participation, and eco-friendly construction will ensure that Kamakhya Temple retains its historical and spiritual significance while accommodating modern infrastructure needs.
Topic 2: Excavation at Dhekiajuli’s Gupteswar Devalaya
GS Paper 1: History, Archaeology, Cultural Heritage
Introduction
Recent archaeological excavations at Gupteswar Devalaya in Dhekiajuli, Assam, have revealed ancient temple structures, inscriptions, and artifacts, shedding new light on Assam’s medieval history. The discovery is expected to provide significant insights into the region’s religious traditions, architectural styles, and socio-cultural evolution. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state historians have called for conservation efforts to protect and study the site further.
Key Points
- Location & Significance:
- Gupteswar Devalaya is located in Dhekiajuli, Sonitpur district.
- The site is associated with Shakti worship and Shaivism, indicating strong religious traditions.
- Major Discoveries:
- Temple ruins with inscriptions in Sanskrit and ancient Assamese scripts.
- Idols of Hindu deities, suggesting influence of Hinduism and local tribal traditions.
- Stone carvings and relics dating back to the medieval period (9th–12th century CE).
- Possible Historical Linkages:
- May have connections to the Kamarupa Kingdom (4th–12th century CE), one of the earliest Assamese dynasties.
- Indicates the spread of Vaishnavism and Shaivism in Assam, alongside indigenous religious traditions.
- Challenges & Preservation Needs:
- The site is vulnerable to natural degradation and human encroachment.
- Lack of proper documentation threatens the historical value of the findings.
Prelims Pointers
- Kamarupa Kingdom (4th–12th century CE): An ancient Assamese dynasty known for Hindu-Buddhist cultural synthesis.
- Shakti Peetha Tradition: Assam is home to Kamakhya, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, linked to Goddess worship.
- ASI (Archaeological Survey of India): The central agency responsible for excavations and conservation of historical sites.
- Epigraphy: The study of ancient inscriptions, crucial for deciphering historical records.
- Vaishnavism & Shaivism in Assam: Two major Hindu sects that influenced Assam’s medieval temple architecture.
Mains Pointers
1. Historical & Cultural Significance of the Discovery
✅ 1. Adds to Assam’s Religious Heritage
- Strengthens the historical narrative of Shaiva and Shakti worship traditions in Assam.
- Possible link to ancient pilgrimage routes and temple networks in the region.
✅ 2. Architectural & Artistic Insights
- Provides examples of medieval temple construction techniques in Assam.
- Presence of sculptures and inscriptions suggests a fusion of tribal and Hindu influences.
✅ 3. Expanding Knowledge of the Kamarupa Dynasty
- Confirms the dynasty’s role in temple-building and religious patronage.
- Links with other archaeological sites like Madan Kamdev, Navagraha Temple, and Da Parbatia.
2. Challenges in Conservation & Archaeological Research
✅ 1. Encroachment & Unregulated Development
- Nearby urban expansion and tourism threaten the site’s integrity.
- Illegal land occupation hampers proper excavation and conservation.
✅ 2. Lack of Funding & Preservation Efforts
- Limited financial support for detailed excavation, documentation, and restoration.
- Need for long-term government and academic collaboration.
✅ 3. Natural Erosion & Climate Impact
- Assam’s heavy monsoon and river erosion may damage unearthed structures.
- Soil preservation techniques needed to prevent further decay.
✅ 4. Weak Public Awareness & Tourism Development
- Lesser-known sites like Gupteswar Devalaya receive low attention compared to famous temples.
- Lack of tourism infrastructure prevents wider recognition.
3. Government Measures & Conservation Efforts
✅ 1. ASI & State Government Collaboration
- Proposal to declare the site a protected monument under ASI supervision.
- Digitization of inscriptions and artifacts for research and academic studies.
✅ 2. Introduction of Sustainable Tourism
- Development of eco-friendly visitor pathways and information centers.
- Training of local guides to educate tourists about the site’s historical significance.
✅ 3. Strengthening Legal Protection & Regulation
- Strict laws against illegal construction near heritage sites.
- Funding incentives for heritage conservation projects.
✅ 4. Academic Research & Public Awareness Campaigns
- Encouraging universities and historians to conduct detailed studies on Assam’s medieval heritage.
- Integration of archaeological findings into school and college history curricula.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Excavation & Documentation Efforts
- Use of modern technologies like 3D mapping and carbon dating to analyze findings.
- Collaboration with international archaeologists for advanced research.
✅ 2. Promoting Assam’s Archaeological Heritage
- Linking Gupteswar Devalaya to a larger cultural circuit with Kamakhya, Madan Kamdev, and Da Parbatia.
- Government-backed campaigns to boost cultural tourism.
✅ 3. Encouraging Community Participation
- Engaging local tribal communities in site protection through employment in conservation programs.
- Workshops and heritage walks to raise awareness.
✅ 4. Strengthening Policy Framework for Heritage Conservation
- Faster clearance of heritage protection status for historically significant sites.
- Increased allocation of funds under the National Heritage Mission.
Conclusion
The excavation at Gupteswar Devalaya in Dhekiajuli offers a unique opportunity to uncover Assam’s medieval history and religious traditions. While the findings have historical and cultural importance, strong conservation policies, archaeological research, and sustainable tourism are essential to ensure the site’s preservation. By promoting responsible heritage management and public awareness, Assam can further strengthen its position as a center of India’s ancient and medieval cultural heritage.
Topic 3: India Voices Concern Over Bangladesh Freeing ‘Violent Extremists’
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Regional Security, India-Bangladesh Ties
Introduction
India has expressed concern over Bangladesh’s decision to release certain violent extremists, citing potential threats to regional security. The move comes amid ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between the two nations. India fears that the release of radical elements could lead to cross-border security risks, affecting the Northeast and other sensitive areas. This development highlights the challenges in counterterrorism policies, border security, and diplomatic engagement between India and Bangladesh.
Key Points
- Who are the Released Extremists?
- Reports suggest that several members of Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI-B) and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) have been freed.
- These groups have been linked to terrorist activities in both Bangladesh and India, including past attacks in Assam and West Bengal.
- India’s Concerns:
- Possible infiltration of extremists into India through porous borders.
- Increased threat of radicalization in vulnerable regions, especially in Assam and West Bengal.
- Weakening of regional counterterrorism efforts, affecting security cooperation.
- Bangladesh’s Justification:
- Claimed that some prisoners had reformed or lacked sufficient evidence against them.
- Cited judicial independence and human rights concerns as reasons for their release.
- Regional Security Implications:
- Risk of terrorist resurgence in South Asia, affecting both Bangladesh and India.
- Increased tension in border management and intelligence-sharing mechanisms.
Prelims Pointers
- Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI-B): A banned terrorist outfit operating in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
- Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB): Responsible for serial bomb blasts in Bangladesh (2005), with links to terror networks in India.
- Indo-Bangladesh Border Management: Governed by agreements like the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) and Border Security Cooperation.
- SAARC Regional Anti-Terrorism Mechanism: A framework for counterterrorism efforts in South Asia.
- Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT): Allows India and Bangladesh to exchange intelligence and extradite criminals.
Mains Pointers
1. India-Bangladesh Security & Counterterrorism Cooperation
✅ 1. Joint Counterterrorism Operations
- India and Bangladesh have collaborated on extraditing terror suspects and neutralizing sleeper cells.
- Example: Arrest of JMB operatives in Assam and Bengal through Indo-Bangladesh intelligence-sharing.
✅ 2. Border Security & Fencing Initiatives
- The Indo-Bangladesh border (4,096 km) is partially fenced, with ongoing security challenges.
- Cooperation between BSF (India) and BGB (Bangladesh) is crucial in preventing cross-border militancy.
✅ 3. Diplomatic Framework for Counterterrorism
- Regular Home Secretary-level meetings to discuss radicalization threats.
- Extradition agreements for capturing terrorists seeking refuge in either country.
2. Challenges in Indo-Bangladesh Counterterrorism Efforts
✅ 1. Porous Borders & Infiltration Risks
- Difficult terrain and riverine areas make the border vulnerable to illegal crossings.
- Extremists use fake identities and smuggling routes to enter India.
✅ 2. Radicalization & Extremist Networks
- Online propaganda by radical groups targeting youth in Northeast India.
- Weak monitoring of illegal madrasa networks with extremist funding.
✅ 3. Political & Diplomatic Sensitivities
- Bangladesh’s internal politics affects its approach to counterterrorism.
- India’s concerns may be perceived as interference in Bangladesh’s judiciary.
✅ 4. Lack of a Strong Regional Anti-Terror Framework
- SAARC’s anti-terror initiatives remain weak, with no dedicated counterterrorism body.
- Need for stronger cooperation between India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
3. Government Measures & Policy Recommendations
✅ 1. Strengthening Border Security & Intelligence Sharing
- Deploying advanced surveillance tech (drones, AI, facial recognition) at border posts.
- Increasing joint BSF-BGB patrols to monitor illegal movements.
✅ 2. Diplomatic Engagement & Stronger Bilateral Treaties
- India must push for a new Counterterrorism Cooperation Treaty with Bangladesh.
- Setting up real-time data-sharing units on radical elements.
✅ 3. Cyber & Digital Counter-Radicalization Initiatives
- Monitoring extremist social media content to prevent youth recruitment.
- India should help Bangladesh develop a digital anti-terror tracking system.
✅ 4. Expanding Regional Cooperation Beyond SAARC
- Encouraging BIMSTEC countries to form a regional security alliance.
- Greater cooperation with Interpol and ASEAN to track terrorist funding.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Faster Border Infrastructure Development
- Complete fencing of sensitive border areas, particularly in West Bengal and Assam.
- Deploying AI-based border tracking systems to identify illegal crossings.
✅ 2. Enhancing People-to-People Diplomacy
- Expanding cultural and student exchange programs to counter extremist propaganda.
- Promoting moderate Islamic scholars in counter-radicalization campaigns.
✅ 3. Legal & Institutional Strengthening
- Fast-track extradition treaties for capturing fugitives hiding in Bangladesh.
- Strengthening India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to combat sleeper cells.
✅ 4. Coordinated International Efforts
- Joint anti-terror drills between India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
- Collaborating with the United Nations and FATF (Financial Action Task Force) to curb terror financing.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s decision to release extremists has raised security concerns for India, highlighting the need for stronger border security, intelligence-sharing, and diplomatic engagement. While India must respect Bangladesh’s legal framework, it is essential to enhance counterterrorism cooperation through stricter border management, cyber surveillance, and regional anti-terror alliances. A balanced approach of diplomacy and security measures will ensure that South Asia remains stable and free from extremist threats.
Topic 4: Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council Polls Announced
GS Paper 2: Governance, Federalism, Tribal Rights, Decentralization
Introduction
The Assam State Election Commission has announced elections for the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), a major self-governance body for the Rabha tribal community. The polls are crucial in determining local leadership, resource distribution, and governance priorities for the council. The RHAC plays a vital role in protecting tribal rights, preserving indigenous culture, and ensuring socio-economic development in the Rabha-dominated regions of Assam.
Key Points
- What is the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC)?
- A self-governing tribal body under Assam’s special provisions for indigenous communities.
- Established to safeguard the identity, culture, and development interests of the Rabha community.
- Covers areas in Goalpara and Kamrup districts.
- Election Significance:
- Determines new leadership for the council, which governs tribal welfare programs, education, and land rights.
- Impacts tribal reservation policies and political representation in Assam.
- Major Political & Social Issues:
- Demand for more autonomy and financial powers for the council.
- Disputes over land encroachment and rights of non-tribal settlers in RHAC areas.
- Need for better healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for Rabha youth.
- Challenges in Conducting the Elections:
- Ethnic tensions and inter-community conflicts with non-Rabha groups.
- Weak infrastructure and administrative delays in remote areas.
Prelims Pointers
- Rabha Tribe: An indigenous Tibeto-Burman ethnic group primarily in Assam and Meghalaya.
- Sixth Schedule vs. State-Recognized Autonomous Councils:
- RHAC is NOT under the Sixth Schedule (unlike Bodoland and Karbi Anglong).
- It functions under the Assam Tribal Autonomous Councils Act.
- State Election Commission: Conducts local body elections, including autonomous council polls.
- Panchayati Raj vs. Autonomous Councils:
- Panchayati Raj operates under Article 243, while autonomous councils have tribal-specific governance structures.
- Tribal Land Rights in Assam: Governed by Assam Land and Revenue Regulation, 1886.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of Autonomous Councils for Tribal Governance
✅ 1. Protecting Indigenous Culture & Identity
- Councils preserve traditional customs, languages, and festivals of the Rabha people.
- Support tribal literature, art, and folklore preservation programs.
✅ 2. Socio-Economic Development
- RHAC manages schools, healthcare centers, and rural infrastructure in Rabha-majority areas.
- Allocates funds for tribal welfare schemes and employment programs.
✅ 3. Land & Resource Management
- Regulates tribal land ownership to prevent exploitation by non-tribal settlers.
- Promotes sustainable agriculture and community-led development projects.
✅ 4. Political Representation & Decentralization
- Strengthens local self-governance by giving tribal leaders a role in decision-making.
- Reduces bureaucratic delays by bringing administration closer to the people.
2. Challenges Facing the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council
✅ 1. Demand for Greater Autonomy & Sixth Schedule Status
- Unlike Bodoland or Karbi Anglong, RHAC does not have Sixth Schedule protection.
- Rabha leaders have demanded direct funding from the central government for better administration.
✅ 2. Conflict with Non-Tribal Settlers
- Clashes between Rabha and non-Rabha communities over land rights.
- Encroachments by migrant communities lead to disputes over forest and agricultural lands.
✅ 3. Administrative & Financial Weaknesses
- RHAC lacks full control over funds and revenue collection, making it dependent on the Assam government.
- Delays in budget allocations affect development projects.
✅ 4. Political Fragmentation & Governance Issues
- Factionalism within Rabha political groups weakens unified demands.
- Lack of youth participation in governance leads to outdated policies.
3. Government Initiatives & Policy Measures
✅ 1. Assam Tribal Development Policy
- Special funds for infrastructure, education, and employment in tribal council areas.
- Strengthening of traditional tribal leadership institutions.
✅ 2. Constitutional & Legislative Provisions
- Assam Tribal Autonomous Councils Act provides governance rights.
- Proposal to amend laws for more financial independence to councils.
✅ 3. Economic Development Programs
- Expansion of tribal cooperative societies and skill development programs.
- Promoting eco-tourism and handicraft industries in Rabha-majority regions.
✅ 4. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
- Government-led dialogues between Rabha leaders and non-tribal communities.
- Setting up grievance redressal mechanisms for land disputes.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening RHAC’s Financial & Administrative Autonomy
- Direct allocation of grants from the central government for tribal councils.
- Allowing councils to collect revenue from local businesses and tourism.
✅ 2. Expanding Tribal Land & Resource Rights
- Implementing land protection laws to prevent illegal settlements.
- Encouraging community-led forest conservation programs.
✅ 3. Promoting Tribal Entrepreneurship & Skill Development
- Establishing microfinance schemes for tribal businesses.
- Creating Rabha cultural hubs for tourism and heritage conservation.
✅ 4. Enhancing Political Representation & Youth Participation
- Encouraging youth leadership training programs in tribal governance.
- Conducting regular consultations between the Assam government and RHAC leaders.
Conclusion
The Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council elections are crucial for determining the future of self-governance, tribal welfare, and political stability in the Rabha-majority regions. While the council has played a key role in protecting indigenous identity and promoting development, it faces challenges like financial dependence, ethnic conflicts, and limited autonomy. Strengthening political representation, financial independence, and sustainable tribal policies will be essential for ensuring inclusive and effective governance for the Rabha community.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: HC Allows PWD to Carry Out Ancillary Works at Kamakhya
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding Kamakhya Temple is/are correct?
- Kamakhya Temple is dedicated to Goddess Durga and is one of the 12 Jyotirlingas in India.
- It is associated with Tantric traditions and Shakti worship.
- The temple is located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam.
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: Kamakhya Temple is not a Jyotirlinga, but one of the Shakti Peethas, where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.
- Statement 2 is correct: Kamakhya Temple is famous for Tantric rituals and Shakti worship traditions.
- Statement 3 is correct: It is located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, Assam.
Question 2
Which of the following laws govern the protection and development of heritage sites in India?
- The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958
- The Environment Protection Act, 1986
- The Public Works Department (PWD) Act, 1925
- The Forest Conservation Act, 1980
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 4 only
c) 1, 2, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: c) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- The Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958 regulates construction and renovation in heritage zones.
- The Environment Protection Act, 1986 applies to projects affecting eco-sensitive heritage sites.
- The Forest Conservation Act, 1980 is relevant when heritage sites are located in forest areas.
- The PWD Act, 1925 does not exist as a national law for heritage protection.
Topic 2: Excavation at Dhekiajuli’s Gupteswar Devalaya
Question 3
The recent excavation at Gupteswar Devalaya in Dhekiajuli, Assam, is expected to provide new insights into which of the following?
- The Kamarupa Kingdom’s religious architecture
- The spread of Vaishnavism and Shaivism in medieval Assam
- The Harappan civilization’s influence in Northeast India
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The temple ruins suggest architectural styles linked to the Kamarupa Kingdom (4th–12th century CE).
- Statement 2 is correct: The presence of Shaivite and Vaishnavite inscriptions shows religious influence.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: There is no evidence of Harappan civilization’s influence in Assam.
Question 4
Which of the following sites in Assam are known for their ancient temple architecture?
- Da Parbatia
- Madan Kamdev
- Sivasagar Ahom Monuments
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary
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:
- Da Parbatia (6th century CE): Oldest known stone temple ruins in Assam.
- Madan Kamdev (10th–12th century CE): Known as the “Khajuraho of Assam” due to its sculptures.
- Sivasagar Ahom Monuments: Though built later (17th century CE), they are important historical sites.
- Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary is known for Indian rhinos, not temple ruins.
Topic 3: India Voices Concern Over Bangladesh Freeing ‘Violent Extremists’
Question 5
Which of the following terrorist organizations are known to operate in Bangladesh and Northeast India?
- Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI-B)
- Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB)
- United Liberation Front of Asom (ULFA)
- Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)
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: c) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- HuJI-B and JMB are Bangladesh-based extremist groups with past links to attacks in India.
- ULFA is a Northeast India-based insurgent group, not a terrorist outfit in Bangladesh.
- LeT operates mainly in Pakistan and Kashmir, not in Bangladesh.
Question 6
Which of the following agreements govern Indo-Bangladesh border security and counterterrorism cooperation?
- Land Boundary Agreement (LBA), 2015
- Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT)
- SAARC Regional Anti-Terrorism Mechanism
- QUAD Counterterrorism Initiative
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- LBA (2015): Resolved land disputes along the Indo-Bangladesh border.
- MLAT: Allows legal cooperation in extradition and counterterrorism.
- SAARC Regional Anti-Terrorism Mechanism: Aims to counter regional extremism.
- QUAD (India, US, Japan, Australia) is not directly involved in Indo-Bangladesh security.
Topic 4: Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council Polls Announced
Question 7
The Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) is responsible for governing which of the following aspects in its jurisdiction?
- Cultural and linguistic preservation of the Rabha community
- Regulation of land rights and resource management
- Law and order and criminal justice administration
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- RHAC focuses on cultural, linguistic, and land rights issues for the Rabha community.
- Law and order remains under Assam’s state government, not the council.
Question 8
Which of the following statements about tribal self-governance in Assam is/are correct?
- The Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC) is governed under the Sixth Schedule of the Constitution.
- The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) enjoys greater financial and legislative autonomy than RHAC.
- Autonomous Councils in Assam function under state-specific tribal governance laws.
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 3 is correct: Assam’s autonomous councils are governed by state laws, unlike Sixth Schedule areas.
Statement 1 is incorrect: RHAC is not under the Sixth Schedule. It is governed by state laws.
Statement 2 is correct: BTR (Bodoland) has more legislative powers under the Sixth Schedule.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
Autonomous Councils in Assam play a crucial role in preserving tribal identity and ensuring decentralized governance. However, they face multiple challenges related to financial dependency, land disputes, and administrative inefficiencies. Analyze the role of Autonomous Councils in Assam and suggest measures to strengthen their functioning. (GS Paper 2: Governance, Federalism, Tribal Rights, Decentralization)
Model Answer
Introduction
Autonomous Councils in Assam are crucial for tribal self-governance, cultural preservation, and regional development. They provide political representation, economic planning, and administrative control to various tribal communities. However, these councils face challenges like financial dependency, inter-community conflicts, bureaucratic inefficiencies, and lack of legislative powers. Strengthening their functioning is essential for inclusive governance and sustainable tribal development.
Role of Autonomous Councils in Assam
✅ 1. Protecting Tribal Identity & Culture
- Councils preserve indigenous languages, traditions, and festivals of Assam’s tribal communities.
- Promote ethnic art, literature, and folklore through cultural institutions.
✅ 2. Socio-Economic Development & Local Governance
- Manage schools, healthcare centers, and infrastructure projects in tribal regions.
- Allocate funds for tribal welfare programs, employment, and economic upliftment.
✅ 3. Land & Resource Management
- Regulate tribal land ownership and prevent illegal encroachments.
- Promote community-led forest conservation and sustainable agriculture.
✅ 4. Decentralization & Political Representation
- Councils act as mini-legislatures, ensuring self-rule within their jurisdiction.
- Encourage participation of tribal leaders in decision-making at the grassroots level.
Challenges Faced by Autonomous Councils in Assam
✅ 1. Financial Dependency on State & Central Government
- Councils lack independent revenue sources and rely on state grants.
- Delays in fund allocation hinder development projects.
✅ 2. Limited Legislative & Administrative Powers
- Councils under state laws (like RHAC) lack the autonomy of Sixth Schedule councils (e.g., Bodoland).
- Cannot legislate on policing, taxation, or industrial policies.
✅ 3. Land Encroachment & Ethnic Conflicts
- Disputes between tribals and non-tribals over land ownership.
- Encroachments in forest lands and tribal villages create social tensions.
✅ 4. Bureaucratic Delays & Corruption
- Lack of transparency in fund distribution and project implementation.
- Political interference weakens governance efficiency.
Government Initiatives & Policy Measures
✅ 1. Constitutional & Legislative Reforms
- Proposed 125th Constitutional Amendment Bill to enhance powers of Sixth Schedule councils.
- Assam’s Tribal Development Policy provides financial grants for autonomous councils.
✅ 2. Economic & Infrastructure Development
- Special funds for road connectivity, irrigation, and rural electrification in tribal areas.
- Skill development initiatives under Stand-Up India and Skill India.
✅ 3. Land Rights & Conflict Resolution
- Legal measures to protect tribal land from encroachment.
- Establishing community-led dispute resolution mechanisms.
✅ 4. Enhancing Political Representation & Youth Involvement
- Encouraging youth participation in local governance through leadership programs.
- Conducting regular state-government consultations with tribal council leaders.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Financial Autonomy
- Allow councils to collect local taxes and manage revenue independently.
- Direct allocation of funds from the central government for development projects.
✅ 2. Expanding Legislative & Administrative Powers
- Grant more autonomy to councils under the Sixth Schedule.
- Empower councils to manage policing, local industries, and trade policies.
✅ 3. Promoting Tribal Entrepreneurship & Sustainable Livelihoods
- Establishing microfinance schemes for tribal businesses.
- Encouraging eco-tourism and handicraft industries in council areas.
✅ 4. Strengthening Digital Governance & Transparency
- Use of e-Governance for financial tracking and project monitoring.
- Implementing anti-corruption measures to improve accountability.
Conclusion
Autonomous Councils in Assam play a vital role in tribal self-governance, identity preservation, and regional development. However, addressing financial dependency, administrative inefficiencies, and land disputes is essential to enhance their effectiveness. By strengthening legal frameworks, ensuring financial independence, and promoting community-driven governance, Assam can create a more inclusive and decentralized tribal governance system.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!
🔔 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
