APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (09/01/2026)
For APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exam aspirants, staying consistently updated with reliable current affairs is essential for success. This blog provides a well-researched analysis of the most important topics from The Assam Tribune dated 09 January 2026. Each issue has been carefully selected and explained to support both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, ensuring alignment with the APSC CCE syllabus and the evolving trends of the examination.
✨ APSC CCE Prelims Crash Course, 2026
🚨 Bangladesh-based Terror Outfit’s Network in Assam
Internal Security, Radicalisation & Border Management
📘 GS Paper II (Mains): Governance | Polity | Internal Security
📘 GS Paper III (Mains): Security Challenges | Terrorism
📘 Prelims: Internal Security | Current Affairs
🔹 Introduction
Recent arrests of 11 jihadi elements in Assam have exposed a cross-border terror network linked to a Bangladesh-based extremist outfit, an offshoot of Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB). Investigations revealed online radicalisation, cross-border training, and plans to foment terror activities in Assam and Tripura, highlighting persistent internal security vulnerabilities in India’s northeastern region.
🔑 Key Points
Arrest of 11 terror operatives in Assam
Outfit identified as Imam Mahamuder Kafila (IMK), an offshoot of JMB (Bangladesh)
Radicalisation through YouTube channels and online religious propaganda
Assam-based recruits allegedly visited Bangladesh for training
Objective: Jihadist mobilisation and terror strikes in Northeast India
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB):
Banned terrorist organisation
Known for cross-border extremist operations
Radicalisation Tools:
Social media platforms, encrypted messaging apps, video-sharing platforms
India–Bangladesh Security Cooperation:
Includes intelligence sharing, border coordination, and joint operations
Sensitive Region:
Assam shares a porous international border with Bangladesh
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance / Concerns
Internal Security Threat
Revival of dormant extremist modules in Assam
Digital Radicalisation
Online platforms lowering entry barriers to extremism
Cross-Border Terrorism
Exploitation of cultural, linguistic, and religious linkages
Social Harmony Risks
Potential communal polarisation and mistrust
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Porous Borders | Difficult terrain and riverine stretches |
| Online Extremism | Encrypted, anonymous digital platforms |
| Local Recruitment | Targeting vulnerable youth |
| Capacity Gaps | Limited cyber-forensics and de-radicalisation infrastructure |
C. Government Initiatives
National Investigation Agency (NIA) and State Special Branch operations
Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) for terror prosecution
Border Security Force (BSF) strengthening along Indo-Bangladesh border
Cyber Monitoring Units under MHA
D. Way Forward
Strengthen Border Management
Smart fencing, drones, and riverine surveillance
Counter-Radicalisation Strategy
Community engagement, religious leaders, and civil society
Cyber Intelligence Enhancement
AI-based monitoring of extremist content
Youth Outreach
Education, employment, and digital literacy programmes
Regional Cooperation
Deeper India-Bangladesh counter-terror coordination
🧩 Conclusion
The exposure of a Bangladesh-linked terror network in Assam underscores that internal security threats are increasingly hybrid—digital, transnational, and ideological. Combating such threats requires not only policing and intelligence operations but also preventive governance, community trust-building, and robust cyber vigilance to safeguard Assam’s social fabric and national security.
Assam–Meghalaya Border Talks Gain Momentum: Federal Cooperation, Conflict Resolution & Regional Stability
📘 GS Paper II (Mains): Federalism | Inter-State Relations | Governance
📘 GS Paper I (Mains): Indian Society | Regional Identity | Social Cohesion
📘 GS Paper V (Assam): Border Issues | Administrative History | Regional Stability
📘 GS Prelims: Inter-State Boundary Disputes | Constitutional Mechanisms
(Topic chosen strictly from the newspaper heading/lead reporting renewed momentum in Assam–Meghalaya border negotiations, The Assam Tribune, 09 January 2026.)
🔹 Introduction
The Assam and Meghalaya governments have intensified dialogue to resolve their long-pending inter-State boundary dispute, signalling a renewed commitment to cooperative federalism and peaceful conflict resolution. As reported in The Assam Tribune, fresh rounds of talks aim to address unresolved border stretches through mutual understanding, historical evidence, and administrative pragmatism, moving away from confrontation.
🔑 Key Points from the Newspaper
| Aspect | Details |
| Issue | Assam–Meghalaya inter-State boundary dispute |
| Nature | Colonial-era administrative ambiguity |
| Recent Development | Renewed political and official-level talks |
| Approach | Dialogue, joint surveys, and mutual consent |
| Objective | Permanent, peaceful settlement |
| Broader Significance | Regional stability in Northeast India |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Inter-State Boundary Disputes
Often arise from colonial-era demarcations
Assam–Meghalaya Border
Dispute over multiple stretches across districts
Constitutional Framework
Article 131: Original jurisdiction of Supreme Court (if escalated)
Cooperative Federalism
States resolving issues through dialogue rather than litigation
Regional Committees
Used for ground verification and stakeholder consultation
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Why the Dispute Matters
1. Law and Order
Periodic tensions and localised violence affect civilians
2. Developmental Impact
Uncertainty hampers infrastructure, welfare delivery, and investment
3. Social Harmony
Border ambiguity fuels mistrust between communities
4. Federal Governance
Tests Centre–State and inter-State coordination mechanisms
B. Causes of the Boundary Dispute
| Cause | Explanation |
| Colonial Legacy | Vague administrative boundaries |
| Ethnic & Administrative Claims | Overlapping customary land use |
| Weak Demarcation | Absence of physical boundary markers |
| Political Sensitivity | Identity and territorial concerns |
C. Current Approach & Positives
Dialogue-based resolution
Joint boundary committees and surveys
Avoidance of judicial confrontation
Confidence-building between States
D. Challenges
Local opposition in disputed villages
Historical documentation gaps
Political pressure and electoral considerations
Risk of sporadic violence
E. Way Forward
Sustained Political Dialogue
Regular Chief Minister–level engagement
Joint Ground Surveys
Transparent mapping with community participation
People-Centric Approach
Protect livelihoods and customary rights
Centre’s Facilitating Role
Neutral mediation and administrative support
Peace & Development Linkage
Parallel development initiatives in border areas
🧭 Conclusion
The renewed momentum in Assam–Meghalaya border talks reflects the maturing of cooperative federalism in India. A negotiated, people-sensitive settlement—rooted in dialogue rather than dispute—can transform a historical fault line into a model of peaceful inter-State conflict resolution, strengthening regional stability in the Northeast.
Declining Fish Production in Assam: Livelihood Stress, Ecological Pressures & Policy Gaps
📘 GS Paper III (Mains): Agriculture | Fisheries | Rural Economy
📘 GS Paper II (Mains): Governance | Policy Implementation | Cooperative Institutions
📘 GS Paper V (Assam): Fisheries | Wetlands (Beels) | Livelihoods
📘 GS Prelims: Inland Fisheries | Beels of Assam | Blue Economy
(Topic chosen strictly from the newspaper headline/lead reporting a decline in fish production in Assam and concerns of fishers, The Assam Tribune, 09 January 2026.)
🔹 Introduction
Assam, endowed with extensive rivers, wetlands (beels), and floodplains, has traditionally been a major inland fish-producing State. However, recent reports indicate a decline in fish production, adversely affecting fishers’ livelihoods, nutrition security, and the State’s blue economy potential. The trend points to ecological degradation, management failures, and policy bottlenecks.
🔑 Key Points from the Newspaper
| Aspect | Details |
| Trend | Decline in inland fish production |
| Affected Systems | Beels, rivers, floodplains |
| Stakeholders | Small and marginal fishers |
| Immediate Causes | Siltation, pollution, encroachment |
| Governance Issue | Weak management and support |
| Wider Impact | Rising fish imports, livelihood stress |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Inland Fisheries
Major contributor to India’s fish output
Beels
Natural wetlands supporting capture fisheries
Blue Economy
Sustainable use of aquatic resources for growth and livelihoods
Fish Seed
Availability critical for productivity
Nutritional Security
Fish as a key protein source in Assam
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Why the Decline Matters
1. Livelihood Impact
Fishers and allied workers face income loss
2. Nutritional Consequences
Reduced availability of affordable protein
3. Economic Implications
Increased dependence on fish imports from other States
4. Ecological Indicator
Reflects degradation of wetlands and river systems
B. Causes of Declining Fish Production
| Cause | Explanation |
| Wetland Degradation | Siltation, encroachment, reduced water spread |
| Pollution | Agricultural runoff and urban waste |
| Poor Management | Lack of scientific stocking and harvesting |
| Climate Variability | Floods and changing water regimes |
| Institutional Gaps | Weak cooperatives and extension services |
C. Existing Government Measures
Fisheries development schemes
Fish seed production initiatives
Cooperative-based management of beels
Training and capacity-building programmes
D. Gaps & Challenges
Inadequate beel restoration and desiltation
Limited access to quality fish seed and credit
Weak enforcement against encroachment
Poor integration of fisheries with wetland conservation
E. Way Forward
Beel Restoration
Desiltation, boundary demarcation, and pollution control
Scientific Fisheries Management
Stocking density, species diversification, and closed seasons
Strengthen Fishers’ Cooperatives
Credit access, market linkage, and governance reforms
Climate-Resilient Practices
Adaptive aquaculture and flood-resilient systems
Integrated Policy Approach
Link fisheries with wetland conservation and rural development
🧭 Conclusion
The decline in fish production in Assam is both an economic and ecological warning signal. Reviving inland fisheries requires a holistic approach—combining wetland restoration, scientific management, and empowered fishers’ institutions—to unlock Assam’s blue economy potential while ensuring livelihood security and nutritional well-being.
Rise in Dengue Cases in Assam: Urban Health Challenge, Climate Linkages & Governance Response
📘 GS Paper II (Mains): Governance | Public Health | Role of State
📘 GS Paper III (Mains): Disaster & Risk Management | Climate Change | Environment
📘 GS Paper V (Assam): Health | Urban Issues | Human Development
📘 GS Prelims: Dengue | Vector-borne Diseases | Assam-specific Current Affairs
(Topic chosen strictly from the newspaper headline/lead reporting a rise in dengue cases across Assam, The Assam Tribune, 09 January 2026.)
🔹 Introduction
Assam has reported a fresh rise in dengue cases, particularly in urban and peri-urban areas, signalling persistent gaps in vector control, urban sanitation, and public health preparedness. As highlighted in The Assam Tribune, changing climatic patterns, unplanned urbanisation, and inadequate preventive measures have contributed to the recurrence of dengue outbreaks.
🔑 Key Points from the Newspaper
| Aspect | Details |
| Disease | Dengue |
| Nature | Viral, vector-borne disease |
| Vector | Aedes aegypti mosquito |
| Affected Areas | Urban and peri-urban Assam |
| Seasonal Pattern | Post-monsoon surge |
| State Response | Surveillance, awareness drives |
| Core Concern | Preventive gaps and recurrence |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Dengue
Viral disease caused by Flavivirus
Vector
Aedes aegypti (day-biting mosquito)
Breeding Sites
Clean stagnant water in urban containers
National Programme
National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC)
Climate Link
Temperature and rainfall influence mosquito breeding cycles
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Why Dengue Is a Growing Concern in Assam
1. Urbanisation
Water storage practices and construction sites create breeding habitats
2. Climate Variability
Warmer temperatures and erratic rainfall extend breeding seasons
3. Public Health Gaps
Reactive rather than preventive health responses
4. Behavioural Factors
Low community participation in source reduction
B. Impacts
| Dimension | Impact |
| Health | Morbidity, occasional fatalities |
| Economic | Healthcare costs and productivity loss |
| Urban Governance | Stress on municipal health systems |
| Social | Public anxiety and overcrowded hospitals |
C. Existing Government Measures
Disease surveillance under IDSP
Fogging and larval control
Public awareness campaigns
Hospital preparedness and reporting mechanisms
D. Gaps & Challenges
Inadequate source reduction
Weak inter-departmental coordination (health, urban bodies)
Seasonal focus rather than year-round planning
Limited community ownership
E. Way Forward
Integrated Vector Management
Source reduction, biological control, and targeted fogging
Urban Sanitation
Solid waste management and drainage maintenance
Community Engagement
Ward-level campaigns and citizen responsibility
Climate-Sensitive Health Planning
Early warning systems linked to weather data
Strengthen Primary Healthcare
Early diagnosis and referral systems
🧭 Conclusion
The resurgence of dengue in Assam reflects the interlinkage between urbanisation, climate change, and public health governance. Addressing dengue requires shifting from episodic response to a preventive, community-driven, and climate-sensitive health strategy, ensuring safer and healthier urban living conditions in the State.ly for preserving Assam’s heritage but also for education, tourism, and cultural identity-building in a rapidly modernising society.
APSC Prelims MCQs
Topic 1: Bangladesh-Based Terror Network in Assam
Q1. Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) is best described as a:
A. Political party operating in South Asia
B. Transnational terrorist organisation
C. Cultural organisation
D. Non-governmental relief agency
Correct Answer: B
Q2. Online radicalisation of extremist groups most commonly exploits:
A. Government portals
B. Traditional print media
C. Social media and video-sharing platforms
D. Academic journals
Correct Answer: C
Q3. Which force is primarily responsible for guarding the India–Bangladesh international border?
A. Central Reserve Police Force
B. Assam Rifles
C. Border Security Force
D. Indo-Tibetan Border Police
Correct Answer: C
Topic 2: Assam–Meghalaya Border Talks
Q4. Inter-State boundary disputes in India largely originate from:
A. Post-Independence constitutional amendments
B. Colonial-era administrative boundaries
C. Linguistic reorganisation alone
D. Judicial overreach
Correct Answer: B
Q5. If unresolved politically, inter-State disputes may be adjudicated by the Supreme Court under:
A. Article 130
B. Article 131
C. Article 136
D. Article 142
Correct Answer: B
Q6. Dialogue-based settlement of inter-State disputes reflects the principle of:
A. Competitive federalism
B. Fiscal federalism
C. Cooperative federalism
D. Asymmetric federalism
Correct Answer: C
Topic 3: Declining Fish Production in Assam
Q7. “Beels” in Assam are best described as:
A. Artificial reservoirs
B. Coastal lagoons
C. Natural floodplain wetlands
D. Mountain lakes
Correct Answer: C
Q8. Declining inland fish production most directly affects:
A. Mineral exports
B. Nutritional security and rural livelihoods
C. Defence preparedness
D. Urban housing
Correct Answer: B
Q9. Inland fisheries are an important component of which emerging economic concept?
A. Circular Economy
B. Green Economy
C. Blue Economy
D. Sharing Economy
Correct Answer: C
Topic 4: Rise in Dengue Cases in Assam
Q10. Dengue is transmitted primarily by which mosquito species?
A. Anopheles
B. Culex
C. Aedes aegypti
D. Mansonia
Correct Answer: C
Q11. The Aedes mosquito differs from malaria vectors because it:
A. Bites mainly at night
B. Breeds in dirty water only
C. Bites during daytime
D. Transmits bacterial infections
Correct Answer: C
Q12. The rise of dengue in urban Assam is closely linked with:
A. Desertification
B. Improved irrigation
C. Poor waste management and water storage practices
D. Decline in rainfall
Correct Answer: C
APSC Mains Practice Question
GS Mains Question
“The recent busting of a Bangladesh-linked terror network in Assam highlights the changing nature of internal security threats in India.”
Analyse the challenges involved and suggest suitable measures to address them.
Model Answer
Introduction
The arrest of multiple operatives linked to a Bangladesh-based extremist outfit in Assam reveals the evolving nature of internal security threats, characterised by cross-border linkages, online radicalisation, and local recruitment. The incident underscores Assam’s vulnerability due to its porous borders and socio-economic sensitivities.
Changing Nature of Threats
1. Transnational Dimension
- Extremist groups operate across borders, exploiting cultural and linguistic affinities
2. Digital Radicalisation
- Use of social media, encrypted platforms, and online propaganda lowers entry barriers
3. Local Recruitment
- Targeting unemployed and vulnerable youth increases internal penetration
4. Hybrid Threat Model
- Combination of ideology, cyber tools, and physical networks
Key Challenges
- Porous International Border
- Riverine and difficult terrain along the India–Bangladesh border
- Cyber Surveillance Gaps
- Encrypted communication hampers intelligence gathering
- Community Trust Deficit
- Risk of alienation and communal polarisation
- Capacity Constraints
- Limited cyber-forensics and de-radicalisation infrastructure
Way Forward
- Strengthen Border Management
- Smart fencing, drones, and riverine surveillance
- Counter-Radicalisation Strategy
- Community outreach, religious leaders, and education
- Cyber Intelligence Enhancement
- AI-based monitoring and inter-agency coordination
- Youth-Centric Interventions
- Employment, skill development, and digital literacy
- Regional Cooperation
- Deepen India–Bangladesh intelligence sharing
Conclusion
The Assam case demonstrates that internal security threats are no longer purely territorial but digital and transnational. A multi-layered response combining hard security measures with preventive governance and social engagement is essential to protect national security while preserving social harmony in the Northeast.trust in the State’s digital transformation.
✨ APSC CCE Courses, 2025-26 offered by SuchitraACS
🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!
For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.
Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group
📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?
Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations
