APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (10/10/2025)

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 (10-10-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

✨ APSC CCE Online Coaching, 2026

Topic 1 : ⚡ Assam Cabinet Approves “Smart Villages Mission 2025”

📘 GS Paper II – Governance, Rural Development, e-Governance
📘 GS Paper III – Infrastructure, Inclusive Growth, Technology in Governance
📘 GS Paper V – Assam: State Government Schemes and Rural Transformation

🔹 Introduction

In October 2025, the Assam Cabinet approved the Smart Villages Mission (SVM) 2025, aimed at transforming rural Assam through digital governance, renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and basic infrastructure integration.
It aligns with both the “Smart Assam Vision 2030” and the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly focusing on rural innovation, decentralized planning, and community-based entrepreneurship.

🔑 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Approved By	Assam Cabinet, chaired by CM Himanta Biswa Sarma
Implementing Dept.	Department of Panchayat & Rural Development
Funding Pattern	70% State Govt. + 30% District Innovation Grants (DIPs)
Coverage Target	1,000 Gram Panchayats across all districts in Phase-I
Focus Areas	Smart infrastructure, e-health, e-education, solar energy, and skill hubs
Digital Integration	Use of AI-driven dashboards to track panchayat performance
Partner Institutions	IIT Guwahati, NITI Aayog, and NIC for technology modules

⚙️ Major Components

1. Digital Panchayats: Online grievance redressal, e-Gov dashboards, and telemedicine linkages.
2. Green Energy: Solar mini-grids and biogas-based rural energy clusters.
3. Smart Agriculture: Precision farming, soil health sensors, and farm-to-market data chains.
4. Skill and Innovation Hubs: Youth-oriented rural start-ups and skill certification centers.
5. Waste Management: Village-level waste-to-compost and plastic collection systems.

🧠 Prelims Pointers

• Smart Village Concept: Inspired by Smart Cities Mission (2015) but tailored to rural needs; emphasizes digital, economic, and social inclusion.
• Digital Assam Vision 2030: Focuses on 100% connectivity for all Gram Panchayats via BharatNet Phase-II.
• Rural Livelihood Link: Converges with NRLM, PMGSY, and Jal Jeevan Mission.
• Relevant SDGs:
  • SDG 7 – Affordable & Clean Energy
  • SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation & Infrastructure
  • SDG 11 – Sustainable Communities

📝 Mains Pointers

A. Importance of Smart Villages in Assam

• Reduces rural–urban divide through digital service delivery.
• Empowers panchayats as innovation centers.
• Enhances climate resilience through green energy and resource recycling.
• Boosts youth employability via rural tech start-ups and local innovation hubs.

B. Challenges

Challenge	Description
Digital Divide	Low internet connectivity and ICT literacy.
Financial Sustainability	High initial investment for solar grids and IoT systems.
Institutional Capacity	Lack of trained manpower at village-level governance.
Maintenance & Monitoring	Upkeep of smart infrastructure and technology systems.

C. Government & Institutional Initiatives

• e-Panchayat Mission Mode Project: Strengthening Gram Panchayats through IT tools.
• Assam State Innovation & Transformation Aayog (SITA): Technology incubation for rural transformation.
• Rural Broadband Network: Under Digital India BharatNet Phase-II covering all 26,000+ villages in Assam.
• Smart Assam Fellowship: Youth engagement for rural problem-solving (proposed 2025).

D. Way Forward

1. Capacity Building: Train village-level youth in digital operations and data management.
2. PPP Model Expansion: Encourage startups to deploy affordable green tech in villages.
3. Performance-based Funding: Link village funds to measurable outcomes (e.g., sanitation, renewable power).
4. Cluster-based Scaling: Develop smart clusters instead of isolated model villages.
5. Monitoring Dashboards: Real-time progress evaluation via mobile-based platforms.

🧩 Conclusion

The Smart Villages Mission 2025 is a transformative step toward rural digital empowerment and sustainability in Assam.
If implemented effectively, it could make Assam a national pioneer in tech-driven rural development, blending traditional livelihoods with modern innovation to achieve “Atmanirbhar Gaon, Atmanirbhar Assam.”

Topic 2 : 🛣️ India–Myanmar Border Road Connectivity: Kaladan & Moreh Link Updates

📘 GS Paper II – International Relations | India & Neighbourhood
📘 GS Paper III – Infrastructure | Internal Security | Border Management
📘 GS Paper V – North East Connectivity & Act East Policy

🔹 Introduction

In October 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) reviewed progress on two critical projects —

1. The Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP), and
2. The India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway (IMT Highway) via Moreh–Tamu —
   as part of India’s renewed focus on Act East Policy and border connectivity.

With geopolitical turbulence in Myanmar and delays in project execution, India aims to expedite these connectivity corridors to ensure strategic access to the ASEAN region and enhance economic integration of Northeast India.

🔑 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Project 1	Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP)
Components	158 km road from Paletwa (Myanmar) to Zorinpui (Mizoram), Kaladan River dredging, Sittwe Port modernization
Executing Agency	Ministry of External Affairs, GoI (with IRCON and EGIS India)
Status (Oct 2025)	92% civil works completed; final stretch delayed due to Myanmar insurgency and monsoon
Project 2	India–Myanmar–Thailand Trilateral Highway (IMT Highway)
Key Stretch	69 bridges and 120 km of roads between Tamu–Kalewa (Myanmar) being upgraded by India
Strategic Importance	Links Manipur–Mizoram–Nagaland to ASEAN through land routes
Funding	Entirely Government of India (grant aid)

⚙️ Strategic Relevance for Northeast India

Dimension	Impact
Economic	Reduces transport cost and opens new trade channels to ASEAN markets via Sittwe and Moreh.
Geopolitical	Strengthens India’s counterbalance to China’s influence in Myanmar.
Security	Promotes stability through development in insurgency-affected border zones.
Tourism & Culture	Boosts Buddhist and heritage circuits between India–Myanmar–Thailand.
Integration	Enhances Northeast’s participation in Act East Policy through physical connectivity.

🧠 Prelims Pointers

• Kaladan Project:
  • Named after Kaladan River connecting Sittwe Port (Myanmar) with Zorinpui (Mizoram).
  • Partly navigable waterway + partly road link (multi-modal).
  • Funded by India (~US$ 484 million).
• IMT Trilateral Highway:
  • 1,360 km route connecting Moreh (Manipur) → Mae Sot (Thailand) via Tamu–Kalewa–Mandalay (Myanmar).
  • Proposed extension to Cambodia, Laos, and Vietnam under India–ASEAN Connectivity Plan.
• Act East Policy:
  • Launched in 2014; builds on the Look East Policy (1992) to promote economic and strategic engagement with ASEAN.

📝 Mains Pointers

A. Importance for Assam and the Northeast

1. Economic Gateway: Enables export of tea, bamboo, and agri-products through Myanmar ports.
2. Infrastructure Multiplier: Boosts logistics, warehousing, and border trade at Moreh and Zokhawthar.
3. Employment Generation: Local participation in road construction, customs, and service trade.
4. Strategic Buffer: Strengthens India’s access to the Indo-Pacific through overland routes.

B. Challenges

Challenge	Description
Political Instability in Myanmar	Delays due to military conflicts and law-and-order disruptions.
Insurgency & Security Threats	Road workers and convoys often targeted in border zones.
Geographical Constraints	Difficult hilly terrain and monsoon-induced landslides.
Coordination Deficit	Multi-ministry overlap: MEA, MoRTH, and DoNER.
Lack of Last-Mile Connectivity	Poor road links from Assam–Mizoram–Manipur to border trade points.

C. Institutional & Policy Frameworks

• Act East Policy (2014): Core policy driving India–ASEAN connectivity.
• ASEAN–India Connectivity Summit (AICS): Focus on digital and physical connectivity.
• Special Accelerated Road Development Programme for NE (SARDP-NE): Provides road funding and technical support.
• India–Myanmar Border Trade Agreement (1994): Allows limited free movement and barter trade.
• North East Economic Corridor (NEEC): Being integrated with Kaladan & IMT projects for regional logistics.

D. Way Forward

1. Fast-Track Security Clearance: Deploy specialized Border Roads Task Force units.
2. Integrated Border Check-Posts: Streamline customs, e-visa, and cargo clearance.
3. Trilateral Coordination Mechanism: Regular India–Myanmar–Thailand review meetings.
4. Private Sector Involvement: Encourage logistics firms to develop transnational corridors.
5. Community Partnership: Include local communities for border tourism and cultural exchanges.

🧩 Conclusion

The Kaladan and IMT connectivity projects mark the backbone of India’s Act East Policy.
For the Northeast, especially Assam and Manipur, they represent not just infrastructure but strategic lifelines for trade, culture, and stability.
Accelerating their completion amid Myanmar’s instability will determine India’s ability to transform its eastern frontier from a geopolitical periphery into an economic and strategic gateway to Southeast Asia.

Topic 3 :🚤 Assam’s Riverine Police Expansion Project (2025): Securing the Brahmaputra Frontier

📘 GS Paper II – Governance | Internal Security | Border Management
📘 GS Paper III – Disaster Management | Infrastructure | Technology in Policing
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific: Floods, Border Security & Law Enforcement

🔹 Introduction

In October 2025, the Assam Government approved a major Riverine Police Expansion Project, aimed at fortifying law enforcement, anti-smuggling operations, and flood rescue capabilities along the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems.

This initiative expands the existing River Police Organization (RPO) under the Home Department, with enhanced presence across 30 new outposts and 12 floating bases, integrated with disaster management and intelligence networks.
The move reflects Assam’s strategic focus on blue border policing, combining security, environmental protection, and humanitarian response.

🔑 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Announced by	Assam Home Department & State Disaster Management Authority
Objective	Strengthen security, control illegal crossings, prevent smuggling, and enable rapid flood rescue
Geographical Focus	Brahmaputra main channel and tributaries in Dhubri, Dibrugarh, Majuli, and Sadiya regions
Infrastructure Expansion	30 new river police outposts, 12 floating command stations, 50 high-speed interceptor boats
Funding	₹480 crore (State Fund + MHA support under Border Management Scheme)
Technology Integration	GPS-based patrol monitoring, AI-enabled watercraft tracking, and night-vision surveillance
Training Partner	National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM) and BSF Water Wing
Implementation Timeline	Phase I (2025–27), Phase II (2028–30)

⚙️ Functions & Operational Mandate

1. Border Surveillance: Prevent illegal migration, infiltration, and riverine smuggling along India–Bangladesh frontier (Dhubri–South Salmara stretch).
2. Disaster Response: Coordinate rescue and evacuation during Brahmaputra floods.
3. Anti-Smuggling Patrols: Check narcotics, cattle, timber, and arms trafficking across river channels.
4. Ecological Enforcement: Support Forest Department in combating riverine sand mining and poaching.
5. Community Interface: Promote river safety awareness and coordinate with local boat operators.

🧠 Prelims Pointers

• River Police in India: Assam is among the few states with a dedicated river police force (established 2010).
• Brahmaputra River: Declared National Waterway–2; navigable from Dhubri to Sadiya (891 km).
• Integrated Check Posts (ICPs): Dhubri and Karimganj ICPs facilitate Indo–Bangladesh river trade.
• Disaster Response Structure: State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) under Assam SDMA.
• Border Management Scheme: MHA initiative for constructing roads, fencing, and surveillance infrastructure in sensitive border areas.

📝 Mains Pointers

A. Significance for Assam

Area	Benefit
Security	Enhanced monitoring of trans-border river routes used for smuggling and infiltration.
Disaster Preparedness	Reduces casualty and response time during annual floods.
Law & Order	Improved enforcement against illegal sand mining and timber trafficking.
Regional Development	Safer navigation boosts trade and tourism along the Brahmaputra.
Public Trust	Builds community resilience through visible policing in remote char (island) areas.

B. Challenges

Challenge	Description
Navigational Difficulty	Frequent channel shifts, siltation, and strong currents hinder patrols.
Resource Constraints	Need for continuous maintenance of boats and floating stations.
Inter-Agency Coordination	Overlap between River Police, SDRF, and Water Transport Department.
Training Deficit	Lack of specialized diving and night operations training.
Cross-Border Jurisdiction	Coordination required with BSF and Bangladesh Border Guards (BGB).

C. Government & Institutional Measures

• Integration with SDRF & ASDMA: Joint flood response command structure.
• Drone Surveillance: Real-time monitoring of remote chars during floods.
• Data Fusion with NIC & NICSI: Digital map-based patrol scheduling.
• Community-Based River Watch Scheme: Local youth to assist in intelligence gathering.
• Coordination with IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India): Ensure navigational safety under NW-2.

D. Way Forward

1. Specialized Training Academy: Establish a Riverine Policing Training Centre at Tezpur or Dhubri.
2. Inter-State Coordination: Align efforts with Meghalaya and West Bengal’s water policing systems.
3. Use of Technology: Expand use of AI-enabled command centres and GIS-based flood modeling.
4. Public Partnership: Engage fishermen, ferry operators, and char dwellers for real-time information.
5. Sustainability Measures: Integrate environmental monitoring into patrol duties.

🧩 Conclusion

The Riverine Police Expansion Project 2025 represents a landmark initiative blending security, disaster resilience, and governance innovation along Assam’s lifeline — the Brahmaputra.
By enhancing technological capability and integrating community-based vigilance, it strengthens both border management and public safety, transforming the river from a vulnerability into an instrument of stability and development.

💧Topic 4 :  Mission Jal Suraksha: Assam’s Integrated Water Conservation & Irrigation Efficiency Initiative (2025)

📘 GS Paper II – Government Policies & Interventions | Rural Development
📘 GS Paper III – Environment | Agriculture | Water Resources
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific: Agriculture, Irrigation, and Climate Resilience

🔹 Introduction

To combat increasing groundwater depletion and erratic monsoons, the Assam Cabinet in October 2025 launched “Mission Jal Suraksha”, a flagship water conservation and irrigation management scheme.
The mission integrates groundwater mapping, micro-irrigation systems, and water budgeting at the village level to ensure “Per Drop, More Crop” and long-term climate resilience in agriculture.

It aligns with national programmes such as the Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal) and Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), while incorporating Assam-specific agro-climatic adaptations.

🔑 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Launched by	Government of Assam (Department of Water Resources & Agriculture)
Objective	Sustainable groundwater management, micro-irrigation, and village-level water budgeting
Geographical Focus	22 priority blocks in drought-prone areas of Karbi Anglong, Nagaon, Darrang, and Lakhimpur
Budget Allocation	₹1,120 crore (State Fund + NABARD RIDF + Atal Jal assistance)
Implementation Period	2025–2030
Key Components	– Aquifer mapping using remote sensing – Micro-irrigation (drip/sprinkler) – Water user associations (WUAs) – Community pond rejuvenation
Technology Partner	IIT Guwahati (for hydrogeological modeling)
Target	5 lakh hectares of efficient irrigation coverage by 2030

⚙️ Major Components

1. Water Resource Mapping: Aquifer-level data using ISRO-Bhuvan & CGWB datasets.
2. Micro-Irrigation Support: Subsidies for drip/sprinkler irrigation; precision moisture monitoring.
3. Water User Associations (WUAs): Decentralized water governance bodies for collective maintenance.
4. Rainwater Harvesting: Mandatory for new government and institutional buildings.
5. Water Audit & Budgeting: Annual community-level water budgeting for agriculture and domestic use.

🧠 Prelims Pointers

• Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal):
  • Launched: 2019; Funded by World Bank & Ministry of Jal Shakti.
  • Objective: Community-based groundwater management in seven states.
• PMKSY Components:
  • Har Khet Ko Pani (Irrigation expansion)
  • Per Drop More Crop (Water-use efficiency)
  • Watershed Development
• Aquifer: A layer of rock or sediment that holds groundwater.
• CGWB (Central Ground Water Board): Apex agency for monitoring groundwater in India.
• Jal Jeevan Mission: Targets functional tap water connections for rural households (drinking water).

📝 Mains Pointers

A. Significance of Mission Jal Suraksha

Dimension	Benefit
Agricultural Sustainability	Promotes water-efficient farming in flood–drought alternating zones.
Climate Resilience	Reduces crop vulnerability to rainfall variability.
Groundwater Security	Prevents over-extraction and enables aquifer recharge.
Institutional Empowerment	Encourages participatory irrigation management through WUAs.
Economic Growth	Boosts farm income through reliable irrigation and productivity gains.

B. Key Challenges

Challenge	Description
Data Gaps	Limited hydrogeological data for small aquifers.
Behavioral Resistance	Low farmer awareness about micro-irrigation.
Maintenance Issues	Poor upkeep of community assets like check dams.
Financial Constraints	Delay in fund release under RIDF and Atal Jal.
Coordination	Overlap between multiple departments (Water Resources, Agriculture, Panchayats).

C. Government & Institutional Efforts

• Assam State Water Policy (2024): Introduced concept of Integrated Water Resource Zones (IWRZs).
• Atal Bhujal Yojana (Pilot in Nagaon): Created aquifer-based management plans with community data.
• Jal Shakti Abhiyan (Catch the Rain Campaign): School-level rainwater harvesting awareness drives.
• NABARD RIDF Assistance: For irrigation tanks, percolation wells, and lift irrigation systems.
• Assam Water Resources Management Authority (AWRMA): To act as nodal monitoring agency.

D. Way Forward

1. Water Literacy Campaigns: Involve local schools and NGOs for awareness.
2. Digital Water Audits: Real-time data dashboards for monitoring irrigation use.
3. Crop Diversification: Encourage low-water crops (millets, pulses, oilseeds).
4. Convergence Model: Integrate with Mahatma Gandhi NREGA for pond and canal desilting.
5. Recharge Structures: Promote percolation trenches and rooftop harvesting at community level.

🧩 Conclusion

Mission Jal Suraksha 2025 reflects Assam’s shift from reactive water management to a scientific, community-driven, and climate-smart model.
By combining technology, policy, and participation, it seeks to secure Assam’s groundwater resources, strengthen agricultural resilience, and move toward a “Water-Secure Assam” by 2030.

☀️Topic 5 :  Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025: Accelerating the Solar–Hydro Hybrid Revolution

📘 GS Paper II – Government Policies & Interventions
📘 GS Paper III – Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Development
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific: Power Sector, Environment & Climate Change

🔹 Introduction

In October 2025, the Assam Cabinet approved the Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025–2032, a transformative roadmap to scale up clean energy capacity to 5,000 MW, emphasizing solar–hydro hybrid systems, floating solar projects, and rural decentralized grids.

This initiative aligns with India’s National Renewable Energy Mission and Panchamrit commitments announced at COP26, under which India aims to achieve 500 GW of non-fossil fuel capacity by 2030.

🔑 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Announced by	Government of Assam, Department of Power (Assam Power Generation Corporation Ltd – APGCL)
Policy Period	2025–2032
Total Target	5,000 MW renewable capacity (3,000 MW solar, 1,500 MW hydro, 500 MW hybrid & bioenergy)
Investment Potential	₹25,000 crore (public + private + FDI)
Key Focus Areas	– Solar–hydro hybrid parks – Rooftop solar for schools & hospitals – Biomass & biogas projects – Decentralized rural mini-grids
Flagship Projects	– Majuli Floating Solar Park (100 MW) – Lower Kopili Hydro Project (120 MW) – Solar–Hydro Hybrid Pilot at Bongaigaon (25 MW)
Policy Support	Viability Gap Funding (VGF), land pooling, and Green Energy Corridor upgrades
Implementing Agencies	APDCL, APGCL, Assam Energy Development Agency (AEDA)

⚙️ Major Components

1. Solar–Hydro Hybrid Systems: Combine solar daytime output with hydropower night generation for grid stability.
2. Floating Solar Projects: Install panels on water bodies (Majuli, Dighalipukhuri, and Chandubi Lake).
3. Decentralized Mini-Grids: Off-grid renewable solutions for char areas and remote villages.
4. Rooftop Solar Expansion: Target 1 lakh government buildings and 2 lakh rural homes by 2030.
5. Bioenergy Promotion: Utilize agri-residues, tea waste, and municipal solid waste for energy generation.

🧠 Prelims Pointers

• National Solar Mission (2010): Aims for 280 GW of solar capacity by 2030.
• National Hydro Policy (2019): Declared large hydro (>25 MW) as renewable energy.
• KUSUM Scheme: Promotes solar pumps and decentralized renewable power for farmers.
• Viability Gap Funding (VGF): Central support for making renewable projects financially viable.
• Green Energy Corridor: Transmission infrastructure to integrate renewables into the national grid.
• International Solar Alliance (ISA): India-led treaty-based organization headquartered in Gurugram.

📝 Mains Pointers

A. Significance of the Policy for Assam

Dimension	Benefit
Energy Security	Reduces dependence on costly imported coal and diesel-based power.
Economic Growth	Attracts private investment and creates green jobs in installation and maintenance.
Environmental Sustainability	Cuts carbon emissions; supports Assam’s Climate Action Plan goals.
Social Equity	Brings electricity to remote and char areas via decentralized grids.
Disaster Resilience	Hybrid systems ensure continuous power during floods and storms.

B. Challenges

Challenge	Description
Land Acquisition Issues	Limited availability of non-agricultural land for large solar parks.
Transmission Bottlenecks	Weak grid connectivity in Upper Assam and hilly districts.
Monsoon Dependence	Cloud cover affects solar output; floods impact infrastructure.
Financing Constraints	Long gestation and high upfront costs deter private participation.
Maintenance Capacity	Lack of skilled manpower in rural areas for hybrid systems.

C. Government & Institutional Measures

• Assam Green Energy Development Programme (AGEP): Launched 2023 to integrate solar and hydro planning.
• Partnership with NTPC & NHPC: For hybrid project development and technology transfer.
• ADB-Assam Renewable Energy Roadmap: Focused on floating solar and biomass value chains.
• Skill Development under PMKVY: “Green Technicians” training programme in collaboration with ITIs.
• Policy Incentives:
  • 30% capital subsidy for rooftop solar.
  • 100% stamp duty exemption for renewable investors.
  • Power purchase guarantee for 25 years by APDCL.

D. Way Forward

1. Regional Cooperation: Integrate renewable power exchange within the Northeast Power Grid.
2. Hybrid Energy Storage: Deploy battery and pumped storage systems for grid reliability.
3. Public–Private Partnerships (PPP): Incentivize joint ventures with global green energy firms.
4. Community Participation: Train village-level entrepreneurs for mini-grid management.
5. Monitoring & Reporting: Establish real-time dashboard to track emission reduction and project output.

🧩 Conclusion

The Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025 is a landmark in the state’s journey toward carbon neutrality and sustainable energy independence.
By leveraging its hydro potential and solar resources, Assam aims to evolve into a renewable energy hub of the Northeast, advancing both environmental stewardship and economic resilience.
If executed efficiently, it can serve as a model for green federalism and a crucial pillar of India’s Net Zero 2070 vision.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

🟩 Topic 1 – Assam Smart Villages Mission 2025

Q1. With reference to Assam’s Smart Villages Mission (SVM) 2025, consider the following statements:

1. It aims to digitally empower Gram Panchayats with AI-based monitoring dashboards.
2. It is fully funded by the Central Government under the Smart Cities Mission.
3. It integrates renewable energy and waste management as core village-level interventions.

Which of the above statements are correct?

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: The SVM 2025 is state-led, not centrally funded, and focuses on digital governance, solar energy, and rural sustainability.

Q2. The Smart Villages Mission 2025 aligns most closely with which Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)?

1. SDG 7 – Affordable and Clean Energy
2. SDG 9 – Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure
3. SDG 11 – Sustainable Cities and Communities

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only

✅ Answer: C
🔎 Explanation: Smart Villages promote clean energy, innovation, and sustainable communities — aligning with all three SDGs.

🟩 Topic 2 – India–Myanmar Border Connectivity Projects (Kaladan & Moreh Links)

Q3. Consider the following pairs related to India–Myanmar connectivity projects:

Project	Connecting Points
1. Kaladan Multi-Modal Project	Kolkata – Sittwe – Zorinpui (Mizoram)
2. IMT Trilateral Highway	Moreh (Manipur) – Mandalay – Mae Sot (Thailand)
3. East–West Corridor	Imphal – Yangon – Phnom Penh

Which of the above pairs is/are correctly matched?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: The East–West Corridor is an Indian domestic project, not extending to Yangon or Cambodia.

Q4. Which of the following statements regarding the Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project (KMMTTP) is correct?

A. It connects Sittwe Port in Myanmar to Aizawl via road and river routes.
B. It is a part of China’s Belt and Road Initiative.
C. It is being funded jointly by India and ASEAN.
D. It links Bangladesh’s Chittagong Port to Mizoram through inland waterways.

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: The KMMTTP, entirely funded by India, connects Sittwe Port to Zorinpui (Mizoram) through Kaladan River and road link.

🟩 Topic 3 – Assam Riverine Police Expansion Project

Q5. Assam’s Riverine Police Expansion Project (2025) is primarily designed to:

1. Strengthen border surveillance and anti-smuggling operations.
2. Serve as a flood response and rescue unit during the monsoon.
3. Manage riverine navigation and freight logistics.

Which of the above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: The Riverine Police focus on security and disaster response, not on commercial freight management.

Q6. Which of the following rivers or waterways are part of Assam’s Riverine Police jurisdiction?

1. Brahmaputra River
2. Barak River
3. Dhansiri River

A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: D
🔎 Explanation: The Riverine Police cover all major navigable and flood-prone rivers, including Brahmaputra, Barak, and tributaries like Dhansiri.

🟩 Topic 4 – Mission Jal Suraksha (Groundwater Conservation & Irrigation Efficiency)

Q7. The Mission Jal Suraksha 2025 of Assam seeks to integrate:

1. Aquifer mapping and water budgeting.
2. Drip and sprinkler irrigation systems.
3. Rural drinking water infrastructure under Jal Jeevan Mission.

Which of the above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: Mission Jal Suraksha focuses on irrigation and groundwater management, while Jal Jeevan Mission deals with drinking water, not irrigation.

Q8. Which national-level programme provides institutional and financial support to Assam’s Mission Jal Suraksha?

A. Atal Bhujal Yojana
B. Jal Jeevan Mission
C. Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana–Gramin
D. National River Conservation Plan

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: Assam’s mission aligns with the Atal Bhujal Yojana (Atal Jal) — a World Bank–assisted groundwater management initiative.

🟩 Topic 5 – Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025 (Solar–Hydro Hybrid Expansion)

Q9. Under Assam’s Renewable Energy Policy 2025, the state targets which of the following?

1. 5,000 MW renewable capacity by 2032.
2. Inclusion of large hydro (>25 MW) as renewable energy.
3. Development of floating solar parks on water bodies.

A. 1 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 2 and 3 only

✅ Answer: C
🔎 Explanation: The policy adopts national definitions of renewable energy and includes floating solar and solar–hydro hybrid components.

Q10. Which of the following statements regarding Solar–Hydro Hybrid Systems is correct?

A. They combine day-time solar power with night-time hydro generation for grid stability.
B. They are designed only for off-grid rural households.
C. They require imported nuclear-grade turbines.
D. They generate power exclusively from pumped storage.

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: Solar–hydro hybrid systems use complementary timing — solar by day, hydro at night — ensuring continuous renewable energy supply.

APSC Mains Practice Question

 Q. “Discuss the significance and challenges of Assam’s Renewable Energy Policy 2025 in ensuring a sustainable and self-reliant power future for the state.”

📘 GS Paper III – Energy | Environment | Economy
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific: Infrastructure & Sustainable Development

Introduction

The Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025–2032 marks a strategic shift from conventional to sustainable, decentralized, and climate-resilient power generation.
By targeting 5,000 MW renewable capacity — primarily through solar–hydro hybrid systems and floating solar parks — the policy seeks to strengthen energy security, promote green growth, and align Assam with India’s national renewable energy goals and Net Zero 2070 vision.

Body

1️⃣ Importance of the Policy

Dimension	Description
Energy Security	Reduces dependence on imported coal and erratic central power supply. Assam currently imports ~65% of its power needs.
Environmental Benefits	Mitigates carbon emissions; aligns with India’s Panchamrit commitments at COP26.
Economic Opportunity	Estimated ₹25,000 crore investment potential; creates jobs in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance.
Decentralized Access	Hybrid and mini-grid systems provide reliable electricity to char and hill areas.
Hydro–Solar Synergy	Combines day-time solar and night-time hydro power for grid stability and efficient utilization.
Climate Resilience	Provides clean, adaptive power in flood- and storm-prone regions.

2️⃣ Key Policy Features

• 5,000 MW target by 2032 (3,000 MW solar, 1,500 MW hydro, 500 MW hybrid/biomass).
• Floating Solar Parks: Majuli (100 MW) and Chandubi Lake identified.
• Viability Gap Funding (VGF): To attract private participation.
• Rooftop Solar Mission: 1 lakh government buildings, 2 lakh homes by 2030.
• Green Energy Corridor: Strengthening transmission network for renewable integration.
• Fiscal Incentives: Tax rebates, stamp duty waivers, and power purchase guarantees (25 years).

3️⃣ Challenges in Implementation

Challenge	Explanation
Land Acquisition Constraints	Non-agricultural land availability is limited due to high population density in plains.
Transmission Bottlenecks	Grid congestion in Upper Assam; limited storage infrastructure.
High Capital Cost	Renewable projects need upfront investment and long gestation periods.
Monsoon Dependency	Solar generation fluctuates with cloud cover and floods.
Institutional Capacity	Limited technical expertise in hybrid project operation and maintenance.
Financing Risks	Private investors seek long-term tariff assurance and fast regulatory approvals.

4️⃣ Government & Institutional Measures

• Assam Green Energy Development Programme (AGEP): Promotes state-level renewable clusters.
• Partnerships: NTPC, NHPC, and AEDA for technology sharing and project design.
• ADB-Assam Renewable Energy Roadmap (2024): Focus on hybrid energy and floating solar feasibility.
• Skill Development: Green Technician Training under PMKVY and ITIs.
• Regulatory Support: Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) assured by APDCL for renewable developers.

5️⃣ Way Forward

1. Regional Energy Pool: Integrate with Northeast Power Grid for energy exchange across states.
2. Battery & Pumped Storage Systems: Strengthen grid reliability and balance renewable intermittency.
3. Community Ownership Models: Co-operative mini-grids for rural energy entrepreneurship.
4. Research Collaboration: Leverage IIT Guwahati for R&D in hybrid energy and floating solar tech.
5. Policy Convergence: Align with National Green Hydrogen Mission and KUSUM Scheme for agricultural energy needs.
6. Periodic Review Mechanism: Monitor emission savings, investment flow, and employment creation annually.

Conclusion

The Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2025 exemplifies the state’s transition toward a green, inclusive, and resilient power ecosystem.
By embracing solar–hydro synergy, encouraging innovation, and fostering public–private collaboration, Assam can emerge as the renewable energy hub of the Northeast, ensuring both economic growth and ecological balance — a vital stride toward “Atmanirbhar Urja, Atmanirbhar Assam.

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