APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (10/12/2025)
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 10 December 2025. 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
TOPIC 1: Forest Degradation in Assam (1990–2020) – Satellite-Based Assessment
GS Paper 3: Environment, Ecology, Biodiversity, Conservation
GS Paper 5 (APSC): Environment & Biodiversity of Assam
1. Introduction
A 30-year satellite-imagery-based study (1990–2020) conducted by researchers from Raha College, Gauhati University, and Dimoria College reveals alarming degradation of dense forest areas in Assam, especially in the North Bank landscape.
The study covered Behali Wildlife Sanctuary, Biswanath RF, Gohpur RF, Naduar RF, and Singlijan RF, using Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 data.
Despite legal protection, Assam’s forest ecosystems are increasingly threatened by encroachment, agricultural expansion, settlements, and fragmentation.
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
2. Key Points (from the news)
Major Findings
Sharp decline in dense forests across almost all surveyed areas:
Biswanath RF: 65.9% decline
Gohpur RF: 28.6% decline
Naduar RF: 27% decline
Behali WLS: 16.9% decline
Singlijan RF: Only RF with 1.54% increase
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
Increase in agricultural land, open forests & settlements, indicating intense anthropogenic pressure.
The study used Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) to accurately assess land cover changes.
The degradation appears consistent across the North Bank and is aligned with similar patterns in other Assam RFs over the last decade.
3. Prelims Pointers
OBIA (Object-Based Image Analysis):
GIS technique that segments satellite images into meaningful objects for land-use classification.
Landsat Programme:
Jointly managed by NASA & USGS; Landsat 5 and 8 provide long-term Earth observation data.
Types of Forest Cover (as per FSI):
Very Dense Forest (>70% Canopy Cover)
Moderately Dense Forest (40–70%)
Open Forest (10–40%)
Protected Area Categories in Assam:
Wildlife Sanctuaries (like Behali WLS)
Reserved Forests (RFs) under Assam Forest Regulation Act, 1891
North Bank Landscape:
Ecologically sensitive; part of Kaziranga–Pakke–Nameri landscape with critical elephant and tiger corridors.
4. Mains Pointers (Importance, Challenges, Initiatives, Way Forward)
A. Importance of the Forest Areas
Biodiversity Hotspots:
RFs and WLS in Assam host endangered species: elephants, tigers, hoolock gibbons.
Hydrological Regulation:
Forests stabilize river banks of Brahmaputra tributaries.
Livelihoods:
Support forest-dependent tribal and rural communities.
Carbon Sequestration:
Dense forests are critical for climate mitigation goals under NDCs.
B. Key Challenges Identified
Encroachment & Illegal Settlements:
Significant expansion of agricultural land.
Deforestation for Fuelwood & Timber:
High pressure due to population growth in North Bank districts.
Weak Enforcement:
Despite protection status, RFs suffer from institutional capacity gaps.
Fragmentation of Habitat:
Severely impacts wildlife movement and increases human–animal conflict.
Climate Variability:
Altered rainfall patterns intensify forest fires and degradation.
C. Government Initiatives Relevant to the Issue
Assam Forest and Biodiversity Act, 2005 – strengthens legal protection.
Forest Protection Force – specialized anti-encroachment actions.
Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management Authority (CAMPA) – for restoration.
Kaziranga Landscape Management Plan – focuses on landscape-level conservation.
Digital Forest Monitoring using GIS and real-time surveillance in vulnerable areas.
D. Way Forward
Strict Anti-Encroachment Drives
Especially in Biswanath, Gohpur, and Naduar RFs.
Community Forest Management
Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) for inclusive protection.
Ecological Restoration of Degraded Patches
Using native species and assisted natural regeneration.
Creation of Wildlife Corridors
Connect fragmented habitats to reduce conflict.
GIS-Based Annual Forest Health Audits
Institutionalize remote sensing for monitoring illegal land-use change.
Livelihood Alternatives for Fringe Communities
Promote agroforestry, eco-tourism, and LPG/clean cooking initiatives.
Strengthen Institutional Capacity
More forest guards, drones, patrolling infrastructure.
5. Conclusion
The satellite-based study underscores a critical warning: Assam’s legally protected forest ecosystems are undergoing rapid degradation driven primarily by human activity. The drastic decline of dense forest cover in regions like Biswanath, Gohpur, and Naduar has profound ecological, hydrological, and socio-economic implications. Addressing this requires an integrated approach combining stronger enforcement, community participation, scientific monitoring, and long-term ecological restoration. Without timely action, Assam’s fragile biodiversity and environmental security may face irreversible damage.
TOPIC 2: Centre’s 10% Curtailment of IndiGo Flights Amid Operational Crisis
GS Paper 2: Governance, Regulatory Bodies
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure – Aviation Sector, Disaster & Crisis Management
1. INTRODUCTION
In response to massive nationwide disruptions caused by IndiGo’s inability to comply with new pilot duty-hour regulations, the Union Civil Aviation Ministry ordered a mandatory 10% cut in the airline’s scheduled flights, exceeding the earlier DGCA directive.
IndiGo, which operates India’s largest domestic network (over 65% market share), faced severe operational strain after failing to adequately plan for stricter Flight Duty Time Limitation (FDTL) norms, leading to thousands of cancellations and delays.
The move signifies a stronger stance by the Centre on aviation safety, compliance, and corporate accountability.
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
2. KEY POINTS (FROM NEWSPAPER)
Government Directive
Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu ordered IndiGo to cut overall routes by 10%, double the DGCA’s earlier instruction.
Aim: Stabilize operations and reduce cancellations.
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
Regulatory Summons & Accountability
IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers met the Minister after being summoned for disruption review.
IndiGo operations had partially stabilized but remained under scrutiny.
Reason for Disruptions
Poor preparedness for stricter FDTL Phase-2 norms (effective Nov 1, 2025):
Duty between midnight–6 AM classified as night duty.
Reduced permitted landings per 24 hours from 6 to 2–3.
Led to pilot shortages and operational bottlenecks.
Operational Impact
At peak disruption (Dec 5), two-thirds of IndiGo flights were grounded.
Passengers faced severe delays, cancellations, and baggage issues.
DGCA Action
Issued show-cause notices; examining airline’s compliance reports.
A four-member DGCA panel constituted to assess airline readiness.
TG@Assam_Tribune (09-12-2025)
3. PRELIMS POINTERS
Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL)
Global aviation safety framework regulating pilots’ rest cycles, flight hours, and fatigue management.
India’s 2025 Phase-2 norms among the strictest worldwide.
DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation)
Apex regulatory body for civil aviation safety standards, operations, licensing, and airworthiness.
Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR)
Regulatory documents issued by DGCA to govern airline operations.
IndiGo’s Market Role
Largest domestic airline with >65% market share; disruptions have system-wide spillovers.
Consumer Protection (Aviation Sector)
Refunds, compensation rules under Passenger Charter, 2019.
4. MAINS POINTERS (Importance, Challenges, Initiatives, Way Forward)
A. Importance of the Decision
Ensures Passenger Safety & Regulatory Compliance
Safety prioritized over commercial convenience.
Stabilizes National Aviation Ecosystem
IndiGo’s large market share means disruptions affect entire aviation chain.
Signals Zero-Tolerance on Operational Mismanagement
Reinforces airline accountability to the public and the regulator.
Supports Pilot Welfare & Fatigue Prevention
Aligns with global norms ensuring pilots are not overworked.
B. Challenges Exposed by the Crisis
Over-reliance on Single Airline
High concentration risk in India’s aviation market.
Poor Crew Planning & Over-Optimized Scheduling
IndiGo had insufficient spare pilots for stricter norms.
Regulatory Delays in Enforcement
FDTL norms communicated a year earlier, but oversight was lax.
Passenger Hardship & Erosion of Trust
Thousands stranded; disrupted weddings, vacations, business travel.
Financial & Logistical Strain on Airline
Flight cancellations affect revenue, scheduling, and fleet use.
C. Government Initiatives Relevant
National Civil Aviation Policy (NCAP 2016)
Focus on safety, regional connectivity, capacity building.
UDAN Scheme
Ensuring regional flight continuity despite disruptions.
DGCA Digital Surveillance Tools
eGCA platform for safety oversight.
FDTL Reform (2025)
Strengthening pilot safety and reducing fatigue.
D. Way Forward
Strengthen Airline Manpower Planning
Mandate realistic crew rostering and buffer pilots.
Independent Fatigue Risk Management Systems (FRMS)
Use AI-based predictive fatigue modeling.
Diversify India’s Airline Ecosystem
Reduce systemic dependence on one carrier.
Periodic FDTL Audits by DGCA
Enforce compliance proactively, not reactively.
Enhanced Passenger Grievance Mechanisms
Faster refund timelines, better compensation norms.
Collaborative Capacity Planning
Government–airline coordination before major regulation changes.
5. CONCLUSION
The 10% curtailment of IndiGo flights marks a decisive intervention in India’s civil aviation governance. By placing safety, accountability, and systemic stability above commercial considerations, the government has reinforced the principle that aviation safety is non-negotiable. Going forward, robust regulatory enforcement, resilient airline planning, and transparent passenger-centric policies will be crucial to ensure that such large-scale disruptions do not recur.
TOPIC 3 (10-12-2025): Alarming Degradation of Forest Areas in Assam – Findings from Satellite-Based Study
Based on: Assam Tribune (10-12-2025), Page 1–2
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
1. Introduction (Point-wise)
The Assam Tribune report highlights a major 30-year satellite-based assessment of forest cover changes in key reserve forests of Assam’s North Bank region.
Conducted by researchers from Raha College, Gauhati University, and Dimoria College, the study used Landsat 5 and Landsat 8 imagery (1990–2020) to analyse land use changes.
The findings indicate severe degradation of dense forests, especially in Biswanath, Gohpur, Naduar and Behali Wildlife Sanctuary.
The article underscores that despite statutory protection, anthropogenic pressures continue to drive forest fragmentation, conversion to agriculture, and settlement expansion.
This poses significant ecological risks, especially for Assam’s fragile biodiversity, soil stability, and hydrological balance.
2. Key Points from the News (Point-wise)
Sharp decline in dense forests across major reserve forests (except Singlijan RF).
Biswanath RF showed the highest decline: 65.92% dense forest loss over 30 years.
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
Gohpur RF lost 28.6%, Naduar RF lost 27%, and Behali WLS lost 16.9% of dense forests.
Agricultural land and open forests increased, indicating land conversion and degradation.
Encroachment and settlement expansion identified as major drivers.
Study employed Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA) using 1990–2020 Landsat datasets.
Only Singlijan RF recorded an improvement (1.54% increase in dense forest).
The report warns of similar patterns across Assam in recent decades.
3. Prelims Pointers (Point-wise)
A. Geography & Environment Concepts
Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA): Remote sensing method analysing groups of pixels instead of individual pixels for accurate land-use classification.
Landsat 5 (TM) & Landsat 8 (OLI/TIRS): Widely used satellite missions for environmental monitoring.
Forest Degradation vs Deforestation:
Degradation = decrease in forest quality/density
Deforestation = complete removal
North Bank Landscape: Ecologically sensitive zone of Assam between Brahmaputra River and Eastern Himalayas.
B. Indian Forest & Wildlife Laws
Indian Forest Act, 1927.
Forest Conservation Act, 1980 – regulates diversion of forest land.
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 – relevant for Behali WLS.
C. Assam-Specific Facts
Behali Wildlife Sanctuary: Notified in 2015; biodiversity-rich Eastern Himalayan foothill ecosystem.
Naduar, Gohpur, Biswanath RFs: Important elephant habitats and buffer zones.
Major drivers of forest loss in Assam: Encroachment, shifting cultivation, illegal timber extraction, tea garden expansion, and floodplain agriculture.
4. Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Forests in Assam (Point-wise)
Biodiversity hotspot: Part of the Indo-Burma region; home to elephants, tigers, primates.
Climate regulation: Maintains monsoon stability and reduces climate vulnerability.
Hydrological role: Prevents erosion, supports Brahmaputra tributaries.
Livelihood security: Supports forest-dependent communities, NTFPs, eco-tourism.
Disaster mitigation: Dense forests reduce landslides, floods, siltation.
B. Challenges Highlighted by the Study (Point-wise)
Encroachment & Illegal Settlements expanding into forest land.
Agricultural expansion leading to forest fragmentation.
Weak enforcement despite legal protection of RFs and sanctuaries.
Infrastructure expansion (roads, power) causing canopy loss.
Climate variability increasing forest fire frequency and degradation.
Institutional gaps in monitoring and timely corrective action.
Socio-economic pressures leading to forest conversion.
C. Government Initiatives Relevant to the Issue (Point-wise)
National Mission for a Green India (GIM) – afforestation and forest restoration.
Compensatory Afforestation Fund Management and Planning Authority (CAMPA).
Assam Project on Forest and Biodiversity Conservation (APFBC) – supported by AFD.
Digital Monitoring: FSI’s biannual India State of Forest Reports (ISFR).
Joint Forest Management (JFM) committees for community involvement.
Anti-encroachment drives in wildlife sanctuaries and RFs by Assam government.
D. Way Forward (Point-wise)
Strengthen satellite-based monitoring with monthly alerts using platforms like Bhuvan & Global Forest Watch.
Enforce strict eviction measures in critical biodiversity landscapes.
Promote community-based conservation, incentivising forest protection.
Create sustainable livelihood alternatives (eco-tourism, NTFP value chains).
Accelerate reforestation in degraded patches using native species.
Improve inter-departmental coordination among Forest, Revenue, and Disaster Management.
Revise land-use planning to prevent unregulated agricultural expansion.
Integrate climate-resilient forestry practices to reduce vulnerability.
5. Conclusion (Point-wise)
The 30-year study highlights a critical ecological warning for Assam’s forests.
Rapid degradation, even within protected areas, reflects deep systemic challenges involving governance, socio-economic pressures, and land-use change.
Addressing this calls for science-based policymaking, stronger enforcement, and community partnership.
Ensuring the ecological integrity of North Bank forests is vital for Assam’s biodiversity, climate resilience, and long-term sustainable development.
TOPIC 4 (10-12-2025): Workshop on First Level Checking (FLC) of EVMs and VVPATs in Assam – Strengthening Electoral Preparedness
Source: Assam Tribune (10-12-2025), Page 5
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
1. Introduction (Point-wise)
Ahead of the 2026 Assam Legislative Assembly elections, the Election Commission of India (ECI) conducted a full-day Workshop on First Level Checking (FLC) of EVMs and VVPATs in Guwahati.
The workshop focused on ensuring accuracy, transparency, and preparedness of the electronic voting system prior to deployment.
Participants included District Election Officers, Deputy DEOs, and FLC Supervisors from 35 districts, indicating the large-scale administrative mobilization.
The initiative reflects ECI’s continual emphasis on electoral integrity, technical scrutiny, and stakeholder capacity building.
The event is significant because FLC is the first and most crucial stage in verifying the performance and security of EVMs before any election.
2. Key Points from the News (Point-wise)
Workshop held in Guwahati, presided over by Maneesh Garg, Senior Deputy Election Commissioner, and Anurag Goel, CEO Assam.
Technical experts from Electronics Corporation of India Ltd (ECIL) provided detailed presentations.
Topics included EVM and VVPAT handling procedures, transparency protocols, and mandatory checks.
FLC will be conducted across 35 districts between 11 December and 10 January, in phased manner.
Aim: To ensure error-free functioning, proper sealing, and procedural compliance before elections.
Participants received clarifications on technical issues, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and troubleshooting.
3. Prelims Pointers (Point-wise)
A. Election Machinery Basics
EVM Components: Control Unit, Ballot Unit, VVPAT.
VVPAT: Voter Verifiable Paper Audit Trail — displays slip for 7 seconds; slips stored in sealed box.
First Level Checking (FLC):
Conducted by ECIL engineers under DEO supervision.
Objectives: Technical testing, sealing of units, removal of mock polls, assigning unique IDs.
Legal Framework:
Article 324: Superintendence, direction and control of elections vested in ECI.
Conduct of Election Rules, 1961.
Recent Reforms by ECI:
Randomization of EVM allotment.
Webcasting of critical booths.
Booth Awareness Groups (BAGs).
Two-Stage Randomization:
Stage I: EVM allocation to Assembly Constituencies.
Stage II: Allocation to polling stations.
B. Assam-specific Electoral Context
Assam has 35 districts participating in FLC for 2026 polls.
Election preparation includes training, FLC, logistical readiness, and voter awareness campaigns.
4. Mains Pointers (Point-wise)
A. Importance of FLC for Free and Fair Elections
Ensures technical integrity and fault-free EVM functioning.
Enhances public trust in electronic voting and its transparency.
Addresses operational risks before election day.
Reinforces ECI’s adherence to global standards of electoral management.
Acts as a pre-emptive audit against tampering, malfunction, or misconfiguration.
B. Challenges in Conducting FLC and EVM Management
Logistical complexity across large geographic terrain of Assam.
Need for highly trained technical personnel to handle and certify EVMs.
Public skepticism and misinformation campaigns regarding EVM reliability.
Time-bound FLC schedule may strain district officials.
Security concerns during transportation and storage of EVMs.
Capacity gaps in remote districts for technical operations.
C. Government & ECI Initiatives
Conducting regular capacity-building workshops for DEOs and FLC Supervisors.
ECIL technical teams deployed for machine-level scrutiny.
Mandatory mock polls, sealing, and layered verification protocols.
Use of strong rooms with CCTV surveillance for EVM storage.
Deployment of General Observers & Expenditure Observers during elections.
Public outreach for SVEEP (Systematic Voters’ Education and Electoral Participation).
D. Way Forward (Point-wise)
Increase digital literacy campaigns to counter EVM-related misinformation.
Introduce AI-enabled auditing tools for machine testing.
Strengthen district-level infrastructure, especially in remote areas.
Publish simplified manuals and demonstration videos for public transparency.
More third-party technical audits for enhanced credibility.
Adopt real-time dashboards for FLC progress monitoring.
5. Conclusion (Point-wise)
The FLC workshop for Assam underscores the ECI’s commitment to free, fair, and technologically robust elections.
With the 2026 Assembly polls approaching, such capacity-building exercises are essential for ensuring administrative readiness.
Technical scrutiny, transparency protocols, and stakeholder training collectively strengthen India’s electoral democracy.
Maintaining this momentum will be crucial for sustaining public trust and ensuring smooth electoral conduct in the State.ipation.ass passenger experience.
ASPC Prelims Practice Questions
⭐ TOPIC 1 — Forest Degradation in Assam (Satellite Study)
Q1. With reference to Object-Based Image Analysis (OBIA), used in forest cover studies, consider the following statements:
- OBIA analyses groups of pixels instead of individual pixels.
- OBIA is commonly used with Landsat satellite data.
- OBIA can classify land cover even without spectral information.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- OBIA works on segments, not single pixels → Statement 1 correct.
- Extensively used with Landsat datasets → Statement 2 correct.
- Still depends on spectral signatures → Statement 3 incorrect.
Q2. Which one of the following showed the highest decline in dense forest cover between 1990 and 2020, according to the satellite study?
(a) Behali Wildlife Sanctuary
(b) Naduar Reserved Forest
(c) Biswanath Reserved Forest
(d) Singlijan Reserved Forest
Answer: (c)
Explanation: Biswanath RF recorded 65.92% decline, the highest among all areas studied.
Q3. In the India State of Forest Report, forest cover classifications are based primarily on:
(a) Age of forest stands
(b) Species richness
(c) Canopy density
(d) Soil moisture index
Answer: (c)
Explanation: FSI classifies forests into VDF, MDF, OF based on canopy density.
⭐ TOPIC 2 — Centre Orders 10% Curtailment of IndiGo Flights
Q4. Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL), recently in news, aim primarily to:
(a) Reduce fuel consumption in commercial aircraft
(b) Prevent pilot fatigue and ensure aviation safety
(c) Control airport congestion during peak hours
(d) Regulate night-flight permissions for civilian aircraft
Answer: (b)
Explanation: FDTL frameworks regulate pilot working hours to avoid fatigue.
Q5. Which of the following are functions of the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA)?
- Licensing of pilots and aircraft engineers
- Regulation of air transport services
- Final approval of airport construction
- Safety oversight of civil aviation operations
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1, 2 and 4 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Airport construction is under AAI and MoCA, not DGCA.
Q6. Which of the following correctly describes the reason for major disruptions in IndiGo flights in December 2025?
(a) Fuel shortage due to supply chain constraints
(b) Pilot shortage resulting from new FDTL Phase-2 norms
(c) Failure of digital ticketing system
(d) Air traffic control restrictions imposed nationwide
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Stricter FDTL norms reduced night-duty hours and landings, causing crew shortages.
⭐ TOPIC 3 — Forest Degradation (Detailed Study)
(Additional MCQs covering deeper environmental concepts)
Q7. A “fragmented habitat” typically results in:
- Increased edge effects
- Reduced genetic diversity
- Increased human–wildlife conflict
- Higher soil moisture retention
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Fragmentation worsens edge effects, reduces gene flow, and increases conflict; it does not improve soil moisture.
Q8. In the context of forest governance, “Reserved Forests” under the Indian Forest Act typically allow:
(a) No human activity under any circumstances
(b) Strict state control with limited rights to local communities
(c) Open access for grazing and NTFP collection
(d) Full community ownership and management
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Reserved Forests are the most restricted category after protected areas; some rights may be permitted but heavily regulated.
⭐ TOPIC 4 — FLC Workshop for EVMs & VVPATs
Q9. First Level Checking (FLC) of EVMs is conducted primarily to:
(a) Train polling officials on booth management
(b) Test technical performance and seal machines before randomization
(c) Count VVPAT slips after elections
(d) Allocate polling stations to political parties
Answer: (b)
Explanation: FLC tests and seals EVMs under strict procedures before deployment.
Q10. Which of the following statements about VVPAT is/are correct?
- It displays the printed slip to the voter for a fixed time before storing it.
- The VVPAT slips are counted at all polling stations during vote counting.
- VVPAT enhances auditability of election results.
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 2 is incorrect → slips are counted only in randomly selected polling stations.
Q11. Under the Conduct of Election Rules (1961), EVMs and VVPATs are randomized:
- To prevent pre-poll manipulation of polling stations
- To ensure equal distribution of machines among parties
- To assign machines to polling stations unpredictably
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 1 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation: Randomization ensures unpredictability and prevents manipulation; has nothing to do with political party distribution.
⭐ Mixed Difficulty MCQs (Final Set)
Q12. With reference to electoral administration, “strong rooms” are used for:
(a) Storage of VVPAT slips after counting
(b) Storage of EVMs before and after polling
(c) Training materials for polling officials
(d) Internet-enabled servers for election data
Answer: (b)
Strong rooms store EVMs under multi-layer security (CCTV, observers, seals).
Q13. Landsat imagery is preferred in forest monitoring because it:
- Offers long-term consistent datasets
- Has high temporal frequency
- Provides free and open-access data
Select the correct answer:
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 1 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
- Temporal frequency is moderate (not “high”) → Statement 2 incorrect.
Q14. Under India’s civil aviation safety framework, which body has the authority to issue show-cause notices to airlines for operational violations?
(a) AAI
(b) DGCA
(c) BCAS
(d) Ministry of Civil Aviation
Answer: (b)
DGCA enforces CARs and issues notices for compliance failures.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 GS-II / GS-III Mains Model Answer (Point-wise Format)
Question:
“Forest degradation in Assam’s North Bank landscape, as revealed by recent satellite-based studies, highlights deeper governance, ecological, and socio-economic challenges. Critically analyse the drivers and consequences of this degradation, and suggest a comprehensive strategy for sustainable forest management.”
⭐ Model Answer (Point-wise, UPSC Standard)
1. Introduction (Point-wise)
- A 30-year (1990–2020) satellite analysis of Assam’s North Bank forests—covering Biswanath RF, Gohpur RF, Naduar RF, Behali WLS and Singlijan RF—revealed large-scale loss of dense forest cover.
- Biswanath RF alone lost 65.92% dense forest, with similar declines across other RFs.
TG@Assam_Tribune (10-12-2025)
- This indicates a sustained trend of ecological degradation in a region critical for biodiversity, hydrological stability and climate resilience.
2. Major Drivers of Forest Degradation in Assam (Point-wise)
A. Anthropogenic Drivers
- Encroachment & agricultural expansion—forest land converted to cropland and settlements.
- Fuelwood dependence & illegal timber extraction due to rural energy poverty.
- Infrastructure expansion (roads, markets, river embankments) fragmenting contiguous forests.
- Tea garden expansion in foothill regions increasing deforestation pressure.
- Population growth and migration in forest fringe areas.
B. Governance & Institutional Drivers
- Weak enforcement despite RF/WLS legal status.
- Limited capacity for real-time forest monitoring.
- Inadequate coordination between Forest, Revenue, and Disaster Departments.
- Slow rehabilitation of encroached areas.
C. Ecological & Climate Drivers
- Increased forest fires due to climate variability.
- Flood-induced erosion and sedimentation affecting forest regeneration.
3. Consequences of Forest Degradation (Point-wise)
A. Ecological Consequences
- Loss of habitat for elephants, tigers, and primates; increased human–wildlife conflict.
- Reduction in biodiversity and genetic fragmentation.
- Disruption of ecological corridors (Kaziranga–Pakke–Nameri landscape).
B. Hydrological & Climate Consequences
- Soil erosion, landslides, and destabilized riverbanks.
- Reduced carbon sequestration capacity, impacting climate commitments.
- Changing microclimates affecting rainfall and agricultural patterns.
C. Socio-economic Consequences
- Loss of NTFP-based livelihoods for forest-dependent communities.
- Increased rural vulnerability due to ecosystem degradation.
- Long-term impact on eco-tourism and natural resource-based industries.
4. Government Initiatives (Point-wise)
- APFBC Project (Assam) – biodiversity conservation and livelihood support.
- CAMPA-funded afforestation for degraded forest restoration.
- Digital monitoring via FSI & state-level GIS platforms.
- Notification of Behali WLS and protection strengthening.
- Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs) for community involvement.
5. Way Forward: A Comprehensive Strategy (Point-wise)
A. Strengthening Protection & Enforcement
- Deploy GIS-based monthly forest health audits.
- Establish dedicated anti-encroachment task forces.
- Increased patrolling, drone surveillance & forest guard recruitment.
B. Ecological Restoration
- Restore degraded patches with native species and Assisted Natural Regeneration.
- Create wildlife corridors and buffer zones around RFs and WLS.
C. Community-Centric Approaches
- Expand JFMCs, incentivize community forest protection.
- Promote green livelihoods: eco-tourism, NTFP value chains, agroforestry.
- Provide LPG/clean energy alternatives to reduce fuelwood dependence.
D. Policy & Institutional Reforms
- Integrate land-use planning with forest conservation zones.
- Ensure convergence between Forest, Rural Development, and Disaster departments.
- Climate-resilient forestry strategies under State Action Plan on Climate Change.
6. Conclusion (Point-wise)
A holistic approach combining strict enforcement, scientific monitoring, community participation, and ecological restoration is essential for securing Assam’s forest future.cific, even as it requires sustained political, financial and administrative commitment.
The satellite study reveals that forest degradation in Assam is not isolated—it is systemic and accelerating.
The consequences extend beyond ecology, threatening livelihoods, climate stability, and long-term development.
✨ 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
