APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (11/01/2025)

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 (11-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. Deepor Beel Bird Census 2025

GS Paper 3: Environment and Biodiversity

Introduction
Deepor Beel, a Ramsar site and one of the most significant wetlands in Assam, recently recorded 12,245 birds of 105 species during the Asian Water Bird Census 2025. The event highlighted the wetland’s ecological importance but also raised concerns about its declining health due to human activities.

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Key Points

1. Census Details:
   • Conducted using visual encounter survey methodology.
   • Participation by ornithologists, student volunteers, NGOs, and Forest Department officials.
2. Significant Findings:
   • Lesser bird count compared to the previous year (26,000 birds in 2023).
   • Key species include globally threatened birds like the Spot-Billed Pelican, Lesser Adjutant Stork, Baer’s Pochard, and Greater Adjutant Stork.
3. Ecological Significance:
   • A critical staging site on the migratory flyway of aquatic birds.
   • Home to 219 recorded bird species, including 70 waterfowl species.
4. Major Concerns:
   • Impact of waste disposal and picnic litter on wetland health.
   • Long-term data collection needed for better ecological insights.

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Prelims Pointers

• Ramsar Convention: International treaty for the conservation and sustainable use of wetlands.
• Spot-Billed Pelican: Vulnerable species; a prominent resident of Deepor Beel.
• Asian Water Bird Census: Annual event focusing on bird population trends in wetlands.

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Mains Pointers
Importance of Wetlands Like Deepor Beel

1. Biodiversity Hotspot: Supports endangered and migratory species.
2. Ecosystem Services: Flood control, groundwater recharge, and livelihood for locals.
3. Cultural Value: Integral to the heritage of Assam.

Challenges

1. Anthropogenic Pressures: Encroachment, waste disposal, and unregulated tourism.
2. Lack of Policy Implementation: Ineffective measures to protect the Ramsar site.

Government Initiatives

1. National Wetland Conservation Programme: Central assistance for wetland protection.
2. Ramsar Site Management Guidelines: Prescribed conservation strategies.
3. Awareness Campaigns: Conducted by Forest Departments and NGOs.

Way Forward

1. Community Engagement: Local stakeholders’ participation in wetland conservation.
2. Scientific Monitoring: Regular censuses and studies to track biodiversity trends.
3. Waste Management: Enforce regulations against littering and develop eco-friendly tourism.
4. Restoration Projects: Rehabilitate degraded areas with native flora and fauna.

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Conclusion
Deepor Beel’s bird census underscores its ecological importance and the urgent need for its conservation. Collaborative efforts involving the government, researchers, and local communities can ensure the wetland’s sustainable future while preserving its biodiversity for generations to come.

2. Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and NEP 2020 Integration

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GS Paper 1: Indian Culture

GS Paper 2: Education Policy

Introduction
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the promotion of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) as a part of education at all levels. The IKS initiative, spearheaded by AICTE under the Ministry of Education, aims to integrate traditional Indian knowledge with modern research and innovation for holistic development.

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Key Points

1. Scope of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS):
   • Encompasses fields like Ayurveda, yoga, meditation, phonetics, language, grammar, astronomy, architecture, agriculture, and economics.
   • Promotes the preservation and dissemination of cultural and literary heritage.
2. Integration under NEP 2020:
   • Mandatory inclusion of IKS in school and higher education curricula.
   • Focuses on awareness, research, and practical application of ancient knowledge.
3. IKS at Gauhati University:
   • Houses over 4,500 manuscripts, including rare works on the Vedas, Puranas, and Indian epics.
   • Significant archival collection that aids in research and preservation.
4. Objective of IKS:
   • Encourage awareness and innovation by applying traditional knowledge to address modern challenges.
   • Promote Indian languages and cultural practices as tools for contemporary education and research.

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Prelims Pointers

• Indian Knowledge System (IKS): Initiative by AICTE for integrating traditional Indian knowledge into formal education.
• NEP 2020: Comprehensive education policy focusing on equity, quality, and cultural integration.
• Gauhati University Manuscripts: Collection of over 4,500 historical and cultural documents.

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Mains Pointers

Importance of IKS Integration:

1. Cultural Preservation:
   • Safeguards traditional practices and wisdom for future generations.
   • Highlights India’s rich intellectual heritage on global platforms.
2. Educational Innovation:
   • Provides students with holistic learning experiences.
   • Encourages multidisciplinary studies blending ancient knowledge with modern science.
3. Research Potential:
   • Opens avenues for new studies in medicine, agriculture, and linguistics.
   • Promotes sustainable solutions inspired by traditional practices.

Challenges in Implementation:

1. Resource Availability:
   • Limited access to ancient manuscripts and trained professionals.
   • Lack of infrastructure for digitization and preservation.
2. Public Awareness:
   • Low awareness among educators and students about the significance of IKS.
3. Resistance to Change:
   • Initial reluctance to adopt traditional systems in modern education frameworks.

Government Initiatives:

1. Indian Knowledge System Cell: Facilitates research and development under AICTE.
2. Digital Libraries: Projects to digitize manuscripts and texts for wider access.
3. Teacher Training: Specialized programs to train educators in IKS methodologies.

Way Forward:

1. Modern Tools:
   • Leverage technology for the digitization and widespread dissemination of manuscripts.
   • Develop apps and platforms to popularize IKS-based learning.
2. Capacity Building:
   • Train educators to integrate IKS into their teaching practices.
   • Establish research centers focused on traditional knowledge.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • Encourage community participation in IKS preservation.
   • Conduct workshops and exhibitions on traditional Indian knowledge systems.

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Conclusion
The inclusion of the Indian Knowledge System under NEP 2020 signifies India’s efforts to combine its rich heritage with modern education. By promoting research and innovation, the initiative aims to provide solutions to contemporary challenges while preserving cultural identity.

3. Inland Waterways Development in Assam

GS Paper 3: Economy and Infrastructure

Introduction
The Inland Waterways Development Council (IWDC) announced a ₹50,000 crore investment plan over the next five years to enhance infrastructure along national waterways. The decision, made at a meeting in Kaziranga, emphasizes sustainable transportation, economic growth, and regional connectivity through inland waterways.

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Key Points

1. Investment Highlights:
   • ₹50,000 crore investment to improve 21 Inland Waterway States.
   • New projects worth ₹1,400 crore announced at the Kaziranga meeting.
2. Role of Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI):
   • Nodal agency for implementing infrastructure projects under the Ministry of Ports, Shipping, and Waterways.
   • Prioritizes ecological sustainability in waterway development.
3. Significance for Assam:
   • Enhances trade and connectivity with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.
   • Boosts tourism and cargo movement in the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers.
4. Challenges:
   • Siltation and navigational issues in the Brahmaputra River.
   • Limited public-private partnerships for project implementation.

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Prelims Pointers

• IWDC: Apex body for inland waterway policies and development.
• National Waterway 2 (NW-2): Brahmaputra River from Dhubri to Sadiya.
• Act East Policy: Strengthens India’s trade and connectivity with ASEAN nations.

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Mains Pointers

Importance of Inland Waterways in Assam

1. Economic Development:
   • Reduces transport costs and promotes cargo movement.
   • Creates jobs in logistics, tourism, and allied sectors.
2. Environmental Benefits:
   • Eco-friendly alternative to road and rail transportation.
   • Reduces greenhouse gas emissions.
3. Strategic Connectivity:
   • Links Northeast India with neighboring countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar.
   • Strengthens regional integration under India’s foreign policy.

Challenges

1. Infrastructure Deficits:
   • Lack of modern terminals and ports along the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers.
   • Insufficient dredging operations.
2. Coordination Issues:
   • Limited collaboration between state governments and IWAI.
   • Dependence on central funding.
3. Community Impact:
   • Displacement of local communities during project implementation.

Way Forward

1. Integrated Planning:
   • Develop multimodal transport systems combining waterways, rail, and road networks.
2. Private Investment:
   • Encourage PPPs for terminal construction and cargo handling.
3. Environmental Safeguards:
   • Ensure sustainable dredging and navigation practices to protect aquatic ecosystems.
4. Capacity Building:
   • Train local populations for employment in waterway operations.

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Conclusion
The Inland Waterways Development Plan represents a transformative step toward sustainable transportation and economic growth in Assam and the Northeast. By addressing challenges through technological innovation and policy support, India can leverage its waterways for long-term regional prosperity.

4. Empowering Tribal Families through Pattal-Making Machines

GS Paper 2: Governance and Social Justice

Introduction
In a significant step toward empowering tribal communities, 23 tribal families in the Dimoria block of Assam’s Sonapur area were provided with pattal-making machines. This initiative, funded under NABARD’s Tribal Development Fund and implemented by the Yusuf Meherally Centre, seeks to promote sustainable livelihoods through micro-enterprises.

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Key Points

1. Initiative Highlights:
   • Funding and Implementation: Supported by NABARD’s Tribal Development Fund and executed by the Yusuf Meherally Centre.
   • Beneficiary Support: Provided tribal families with pattal-making machines for income generation.
2. Pattals as an Eco-Friendly Alternative:
   • Traditional plates made from dried leaves, a biodegradable substitute for plastic disposables.
   • Gaining global recognition for sustainability.
3. Economic and Social Impact:
   • Promotes entrepreneurship among marginalized tribal families.
   • Aligns with the global demand for eco-friendly products, boosting local economies.
4. Ceremonial Launch:
   • Inaugurated by NABARD Deputy General Manager and District Development Manager.
   • Highlighted the initiative’s dual goals of environmental conservation and economic upliftment.

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Prelims Pointers

• NABARD’s Tribal Development Fund: Aimed at uplifting tribal populations through sustainable livelihood projects.
• Pattal Plates: Eco-friendly, biodegradable products traditionally used in India.
• Yusuf Meherally Centre: An organization promoting rural development through innovative projects.

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Mains Pointers

Significance of the Initiative

1. Economic Empowerment:
   • Enables tribal families to establish small-scale enterprises.
   • Provides a steady income stream, reducing dependence on seasonal employment.
2. Environmental Sustainability:
   • Encourages the use of biodegradable materials, reducing plastic waste.
   • Promotes sustainable practices in rural economies.
3. Social Upliftment:
   • Strengthens community ties through cooperative efforts.
   • Empowers women and marginalized groups within tribal communities.

Challenges

1. Market Access:
   • Limited infrastructure to connect rural producers with urban and global markets.
2. Training and Capacity Building:
   • Need for technical training to maximize the use of pattal-making machines.
3. Sustainability of Enterprises:
   • Ensuring continuous demand for pattals amidst competition from modern alternatives.

Way Forward

1. Strengthen Market Linkages:
   • Create online and offline platforms to promote tribal products.
   • Partner with eco-friendly brands and export agencies.
2. Skill Development:
   • Provide regular training sessions on machine usage and entrepreneurship.
3. Policy Support:
   • Include such initiatives under government schemes promoting rural entrepreneurship.
4. Awareness Campaigns:
   • Educate consumers about the benefits of eco-friendly products to boost demand.

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Conclusion
The distribution of pattal-making machines to tribal families in Assam demonstrates the potential of small-scale, eco-friendly enterprises in achieving sustainable development goals. By addressing implementation challenges and fostering community participation, this initiative can serve as a model for empowering marginalized communities across India.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Deepor Beel Bird Census 2025

Q1. Which of the following is NOT a globally threatened species recorded in Deepor Beel?

• (a) Spot-Billed Pelican
• (b) Lesser Adjutant Stork
• (c) Great Indian Bustard
• (d) Baer’s Pochard

Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Great Indian Bustard is critically endangered but is not found in Deepor Beel. Other species mentioned are observed in the census.

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Q2. What is the primary methodology used in the Asian Water Bird Census (AWC)?

• (a) Satellite Imagery
• (b) Visual Encounter Survey
• (c) Acoustic Sampling
• (d) Camera Trapping

Answer: (b)
Explanation: The AWC utilizes visual encounter survey methodology, which involves direct observation of bird populations.

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2. Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and NEP 2020 Integration

Q3. Which institution is leading the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) initiative under NEP 2020?

• (a) NITI Aayog
• (b) Ministry of Culture
• (c) AICTE
• (d) UGC

Answer: (c)
Explanation: AICTE (All India Council for Technical Education) spearheads the Indian Knowledge System initiative to integrate traditional knowledge with modern education.

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Q4. Gauhati University’s Indian Knowledge System collection includes manuscripts primarily on which topics?

• (a) Space Exploration and Astronomy
• (b) Ayurveda, Epics, and Grammar
• (c) Western Philosophy and Modern Science
• (d) Textile Engineering and Metallurgy

Answer: (b)
Explanation: The manuscripts cover traditional knowledge areas like Ayurveda, Vedas, Puranas, and grammar, highlighting India’s cultural heritage.

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3. Inland Waterways Development in Assam

Q5. National Waterway 2 (NW-2) covers which river in Assam?

• (a) Barak River
• (b) Lohit River
• (c) Brahmaputra River
• (d) Subansiri River

Answer: (c)
Explanation: NW-2 covers the Brahmaputra River, stretching from Dhubri to Sadiya, a critical waterway for Assam’s connectivity.

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Q6. Which of the following is NOT a key objective of inland waterway development in Assam?

• (a) Reducing transportation costs
• (b) Promoting eco-tourism
• (c) Enhancing flood control measures
• (d) Improving connectivity under the Act East Policy

Answer: (c)
Explanation: While inland waterways help in transportation and eco-tourism, flood control is not their direct objective.

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4. Empowering Tribal Families through Pattal-Making Machines

Q7. Pattal plates, distributed under NABARD’s initiative, are primarily made of:

• (a) Bamboo
• (b) Plastic
• (c) Areca Nut Leaves
• (d) Dried Leaves

Answer: (d)
Explanation: Pattals are traditionally made from dried leaves, offering an eco-friendly alternative to disposables.

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Q8. NABARD’s Tribal Development Fund focuses on:

• (a) Large-scale industrial projects in tribal areas
• (b) Urban development in tribal communities
• (c) Promoting sustainable livelihoods for tribal populations
• (d) Providing interest-free loans for all sectors

Answer: (c)
Explanation: The Tribal Development Fund aims to support sustainable livelihood projects for tribal populations, enhancing their socio-economic status.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Question 1: Deepor Beel Bird Census 2025

Discuss the ecological significance of Deepor Beel and the challenges it faces as a Ramsar site. Suggest measures for its effective conservation and sustainable management.

Model Answer

Introduction
Deepor Beel, a Ramsar site and a key wetland in Assam, supports rich biodiversity and provides essential ecosystem services. However, increasing anthropogenic pressures threaten its ecological balance, necessitating immediate conservation measures.

Ecological Significance

1. Biodiversity Hotspot:
   • Home to 219 bird species, including globally threatened ones like the Spot-Billed Pelican and Lesser Adjutant Stork.
   • Provides critical habitat for migratory waterfowl along their flyway.
2. Ecosystem Services:
   • Flood control and groundwater recharge.
   • Livelihood source for local communities through fishing and agriculture.
3. Cultural Value:
   • Integral to the Assamese heritage, serving as a site for traditional fishing practices and eco-tourism.

Challenges

1. Anthropogenic Pressures:
   • Encroachment for urbanization and agriculture.
   • Unregulated tourism leading to waste accumulation and habitat degradation.
2. Pollution:
   • Disposal of urban and industrial waste into the wetland.
3. Policy and Implementation Gaps:
   • Ineffective enforcement of Ramsar guidelines and national wetland conservation programs.

Measures for Conservation

1. Community Engagement:
   • Involve local stakeholders in wetland restoration projects.
   • Promote eco-tourism to create sustainable livelihoods.
2. Scientific Monitoring:
   • Conduct regular biodiversity surveys and pollution assessments.
   • Use GIS for mapping and managing encroachment.
3. Waste Management:
   • Set up solid waste treatment plants near urban areas to prevent waste disposal in the wetland.
4. Policy Implementation:
   • Strengthen Ramsar Site Management Guidelines.
   • Ensure strict enforcement of the Wetlands (Conservation and Management) Rules, 2017.

Conclusion
Deepor Beel is not only a biodiversity treasure but also an essential ecosystem for Assam’s environment and economy. Collaborative efforts involving local communities, scientific experts, and policymakers are critical to preserving its ecological and cultural legacy.

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Question 2: Indian Knowledge System (IKS) and NEP 2020 Integration

Analyze the importance of integrating the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) into modern education under NEP 2020. Highlight the challenges and suggest measures to overcome them.

Model Answer

Introduction
The National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 emphasizes the integration of the Indian Knowledge System (IKS) into education to create a holistic learning experience. This initiative aims to combine traditional wisdom with modern advancements to address contemporary challenges.

Importance of IKS in Modern Education

1. Cultural Preservation:
   • Safeguards ancient Indian knowledge, including Ayurveda, astronomy, and linguistics.
   • Promotes traditional practices and languages, preserving India’s heritage.
2. Educational Innovation:
   • Encourages interdisciplinary learning by blending ancient wisdom with modern science.
   • Enhances students’ critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
3. Research Potential:
   • Opens new avenues in areas like sustainable agriculture and traditional medicine.
   • Contributes to global knowledge with unique solutions from Indian traditions.
4. Global Relevance:
   • Showcases India’s intellectual heritage on global platforms.
   • Strengthens India’s soft power by sharing knowledge systems internationally.

Challenges

1. Resource Limitations:
   • Lack of trained professionals and researchers in IKS fields.
   • Inadequate infrastructure for digitization and preservation of manuscripts.
2. Public Awareness:
   • Limited understanding among educators and students about the relevance of IKS.
3. Resistance to Change:
   • Initial reluctance from institutions and policymakers to adopt traditional systems.

Measures to Overcome Challenges

1. Capacity Building:
   • Train educators and researchers in IKS methodologies.
   • Establish dedicated research centers for IKS studies.
2. Modern Tools for Preservation:
   • Digitize ancient manuscripts and texts for wider accessibility.
   • Develop educational apps and platforms to popularize IKS.
3. Public Awareness Campaigns:
   • Conduct workshops and seminars on the relevance of IKS.
   • Engage students in cultural and research projects related to Indian traditions.
4. Policy Support:
   • Allocate funds for IKS-focused research and teaching.
   • Mandate IKS courses in school and higher education curricula.

Conclusion
Integrating the Indian Knowledge System into modern education under NEP 2020 represents a step toward blending India’s heritage with global innovation. With adequate resources, training, and awareness, this initiative can lead to holistic educational development and global recognition of India’s intellectual contributions.

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