APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (11/02/2025)
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 (11-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Govt to Construct 5 Lighthouses Along Brahmaputra: Boost to Inland Waterways
📌 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Economy, River Navigation, Sustainable Development
Introduction
The Government of India has announced the construction of five lighthouses along the Brahmaputra River to boost inland waterways transportation (IWT), trade, and connectivity in Assam. The initiative aligns with the Sagarmala and Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) to strengthen river-based transport networks. This move is expected to enhance navigation safety, reduce transportation costs, and promote sustainable economic growth in the Northeast.
Key Points
- Objectives of the Lighthouse Project
- Enhance Night Navigation: Lighthouses will provide better visibility for cargo and passenger vessels.
- Boost Trade & Commerce: Facilitates faster, cost-effective transportation of goods.
- Support Sustainable Development: Reduces road congestion and carbon footprint.
- Strengthen Connectivity: Links Assam’s economy with Bangladesh and India’s mainland.
- Strategic Locations of the Lighthouses
- Proposed at key navigation points along the National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra).
- Locations likely to include Guwahati, Dibrugarh, Dhubri, Majuli, and Jorhat.
- Expected Economic and Infrastructure Benefits
- Cheaper Logistics: Inland waterways reduce fuel consumption and transport costs.
- Employment Generation: Creates jobs in shipping, logistics, and tourism sectors.
- Integration with Act East Policy: Enhances trade with Southeast Asia via Bangladesh ports.
Prelims Pointers
- National Waterway-2 (NW-2): Brahmaputra River’s classification as an inland waterway for cargo transport.
- Sagarmala Project: Government’s initiative to boost port-led economic development.
- Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP): Development of India’s inland waterways for freight movement.
- IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India): Governing body responsible for regulating inland navigation.
- Dhubri Port: Important river port on Brahmaputra for trade with Bangladesh.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Lighthouses for Inland Waterway Development
- Improved River Navigation & Safety
- Ensures year-round navigability for cargo and passenger ferries.
- Reduces accidents, delays, and route inefficiencies.
- Economic & Trade Growth in Northeast
- Boosts exports of tea, crude oil, and agricultural produce from Assam.
- Improves Assam-Bangladesh water trade under the Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route.
- Environmental Benefits of Inland Waterways
- Lower carbon emissions compared to road and rail transport.
- Reduces deforestation for road construction.
- Boost to Tourism & Cultural Connectivity
- Enhances river tourism, cruise operations, and eco-tourism projects.
- Connects Majuli, Kaziranga, and Sivasagar with improved transport.
Challenges in Implementing the Lighthouse Project
- Siltation & River Depth Issues
- Brahmaputra’s heavy sedimentation affects navigation.
- Requires regular dredging to maintain water depth.
- Monsoon Flooding & Seasonal Variability
- Navigation difficult during high floods & low water levels in winter.
- Lighthouses must be designed to withstand seasonal changes.
- Coordination Between Agencies
- IWAI, state governments, and local communities must work together for smooth implementation.
- Need for public-private partnerships (PPPs) for investment.
Government Initiatives Supporting Inland Waterways
- Jal Marg Vikas Project (JMVP) – ₹4,600 crore project to develop waterways infrastructure in India.
- Indo-Bangladesh Protocol Route – Agreement for cargo transport via Bangladesh’s river network.
- Arth Ganga Project – Promotes river-based economic activities along the Ganga and Brahmaputra.
- Sagarmala Programme – Focuses on port and inland water connectivity for logistics.
Way Ahead
✅ Scientific River Management – Dredging, river mapping, and hydrological studies needed.
✅ Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Involve private firms in developing river terminals and cargo hubs.
✅ Multi-Modal Connectivity – Integrate river transport with rail & road networks.
✅ Eco-Friendly Navigation – Encourage electric ferries and solar-powered vessels.
Conclusion
The construction of five lighthouses along the Brahmaputra is a strategic step in boosting inland water transport, trade, and tourism in Assam. However, long-term sustainability requires careful planning, investment in river management, and coordination with local communities. If implemented effectively, the project can revolutionize Assam’s connectivity and economic landscape.
2. Aero India 2025: India’s Push for Defense Manufacturing & Global Partnerships
📌 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Defense Manufacturing, India’s Strategic Partnerships
Introduction
Aero India 2025, India’s premier aerospace and defense exhibition, highlights the country’s push for indigenous defense manufacturing and global partnerships. Held in Bengaluru, the event showcases India’s advancements under the Make in India and Atmanirbhar Bharat initiatives. It also provides a platform for global defense firms and governments to collaborate on cutting-edge technologies. The focus this year is on unmanned aerial systems (UAS), artificial intelligence (AI), and next-generation combat aircraft.
Key Points
- Significance of Aero India 2025
- Aims to position India as a global defense manufacturing hub.
- Strengthens India’s strategic and defense diplomacy with participating countries.
- Showcases indigenous systems like Tejas Mk-2, AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft), and UAVs.
- Major Themes of 2025 Edition
- Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS): Focus on drones for surveillance, combat, and logistics.
- AI in Defense: Integration of autonomous technologies in combat operations.
- Space Defense Systems: Highlighting anti-satellite capabilities and satellite-based communication.
- Global Participation
- Over 700 exhibitors from 50+ countries, including US, France, Israel, and Russia.
- Collaboration opportunities with global firms like Lockheed Martin, Dassault, and Boeing.
- Strengthens partnerships under frameworks like QUAD and I2U2.
Prelims Pointers
- Make in India (Defense): Initiative to promote self-reliance in defense production.
- Tejas Aircraft: India’s indigenously developed Light Combat Aircraft (LCA).
- Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft (AMCA): India’s 5th-generation stealth fighter program.
- S-400 Missile System: Advanced air defense system from Russia.
- Defense Corridors in India: Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu defense corridors aimed at boosting manufacturing clusters.
Mains Pointers
India’s Objectives in Aero India 2025
- Boost to Indigenous Manufacturing
- Showcase of products developed under the Defense Research and Development Organisation (DRDO).
- Promotion of private sector firms in defense manufacturing, like Bharat Forge, Tata, and L&T.
- Strengthening Global Partnerships
- Encourage technology transfers and co-development with foreign firms.
- Build alliances under Make in India for the World initiative.
- Focus on Exports
- Increase India’s defense exports, targeting $5 billion annually by 2025.
- Highlight export-ready systems like Akash missiles, BrahMos, and Tejas aircraft.
- Advancement in Cutting-Edge Technologies
- Promote AI, quantum computing, and robotics in defense systems.
- Expand capabilities in hypersonic missiles and electronic warfare systems.
Challenges in India’s Defense Manufacturing Push
- Technological Dependence
- Reliance on imports for critical technologies and subsystems, such as engines and avionics.
- Delays in indigenous projects like AMCA and Kaveri engine program.
- Bureaucratic Hurdles
- Complicated procurement processes deter private sector participation.
- Insufficient focus on ease of doing business in the defense sector.
- Lack of Skilled Workforce
- Defense manufacturing requires specialized skills and advanced training programs, which are still underdeveloped.
- Budgetary Constraints
- A significant portion of the defense budget goes to pensions and operational costs, leaving limited funds for R&D.
Government Initiatives Supporting Defense Manufacturing
- Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan (Self-Reliant India) – Focuses on reducing defense import dependency.
- Defense Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP-2020) – Aims to achieve a turnover of ₹1.75 lakh crore by 2025.
- Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX) – Encourages startups to develop innovative defense solutions.
- Strategic Partnership (SP) Model – Allows private firms to collaborate with foreign OEMs for key technologies.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthen R&D Ecosystem – Allocate more funds for defense innovation and indigenous technology development.
✅ Encourage Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Facilitate partnerships between DRDO, private firms, and foreign players.
✅ Expand Global Outreach – Use platforms like Aero India to showcase capabilities and secure export orders.
✅ Skill Development in Defense Sector – Establish dedicated training institutes for aerospace engineering and defense manufacturing.
✅ Focus on Next-Gen Technologies – Prioritize AI, quantum computing, and space defense systems.
Conclusion
Aero India 2025 serves as a catalyst for India’s aspirations to become a global defense manufacturing hub. By leveraging partnerships, promoting indigenous capabilities, and addressing systemic challenges, India can strengthen its self-reliance in defense and strategic influence on the global stage.
3. Assam’s New Tourism Policy: Focus on Eco-Tourism & Cultural Heritage
📌 GS Paper 3: Economy, Sustainable Development, Tourism Sector, Conservation
Introduction
The Assam government has unveiled its New Tourism Policy 2025, with a focus on eco-tourism, cultural heritage, and sustainable tourism development. The policy aims to position Assam as a top tourist destination in Northeast India while ensuring environmental conservation and community-based tourism initiatives. With an emphasis on wildlife tourism, river tourism, and promotion of local arts and festivals, the state aims to generate employment and economic growth while preserving its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage.
Key Points
- Objectives of Assam’s New Tourism Policy
- Promote Sustainable Tourism: Reduce environmental impact while boosting tourism revenues.
- Develop Eco-Tourism Circuits: Enhance wildlife, river, and adventure tourism.
- Preserve Cultural Heritage: Promote Assamese festivals, traditional arts, and historical sites.
- Boost Rural & Community-Based Tourism: Engage local communities in homestays and handicraft markets.
- Strengthen Tourism Infrastructure: Improve connectivity, accommodations, and digital marketing.
- Key Focus Areas
- Wildlife & Nature Tourism: Kaziranga, Manas, Dibru-Saikhowa National Parks, Majuli Island.
- Cultural & Religious Tourism: Kamakhya Temple, Sivasagar’s Ahom heritage, Vaishnavite Satras.
- Adventure & River Tourism: Brahmaputra cruises, trekking in Dima Hasao, caving in Karbi Anglong.
- Tea Tourism: Promoting Assam’s tea gardens as luxury eco-tourism destinations.
- Economic Impact of Tourism Development
- Job Creation: Direct and indirect employment in hospitality, transport, and handicrafts.
- Boost to Local Businesses: Growth in handicrafts, traditional weaves, and tea-based industries.
- Revenue Generation: Increased foreign and domestic tourist footfall expected.
Prelims Pointers
- Kaziranga National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
- Majuli Island: Largest river island in the world, famous for Vaishnavite monasteries.
- Sivasagar: Historic capital of the Ahom Dynasty, known for Shiva Dol, Talatal Ghar.
- Brahmaputra River Cruises: Promoting luxury river tourism in Assam.
- Tea Tourism: Visits to heritage tea estates like Jorhat, Dibrugarh, and Sonitpur.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Assam’s New Tourism Policy
- Sustainable Economic Growth
- Tourism can contribute significantly to Assam’s GDP and employment generation.
- Encourages eco-friendly tourism practices to protect biodiversity.
- Conservation of Assam’s Cultural Heritage
- Promotes traditional Assamese art, music, and festivals like Bihu.
- Supports museum development and restoration of historic sites.
- Eco-Tourism and Wildlife Protection
- Expansion of nature-based tourism without harming fragile ecosystems.
- Balancing wildlife conservation with controlled tourist activities.
- Enhancing Global and Domestic Connectivity
- Developing better road, air, and river transport for tourist sites.
- Encouraging private sector participation in tourism infrastructure.
Challenges in Assam’s Tourism Growth
- Environmental Concerns
- Over-tourism can lead to deforestation, pollution, and disturbance to wildlife.
- Unregulated tourism in Kaziranga, Majuli, and Pobitora could harm biodiversity.
- Lack of Infrastructure
- Poor road conditions, limited airports, and inadequate hospitality facilities in remote areas.
- Need for better digital marketing and online booking platforms.
- Security Issues & Political Instability
- Past incidents of insurgency and ethnic conflicts impact tourist inflow.
- Need for stronger safety measures for visitors.
- Seasonal Tourism Limitations
- Monsoon floods in Assam affect accessibility to tourist destinations.
- Need for year-round tourism initiatives.
Government Initiatives Supporting Tourism Development
- Swadesh Darshan Scheme – Central government’s initiative to develop thematic tourism circuits.
- PRASHAD Scheme – Focuses on religious tourism and heritage site conservation.
- North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme (NESIDS) – Provides funding for infrastructure in Northeast states.
- Kaziranga National Park Eco-Tourism Plan – Regulates sustainable tourism in protected areas.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthen Eco-Tourism Regulations – Implement sustainable tourism policies to protect biodiversity.
✅ Improve Connectivity & Infrastructure – Expand airports, roads, and river transport for tourist movement.
✅ Promote Digital & Smart Tourism – Leverage social media, virtual tours, and mobile applications.
✅ Encourage Community-Based Tourism – Empower local communities with homestay and heritage experiences.
✅ Develop Year-Round Tourism Strategies – Introduce off-season tourism activities to attract visitors year-round.
Conclusion
Assam’s New Tourism Policy 2025 is a step towards sustainable economic development, balancing eco-tourism with cultural preservation. If implemented effectively, it can position Assam as a top travel destination while ensuring environmental and social benefits for local communities.
4. Illegal Coal Mining in Meghalaya: Environmental & Legal Challenges
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment, Governance, Illegal Mining, Sustainable Development
Introduction
Illegal coal mining in Meghalaya, particularly through rat-hole mining, remains a persistent issue despite a National Green Tribunal (NGT) ban in 2014. The unregulated mining has caused severe environmental damage, groundwater contamination, and health hazards, while also raising concerns about law enforcement failures and corruption. The issue also involves human rights violations, including reports of child labor and hazardous working conditions.
Key Points
- What is Rat-Hole Mining?
- A hazardous and unscientific mining method where narrow tunnels are dug to extract coal.
- Commonly used in Jaintia Hills, East Khasi Hills, and West Khasi Hills of Meghalaya.
- Leads to high profits for illegal miners but causes severe environmental damage.
- Environmental Consequences of Illegal Coal Mining
- Severe Water Pollution: Acid mine drainage contaminates rivers like Lukha and Myntdu.
- Deforestation & Land Degradation: Large-scale tree-cutting and soil erosion.
- Air & Soil Pollution: High levels of toxic heavy metals like arsenic, mercury, and lead.
- Biodiversity Loss: Affects fragile cave ecosystems and forest wildlife.
- Legal and Governance Issues
- Violation of NGT Ban (2014): Mining continues despite legal restrictions.
- Failure of Regulatory Agencies: Weak enforcement by State Pollution Control Board & Mining Department.
- Corruption & Political Nexus: Reports of illegal transport of coal under political patronage.
- Lack of Rehabilitation Plans: No proper restoration efforts for abandoned coal mines.
Prelims Pointers
- National Green Tribunal (NGT): Established in 2010 for environmental protection and legal enforcement.
- Rat-Hole Mining: Illegal mining technique causing severe environmental damage.
- Meghalaya Mines and Minerals Policy, 2012: Aims to regulate mining but remains poorly implemented.
- Lukha River Pollution: Affected by acid drainage from coal mines, turning the river toxic blue.
- Sixth Schedule: Provides autonomy to tribal councils, but exempts coal mining from national regulations.
Mains Pointers
Why is Illegal Coal Mining Still Prevalent in Meghalaya?
- Economic Dependency on Coal Mining
- Thousands of locals depend on coal mining for livelihood.
- Lack of alternative employment opportunities.
- Weak Law Enforcement
- Loopholes in monitoring illegal coal transportation.
- Slow implementation of scientific coal mining regulations.
- Role of Local Tribal Councils
- Under Sixth Schedule, Autonomous District Councils control mining rights.
- Weak enforcement leads to unchecked illegal mining.
- Political Patronage & Corruption
- Allegations of political involvement in illegal coal trade.
- Smuggling of coal to Bangladesh and other states.
- Lack of Alternative Economic Policies
- No major industries to replace coal-based economy.
- Need for eco-tourism, horticulture, and sustainable development projects.
Impact of Illegal Coal Mining on Meghalaya
- Environmental Damage
- Toxic pollution of rivers, deforestation, and biodiversity loss.
- Destruction of Meghalaya’s unique cave ecosystems.
- Health Hazards
- Increased respiratory diseases among miners and villagers.
- High risk of mine collapses and fatal accidents.
- Child Labor & Human Rights Violations
- Reports of underage laborers working in dangerous conditions.
- No safety measures or medical support for workers.
- Economic and Social Instability
- Wealth concentration in illegal mining cartels.
- Lack of alternative job opportunities for locals.
Government Initiatives & Legal Actions
- NGT Ban on Coal Mining (2014) – Restricted rat-hole mining due to environmental hazards.
- Supreme Court Order (2019) – Allowed scientific coal mining under strict regulations.
- Meghalaya State Action Plan (2021) – Proposed monitoring systems & alternative livelihoods.
- Pollution Control Measures – Meghalaya govt introduced water treatment plants for acid mine drainage.
- National Mineral Policy, 2019 – Encourages sustainable mining practices and better regulations.
Way Ahead
✅ Implement Scientific & Sustainable Mining – Shift from rat-hole mining to modern techniques.
✅ Strengthen Law Enforcement – Strict monitoring of illegal coal transport & mining activities.
✅ Develop Alternative Livelihoods – Promote eco-tourism, handicrafts, and sustainable industries.
✅ Community Awareness & Rehabilitation – Educate locals on environmental conservation & job opportunities.
✅ Improve Water & Land Restoration Efforts – Enforce mine reclamation projects in abandoned areas.
Conclusion
Illegal coal mining in Meghalaya poses serious environmental, legal, and social challenges. While mining is vital for the local economy, unchecked illegal operations must be curbed. The government must focus on sustainable development, strict law enforcement, and community welfare to ensure a balance between economic growth and environmental conservation.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Govt to Construct 5 Lighthouses Along Brahmaputra: Boost to Inland Waterways
Question 1
Which of the following statements about National Waterway-2 (NW-2) are correct?
- It covers the Ganga River and its tributaries.
- It is a part of India’s inland water transport system.
- It connects Assam’s Dhubri to Arunachal Pradesh’s Sadiya.
- The Inland Waterways Authority of India (IWAI) is responsible for its management.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2, 3, and 4 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: (b) 2, 3, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect – NW-2 covers the Brahmaputra River, not the Ganga (which is covered under NW-1).
- Statements 2, 3, and 4 are correct – NW-2 is a key inland waterway in Assam, connecting Dhubri to Sadiya, and is managed by IWAI.
Question 2
Which of the following are expected benefits of building lighthouses along the Brahmaputra River?
- Enhancing night-time navigation for cargo and passenger ferries.
- Boosting trade and connectivity under the Act East Policy.
- Increasing flood control measures along the riverbanks.
- Reducing road and rail transport dependency for logistics.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – Lighthouses help navigation, support economic connectivity, and encourage water-based transport.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Lighthouses do not directly prevent floods, though river navigation improvements may support disaster response.
2. Aero India 2025: India’s Push for Defense Manufacturing & Global Partnerships
Question 3
Which of the following are objectives of the Aero India 2025 event?
- Promoting Make in India in defense manufacturing.
- Strengthening global defense partnerships through joint ventures.
- Showcasing India’s nuclear weapon capabilities.
- Encouraging investment in indigenous fighter jets, missiles, and drones.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – Aero India focuses on Make in India, international defense collaborations, and indigenous technology.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – India does not publicly showcase nuclear capabilities at Aero India.
Question 4
Which of the following Indian defense technologies will likely be showcased at Aero India 2025?
- Tejas Mk-II Fighter Jet
- BrahMos Supersonic Cruise Missile
- Arjun Mk-II Battle Tank
- Rustom-II UAV (Unmanned Aerial Vehicle)
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- All statements are correct – India will showcase advanced military hardware, including fighter jets, tanks, and drones at Aero India.
3. Assam’s New Tourism Policy: Focus on Eco-Tourism & Cultural Heritage
Question 5
Which of the following are priority tourism areas under Assam’s new tourism policy?
- Wildlife Tourism – Kaziranga, Manas National Park
- Cultural & Heritage Tourism – Sivasagar, Majuli Island
- Medical Tourism – AIIMS Guwahati and Assam Ayurvedic Centers
- Tea Tourism – Heritage Tea Estates in Jorhat and Dibrugarh
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 4 are correct – Assam is focusing on wildlife, cultural heritage, and tea tourism.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Medical tourism is not a primary focus of Assam’s tourism policy.
Question 6
Which of the following wildlife sanctuaries in Assam are recognized as UNESCO World Heritage Sites?
- Kaziranga National Park
- Manas National Park
- Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
- Nameri National Park
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Kaziranga & Manas are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
- Dibru-Saikhowa & Nameri are important biodiversity areas but not UNESCO-listed.
4. Illegal Coal Mining in Meghalaya: Environmental & Legal Challenges
Question 7
Which of the following environmental concerns are associated with illegal coal mining in Meghalaya?
- Acid mine drainage contaminating rivers like Lukha
- Deforestation and loss of biodiversity in Jaintia Hills
- Air pollution and health hazards among local communities
- Increase in monsoon rainfall due to climate change impact of coal mining
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 2, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – Illegal mining causes water, air, and soil pollution.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – Illegal mining does not directly increase monsoon rainfall.
Question 8
Which organization imposed a ban on rat-hole coal mining in Meghalaya?
(a) Supreme Court of India
(b) National Green Tribunal (NGT)
(c) Ministry of Environment, Forest & Climate Change (MoEFCC)
(d) Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB)
✅ Answer: (b) National Green Tribunal (NGT)
🔎 Explanation:
The NGT banned rat-hole mining in 2014 due to its severe environmental damage.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Illegal coal mining in Meghalaya continues despite the National Green Tribunal’s (NGT) ban, leading to severe environmental degradation and governance failures. Analyze the factors contributing to the persistence of illegal mining and suggest measures for sustainable mining practices and law enforcement. (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
Illegal coal mining, particularly rat-hole mining, remains a major environmental and governance issue in Meghalaya, despite the 2014 National Green Tribunal (NGT) ban. This unregulated activity has led to severe water pollution, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and human rights violations. Weak enforcement, economic dependence, and political patronage have allowed illegal mining to persist.
Factors Contributing to Illegal Coal Mining in Meghalaya
- Economic Dependency & Livelihood Issues
- Thousands of local workers depend on coal mining for income.
- Lack of alternative employment opportunities forces communities to engage in illegal mining.
- Weak Law Enforcement & Regulatory Failures
- Despite the NGT ban, mining continues due to weak oversight.
- Local authorities often fail to regulate transportation of illegally mined coal.
- Political Patronage & Corruption
- Reports suggest involvement of local politicians and business groups in illegal coal trade.
- Bribery and loopholes in governance allow mining to continue unchecked.
- Role of Tribal Autonomy under the Sixth Schedule
- Meghalaya’s tribal councils control land and resources under the Sixth Schedule.
- This limits the role of central and state authorities in regulating coal mining.
- Environmental & Health Hazards Ignored
- Pollution of rivers like Lukha due to acid mine drainage.
- Respiratory diseases and safety risks for workers, including child labor.
Measures for Sustainable Mining & Law Enforcement
✅ Strict Implementation of NGT & Supreme Court Orders
- Strengthen real-time surveillance using drones, satellite monitoring, and checkpoints.
✅ Promoting Scientific & Sustainable Mining
- Introduce eco-friendly open-cast and underground mining techniques.
- Implement mine reclamation plans to restore degraded land.
✅ Strengthening Alternative Livelihoods
- Invest in eco-tourism, horticulture, and agro-forestry to reduce mining dependency.
- Government schemes should support local communities with skill development programs.
✅ Regulating Transportation & Coal Trade
- Ensure strict checks on coal transport, border smuggling, and illegal exports.
- Strengthen coordination between Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), NGT, and state authorities.
✅ Community Participation & Awareness
- Local NGOs, activists, and tribal leaders must be engaged in sustainable development plans.
- Awareness campaigns on environmental hazards of illegal coal mining.
Conclusion
Illegal coal mining in Meghalaya represents a complex challenge of economic survival, governance failure, and environmental degradation. A multi-pronged approach combining strict law enforcement, alternative livelihoods, and sustainable mining technologies is essential to ensure long-term ecological and economic balance. Meghalaya must transition towards responsible resource management while protecting the interests of local communities.
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