APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (12/02/2025)
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 (12-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. PM Modi Calls for a Global AI Governance Framework
📌 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Global Governance, Cybersecurity
Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has emphasized the urgent need for a global AI governance framework, highlighting concerns over AI ethics, security risks, misinformation, and job displacement. Speaking at an international summit on emerging technologies, he stressed the importance of collaborative regulation, ensuring that Artificial Intelligence benefits humanity while minimizing risks.
As AI advances in areas like defense, healthcare, finance, and governance, world leaders are debating how to balance innovation with accountability. Modi’s proposal aligns with India’s vision of responsible AI development and its role in shaping global AI policies.
Key Points
- Why is a Global AI Governance Framework Needed?
- Risk of AI Misuse: Deepfakes, automated cyberattacks, and misinformation can threaten democracy and global security.
- Lack of Ethical Standards: AI-driven decisions in healthcare, hiring, and finance must be transparent and fair.
- Data Privacy & Surveillance Risks: AI-powered surveillance raises human rights and privacy concerns.
- Job Displacement & Economic Impact: Automation could eliminate jobs, worsening global inequalities.
- AI Weaponization Risks: Unregulated AI in military and defense could lead to autonomous warfare threats.
- Key Proposals for AI Regulation by India
- Establish an International AI Governance Body under UN/Global Digital Cooperation Forum.
- Set ethical AI standards to prevent bias, discrimination, and deepfake manipulation.
- Implement data-sharing agreements while ensuring privacy protection.
- Encourage AI for social good in healthcare, agriculture, and climate change mitigation.
- Develop cybersecurity norms to prevent AI-powered cyber threats.
- India’s Current AI Initiatives
- National AI Strategy (NITI Aayog): Promotes AI in healthcare, education, and agriculture.
- AI Supercomputing Mission: Boosts India’s AI research & development.
- Responsible AI Guidelines (MeitY, 2023): Ensures AI safety, fairness, and accountability.
- INDIAai Initiative: National platform for AI collaboration & research.
Prelims Pointers
- Generative AI: AI models like ChatGPT and DALL·E create human-like text, images, and videos.
- Deepfakes: AI-generated fake videos and images, often used for misinformation and fraud.
- Explainable AI (XAI): Ensures AI decisions are transparent and understandable.
- AI & UN Initiatives: UN agencies like ITU and UNESCO are working on global AI regulations.
- Quantum AI: Future AI powered by quantum computing for ultra-fast processing.
Mains Pointers
Why is Global AI Governance Important?
- Prevention of AI-Driven Disinformation & Cyber Threats
- AI can create fake news, deepfakes, and social media manipulation.
- AI-powered cyberattacks could disrupt financial & defense systems.
- Ensuring Fair & Ethical AI Use
- AI bias in hiring, policing, and judicial decisions must be regulated.
- Protect human rights and democratic institutions from AI misuse.
- Regulating AI in Warfare & Defense
- Autonomous AI weapons could lead to uncontrolled military conflicts.
- Need global treaties on AI warfare similar to nuclear non-proliferation.
- Balancing Innovation with Job Security
- Automation will replace traditional jobs, requiring new skills and policies.
- Governments must invest in AI upskilling programs.
- AI’s Role in Climate Action & Sustainability
- AI can optimize energy use, disaster prediction, and environmental conservation.
- Ethical AI must ensure sustainability goals are prioritized.
Challenges in AI Regulation
- Lack of Global Consensus
- Different AI regulations in the US, EU, China, and India create challenges.
- Tech giants resist strict AI laws to protect business interests.
- Difficulty in Monitoring AI Systems
- AI operates on complex deep-learning algorithms, making regulation harder.
- Many AI decisions are not explainable (black-box problem).
- Geopolitical AI Competition
- The US, China, and EU are in an AI arms race, delaying global cooperation.
- Risk of AI weaponization and surveillance expansion.
- Digital Divide & AI Accessibility
- Developing countries lack AI infrastructure, widening global inequalities.
- Need AI policies that support equitable access to AI benefits.
Global AI Governance Efforts
- EU AI Act (2024) – World’s first AI regulation law to control AI risks.
- OECD AI Principles – Establishes guidelines for trustworthy AI.
- Bletchley AI Summit (2023, UK) – First global AI safety summit.
- US AI Executive Order (2023) – Imposes AI safety checks on tech companies.
- G20 AI Framework (India’s Presidency 2023) – Focuses on responsible AI & ethical use.
Way Ahead
✅ Global AI Cooperation – Establish a UN-led AI governance body.
✅ AI Safety Laws – Define strict ethical AI principles and human oversight requirements.
✅ AI & Cybersecurity – Strengthen global cyber laws against AI-driven threats.
✅ Investment in AI for Public Good – Use AI for healthcare, disaster management, and education.
✅ Skill Development & Workforce Protection – Governments must train workers for AI-driven jobs.
Conclusion
AI has immense potential to transform industries, but unregulated AI can pose major risks to society. PM Modi’s call for a Global AI Governance Framework highlights India’s leadership in ethical AI development. By balancing innovation with responsibility, the world can harness AI’s benefits while preventing misuse and inequality.
2. Chinese Dam Project Threat to National Security: Gaurav Gogoi Raises Concerns
📌 GS Paper 2 & 3: International Relations, Water Disputes, Environmental Concerns, National Security
Introduction
Congress leader Gaurav Gogoi has raised serious concerns over China’s mega hydropower projects on the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) River, stating that they pose a direct threat to India’s national security, water resources, and ecological balance. The proposed mega dam in Tibet, close to the Indian border, could control water flow into Northeast India, increase flood risks, and affect India’s hydropower projects.
India has previously protested China’s unilateral water projects, but Beijing continues large-scale dam construction, intensifying hydro-political tensions between the two nations.
Key Points
- Details of the Chinese Dam Project
- China is constructing a massive hydropower dam near the Great Bend of the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) in Tibet.
- The project is expected to generate 60 GW of electricity, making it one of the largest dams in the world.
- The dam will give China control over the Brahmaputra’s water flow into India and Bangladesh.
- India’s Concerns Over the Project
- Water Security Threat: China could regulate or divert Brahmaputra waters, affecting Northeast India’s irrigation and drinking water supply.
- Flood & Drought Risks: Sudden release or blockage of water could cause flash floods or droughts in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
- Impact on Hydropower Projects: India’s Dibang, Subansiri, and Siang hydropower projects could face operational challenges.
- Seismic & Environmental Risks: The dam is being built in a seismically active zone, increasing the risk of landslides and earthquakes.
- China’s Strategic Control Over Transboundary Rivers: If China militarizes water control, it could be used as a geopolitical weapon against India.
- China’s Past Actions on the Brahmaputra
- China has built multiple hydropower projects on Yarlung Tsangpo without consulting India.
- In 2017, China stopped sharing hydrological data, affecting India’s flood forecasting ability.
- China has been accused of diverting tributaries, impacting water availability in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam.
Prelims Pointers
- Yarlung Tsangpo: The upper course of the Brahmaputra River, originating in Tibet.
- Great Bend: A sharp U-turn in the Brahmaputra River before it enters Arunachal Pradesh.
- Indus Water Treaty: Governs water-sharing between India & Pakistan, but no similar treaty exists between India & China.
- Dibang & Subansiri Projects: India’s major hydropower projects in Arunachal Pradesh.
- McMahon Line: The disputed border between India and China in Arunachal Pradesh.
Mains Pointers
Why Is the Chinese Dam a National Security Threat to India?
- China’s Control Over Water Resources
- If China diverts Brahmaputra waters, it could reduce water availability in Assam & Arunachal Pradesh.
- Control over water flow could give China strategic leverage over India.
- Impact on Northeast India’s Agriculture & Economy
- Assam’s flood-prone regions could face water shortages or sudden flood disasters.
- Agricultural productivity in Northeast India could decline, affecting livelihoods.
- Increased Risk of Flash Floods & Environmental Damage
- Large dams in seismically active zones pose earthquake & landslide risks.
- Sudden dam releases can cause devastating floods in Arunachal Pradesh & Assam.
- Threat to India’s Hydropower & Energy Security
- China’s dam regulation can disrupt Indian hydropower projects, affecting energy supply.
- Delays in India’s hydropower projects could impact industrial and urban development.
- Geopolitical & Strategic Risks
- Water can be used as a weapon during conflicts (e.g., China could release excess water to flood Indian regions).
- China’s lack of transparency in sharing river data limits India’s disaster preparedness.
Challenges in Addressing the Issue
- No Water Treaty Between India & China
- Unlike India-Pakistan (Indus Water Treaty), no formal agreement exists for Brahmaputra water-sharing.
- China’s upper riparian advantage gives it control over river flows.
- Lack of Hydrological Data Sharing
- China periodically stops sharing real-time water flow data, affecting India’s flood warning system.
- India’s Delayed Infrastructure Projects
- India has approved several hydropower projects on the Brahmaputra, but implementation is slow.
- China’s faster infrastructure development puts India at a disadvantage in water negotiations.
- Environmental & Ecological Risks
- Both India & China need to ensure sustainable river management to protect aquatic biodiversity & local communities.
India’s Response & Diplomatic Actions
- Strengthening Bilateral Negotiations
- India has raised the issue through diplomatic channels & UN conventions.
- Calls for a formal Brahmaputra Water Treaty between India, China, & Bangladesh.
- Boosting India’s Hydropower Infrastructure
- Fast-tracking projects like Dibang, Subansiri, and Siang hydropower plants in Arunachal Pradesh.
- Increasing investment in dam storage and flood control measures.
- Improving Satellite-Based Water Monitoring
- ISRO developing satellite tracking of river flow changes in Tibet.
- Strengthening real-time flood warning systems.
- Regional Cooperation with Bangladesh & Southeast Asia
- Collaborating with Bangladesh on transboundary water security.
- Strengthening partnerships with Southeast Asian nations affected by China’s Mekong River dams.
- Developing Counterbalance Strategies
- India’s Dam on Siang River (Lower Brahmaputra) to regulate water flow.
- Strengthening defense & border infrastructure in Arunachal Pradesh.
Way Ahead
✅ Push for a Water Treaty with China – Advocate for a legally binding agreement on Brahmaputra water-sharing.
✅ Accelerate Hydropower Projects – Ensure faster completion of India’s Brahmaputra infrastructure.
✅ Enhance Flood & Water Management Systems – Use satellites, AI, and advanced forecasting for flood control.
✅ Engage in Multilateral Diplomacy – Collaborate with Bangladesh & Southeast Asian countries for a joint response.
✅ Strengthen Defense & Border Security – Monitor China’s strategic projects along India’s northern borders.
Conclusion
China’s mega dam on the Yarlung Tsangpo (Brahmaputra) is a major national security challenge for India. With risks of water scarcity, floods, and geopolitical leverage, India must adopt a multi-pronged strategy of diplomacy, infrastructure development, and technological surveillance. A Brahmaputra Water Treaty, alongside rapid hydropower and defense infrastructure expansion, is critical for securing India’s interests.
3. Guwahati’s Air Quality Deteriorates – Rising Health Concerns
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment, Pollution, Public Health, Urban Governance
Introduction
Guwahati, Assam’s largest city, is witnessing a sharp decline in air quality, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing hazardous levels in several areas. The rise in particulate matter (PM2.5 and PM10) is primarily due to vehicular emissions, industrial pollution, construction activities, and seasonal factors like crop burning and winter smog. Experts warn that prolonged exposure to polluted air can increase respiratory diseases, cardiovascular risks, and environmental degradation.
The situation highlights the urgent need for air pollution control measures, stricter regulations, and improved urban planning to safeguard public health.
Key Points
- Major Causes of Air Pollution in Guwahati
- Vehicular Emissions: High levels of carbon monoxide (CO), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and PM2.5 from cars, trucks, and two-wheelers.
- Construction & Road Dust: Rapid urbanization leads to dust pollution, increasing PM10 levels.
- Industrial Pollution: Factories and brick kilns near the city emit hazardous gases and soot.
- Biomass & Waste Burning: Unregulated burning of garbage, wood, and crop residues worsens air quality.
- Winter Smog & Meteorological Factors: Lower temperatures trap pollutants closer to the ground, increasing exposure.
- Health Risks Associated with Poor Air Quality
- Respiratory Issues: Increased cases of asthma, bronchitis, and lung infections.
- Cardiovascular Diseases: Long-term exposure raises risks of heart attacks, strokes, and high blood pressure.
- Neurological Impact: Studies show air pollution affects brain function, leading to cognitive decline.
- Impact on Children & Elderly: Higher vulnerability to lung damage, reduced immunity, and developmental disorders.
- Air Quality Index (AQI) in Guwahati
- Recent AQI levels in some parts of the city have crossed 300 (Very Poor Category).
- High PM2.5 levels indicate dangerous fine particulate matter inhalation risks.
- Areas like Paltan Bazaar, Khanapara, and Six Mile show consistently poor air quality readings.
Prelims Pointers
- Air Quality Index (AQI): Measures pollutants like PM2.5, PM10, NO2, SO2, CO, and O3 on a scale of 0-500.
- PM2.5 & PM10: Fine particulate pollutants smaller than 2.5 microns and 10 microns, respectively, causing severe health risks.
- National Air Quality Monitoring Programme (NAMP): CPCB initiative to track air pollution in urban centers.
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP): India’s long-term strategy to reduce air pollution in major cities by 20-30% by 2024.
- Odd-Even Rule: Delhi’s traffic restriction scheme to control vehicular emissions.
Mains Pointers
Impact of Rising Air Pollution in Guwahati
- Public Health Crisis
- Increased hospital admissions for lung and heart diseases.
- Rising cases of airborne infections, allergies, and skin diseases.
- Environmental Degradation
- Air pollution reduces visibility, damages vegetation, and accelerates climate change effects.
- Fine dust particles settle on rivers and wetlands, affecting aquatic life.
- Economic & Livelihood Impact
- Declining tourism and outdoor business activities due to worsening air quality.
- Increased healthcare costs and loss of productivity due to air pollution-related illnesses.
- Climate Change & Urban Heat Island Effect
- Pollutants trap heat, increasing local temperatures.
- Reduced rainfall and weather pattern disruptions.
Challenges in Controlling Air Pollution
- Lack of Effective Monitoring
- Limited real-time air quality sensors in Guwahati.
- Inconsistent data reporting by State Pollution Control Board (SPCB).
- Uncontrolled Urbanization & Traffic Congestion
- Increased vehicular density without emission control measures.
- Poor road infrastructure leading to dust and congestion-related pollution.
- Weak Implementation of Pollution Control Laws
- Construction dust and industrial emissions remain poorly regulated.
- Low compliance with pollution control norms in factories and kilns.
- Public Awareness & Behavioral Factors
- Lack of awareness on harmful effects of waste burning and use of fossil fuels.
- Limited adoption of green technologies like electric vehicles and solar energy.
Government Initiatives & Policy Measures
- National Clean Air Programme (NCAP)
- Targets 20-30% reduction in PM2.5 & PM10 levels in major cities by 2024.
- Promotes better air monitoring, urban planning, and public transport policies.
- State-Level Pollution Control Measures
- Assam government to expand green zones and plant more trees.
- Stricter pollution norms for industries and vehicle emissions.
- Odd-Even Traffic Policy (Consideration for Guwahati)
- Implementing Delhi-like traffic restrictions to reduce vehicular emissions.
- Green Urban Development
- Encouraging electric public transport, metro expansion, and cycle-friendly infrastructure.
- Smart Cities Mission & Air Pollution Control
- Plans to integrate urban greenery and smart air purification systems.
Way Ahead
✅ Expand Air Quality Monitoring Network – More real-time sensors in major pollution zones.
✅ Regulate Construction & Industrial Pollution – Enforce strict penalties for non-compliance.
✅ Strengthen Public Transport & Green Mobility – Encourage electric buses, cycle lanes, and pedestrian zones.
✅ Promote Public Awareness & Community Action – Ban garbage burning and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
✅ Increase Green Cover & Urban Forests – Expand tree plantation in Guwahati’s congested areas.
Conclusion
Guwahati’s deteriorating air quality is a serious environmental and public health crisis. Without immediate action, the city risks long-term health, economic, and climate challenges. A combination of policy reforms, technological interventions, and citizen awareness is essential to improve air quality and create a cleaner, healthier urban environment.
4. 864 km of India-Bangladesh Border Yet to Be Fenced – Security Implications
📌 GS Paper 2: Border Management, Internal Security, International Relations
Introduction
The India-Bangladesh border, stretching 4,096 km, is the longest international border that India shares. Despite decades of fencing efforts, 864 km remains unfenced, posing serious security concerns such as illegal migration, smuggling, insurgency, and cross-border crimes.
The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has highlighted delays due to terrain challenges, riverine stretches, and local opposition. Strengthening border security infrastructure is crucial for ensuring India’s internal security and territorial integrity.
Key Points
- Current Status of India-Bangladesh Border Fencing
- Completed Fencing: ~3,232 km fenced with barbed wire and concrete barriers.
- Unfenced Stretches: 864 km remains vulnerable to infiltration and crime.
- Key States Affected: Assam, West Bengal, Meghalaya, Tripura, Mizoram.
- Riverine & Difficult Terrain: Areas along Brahmaputra, Sundarbans, and hilly Northeast regions are hardest to secure.
- Security Threats Due to Unfenced Border
- Illegal Migration: Unchecked entry of Bangladeshi migrants, leading to demographic and political issues.
- Cross-Border Smuggling: Increase in gold, cattle, arms, narcotics, and human trafficking.
- Terrorist Infiltration: Risk of radical groups using the porous border for entry.
- Insurgency & Militant Activities: Groups like ULFA & JMB (Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh) exploit border gaps.
- Impact on Local Law & Order: Rise in criminal activities, fake currency circulation, and border disputes.
- Recent Government Actions
- Comprehensive Border Management Plan (CBMP): Focuses on smart fencing, surveillance drones, and laser technology.
- Use of Advanced Technology: Thermal imaging, motion sensors, and AI-based border patrol systems.
- India-Bangladesh Joint Patrols: Strengthened cooperation between BSF & Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
- Speeding Up Infrastructure Development: More roads, watchtowers, and integrated border posts (IBPs).
Prelims Pointers
- Border Security Force (BSF): India’s primary force for securing international borders.
- Land Boundary Agreement (LBA), 2015: Resolved long-standing enclaves issue between India & Bangladesh.
- Integrated Check Posts (ICPs): Border facilities for trade, transit, and security at key crossings.
- Comprehensive Border Management Plan (CBMP): India’s strategy for tech-driven border security.
- Riverine Borders: Sections along Brahmaputra & Sundarbans are hardest to fence.
Mains Pointers
Security Implications of Unfenced India-Bangladesh Border
- National Security Threats
- Unregulated movement increases risk of terrorism & insurgency.
- Radical outfits like JMB & Al-Qaeda-linked groups could exploit porous stretches.
- Demographic & Political Concerns
- Illegal migration alters voter demographics in border states (Assam, West Bengal, Tripura).
- Leads to ethnic tensions & local conflicts over land and resources.
- Rise in Cross-Border Crimes
- Gold, arms, cattle, and drug smuggling rackets benefit from unfenced areas.
- Human trafficking networks use gaps for illegal immigration.
- Impact on Indo-Bangladesh Relations
- Bangladesh denies large-scale migration, leading to diplomatic tensions.
- India must balance security concerns with economic & strategic ties.
Challenges in Border Management
- Difficult Terrain & Riverine Areas
- Fencing in hilly regions (Meghalaya, Mizoram) and riverine zones (Brahmaputra, Sundarbans) is logistically tough.
- Local Resistance & Land Issues
- Some communities depend on cross-border trade and resist fencing projects.
- Disputes over land ownership & compensation for displaced families.
- Insufficient Manpower & Infrastructure
- BSF faces shortages in personnel & technology deployment.
- Need for more roads, patrol boats, and night surveillance systems.
- Smuggling Cartels & Corruption
- Well-organized smuggling networks use local support to evade border security.
- Cases of corrupt officials aiding illegal activities.
Government Initiatives & Policy Responses
- Comprehensive Border Management Plan (CBMP)
- Smart fencing using AI & motion sensors.
- Expansion of drones, radars, and night vision equipment.
- Border Infrastructure Development Programme (BIDP)
- Upgrading border roads, border outposts (BOPs), and bridges.
- Faster deployment of fencing projects in high-risk areas.
- Cooperation with Bangladesh
- Strengthened intelligence-sharing and joint anti-smuggling operations.
- Diplomatic efforts to prevent illegal migration at the source.
- Citizenship & NRC Reforms
- Implementation of National Register of Citizens (NRC) in Assam.
- Crackdown on fake documents used by illegal migrants.
Way Ahead
✅ Complete Fencing with Advanced Surveillance – Use smart barriers, infrared cameras, and satellite tracking.
✅ Enhance Indo-Bangladesh Cooperation – Strengthen joint border management & anti-smuggling agreements.
✅ Fast-Track Infrastructure & Manpower Deployment – Increase BSF personnel, border roads, and riverine patrol boats.
✅ Community Engagement & Awareness – Educate border populations on security risks & legal trade benefits.
✅ Stronger Legal & Policy Framework – Enforce stricter immigration laws & digital tracking of border activities.
Conclusion
The unfenced 864 km of the India-Bangladesh border remains a major security challenge, enabling illegal migration, smuggling, and insurgency threats. While India has made significant progress in border fencing and surveillance, challenges remain in riverine areas and difficult terrain. A combination of technology-driven border management, diplomatic engagement with Bangladesh, and community cooperation is essential to ensure national security and stability in the border regions.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. PM Modi Calls for a Global AI Governance Framework
Question 1
Which of the following are key concerns related to Artificial Intelligence (AI) that require global governance?
- AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes
- Data privacy and cybersecurity threats
- AI’s potential to replace human decision-making in judiciary
- Weaponization of AI in autonomous military systems
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- All statements are correct – AI poses risks related to misinformation (deepfakes), privacy breaches, judicial decisions, and military applications.
Question 2
Which of the following international initiatives focus on AI governance and ethics?
- EU AI Act
- OECD AI Principles
- G20 AI Framework
- Paris Agreement on AI Ethics
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – The EU AI Act, OECD AI Principles, and G20 AI Framework are key AI governance initiatives.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – There is no Paris Agreement on AI Ethics; the Paris Agreement deals with climate change.
2. Chinese Dam Project Threat to National Security: Gaurav Gogoi Raises Concerns
Question 3
Which of the following rivers originates in Tibet and flows into India before reaching Bangladesh?
- Brahmaputra (Yarlung Tsangpo)
- Indus
- Sutlej
- Teesta
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (c) 1, 3, and 4 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Brahmaputra, Sutlej, and Teesta originate in Tibet and flow into India.
- Indus originates in Tibet but primarily flows into Pakistan, not Bangladesh.
Question 4
What are the potential threats posed by China’s dam construction on the Brahmaputra River?
- Water diversion leading to reduced water availability in India
- Increased risk of flash floods in Arunachal Pradesh and Assam
- Geopolitical tensions between India and Bangladesh
- Earthquake risks due to the dam’s location in a seismic zone
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 4 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- All statements are correct – China’s dam could reduce India’s water supply, cause flood risks, create India-Bangladesh diplomatic issues, and increase seismic risks.
3. Guwahati’s Air Quality Deteriorates – Rising Health Concerns
Question 5
Which of the following pollutants are primarily responsible for Guwahati’s deteriorating air quality?
- PM2.5 and PM10
- Sulfur Dioxide (SO2)
- Nitrogen Oxides (NOx)
- Ozone (O3)
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 3 and 4 only
✅ Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
🔎 Explanation:
- All statements are correct – PM2.5, PM10, SO2, NOx, and O3 contribute to air pollution in Guwahati.
Question 6
Which of the following factors contribute to rising air pollution levels in Guwahati?
- Unregulated construction activities
- High vehicular emissions
- Industrial pollution from factories and kilns
- Excessive afforestation leading to increased CO2 absorption
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1, 2, and 3 only
(c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
(d) 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – Construction dust, traffic emissions, and industrial activities increase pollution.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – Afforestation reduces CO2, not increases it.
4. 864 km of India-Bangladesh Border Yet to Be Fenced – Security Implications
Question 7
Which of the following Indian states share a border with Bangladesh?
- Assam
- Tripura
- Nagaland
- West Bengal
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:
- Nagaland does not share a border with Bangladesh, but Assam, Tripura, and West Bengal do.
Question 8
What are the security risks associated with the unfenced sections of the India-Bangladesh border?
- Illegal migration and demographic changes in border states
- Cross-border smuggling of arms, drugs, and fake currency
- Infiltration of extremist groups from Bangladesh into India
- Disruption of India’s trade relations with Bangladesh
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 – The unfenced border leads to illegal migration, smuggling, and extremist infiltration.
Statement 4 is incorrect – The border issue does not directly disrupt trade, as official border checkpoints regulate trade activities.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The incomplete fencing of the India-Bangladesh border poses serious security challenges, including illegal migration, smuggling, and insurgency threats. Analyze the reasons for the delay in border fencing and suggest measures to enhance border security while maintaining good diplomatic relations with Bangladesh. (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
The India-Bangladesh border, spanning 4,096 km, remains partially unfenced, with 864 km still open, primarily in Assam, West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Tripura. This incomplete fencing facilitates illegal migration, smuggling, and infiltration by extremist groups, posing a national security risk for India. Despite efforts under the Comprehensive Border Management Plan (CBMP), challenges like difficult terrain, riverine stretches, and local resistance have delayed full implementation.
Reasons for Delay in Border Fencing
- Difficult Terrain & Riverine Challenges
- Brahmaputra, Sundarbans, and other rivers make fencing impractical in some areas.
- Dense forests and hills in Meghalaya and Mizoram obstruct construction.
- Local Resistance & Land Ownership Issues
- Border communities rely on cross-border trade and farming, opposing fencing.
- Land disputes and compensation issues delay acquisition for fencing projects.
- Geopolitical & Diplomatic Sensitivities
- Bangladesh considers strict fencing as an unfriendly gesture, impacting bilateral relations.
- India must balance security concerns with trade and regional cooperation.
- Insufficient Infrastructure & Manpower
- BSF faces shortages in personnel, surveillance equipment, and border roads.
- Weak night patrols and outdated technology in unfenced areas.
- Smuggling Networks & Corruption
- Organized cartels exploit unfenced stretches for trafficking in gold, cattle, narcotics, and fake currency.
- Corrupt border officials sometimes allow illegal crossings.
Measures to Enhance Border Security
✅ Completion of Fencing with Smart Technologies
- Use smart fencing (infrared sensors, AI, drones, thermal imaging) in difficult terrain.
- Implement floating fences in riverine areas.
✅ Strengthen Indo-Bangladesh Cooperation
- Enhance joint patrolling with Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB).
- Improve intelligence-sharing on illegal migration and cross-border crimes.
✅ Infrastructure Development & Modernization
- Expand border roads, floodlights, and integrated check posts (ICPs).
- Deploy satellite monitoring for real-time border surveillance.
✅ Comprehensive Border Management Plan (CBMP) Implementation
- Accelerate the pending fencing projects with a deadline-oriented approach.
- Increase BSF personnel and training for border patrolling.
✅ Public Engagement & Compensation for Displaced Communities
- Offer alternative livelihoods to affected locals.
- Conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of national security.
Conclusion
The incomplete India-Bangladesh border fencing remains a critical security challenge. While fencing is essential for curbing illegal migration, smuggling, and extremist infiltration, a multi-pronged approach combining smart technology, diplomatic engagement, and community involvement is needed. Strengthening border management while maintaining strong ties with Bangladesh will ensure security and regional stability.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
at most affordable rate in Assam!
🔔 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
