APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (12/11/2024)
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 (12-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Brahmaputra Board’s High-Powered Meeting on Flood Management
GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management
Introduction:
The Brahmaputra Board recently held a high-powered review meeting chaired by the Union Minister of Jal Shakti, focusing on flood control, river management, and sustainable water resource strategies for the Brahmaputra and Barak river basins. This meeting brought together officials from the Northeast region to address water management challenges in these flood-prone areas.
Key Points:
- The meeting reviewed the Brahmaputra Board’s recruitment, deputation, and remote work policies as part of its strategic transformation plan.
- Key discussions included the allocation of funds under the River Basin Management Scheme and strategies for spring-shed management.
- The Chief Ministers of the Northeastern states participated, indicating strong regional support for flood mitigation and water resource management efforts.
Prelims Pointers:
- Brahmaputra Board: A statutory body under the Ministry of Jal Shakti focused on flood control and river management in Northeast India.
- River Basin Management Scheme: An initiative aimed at managing and preserving river basins through sustainable practices.
- Spring-shed Management: A conservation practice focused on protecting and sustainably managing groundwater sources.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Flood Mitigation: Ensures safety and reduces flood-related losses in Northeast India’s vulnerable regions.
- Water Resource Sustainability: Promotes sustainable water management for long-term resource availability.
- Regional Cooperation: Unites multiple Northeastern states for a coordinated approach to river management.
- Agricultural Support: Stable water systems enhance agricultural productivity, crucial for local livelihoods.
- Disaster Preparedness: Comprehensive flood management improves disaster response and preparedness.
- Challenges:
- Inadequate Funding: Limited funds delay critical infrastructure projects for flood prevention.
- Geographical Constraints: The topography of the Northeast complicates flood management efforts.
- Infrastructure Gaps: Lack of adequate infrastructure hinders effective water management.
- Inter-State Coordination: Varying priorities among states can create delays in project implementation.
- Climate Change Impact: Increased unpredictability in rainfall patterns exacerbates flooding risks.
- Way Ahead:
- Enhanced Funding: Secure continuous funding through public-private partnerships to sustain initiatives.
- Technology Integration: Use GIS, satellite imaging, and real-time monitoring systems for accurate forecasting.
- Infrastructure Development: Invest in resilient infrastructure that can withstand severe flood impacts.
- Capacity Building: Train local agencies in effective flood management and response strategies.
- Policy Harmonization: Align state policies to foster seamless coordination across regional efforts.
Conclusion:
The Brahmaputra Board’s initiatives highlight the importance of flood and water resource management in the Northeast. Through regional cooperation and sustainable practices, the board can mitigate flood impacts and secure water resources for the future.
Topic 2: Rise in Ocean Temperatures and Global Climate Impacts
GS Paper 3: Environment, Climate Change
Introduction:
The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) recently reported that 2024 is set to become the hottest year on record. Driven by an intense El Niño event and rising greenhouse gas concentrations, global temperatures have reached unprecedented levels, impacting marine and terrestrial ecosystems worldwide.
Key Points:
- The average global temperature for the year has exceeded the pre-industrial baseline by 1.54°C.
- Rising ocean temperatures have led to higher sea levels and intensified extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and cyclones.
- The report warns of the increasing frequency of climate-induced disasters affecting vulnerable communities worldwide.
Prelims Pointers:
- El Niño: A climate pattern that causes periodic warming of ocean surface temperatures, impacting weather globally.
- Paris Agreement: An international treaty aiming to limit global warming to below 2°C, with an aspirational target of 1.5°C.
- WMO: The World Meteorological Organization, which monitors and reports on global climate and weather-related issues.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Climate Resilience: Increasing temperatures highlight the urgency of resilience strategies to adapt to climate changes.
- Biodiversity Conservation: Ocean warming threatens marine life, affecting food security and biodiversity.
- Water Security: Glacial melting and sea level rise endanger freshwater availability, especially for coastal communities.
- Economic Stability: Climate-induced disasters lead to financial losses, impacting economies worldwide.
- Global Cooperation: Requires nations to collaborate in reducing greenhouse gas emissions for climate stability.
- Challenges:
- Insufficient Climate Financing: Developing nations face funding gaps for implementing climate adaptation projects.
- Technological Constraints: Lack of advanced technology limits climate mitigation and adaptation efforts.
- Policy Inefficiencies: Varying national policies slow down global climate action and reduce effectiveness.
- Public Awareness: Limited awareness hampers community involvement in climate actions.
- Long-Term Impacts: Climate change has irreversible effects, such as species extinction and habitat loss.
- Way Ahead:
- Increase Climate Financing: Developed nations should meet financial commitments for global climate adaptation.
- Boost Research and Innovation: Invest in technology to improve climate resilience and carbon sequestration.
- Strengthen International Agreements: Enhance the effectiveness of treaties like the Paris Agreement.
- Community Engagement: Conduct awareness campaigns on the importance of local climate action.
- Adaptive Policy Frameworks: Develop flexible policies to accommodate changing climate scenarios.
Conclusion:
The rising temperatures and extreme climate events emphasize the need for immediate global action. Sustainable policies, innovation, and international cooperation are essential to mitigate climate impacts and protect vulnerable ecosystems.
Topic 3: India’s Northeast – Security and Development Challenges
GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Border Management
Introduction:
Lt. Gen. (Retd) Rana Pratap Kalita highlighted the multifaceted security challenges facing India’s Northeast region, including unresolved border disputes, insurgency, and growing cyber threats. Security and stability are essential for the Northeast to realize its development potential, given its strategic location and unique demographic composition.
Key Points:
- Key challenges identified include the unresolved China border dispute, regional insurgency, and proximity to drug trafficking routes.
- Lt. Gen. Kalita stressed the importance of the Siliguri Corridor, a vital link connecting the Northeast to the rest of India, which is threatened by increased Chinese influence in Myanmar and Bangladesh.
- Emerging cyber threats, including misinformation, were also cited as significant challenges to regional security.
Prelims Pointers:
- Siliguri Corridor: A narrow stretch of land linking Northeast India to the rest of the country, often called the “Chicken’s Neck.”
- Cyber Security: The protection of internet-connected systems and sensitive information from cyberattacks.
- Insurgency in Northeast: Insurgency movements that have impacted stability, particularly in Assam, Nagaland, and Manipur.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Strategic Location: The Northeast’s borders with China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh make it critical for national security.
- Resource Potential: Rich in natural resources, the region holds potential for economic development.
- Cultural Unity: Strengthening integration between the Northeast and mainland India fosters national unity.
- Geopolitical Stability: Ensuring stability in the region supports India’s Act East policy.
- Regional Development: A secure environment enables infrastructure and social development investments.
- Challenges:
- Cross-Border Threats: Border disputes with China and instability in Myanmar increase security risks.
- Drug Trafficking: The proximity to the Golden Triangle exacerbates drug trafficking and its social impacts.
- Cyber Threats: Growing cyber-attacks and misinformation can destabilize communities and disrupt administration.
- Insurgency: Residual insurgency in areas like Nagaland and Manipur complicates regional governance.
- Lack of Infrastructure: Insufficient infrastructure hampers connectivity and development.
- Way Ahead:
- Enhanced Border Security: Strengthen infrastructure along the border with China and Myanmar.
- Cyber Security Measures: Invest in robust cybersecurity infrastructure to prevent misinformation and cyber-attacks.
- Promote Development: Invest in infrastructure to improve connectivity and create economic opportunities.
- Diplomatic Engagement: Engage with neighboring countries to reduce cross-border security threats.
- Community Involvement: Involve local communities in security planning to improve intelligence and gain trust.
Conclusion:
Addressing the security challenges in Northeast India is crucial for achieving peace and stability in the region. Coordinated efforts in infrastructure, cybersecurity, and cross-border diplomacy will ensure the Northeast’s development and strengthen India’s strategic position.
Topic 4: The Assam By-Elections – Electoral Dynamics and Regional Politics
GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance
Introduction:
The Assam by-elections for five Legislative Assembly constituencies have drawn considerable attention, with intense campaigning across the Dholai, Sidli, Bongaigaon, Behali, and Samaguri constituencies. The election results will reflect current public sentiment and influence regional political dynamics.
Key Points:
- A total of 34 candidates contested the five seats, with prominent party campaigns led by the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) and the Indian National Congress (INC).
- This election provides insight into voter priorities post-pandemic, as issues like inflation, employment, and local development were prominently discussed.
- The by-elections will serve as a precursor to the 2026 state elections, influencing party strategies and candidate selection.
Prelims Pointers:
- Representation of the People Act, 1951: Governs the conduct of elections in India, including guidelines for campaigning.
- By-Elections: Elections held to fill vacancies that arise between general elections.
- Electoral Process: Campaigning rules, voting process, and result counting as per the Election Commission of India.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Public Opinion Reflection: By-elections provide insight into the electorate’s current concerns and political inclinations.
- Policy Evaluation: Acts as a feedback mechanism for evaluating government policies.
- Regional Stability: Ensures continued representation in state governance.
- Strengthening Democracy: Frequent elections uphold democratic practices, providing citizens with a voice.
- Political Strategy: By-election outcomes influence party tactics and alliances for future state and national elections.
- Challenges:
- Voter Apathy: By-elections often see lower voter turnout, impacting representativeness.
- Campaign Financing: High campaign costs can limit competition and influence smaller parties.
- Polarization: Intense campaigning can lead to communal and political polarization.
- Regional Development Gaps: Candidates may focus on immediate electoral gains over long-term regional development.
- Administrative Challenges: Organizing elections in remote regions with limited infrastructure can be challenging.
- Way Ahead:
- Encouraging Voter Turnout: Campaigns to increase awareness and participation in by-elections.
- Transparent Campaign Financing: Enforce regulations to ensure fair competition among candidates.
- Strengthen Electoral Infrastructure: Improve facilities to ensure smooth conduct in remote areas.
- Promote Issue-Based Campaigning: Encourage parties to focus on policy discussions rather than divisive issues.
- Regular Voter Feedback Mechanisms: Enhance mechanisms for continuous engagement with voters on key issues.
Conclusion:
The Assam by-elections are a critical indicator of public sentiment and regional political dynamics. Ensuring fair, transparent elections can strengthen democratic governance and guide future policy directions in Assam.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Brahmaputra Board’s High-Powered Meeting on Flood Management
Question 3: Which of the following statements regarding the Brahmaputra Board is/are correct?
- The Brahmaputra Board is a statutory body under the Ministry of Jal Shakti responsible for flood control and river management in Northeast India.
- The River Basin Management Scheme is an initiative by the Brahmaputra Board to address sustainable water management.
- Spring-shed management involves building dams across river springs to control water flow.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: B. 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The Brahmaputra Board is a statutory body under the Ministry of Jal Shakti, primarily tasked with flood management in the Northeast.
- Statement 2 is correct. The River Basin Management Scheme focuses on sustainable water resource management for river basins.
- Statement 3 is incorrect. Spring-shed management involves conservation practices to protect and sustain groundwater recharge areas, not dam construction.
Thus, the correct answer is B.
Topic 2: Rise in Ocean Temperatures and Global Climate Impacts
Question 4: With reference to the climate phenomenon El Niño, consider the following statements:
- El Niño leads to periodic warming of the Pacific Ocean surface, influencing global weather patterns.
- El Niño generally results in increased rainfall over Southeast Asia and Australia.
- Rising ocean temperatures due to El Niño contribute to intensified weather events like cyclones and droughts.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. El Niño causes warming of the Pacific Ocean’s surface, affecting weather globally.
- Statement 2 is incorrect. El Niño generally leads to drier-than-average conditions in Southeast Asia and Australia, not increased rainfall.
- Statement 3 is correct. Rising ocean temperatures from El Niño contribute to extreme weather events, such as cyclones and droughts.
Thus, the correct answer is A.
Topic 3: India’s Northeast – Security and Development Challenges
Question 1: With reference to security challenges in India’s Northeast, consider the following statements:
- The Siliguri Corridor is strategically important as it connects Northeast India with the rest of the country.
- Proximity to the Golden Triangle makes the region susceptible to drug trafficking issues.
- The insurgency in the Northeast has largely been eliminated, with no residual impact on regional governance.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. The Siliguri Corridor, also known as the “Chicken’s Neck,” is a narrow stretch that connects Northeast India to the rest of the country, making it strategically important.
- Statement 2 is correct. The Northeast’s proximity to the Golden Triangle (Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand) makes it vulnerable to drug trafficking.
- Statement 3 is incorrect. Although insurgency has decreased, some residual impact remains, affecting governance in certain areas like Nagaland and Manipur.
Thus, the correct answer is A.
Topic 4: The Assam By-Elections – Electoral Dynamics and Regional Politics
Question 2: Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding by-elections in India?
- By-elections are held to fill vacancies that arise between regular elections.
- The Representation of the People Act, 1951, governs the conduct of by-elections in India.
- By-elections are mandatory for all vacant positions in state legislative assemblies, irrespective of the remaining term.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3
Answer: A. 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct. By-elections are held to fill vacancies that occur between regular elections due to reasons such as resignation, death, or disqualification of a member.
- Statement 2 is correct. The Representation of the People Act, 1951, governs the conduct of elections, including by-elections.
Statement 3 is incorrect. By-elections are not mandatory for vacancies if the remaining term of the position is less than a certain period, typically six months.
Thus, the correct answer is A.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Question: Analyze the strategic importance of Northeast India in the context of national security and regional development. Discuss the key challenges faced by the region and suggest measures to address security issues while promoting sustainable development. (250 words)
Model Answer:
Introduction:
Northeast India holds strategic importance due to its borders with China, Myanmar, and Bangladesh, and its rich cultural and natural resources. Despite its potential, the region faces significant security and development challenges, impacting both national integrity and regional growth.
Body:
Strategic Importance of Northeast India:
- Geopolitical Significance: The region is crucial for India’s Look East and Act East policies, linking it with Southeast Asia.
- Natural Resources: Rich in oil, gas, and forest resources, the Northeast supports India’s energy needs and biodiversity.
- Cultural Integration: Strengthening ties with the Northeast enhances India’s diversity and unity.
- Border Security: The Siliguri Corridor, or “Chicken’s Neck,” is a vital land link to the region, essential for maintaining territorial integrity.
Challenges:
- Insurgency and Cross-Border Threats: Insurgent groups and cross-border infiltration threaten peace and stability.
- Drug Trafficking: Proximity to the Golden Triangle exposes the region to drug trafficking and related social issues.
- Infrastructure Deficits: Limited road and rail connectivity hinder economic integration and development.
- Cyber Threats: Increased cyber-attacks and misinformation campaigns impact regional stability.
- Environmental Degradation: Unregulated exploitation of resources has led to deforestation and ecological imbalance.
Measures for Security and Sustainable Development:
- Enhanced Border Infrastructure: Strengthen road, rail, and digital infrastructure along the border areas for rapid response and economic integration.
- Counter-Insurgency Efforts: Employ intelligence and community-based approaches to curb insurgency and foster trust.
- Promote Sustainable Development: Implement eco-friendly projects to balance development with environmental conservation.
- Community Engagement: Involve local communities in security and development programs to build trust and gather grassroots intelligence.
- Cybersecurity Enhancements: Strengthen regional cyber infrastructure to counter misinformation and secure critical systems.
Conclusion:
A secure and developed Northeast India is vital for national stability and growth. By addressing security concerns alongside sustainable development, India can unlock the region’s potential, fostering regional stability and integration with the rest of the country.
✨ 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
