APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/02/2025)
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 (13-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. 16 Years On, No End to Guwahati’s Drinking Water Woes
📌 GS Paper 2 & 3: Urban Governance, Infrastructure, Public Health, Water Resource Management
Introduction
Guwahati, Assam’s largest city, has been struggling with drinking water shortages for over 16 years, despite multiple government projects aimed at improving supply. The city’s growing population, lack of proper water distribution networks, and delays in infrastructure development have exacerbated the crisis. Many households still depend on private tankers, groundwater extraction, and untreated river water, posing serious public health and environmental risks.
Key Points
- Reasons for Guwahati’s Drinking Water Crisis
- Incomplete Water Supply Projects: Government projects started over a decade ago remain unfinished due to bureaucratic delays and lack of funds.
- Rapid Urbanization & Population Growth: Guwahati’s population has surged, outstripping the existing water infrastructure.
- Over-Extraction of Groundwater: Excessive use of tube wells and borewells is depleting groundwater levels.
- Pollution of Water Sources: Contamination of the Brahmaputra River and Deepor Beel has reduced safe drinking water availability.
- Inefficient Water Distribution System: Leakage, pipeline damage, and lack of maintenance cause high water loss.
- Health & Environmental Concerns
- Waterborne Diseases: Cases of diarrhea, cholera, and typhoid are rising due to contaminated drinking water.
- Depleting Groundwater Table: Unregulated extraction is leading to aquifer depletion and land subsidence risks.
- Pollution & Wastewater Mismanagement: Industrial and sewage waste is polluting surface water sources, making treatment costlier.
- Government Projects & Their Challenges
- Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) Water Supply Project: Aimed to provide 24/7 piped water supply, but delays in completion have stalled its benefits.
- Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT): Plans to improve urban water supply infrastructure, but implementation is slow.
- Smart City Water Initiatives: Focuses on smart water metering and leak detection, but remains in early stages.
Prelims Pointers
- AMRUT Scheme: Launched in 2015, focuses on urban water supply & sanitation infrastructure.
- JICA Water Project: Funded by Japan, aims to provide uninterrupted piped water supply to Guwahati.
- Deepor Beel: Ramsar site near Guwahati, faces severe water pollution from urban waste.
- Brahmaputra River Pollution: Contaminated due to industrial waste, untreated sewage, and plastic pollution.
- Groundwater Crisis in India: Over 60% of India’s drinking water comes from groundwater sources, leading to over-extraction risks.
Mains Pointers
Challenges in Providing Clean Drinking Water in Guwahati
- Infrastructure Deficiency & Delayed Projects
- Large water supply projects remain incomplete due to funding shortages and political delays.
- Lack of efficient pipeline networks results in high water wastage and leaks.
- Urbanization & Population Growth Pressure
- The city’s population growth has outpaced infrastructure expansion, causing severe supply-demand gaps.
- Rising illegal settlements lack basic water access.
- Water Pollution & Contaminated Sources
- Industrial and sewage discharge into the Brahmaputra River & Deepor Beel affects drinking water safety.
- Poor waste management and lack of sewage treatment plants worsen pollution.
- Groundwater Over-Exploitation
- Excessive use of borewells and tube wells is depleting groundwater levels, increasing future water security risks.
- Groundwater contamination with arsenic and fluoride is an emerging concern.
- Lack of Public Awareness & Water Conservation Efforts
- Poor adoption of rainwater harvesting & water recycling practices in urban areas.
- Excessive wastage of water in households and industries.
Government Initiatives & Possible Solutions
✅ Expediting Completion of Water Supply Projects
- Ensure timely completion of JICA-funded projects and proper fund utilization.
- Improve coordination between state agencies and urban local bodies.
✅ Smart Water Management & Technology Integration
- Install smart water meters to reduce wastage.
- Use GIS mapping and AI-based monitoring to detect leaks and illegal water connections.
✅ Alternative Water Sources & Sustainable Extraction
- Implement rainwater harvesting in commercial and residential buildings.
- Develop desalination and water recycling plants to reduce dependence on freshwater sources.
✅ Improving Waste Management & Water Treatment Facilities
- Strengthen sewage treatment plants (STPs) and industrial wastewater regulations.
- Restore natural wetlands like Deepor Beel to act as natural water filters.
✅ Public Awareness & Behavioral Changes
- Promote water conservation campaigns in schools and communities.
- Encourage household-level water-saving technologies (low-flow taps, dual-flush toilets).
Way Ahead
✅ Adopt a Holistic Approach – Combine policy, technology, and community participation.
✅ Implement a Water Security Framework – Establish long-term urban water management plans.
✅ Enhance Multi-Stakeholder Collaboration – Strengthen government, private sector, and public engagement in water conservation.
✅ Ensure Climate Resilience – Integrate climate change adaptation strategies into water infrastructure planning.
Conclusion
Despite several water supply projects, Guwahati’s drinking water crisis persists due to mismanagement, pollution, and infrastructure delays. A comprehensive strategy focusing on project execution, alternative water sources, and community awareness is needed. Only a sustainable and technology-driven approach can ensure clean and safe drinking water for all residents.
2. Rural Development Project Initiated in Nalbari District
📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, Rural Development, Infrastructure, Employment
📌 GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Sustainable Development, Rural Economy
Introduction
The Assam government has launched a comprehensive rural development project in Nalbari district to improve agriculture, employment, infrastructure, and social welfare. The initiative aims to boost rural livelihoods, strengthen self-help groups (SHGs), and improve basic amenities such as roads, irrigation, healthcare, and digital connectivity.
This project is part of Assam’s broader efforts under PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY), MGNREGA, and Jal Jeevan Mission, ensuring sustainable rural growth and poverty alleviation.
Key Points
- Objectives of the Rural Development Project
- Enhance Agricultural Productivity: Introduce modern irrigation techniques, organic farming, and agri-business training.
- Create Employment Opportunities: Strengthen self-help groups (SHGs) and promote rural entrepreneurship.
- Improve Infrastructure: Build better rural roads, irrigation networks, and market linkages.
- Ensure Social Welfare & Digital Inclusion: Expand healthcare, education, and internet connectivity.
- Key Components of the Project
- MGNREGA Expansion: Provides more job opportunities in rural construction and afforestation.
- Farming & Livelihood Support: Encourages cooperative farming, dairy, fisheries, and skill training for youth.
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) Implementation: Ensures tap water connections to rural households.
- PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY): Constructs all-weather rural roads for better connectivity.
- Expected Benefits for Nalbari District
- Higher farm incomes through better irrigation, seeds, and technology adoption.
- Increased rural employment via MGNREGA, SHGs, and agri-processing units.
- Reduced migration to cities as villages become self-sustaining.
- Improved healthcare & sanitation in rural areas.
Prelims Pointers
- MGNREGA (2005): Guarantees 100 days of wage employment to rural households.
- PM Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY): Aims to provide all-weather road connectivity to rural areas.
- Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Women-led community groups that promote rural entrepreneurship and savings.
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM): Ensures universal access to clean drinking water in rural India.
- Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY): Crop insurance scheme to protect farmers from climate risks.
Mains Pointers
Challenges in Rural Development in Assam
- Poor Rural Infrastructure & Connectivity
- Many villages lack paved roads, proper drainage, and storage facilities.
- Weak market access leads to post-harvest losses for farmers.
- Limited Irrigation Facilities
- Heavy dependence on monsoon rainfall affects crop production.
- Lack of modern irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems.
- Unemployment & Outmigration
- Rural youth migrate to cities due to lack of local employment.
- Limited access to non-farm jobs and skill training programs.
- Low Agricultural Productivity
- Small landholdings and traditional farming methods limit output.
- Poor access to credit, fertilizers, and advanced machinery.
- Inadequate Digital & Financial Inclusion
- Many villages still lack internet connectivity and banking services.
- Farmers struggle to access government schemes and online marketplaces.
Government Initiatives for Rural Development
✅ Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana – Gramin (PMAY-G) – Provides affordable rural housing.
✅ Digital India in Rural Areas – Expands internet and mobile banking access.
✅ E-NAM (National Agricultural Market) – Connects farmers with digital agri-markets.
✅ Rural Skill Development (DDU-GKY) – Trains rural youth in non-farm job sectors.
✅ Panchayati Raj Strengthening – Empowers local governance and rural planning.
Way Ahead
✅ Fast-track Rural Infrastructure Projects – Improve rural roads, irrigation, and power supply.
✅ Encourage Agri-Entrepreneurship – Set up food processing units and cooperative farming.
✅ Strengthen Digital & Financial Inclusion – Expand mobile banking and internet services in villages.
✅ Enhance Skill Training & Job Creation – Promote rural industries like handicrafts, tourism, and dairy farming.
✅ Community Participation & Monitoring – Ensure local Panchayats and SHGs actively manage development projects.
Conclusion
The rural development project in Nalbari district is a step toward sustainable growth, employment generation, and improved quality of life in Assam’s villages. By investing in infrastructure, agriculture, and skill development, Assam can achieve self-reliant rural communities and inclusive economic progress.
3. Assam’s Role in Strengthening India-ASEAN Ties – CM’s Meeting with Singapore Deputy PM
📌 GS Paper 2: International Relations, Act East Policy, Regional Cooperation
📌 GS Paper 3: Trade, Infrastructure, Economic Growth
Introduction
Assam’s Chief Minister recently met with Singapore’s Deputy Prime Minister to discuss trade, investment, and regional connectivity, highlighting Assam’s role as a gateway for India’s Act East Policy. With strong cultural, historical, and economic ties to Southeast Asia, Assam is positioning itself as a key hub for India-ASEAN trade and strategic engagement.
The discussions focused on boosting business ties, infrastructure development, skill training, and direct connectivity between Assam and ASEAN nations, particularly Singapore. This aligns with India’s broader Act East Policy, which aims to strengthen ties with ASEAN and enhance Northeast India’s economic integration with the region.
Key Points
- Strategic Importance of Assam in India-ASEAN Relations
- Assam serves as the commercial and logistical hub for Northeast India.
- Geographic proximity to Myanmar, Bangladesh, and ASEAN nations enhances regional trade potential.
- Home to major industries, oil refineries, tea plantations, and emerging IT parks, attracting foreign investors.
- Key Outcomes of Assam-Singapore Meeting
- Investment & Trade Expansion: Singaporean firms to invest in IT, tourism, and green energy projects in Assam.
- Infrastructure Development: Singapore to support smart city projects and urban planning in Guwahati.
- Direct Air & Maritime Connectivity: Talks on direct Guwahati-Singapore flights and improved cargo routes.
- Skill Development & Education Partnerships: Singapore to train Assam’s youth in advanced vocational skills.
- Significance of Assam in Act East Policy
- Assam is a key player in India’s land and water connectivity projects with ASEAN.
- Boosts cross-border trade through Bangladesh and Myanmar, improving regional economic ties.
- Facilitates cultural diplomacy through shared history, Buddhism, and trade relations.
Prelims Pointers
- Act East Policy (2014): India’s strategy to enhance engagement with ASEAN & East Asia.
- India-ASEAN Trade Agreement (2010): Promotes tariff reductions and economic integration.
- Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Project: Improves India-Myanmar connectivity, benefiting Assam.
- India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway: Expected to enhance Assam’s trade access to Southeast Asia.
- Singapore-India Skill Development Partnership: Collaboration to train Indian workers in high-tech sectors.
Mains Pointers
Why is Assam Important for Strengthening India-ASEAN Relations?
- Strategic Location & Connectivity Potential
- Assam connects India’s landlocked Northeast to Southeast Asia via Myanmar & Bangladesh.
- Key projects like Kaladan Corridor & Trilateral Highway enhance Assam’s trade role.
- Economic & Trade Opportunities
- Assam is India’s largest tea-producing state, exporting to ASEAN markets.
- Home to petroleum, natural gas, and agro-based industries, attracting foreign investments.
- Emerging IT & startup ecosystem to facilitate Singapore-Assam business ties.
- Cultural & Historical Ties with ASEAN
- Buddhism and shared migration history create a strong people-to-people connection.
- Assam’s tribal culture has historical links with Myanmar, Thailand, and Indonesia.
- Infrastructure & Logistics Expansion
- Developing river ports on Brahmaputra to enable direct cargo movement to ASEAN.
- Guwahati planned as a regional air cargo hub for exports to Singapore & Southeast Asia.
Challenges in Assam’s ASEAN Integration
- Connectivity Gaps & Infrastructure Bottlenecks
- Delayed projects like the India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway slow trade growth.
- Need for more efficient border checkpoints and better transport logistics.
- Security Issues & Political Instability
- Ethnic tensions, insurgency, and border conflicts with Myanmar create challenges.
- Ensuring safe trade corridors and stable investment climate is crucial.
- Limited Private Sector Investment
- Assam needs stronger policy support to attract Singaporean & ASEAN investors.
- Lack of awareness among local businesses about ASEAN market opportunities.
- Environmental & Social Concerns
- Large infrastructure projects must balance economic growth with ecological sustainability.
- Impact on local communities, biodiversity, and river ecosystems needs careful management.
Government Initiatives to Boost Assam’s ASEAN Integration
- Act East Policy Implementation
- Focus on improving Assam’s air, road, and waterway connectivity with ASEAN.
- North East Economic Corridor (NEEC)
- Part of Bharatmala Project, enhancing Assam’s trade highways to Southeast Asia.
- Bilateral Trade Agreements with ASEAN Nations
- India working on revised trade agreements with Thailand, Myanmar, and Singapore.
- Special Economic Zones (SEZs) in Assam
- Plans for export-oriented industries and logistics parks in Assam.
- India-Singapore Skill Development Program
- Singapore collaborating on technical training institutes in Northeast India.
Way Ahead
✅ Fast-track Infrastructure & Connectivity Projects – Complete Trilateral Highway, Kaladan Corridor & border trade zones.
✅ Strengthen Diplomatic & Economic Engagements – More bilateral summits, trade fairs, and business forums.
✅ Enhance Private Sector Participation – Provide tax incentives & investment-friendly policies for ASEAN companies.
✅ Sustainable Development in Border Trade Zones – Promote eco-friendly industrial projects & responsible tourism.
✅ People-to-People Ties & Cultural Exchange – Expand student exchange programs & tourism collaborations with ASEAN.
Conclusion
Assam is key to India’s deeper engagement with ASEAN, serving as a bridge for economic, cultural, and strategic partnerships. The recent meeting between Assam’s CM and Singapore’s Deputy PM signals strong interest in boosting trade, infrastructure, and education collaborations. If supported by robust policies and infrastructure investments, Assam can emerge as a major player in India’s Act East strategy, benefiting both Northeast India and ASEAN nations.
4. Centre Plans Stringent Measures to Tackle Illegal Wildlife Trade in Northeast
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment, Biodiversity, Wildlife Protection, Internal Security
Introduction
The illegal wildlife trade in Northeast India has emerged as a major environmental and security concern, with the region serving as a critical transit hub for trafficking endangered species, exotic animals, and wildlife products. The Union Government has announced stringent measures to curb this illegal trade, focusing on strengthening enforcement, cross-border cooperation, and conservation efforts.
Northeast India, due to its proximity to Myanmar, China, and Southeast Asia, is a key part of the global wildlife smuggling network. The government aims to strengthen laws, enhance border surveillance, and increase coordination with international agencies to combat the crisis.
Key Points
- Why is the Northeast a Hub for Illegal Wildlife Trade?
- Geographical Location: Shares international borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh, Bhutan, and China, making it an ideal transit point.
- Rich Biodiversity: Home to rare species like pangolins, rhinos, tokay geckos, and clouded leopards, which are heavily poached.
- Weak Law Enforcement & Open Borders: Lack of strict border checks facilitates wildlife trafficking to Southeast Asia.
- High Demand for Exotic Pets & Traditional Medicine: Traffickers smuggle animals for illegal pet markets, Chinese medicine, and luxury items.
- Government’s Stringent Measures to Curb Illegal Wildlife Trade
- Amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972:
- Stricter penalties for poaching, illegal trading, and smuggling of endangered species.
- Improved protection for exotic species under new legal provisions.
- Enhanced Border Surveillance & Coordination with Myanmar, Bangladesh:
- Strengthening wildlife crime units at international borders.
- Increased use of drones, satellite tracking, and biometric scanning for monitoring trade routes.
- Special Task Forces & Forest Intelligence Units:
- Formation of dedicated anti-wildlife trafficking teams under Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).
- Strengthening collaboration between BSF, Assam Rifles, and local police.
- Community Involvement in Conservation Efforts:
- Engaging local tribal communities in wildlife protection and eco-tourism projects.
- Expanding alternative livelihood programs to discourage poaching.
- Amendments to the Wildlife Protection Act (WPA), 1972:
- Key Trafficked Wildlife Species in the Northeast
- Indian Pangolin (highly valued for its scales in Chinese medicine).
- Tokay Gecko (believed to have medicinal properties, trafficked to China & Vietnam).
- One-horned Rhinoceros (poached for its horn, sold in black markets).
- Turtles & Tortoises (smuggled as exotic pets to Southeast Asia).
- Elephant Ivory & Tiger Parts (used in luxury goods and traditional medicine).
Prelims Pointers
- Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Key legislation protecting endangered species in India.
- Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB): National agency under MoEFCC to combat wildlife crime.
- CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species): Regulates global trade in endangered species.
- TRAFFIC India: Works to monitor and reduce illegal wildlife trade in India.
- Manas & Kaziranga National Parks: UNESCO-listed biodiversity hotspots in Assam.
Mains Pointers
Why is Illegal Wildlife Trade a Major Concern?
- Threat to Biodiversity & Ecosystem Imbalance
- Loss of species disrupts food chains and ecological balance.
- Endangered species like rhinos, pangolins, and clouded leopards face extinction.
- Link to Organized Crime & Terrorism
- Militant groups use wildlife trade as a source of funding (e.g., Myanmar-based insurgents smuggling pangolins).
- Links with drug trafficking, arms smuggling, and human trafficking.
- Economic & Ecotourism Losses
- Poaching and habitat destruction harm Northeast India’s tourism industry.
- Illegal trade deprives local communities of sustainable livelihood opportunities.
- Cross-Border Challenges & Weak Law Enforcement
- Smuggling networks operate across India, Myanmar, China, and Southeast Asia.
- Limited coordination between forest officials, border forces, and customs agencies.
Challenges in Controlling Wildlife Trade
- Porous Borders & Limited Surveillance
- Many remote border areas lack proper monitoring infrastructure.
- Myanmar border serves as an illegal transit route for wildlife trafficking.
- High Demand in International Markets
- Wildlife parts and exotic animals are sold for huge profits in China, Vietnam, and Thailand.
- Traditional medicine and pet trade fuel continuous demand.
- Lack of Awareness & Community Participation
- Many local communities are unaware of wildlife laws and conservation efforts.
- Poverty and lack of alternative jobs push people into poaching and trafficking.
- Corruption & Weak Implementation of Laws
- Cases of corrupt officials aiding wildlife smugglers.
- Conviction rates for wildlife crimes remain low due to procedural delays.
Government Initiatives & International Cooperation
✅ Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB) – Coordinates anti-trafficking operations across states.
✅ Interpol’s Operation Thunder – Global effort to combat wildlife smuggling.
✅ Operation Save Kurma – Special crackdown on turtle smuggling networks in India.
✅ Integrated Border Surveillance (IBS) Project – Enhances security along Indo-Myanmar border.
✅ Strengthening India’s CITES Compliance – Strict monitoring of international wildlife trade.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthen Border Control & Intelligence Sharing – Use drones, AI-based tracking, and cross-border cooperation.
✅ Community-Based Conservation Programs – Involve tribal communities in eco-tourism and anti-poaching efforts.
✅ Harsher Punishments & Legal Reforms – Increase jail terms and fines for wildlife traffickers.
✅ International Partnerships Against Trafficking – Collaborate with Myanmar, China, and ASEAN to disrupt smuggling networks.
✅ Improve Forest Management & Anti-Poaching Patrols – Deploy special task forces and technology-driven monitoring systems.
Conclusion
The illegal wildlife trade in Northeast India is a critical issue, affecting biodiversity, security, and regional stability. The government’s new measures aim to strengthen enforcement, cross-border cooperation, and conservation efforts. A multi-pronged approach combining law enforcement, technology, and community participation is key to eradicating wildlife trafficking and protecting India’s rich biodiversity.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. 16 Years On, No End to Guwahati’s Drinking Water Woes
Question 1
Which of the following factors are responsible for Guwahati’s ongoing drinking water crisis?
- Incomplete water supply projects
- Over-extraction of groundwater
- Pollution of the Brahmaputra River and Deepor Beel
- Surplus water availability leading to wastage
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 – Project delays, overuse of groundwater, and water pollution are major contributors to the crisis.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – The crisis is due to water shortages, not surplus availability.
Question 2
Which of the following government initiatives are aimed at improving urban water supply in India?
- Atal Mission for Rejuvenation and Urban Transformation (AMRUT)
- Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)
- Smart Cities Mission
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
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 – AMRUT, JJM, and Smart Cities Mission focus on urban water management and infrastructure.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – PMKSY focuses on irrigation for agriculture, not urban drinking water supply.
2. Rural Development Project Initiated in Nalbari District
Question 3
Which of the following schemes are related to rural development and employment generation in India?
- Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA)
- Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
- Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Grameen Kaushalya Yojana (DDU-GKY)
- Startup India Scheme
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 – MGNREGA, PMGSY, and DDU-GKY aim at rural development, infrastructure, and skill training.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – Startup India is focused on entrepreneurship, not rural development.
Question 4
Which of the following are key objectives of the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM)?
- Providing piped water connections to rural households
- Encouraging rainwater harvesting and groundwater recharge
- Setting up desalination plants for seawater purification
- Improving water quality monitoring systems
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 – JJM focuses on providing tap water, water conservation, and quality monitoring.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Desalination is not part of JJM; it is more relevant for coastal states.
3. Assam’s Role in Strengthening India-ASEAN Ties – CM’s Meeting with Singapore Deputy PM
Question 5
Which of the following statements regarding India’s Act East Policy are correct?
- It aims to strengthen India’s economic and strategic ties with ASEAN and East Asia.
- It focuses on improving connectivity and trade in Northeast India.
- It was launched in 1992 as the Look East Policy, later upgraded to Act East Policy in 2014.
- It is limited to trade agreements and does not include cultural or security cooperation.
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: (b) 1, 2, and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – Act East Policy promotes trade, connectivity, and cultural ties with ASEAN.
- Statement 4 is incorrect – The policy includes security and cultural cooperation, not just trade.
Question 6
Which of the following connectivity projects are aimed at linking India’s Northeast with ASEAN nations?
- Kaladan Multi-Modal Transit Transport Project
- India-Myanmar-Thailand Trilateral Highway
- North-South Transport Corridor
- Sittwe Port Development Project
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 – Kaladan, Trilateral Highway, and Sittwe Port aim to improve Northeast-ASEAN connectivity.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – The North-South Transport Corridor links India to Russia, not ASEAN.
4. Centre Plans Stringent Measures to Tackle Illegal Wildlife Trade in Northeast
Question 7
Which of the following species are commonly trafficked from Northeast India in illegal wildlife trade?
- Indian Pangolin
- One-Horned Rhinoceros
- Tokay Gecko
- Snow Leopard
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:
Statement 4 is incorrect – Snow Leopards are found in the Himalayas, not Northeast India.
Statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct – Pangolins, rhinos, and geckos are trafficked for traditional medicine and illegal markets.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. The illegal wildlife trade in Northeast India poses a severe threat to biodiversity, security, and regional stability. Analyze the factors driving wildlife trafficking in the region and suggest effective measures to combat this issue while ensuring community participation in conservation efforts. (250 words, 15 marks)
Model Answer
Introduction
Northeast India, a global biodiversity hotspot, is a major hub for illegal wildlife trade, driven by high demand for exotic species, weak law enforcement, and porous international borders. The smuggling of pangolins, rhino horns, tokay geckos, and elephant ivory has led to a decline in endangered species, threatening ecological balance and fueling organized crime.
Factors Driving Wildlife Trafficking in Northeast India
- Geographical Location & Porous Borders
- Shares borders with Myanmar, Bangladesh, China, and Bhutan, making it an easy transit point for wildlife smuggling.
- High Demand for Wildlife Products
- Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Pangolin scales, rhino horns, and tiger parts are used in Asian medicine and luxury goods.
- Exotic Pet Trade: Tokay geckos, turtles, and birds are trafficked for illegal pet markets in Southeast Asia.
- Weak Law Enforcement & Border Security Gaps
- Inadequate forest surveillance, lack of advanced technology, and corruption enable smuggling networks to thrive.
- Links to Organized Crime & Militancy
- Wildlife trafficking often funds insurgent groups in Northeast India and Myanmar, creating a nexus between poachers and armed networks.
- Economic Pressures on Local Communities
- Poverty and lack of alternative livelihoods force locals into illegal poaching and trade for financial survival.
Measures to Combat Wildlife Trafficking
✅ Strengthening Law Enforcement & Border Control
- Deploy AI-based surveillance, drones, and biometric tracking at border checkpoints.
- Increase coordination between BSF, Assam Rifles, and Wildlife Crime Control Bureau (WCCB).
✅ Harsher Punishments & Legal Reforms
- Amend the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972 to impose longer prison sentences and higher fines for wildlife crimes.
- Improve conviction rates by fast-tracking wildlife crime cases.
✅ Community-Based Conservation Programs
- Promote eco-tourism and sustainable employment for locals as alternatives to poaching.
- Expand forest patrolling with tribal participation (e.g., Kaziranga’s community ranger model).
✅ International Cooperation with ASEAN & Myanmar
- Strengthen cross-border intelligence sharing and joint anti-trafficking operations with Southeast Asian nations.
✅ Public Awareness & Education Campaigns
- Conduct school & community programs on wildlife conservation to reduce local involvement in smuggling.
Conclusion
Illegal wildlife trade in Northeast India is a complex challenge involving biodiversity loss, security risks, and organized crime. A multi-stakeholder approach, including strict law enforcement, cross-border coordination, community engagement, and sustainable livelihood programs, is essential to combat wildlife trafficking and protect India’s rich ecological heritage.
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