APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/03/2026)
For APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exam aspirants, staying consistently updated with reliable current affairs is essential for success. This blog provides a well-researched analysis of the most important topics from The Assam Tribune dated 13 March 2026. Each issue has been carefully selected and explained to support both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, ensuring alignment with the APSC CCE syllabus and the evolving trends of the examination.
✨ APSC CCE Prelims Crash Course, 2026
🐘 Railway–Wildlife Conflict: Measures to Reduce Elephant Mortality on Railway Tracks
📘 GS Paper III: Environment | Biodiversity Conservation | Human–Wildlife Conflict
📘 GS Paper V (Assam): Wildlife conservation and environmental issues in Northeast
🔹 Introduction
Elephant deaths due to train collisions have emerged as a major conservation challenge in India. To address this issue, the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change (MoEFCC) and the Ministry of Railways have identified 110 railway stretches passing through elephant habitats that require mitigation measures to prevent wildlife mortality.
The initiative reflects growing recognition of the need to integrate infrastructure development with wildlife conservation.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Railway stretches identified | 110 stretches |
| Total railway length assessed | 3,452 km |
| Priority stretches identified | 77 stretches across 14 states |
| Total mitigation structures proposed | 705 measures |
These measures aim to facilitate safe wildlife movement across railway tracks.
⚙️ Proposed Mitigation Measures
| Measure | Number Proposed | Purpose |
| Ramps & level crossings | 503 | Enable animals to cross tracks safely |
| Bridge extensions | 72 | Improve wildlife passage |
| Fencing / trenching | 39 | Guide animal movement |
| Underpasses | 65 | Safe corridors under tracks |
| Overpasses | 22 | Wildlife crossing structures |
| Exit ramps | 4 | Escape routes for trapped animals |
These measures are designed based on site-specific ecological assessments.
🌿 Background: Elephant Conservation in India
Asian Elephant Status
Listed as Endangered on the IUCN Red List.
Protected under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
Elephant Corridors
India has 100+ identified elephant corridors, many intersecting railway and road infrastructure.
Elephant Population
India hosts about 60% of the world’s Asian elephant population.
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Project Elephant
Launched in 1992.
Aims to protect elephants and their habitats.
Wildlife Institute of India (WII)
Autonomous institute under MoEFCC.
Conducts research on wildlife conservation.
Elephant Corridors
Important corridors exist in:
Assam
West Bengal
Odisha
Karnataka
Kerala.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the Initiative
1️⃣ Protection of Endangered Species
Reduces accidental elephant deaths due to train collisions.
2️⃣ Infrastructure–Ecology Balance
Promotes environmentally responsible infrastructure planning.
3️⃣ Strengthening Wildlife Corridors
Improves connectivity between fragmented habitats.
4️⃣ Data-Driven Conservation
Uses ecological research and field surveys to design mitigation measures.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Habitat Fragmentation | Expansion of railways through forest areas |
| High Train Speed | Increases risk of collision |
| Poor Monitoring | Lack of real-time tracking of elephant movement |
| Human Encroachment | Pressure on wildlife corridors |
🧭 Way Forward
Use Early Warning Systems
Deploy AI sensors and thermal cameras to detect elephants near tracks.
Speed Restrictions
Impose speed limits in elephant corridors.
Strengthen Corridor Protection
Prevent encroachment in wildlife corridors.
Community Participation
Involve local communities in wildlife monitoring and alert systems.
🧩 Conclusion
Reducing elephant mortality on railway tracks requires integrated planning between conservation authorities and infrastructure agencies. The identification of high-risk railway stretches and the implementation of targeted mitigation measures can significantly enhance wildlife protection while maintaining transport efficiency.
🌍 India Co-Sponsors UN Security Council Resolution Against Iran
📘 GS Paper II: International Relations | United Nations | West Asia
📘 GS Paper III: Maritime Security | Global Energy Security
🔹 Introduction
India co-sponsored a United Nations Security Council (UNSC) resolution condemning Iran’s attacks on Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries and Jordan, calling for an immediate cessation of hostilities and respect for international maritime navigation. The resolution was adopted with 13 votes in favour, while China and Russia abstained.
The resolution also raised concerns about threats to strategic maritime chokepoints such as the Strait of Hormuz and Bab-al-Mandab, which are crucial for global energy trade.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| UN Body | United Nations Security Council |
| Resolution Sponsors | Bahrain-led resolution with 130+ co-sponsors including India |
| Voting Outcome | 13 votes in favour; China and Russia abstained |
| Countries Targeted in Attacks | Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Jordan |
| Key Concern | Threats to maritime routes such as Strait of Hormuz |
The resolution demanded immediate cessation of attacks and respect for international law.
⚙️ Key Provisions of the Resolution
1️⃣ Condemnation of Attacks
The UNSC strongly condemned Iranian attacks on Gulf countries.
2️⃣ Protection of Maritime Navigation
The resolution emphasized protection of shipping routes under international maritime law.
3️⃣ Strait of Hormuz Security
The resolution criticized threats to close or obstruct the Strait of Hormuz.
4️⃣ Civilian Protection
Condemned attacks on civilian infrastructure and residential areas.
🌊 Strategic Importance of the Strait of Hormuz
| Aspect | Importance |
| Location | Between Iran and Oman |
| Global Oil Trade | About 20% of global oil passes through it |
| Energy Security | Critical for Asian economies including India |
Another key route mentioned is the Bab-al-Mandab Strait, linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden.
🧠 Prelims Pointers
United Nations Security Council (UNSC)
Comprises 15 members (5 permanent + 10 non-permanent).
Responsible for maintaining international peace and security.
Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)
Members include:
Bahrain
Kuwait
Oman
Qatar
Saudi Arabia
United Arab Emirates.
Strategic Maritime Chokepoints
Examples:
Strait of Hormuz
Bab-al-Mandab
Malacca Strait.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance for India
1️⃣ Energy Security
India imports a large share of oil from West Asian countries.
2️⃣ Strategic Balance
India maintains diplomatic relations with both Iran and GCC countries.
3️⃣ Maritime Trade Protection
Secure sea lanes are essential for global commerce and energy transport.
4️⃣ Global Governance Role
India’s participation highlights its role in multilateral diplomacy.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Regional Instability | Conflicts in West Asia threaten global energy markets |
| Diplomatic Balancing | India must balance ties with Iran and Gulf states |
| Maritime Security | Disruptions could affect global shipping routes |
🧭 Way Forward
Strengthen Maritime Security Cooperation
Increase coordination with regional and international partners.
Diversify Energy Sources
Reduce dependence on volatile regions.
Promote Diplomatic Dialogue
Encourage peaceful conflict resolution in West Asia.
Enhance Strategic Reserves
Maintain adequate Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR).
🧩 Conclusion
India’s support for the UNSC resolution highlights its commitment to international law, maritime security, and regional stability. Ensuring peace in West Asia remains critical for global energy supply and India’s strategic interests.
⚖️ Removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) – Constitutional Procedure & Parliamentary Motion
📘 GS Paper II: Indian Polity | Constitutional Bodies | Election Commission of India
📘 APSC Paper V (Assam/India Polity): Constitutional Safeguards for Independent Institutions
🔹 Introduction
A group of Opposition Members of Parliament submitted notices seeking the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC), highlighting constitutional provisions governing the independence and accountability of the Election Commission of India (ECI). The motion requires the support of a minimum number of MPs and must be passed by a special majority in Parliament, similar to the procedure for removing a Supreme Court judge.
This mechanism is designed to ensure both institutional independence and democratic oversight.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Constitutional Body | Election Commission of India |
| Position | Chief Election Commissioner (CEC) |
| MPs who signed notice | 193 MPs |
| Minimum MPs required | 100 in Lok Sabha or 50 in Rajya Sabha |
| Ground for removal | Proven misbehaviour or incapacity |
| Voting requirement | Special majority in Parliament |
The notice reportedly listed multiple allegations including partisan conduct and obstruction of investigation into electoral irregularities.
⚙️ Constitutional Framework
Article 324 of the Constitution
Provides for the Election Commission of India, responsible for conducting free and fair elections.
Composition
The Election Commission consists of:
Chief Election Commissioner
Election Commissioners.
Independence
The Constitution provides security of tenure and protection from arbitrary removal.
🏛️ Procedure for Removal of the CEC
| Step | Description |
| 1 | Motion introduced in either House of Parliament |
| 2 | Must be supported by at least 100 Lok Sabha MPs or 50 Rajya Sabha MPs |
| 3 | Investigation of charges |
| 4 | Voting by special majority |
| 5 | President removes the CEC after parliamentary approval |
Special Majority Requirement
Majority of total membership of the House
Two-thirds of members present and voting.
🔍 Difference Between Removal of CEC and Election Commissioners
| Aspect | Chief Election Commissioner | Election Commissioners |
| Removal Process | Same as Supreme Court judge | On recommendation of the CEC |
| Constitutional Protection | Strong protection | Comparatively weaker |
This ensures greater independence of the head of the Election Commission.
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Election Commission of India
Constitutional body under Article 324.
Appointment
CEC and Election Commissioners are appointed by the President of India.
Tenure
6 years or until age 65, whichever is earlier.
Removal Safeguard
CEC removal procedure is similar to that of a Supreme Court judge.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Removal Safeguards
1️⃣ Institutional Independence
Ensures the Election Commission remains free from political interference.
2️⃣ Protection of Electoral Integrity
Independent election management strengthens democratic legitimacy.
3️⃣ Constitutional Accountability
Provides a mechanism to remove officials in cases of misconduct.
B. Concerns and Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Political Polarisation | Removal motions may become politically motivated |
| Institutional Trust | Allegations against election authorities can erode public confidence |
| Electoral Disputes | Increasing litigation and disputes over election processes |
🧭 Way Forward
Strengthen Institutional Transparency
Improve public communication and decision-making transparency.
Electoral Reforms
Enhance oversight mechanisms and election technology safeguards.
Bipartisan Appointment Mechanism
Ensure broader consultation in appointment of Election Commissioners.
🧩 Conclusion
The constitutional safeguards governing the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner are designed to maintain the delicate balance between institutional independence and democratic accountability. Preserving the autonomy of the Election Commission is essential for ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in India.
🛢️ Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) – US Plan to Stabilise Fuel Prices During Global Conflict
📘 GS Paper III: Energy Security | Global Economy | Strategic Resources
📘 GS Paper II: International Developments Affecting India’s Interests
🔹 Introduction
Amid rising global oil prices triggered by geopolitical tensions and conflict in West Asia, the United States announced plans to tap its Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) to stabilise fuel prices. The move aims to release crude oil into the market temporarily to reduce gasoline prices and ensure supply stability.
Strategic petroleum reserves are emergency stockpiles maintained by governments to manage supply disruptions and maintain energy security during crises.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Country | United States |
| Policy Tool | Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) |
| Objective | Stabilise fuel prices and address supply disruptions |
| Trigger | Rising oil prices due to geopolitical conflict |
| Method | Release of crude oil into the market |
The reserve acts as a strategic buffer against global oil market volatility.
⚙️ What is a Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR)?
A Strategic Petroleum Reserve is a government-maintained emergency stockpile of crude oil designed to address supply disruptions during crises such as wars, natural disasters, or geopolitical conflicts.
Objectives
Ensure energy security
Stabilise oil prices
Prevent economic disruptions
Maintain fuel supply during emergencies.
🌍 Global Strategic Oil Reserves
| Country/Region | Major Reserve |
| United States | Strategic Petroleum Reserve (SPR) |
| China | National strategic petroleum reserves |
| India | Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves (ISPR) |
| Japan | Government oil reserves |
The US SPR is the largest emergency oil stockpile in the world.
🇮🇳 India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves
Implemented by
Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL).
Key Storage Locations
| Location | State |
| Vishakhapatnam | Andhra Pradesh |
| Mangaluru | Karnataka |
| Padur | Karnataka |
| Chandikhol (planned) | Odisha |
| Padur Phase-II | Karnataka |
Purpose
Ensure 90 days of crude oil supply security.
Protect against global supply shocks.
🧠 Prelims Pointers
International Energy Agency (IEA)
Recommends member countries maintain 90 days of oil reserves.
Strategic Petroleum Reserve (US)
Established in 1975 after the oil crisis.
Largest emergency crude oil stockpile globally.
Energy Security
Ensures reliable and affordable energy supply for a country.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Strategic Petroleum Reserves
1️⃣ Energy Security
Protects economies from sudden oil supply disruptions.
2️⃣ Market Stabilisation
Releasing reserves can reduce price volatility.
3️⃣ Strategic Preparedness
Helps governments respond quickly to crises.
4️⃣ Economic Stability
Prevents inflation caused by sudden fuel price increases.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| High Storage Costs | Building and maintaining reserves is expensive |
| Limited Duration | Reserves can only supply oil temporarily |
| Market Impact | Large releases may distort oil markets |
| Geopolitical Risks | Conflicts may persist longer than reserves last |
🧭 Way Forward
Diversify Energy Sources
Promote renewable energy to reduce dependence on imported oil.
Expand Strategic Reserves
Countries should increase reserve capacity.
Strengthen International Coordination
Cooperation through organisations like the IEA.
Improve Energy Efficiency
Reduce overall oil consumption.
🧩 Conclusion
Strategic petroleum reserves are an essential instrument for managing energy crises and stabilising fuel markets during geopolitical conflicts. As global energy markets remain volatile, maintaining adequate reserves and diversifying energy sources will be critical for long-term energy security.
APSC Prelims MCQs
1. Consider the following statements regarding elephant mortality on railway tracks in India:
- The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Railways jointly identified railway stretches requiring mitigation measures.
- A total of 110 railway stretches across elephant habitats were identified for wildlife protection measures.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2
C. 2 only
D. Neither 1 nor 2
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
The government identified 110 railway stretches passing through elephant habitats and proposed mitigation structures to reduce collisions between trains and wildlife.
2. Which of the following mitigation structures are proposed to reduce elephant mortality on railway tracks?
- Bridge extensions
- Underpasses
- Wildlife overpasses
Select the correct answer:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D
Explanation:
Mitigation structures include bridge extensions, underpasses, overpasses, ramps, fencing and exit ramps to facilitate safe wildlife crossings.
3. The Strait of Hormuz, frequently mentioned in global energy security discussions, lies between:
A. Iran and Oman
B. Iran and Saudi Arabia
C. Oman and Yemen
D. Qatar and Bahrain
✅ Answer: A
Explanation:
The Strait of Hormuz lies between Iran and Oman and is one of the most important oil transit chokepoints in the world.
4. Consider the following statements regarding the United Nations Security Council (UNSC):
- The UNSC has 15 member states.
- All resolutions of the UNSC require unanimous approval from all members.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2
C. 2 only
D. Neither 1 nor 2
✅ Answer: A
Explanation:
The UNSC consists of 15 members (5 permanent + 10 non-permanent). Resolutions require 9 votes and no veto from permanent members, not unanimous approval.
5. Consider the following statements regarding the removal of the Chief Election Commissioner (CEC):
- The CEC can be removed in the same manner as a judge of the Supreme Court.
- The removal requires a special majority in Parliament.
Which of the statements given above are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2
C. 2 only
D. Neither 1 nor 2
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
The Chief Election Commissioner enjoys strong constitutional protection and can be removed only through a process similar to the removal of a Supreme Court judge, requiring a special majority in Parliament.
6. Which of the following constitutional provisions deals with the Election Commission of India?
A. Article 280
B. Article 324
C. Article 356
D. Article 370
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
Article 324 of the Constitution provides for the Election Commission of India.
7. Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) are maintained primarily to:
A. Control international oil prices permanently
B. Ensure energy supply during emergencies
C. Increase oil exports
D. Promote renewable energy production
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
Strategic petroleum reserves act as emergency stockpiles of crude oil to handle supply disruptions caused by wars, natural disasters, or geopolitical crises.
8. Which of the following countries maintains the world’s largest Strategic Petroleum Reserve?
A. China
B. India
C. Japan
D. United States
✅ Answer: D
Explanation:
The United States Strategic Petroleum Reserve is the largest emergency crude oil stockpile in the world.
9. Consider the following locations of India’s Strategic Petroleum Reserves:
- Mangaluru
- Padur
- Visakhapatnam
Which of the above are existing locations of India’s strategic crude oil storage facilities?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D
Explanation:
India’s strategic petroleum reserves are located at Visakhapatnam, Mangaluru, and Padur.
10. Which organisation in India is responsible for implementing the Strategic Petroleum Reserve project?
A. Indian Oil Corporation
B. Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL)
C. Oil and Natural Gas Corporation
D. Petroleum and Natural Gas Regulatory Board
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
The Indian Strategic Petroleum Reserves Limited (ISPRL) manages the strategic petroleum reserve facilities in India.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 GS Mains Model Question
📘 GS Paper III: Environment & Biodiversity Conservation | Infrastructure Development
📘 GS Paper II: Governance & Policy Coordination
Question
Expansion of transport infrastructure often leads to ecological challenges, particularly wildlife mortality due to railway and road networks.
Discuss the causes of wildlife–railway conflicts in India and examine the measures required to mitigate elephant deaths on railway tracks.
(Answer in ~250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
Human–wildlife conflict has emerged as a major conservation issue in India, especially in regions where infrastructure intersects with wildlife habitats. Elephant mortality due to train collisions has become a serious concern, prompting the government to identify 110 railway stretches across elephant habitats requiring mitigation measures to ensure safe wildlife passage.
Causes of Wildlife–Railway Conflicts
1. Habitat Fragmentation
Railway lines often pass through forest areas and elephant corridors, disrupting natural migration routes.
2. Expansion of Transport Infrastructure
Rapid railway expansion increases interaction between wildlife and trains.
3. High-Speed Trains
High train speeds reduce reaction time for both animals and locomotive drivers.
4. Seasonal Migration Patterns
Elephants frequently cross tracks during seasonal movement between habitats.
5. Human Encroachment
Agricultural expansion and settlements reduce available forest areas.
Mitigation Measures
1. Wildlife Crossing Structures
Construction of underpasses, overpasses, ramps, and bridge extensions to facilitate safe animal movement.
2. Early Warning Systems
Use of AI-based sensors, thermal cameras, and monitoring systems to detect elephants near tracks.
3. Speed Restrictions
Implement speed limits in identified wildlife corridors.
4. Habitat Conservation
Protect and restore elephant corridors and forest connectivity.
5. Inter-Agency Coordination
Collaboration between Railways, Forest Departments, and conservation organisations.
Conclusion
Balancing infrastructure development with biodiversity conservation is essential for sustainable growth. Implementing targeted mitigation measures and integrating ecological considerations into infrastructure planning can significantly reduce wildlife mortality while maintaining efficient transport systems.
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