APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/11/2024)

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 (13-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

Topic 1: Bharalu River Pollution Crisis

GS Paper 3: Environment, Pollution Control

Introduction:
Once a pristine waterway, the Bharalu River in Guwahati has deteriorated into one of India’s most polluted rivers, facing issues from encroachment and sewage dumping. Restoring this river’s ecological balance is critical for Guwahati’s environmental health and urban sustainability.

Key Points:

• The river’s pollution stems from unauthorized sewage connections, industrial waste, and encroachments along its banks.
• The river, which was once a recreational spot, has now turned into a polluted drainage channel.
• Authorities and environmentalists call for urgent government intervention to restore the river.

Prelims Pointers:

• Bharalu River: A river in Guwahati, Assam, facing severe pollution and degradation.
• Guwahati Refinery: Its establishment marked the beginning of the river’s decline, affecting water quality and biodiversity.
• National River Conservation Plan (NRCP): A government initiative aimed at river pollution control and conservation.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Ecological Balance: Restoring the river would help revive local flora and fauna.
   • Health Benefits: Reducing pollution levels would improve public health, lowering waterborne diseases.
   • Urban Livelihood: Many local livelihoods depend on a clean, accessible river.
   • Alternative Transport: With clean water, the river could serve as a transport route, easing Guwahati’s traffic.
   • Community Recreation: A clean river enhances urban recreational spaces, benefiting local communities.
2. Challenges:
   • Encroachment: Illegal structures reduce the river’s width and water flow.
   • Waste Management: Lack of a robust waste disposal system contributes to unchecked pollution.
   • Industrial Pollution: Factories nearby discharge untreated effluents, increasing toxicity.
   • Public Apathy: Limited awareness among locals exacerbates pollution.
   • Inadequate Policy Enforcement: Weak enforcement of existing environmental laws hinders improvement.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Strict Regulation: Implement stricter penalties for industries and households that pollute.
   • Community Awareness Programs: Educate locals on sustainable waste disposal and pollution reduction.
   • Riverfront Development: Transform the riverfront with green zones and recreational areas to reduce illegal dumping.
   • Sewage Treatment: Install sewage treatment plants to process waste before it enters the river.
   • Scientific Dredging: Regular dredging to maintain depth and flow, reducing pollution buildup.

Conclusion:
Revitalizing the Bharalu River is essential for Guwahati’s environmental sustainability. A collaborative effort involving government, community, and industry can help restore the river, benefiting public health and urban quality of life.

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Topic 2: India’s Support for Permanent UNSC Membership for Africa and Other Nations

GS Paper 2: International Relations

Introduction:
The UK has reiterated its support for India, Africa, Brazil, Germany, and Japan to secure permanent seats on the United Nations Security Council (UNSC), as part of an effort to reform the Council and make it more representative of current geopolitical realities.

Key Points:

• The UNSC has only five permanent members, leading to calls for reform to include emerging global powers.
• India has consistently advocated for UNSC reform, supported by countries like the UK, as it seeks a more representative structure.
• The current Security Council composition does not reflect the interests of regions like Africa and South Asia.

Prelims Pointers:

• UN Security Council (UNSC): The UN body responsible for maintaining international peace and security.
• P5 Nations: The five permanent members of the UNSC – the USA, UK, France, Russia, and China.
• G4 Nations: India, Brazil, Germany, and Japan, which support each other’s bids for permanent UNSC seats.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Global Representation: Adds voices from developing regions, fostering balanced global governance.
   • Geopolitical Stability: Enhances UNSC legitimacy by reflecting contemporary global power dynamics.
   • Economic Power: Emerging economies contribute significantly to global GDP and deserve representation.
   • Conflict Resolution: Broader representation enables more comprehensive conflict resolution approaches.
   • Addressing Regional Issues: Permanent seats for developing countries could better address regional challenges.
2. Challenges:
   • P5 Resistance: Current permanent members may resist changes that dilute their influence.
   • Veto Power: Granting veto power to new members remains a contentious issue.
   • Regional Rivalries: Rivalries among emerging powers (e.g., India-Pakistan) complicate reform consensus.
   • UNSC Bureaucracy: Reform requires amendments to the UN Charter, a lengthy and complex process.
   • Funding Constraints: Financial support for expanded UNSC activities is necessary, but resources are limited.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Diplomatic Negotiations: Strengthen coalitions like the G4 to press for UNSC expansion.
   • Incremental Reform: Pursue partial reforms, such as creating non-permanent seats with extended terms.
   • Global Campaign: Build international consensus for reform through diplomatic channels and public campaigns.
   • Support from P5: Garner support from individual P5 members through mutual interests and alliances.
   • Structural Adjustments: Ensure new members contribute financially to bolster UNSC operations.

Conclusion:
Expanding the UNSC is essential for a fairer global order. A reformed Council with India, Africa, and other regions represented would enhance the UNSC’s legitimacy, improving its capacity to maintain global peace and security.

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Topic 3: Kamrup DC Forms Task Forces to Combat Illegal Sand and Boulder Excavation

GS Paper 3: Environment, Governance

Introduction:
The District Commissioner of Kamrup, Assam, established specialized task forces to curb illegal hill cutting, sand excavation, and boulder collection. These practices have led to environmental degradation, impacting the ecological balance and increasing flood risks in Kamrup.

Key Points:

• Seven task forces are created across Kamrup district to monitor and prevent unauthorized sand and boulder excavation activities.
• Areas under the jurisdiction of these task forces include North Guwahati, Palasbari, Hajo, Boko, Kamalpur, Chhaygaon, and Rangia Revenue Circles.
• The initiative is part of Assam’s broader effort to enforce stricter environmental regulations and ensure sustainable resource management.

Prelims Pointers:

• Kamrup District: A prominent district in Assam, frequently affected by issues of illegal excavation and resource depletion.
• Environmental Protection Act, 1986: Provides regulations to curb harmful environmental practices in India.
• Revenue Circle: Administrative divisions within a district used for revenue collection and governance.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Conserving Biodiversity: Reduces ecological damage and preserves habitats.
   • Flood Control: Helps maintain riverbanks and prevents excessive siltation, which causes floods.
   • Sustainable Development: Encourages responsible resource extraction practices.
   • Community Health: Reduces environmental pollution that impacts health.
   • Economic Stability: Prevents excessive depletion of resources essential for regional construction.
2. Challenges:
   • Lack of Monitoring: Remote areas make it challenging to monitor illegal activities.
   • Weak Law Enforcement: Limited resources and personnel to enforce regulations effectively.
   • Economic Pressures: High demand for construction materials often leads to illegal extraction.
   • Corruption: Bribery and favoritism may compromise task force efficacy.
   • Community Resistance: Local livelihoods may depend on these activities, leading to resistance.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Enhanced Surveillance: Utilize drones and satellite imaging to monitor remote areas.
   • Public Awareness Campaigns: Educate locals on sustainable practices and legal penalties.
   • Stronger Penalties: Enforce stringent fines and legal actions for violators.
   • Community Involvement: Engage local communities to promote sustainable practices.
   • Alternative Employment: Develop skill-based programs to provide alternative income sources.

Conclusion:
The creation of task forces marks a proactive approach to tackling illegal excavation. Strict enforcement and community engagement are essential to preserve Kamrup’s environment and ensure sustainable development.

Topic 4: Manipur Conflict Escalation – Kuki-Meitei Ethnic Strife

GS Paper 3: Internal Security

Introduction:
Ethnic conflict between the Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur has intensified, with reports of violent clashes and civilian casualties. The unrest underscores long-standing ethnic tensions in the region, exacerbating social instability and undermining regional security.

Key Points:

• Recent clashes in Manipur’s Jiribam district led to the death of eleven individuals and injuries among security personnel and civilians.
• Kuki-Zo organizations claim that those killed were “village volunteers” defending against Meitei attacks, raising questions about the role of local militias.
• The violence reveals deeper fractures in Manipur’s social fabric and highlights the challenge of enforcing law and order in conflict-prone regions.

Prelims Pointers:

• Kuki and Meitei Communities: Indigenous ethnic groups in Manipur with distinct historical, cultural, and territorial claims.
• Arambai Tenggol: An armed Meitei group involved in local territorial disputes.
• Inner Line Permit: A regulation restricting movement of outsiders in certain northeastern states, including Manipur, impacting local demographics.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • National Security: Stability in Manipur is critical due to its strategic location near the India-Myanmar border.
   • Human Rights: Protecting civilians and ensuring their safety is vital for upholding human rights.
   • Social Cohesion: Resolving ethnic conflicts fosters social harmony and reduces inter-group hostilities.
   • Regional Development: Peace is necessary for infrastructure projects and economic development.
   • Foreign Policy: A stable Northeast strengthens India’s diplomatic outreach towards Southeast Asia.
2. Challenges:
   • Ethnic Polarization: Long-standing territorial and cultural conflicts exacerbate hostilities.
   • Weak Governance: Inadequate government presence and weak enforcement of law contribute to impunity.
   • Insurgent Groups: Proliferation of armed groups increases violence and impedes peace efforts.
   • Limited Infrastructure: Poor connectivity and resource scarcity hinder state intervention.
   • Political Unrest: Frequent changes in regional governance impact policy consistency.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Enhanced Security Presence: Deploy more security forces to safeguard vulnerable regions.
   • Dialogue Facilitation: Engage both communities in peace talks mediated by neutral parties.
   • Development Programs: Improve infrastructure and economic opportunities to alleviate regional grievances.
   • Strengthening Local Governance: Ensure stable, effective local governance for quick crisis response.
   • Education and Awareness Campaigns: Promote unity and tolerance through social and educational programs.

Conclusion:
The Manipur conflict underscores the complexities of ethnic diversity in Northeast India. Long-term stability requires comprehensive peace initiatives that foster mutual respect, socio-economic equality, and sustained governance efforts.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

Topic 1: Bharalu River Pollution Crisis

Question 1: Which of the following are likely causes of river pollution in urban areas like Guwahati’s Bharalu River?

1. Industrial discharge
2. Encroachment along riverbanks
3. Untreated sewage disposal
4. Afforestation initiatives along riverbanks

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4

Answer: A. 1, 2, and 3 only

Explanation:

• Options 1, 2, and 3 are correct. Industrial discharge, riverbank encroachment, and untreated sewage disposal are all factors contributing to pollution in urban rivers like the Bharalu.
• Option 4 is incorrect. Afforestation initiatives would help improve river health, not pollute it.
  Thus, the correct answer is A.

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Topic 2: India’s Support for Permanent UNSC Membership for Africa and Other Nations

Question 2: With reference to India’s stance on United Nations Security Council (UNSC) reform, consider the following statements:

1. India is a part of the G4, which supports mutual bids for permanent UNSC seats.
2. India advocates for the inclusion of developing countries like those in Africa for permanent UNSC seats.
3. The current P5 structure of the UNSC includes Germany and Japan as permanent members.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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. India is part of the G4 group, which includes Brazil, Germany, and Japan, and supports each other’s bids for permanent UNSC seats.
• Statement 2 is correct. India advocates for the inclusion of developing regions like Africa in UNSC reforms to reflect current geopolitical realities.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. The P5 members are the USA, UK, France, Russia, and China; Germany and Japan are not permanent members.
  Thus, the correct answer is A.

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Topic 3: Kamrup DC Forms Task Forces to Combat Illegal Sand and Boulder Excavation

Question 3: With reference to measures against illegal excavation in Kamrup district, consider the following statements:

1. Task forces have been created in Kamrup to monitor and prevent unauthorized sand and boulder excavation activities.
2. The Environment Protection Act, 1986, provides a legal framework to control environmental degradation due to such practices.
3. Revenue Circles in Assam function solely for collecting revenue and are not involved in administrative activities.

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. Task forces have indeed been formed in Kamrup to address unauthorized sand and boulder excavation.
• Statement 2 is correct. The Environment Protection Act, 1986, is a legal framework that provides regulations to control activities that harm the environment.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. Revenue Circles in Assam handle revenue as well as some administrative functions, including governance in rural areas.
  Thus, the correct answer is A.

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Topic 4: Manipur Conflict Escalation – Kuki-Meitei Ethnic Strife

Question 4: With reference to the Kuki-Meitei conflict in Manipur, consider the following statements:

1. The conflict between Kuki and Meitei communities in Manipur is rooted in territorial and cultural disputes.
2. The Inner Line Permit (ILP) system in Manipur restricts the movement of outsiders, impacting the region’s demographic structure.
3. Arambai Tenggol is a traditional Meitei festival celebrated annually in Manipur.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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 3 is incorrect. Arambai Tenggol is an armed group associated with the Meitei community, not a festival.
Thus, the correct answer is B.

Statement 1 is correct. The Kuki-Meitei conflict involves long-standing territorial and cultural disputes.

Statement 2 is correct. The Inner Line Permit system is implemented in Manipur and restricts movement to protect local demographics.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Topic: Challenges in Managing Urban River Pollution in India

Question: Urban river pollution is a growing environmental crisis in India, impacting public health, biodiversity, and urban development. Discuss the main causes of urban river pollution with reference to rivers like the Bharalu in Guwahati. Suggest effective measures to restore and sustainably manage urban rivers. (250 words)

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Model Answer:

Introduction:
Urban river pollution is a critical environmental issue in India, posing risks to human health, ecosystems, and urban sustainability. Rivers like the Bharalu in Guwahati have transformed from natural water bodies into polluted drainage channels due to urban encroachments and inadequate waste management systems.

Body:

Causes of Urban River Pollution:

1. Industrial Effluents: Unregulated discharge of untreated industrial waste directly into rivers contributes to high levels of pollutants, including heavy metals.
2. Sewage Disposal: Limited sewage treatment infrastructure leads to raw sewage being dumped into urban rivers, increasing organic and chemical pollutants.
3. Encroachment: Illegal structures along riverbanks reduce water flow and increase pollution, limiting riverine ecosystem functioning.
4. Solid Waste Dumping: Lack of effective waste management leads to garbage being dumped into rivers, blocking water flow and harming aquatic life.
5. Public Apathy: Limited awareness and poor civic responsibility contribute to unsustainable waste disposal practices.

Measures for Restoration and Sustainable Management:

1. Sewage Treatment Expansion: Invest in sewage treatment plants to ensure waste is treated before discharge.
2. Strict Enforcement of Regulations: Enforce existing environmental laws strictly to prevent industrial and household dumping.
3. Community Engagement: Conduct awareness campaigns to educate the public on the importance of clean rivers and sustainable practices.
4. Riverfront Development: Transform riverfronts into green spaces, reducing encroachment and promoting recreational use.
5. Regular Monitoring and Dredging: Implement regular monitoring and scientific dredging to maintain river depth and flow.

Conclusion:
Restoring urban rivers like the Bharalu requires a multi-faceted approach that combines regulation, community involvement, and infrastructure development. Sustainable urban river management is essential for preserving public health, supporting biodiversity, and enhancing the quality of urban life.

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