APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (14/02/2025)
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 (14-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. President’s Rule in Manipur
GS Paper 2: Polity and Governance
Introduction
On February 13, 2025, the Government of India imposed President’s Rule in Manipur after Chief Minister N. Biren Singh resigned. The Assembly was put under suspended animation, indicating a direct takeover of governance by the Centre. This move comes amidst ongoing ethnic tensions and governance instability in the state.
Key Points
- Article 356 of the Constitution
- Allows the President to take over state administration if the constitutional machinery fails.
- The Governor recommends the imposition of President’s Rule.
- Parliament must approve the proclamation within two months.
- Reasons for Imposition
- Prolonged ethnic clashes between Meitei and Kuki communities.
- Law and order crisis, affecting normal governance.
- Political deadlock after the CM’s resignation.
- Impact of President’s Rule
- The Governor assumes executive powers.
- State Assembly remains suspended (not dissolved).
- Central government can directly implement law and order measures.
Prelims Pointers
- Article 356: Deals with President’s Rule in states.
- Suspended Animation: Assembly is not dissolved but put on hold.
- Governor’s Role: Acts on behalf of the President in such situations.
Mains Pointers
Significance of President’s Rule in Manipur
- Restoring Stability
- Ensures law and order under central authority.
- Prevents further political and ethnic clashes.
- Constitutional & Legal Aspects
- Must be approved by both Houses of Parliament.
- Supreme Court can review if imposed arbitrarily.
- Challenges & Criticism
- Misuse of Article 356: Often imposed for political reasons.
- Democratic Backlash: Undermines elected state government.
- Federalism Concerns: Reduces autonomy of states.
- Government Initiatives & Way Ahead
- Governor’s Rule (Alternative): Before imposing President’s Rule, efforts should be made for alternative governance.
- Dialogue for Peace: Engaging local communities to resolve conflicts.
- Transparent Decision-Making: Justification for President’s Rule must be strong to avoid misuse.
Conclusion
While President’s Rule in Manipur aims to restore stability, it raises concerns about federalism and democratic governance. A long-term resolution must focus on political reconciliation, peacebuilding, and strengthening democratic institutions.
2. New Income Tax Bill 2025
GS Paper 3: Indian Economy
Introduction
On February 13, 2025, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman introduced the New Income Tax Bill 2025 in the Lok Sabha. This bill aims to replace the Income Tax Act of 1961, simplifying tax laws, reducing litigation, and ensuring greater compliance. It proposes several structural changes, including the introduction of a ‘Tax Year’ concept and reduction of exemptions.
Key Points
- Key Features of the New Bill
- Tax Year Concept: Replaces assessment year and previous year with a single tax year.
- Simplification of Laws: Number of sections reduced from 819 to 536.
- Reduction in Word Count: From 5.12 lakh words to 2.6 lakh words, making the law easier to interpret.
- More Tables, Fewer Provisos: 57 tables introduced for clarity, and 1,200 provisos removed.
- TDS/TCS in Tabular Form: Making it easier to understand deduction at source.
- Objective of the Bill
- Reduce Tax Litigation: By making laws less ambiguous.
- Improve Compliance: By making tax payment easier.
- Boost Taxpayer Confidence: By reducing the discretionary powers of tax authorities.
Prelims Pointers
- Income Tax Bill 2025: Aims to replace the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- Tax Year Concept: Eliminates assessment year and previous year.
- Number of Sections Reduced: From 819 to 536.
- TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) & TCS (Tax Collected at Source): Now presented in tabular format.
Mains Pointers
Importance of the New Income Tax Bill
- Promotes Ease of Doing Business
- Clearer tax laws reduce compliance burden for businesses.
- Less litigation risk, ensuring faster dispute resolution.
- Encourages Investments
- Transparent tax policies attract domestic and foreign investors.
- Reduction of legal complexities improves investor confidence.
- Boosts Government Revenue
- Higher compliance leads to better tax collection.
- Reduces tax evasion by closing loopholes in old laws.
Challenges in Implementation
- Transition Challenges
- Businesses and individuals will have to adapt to new terminologies.
- Requires updating of tax-filing software and systems.
- Need for Clarifications
- Ambiguities in exemptions and deductions still need clarity.
- Requires robust implementation guidelines for smooth rollout.
- Impact on Taxpayers
- Reduction of certain exemptions may impact individual taxpayers.
- Ensuring that middle-class taxpayers do not face additional burdens.
Government Initiatives & Way Ahead
- Public Consultation: Seek inputs from businesses and taxpayers before finalizing the bill.
- Digital Transformation: Ensure online portals are updated with new regulations.
- Taxpayer Awareness Campaigns: Educate people about changes and benefits of the new system.
Conclusion
The New Income Tax Bill 2025 is a historic reform aimed at simplifying taxation, reducing litigation, and improving compliance. While challenges remain in transitioning to the new system, effective implementation and taxpayer-friendly measures will determine its success.
3. Inflation Control Measures by the Government
GS Paper 3: Indian Economy
Introduction
Inflation remains a critical economic challenge, impacting purchasing power, investment, and economic stability. On February 14, 2025, the Finance Minister reiterated the government’s commitment to controlling inflation through policy measures, including monetary tightening, supply-side interventions, and fiscal policies. The Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Ministry of Finance have adopted a multi-pronged approach to curb inflationary pressures.
Key Points
- Current Inflation Scenario in India
- Retail Inflation (CPI-based): Recently touched 6.3%, exceeding the RBI’s 4% (+/-2%) target range.
- Food Inflation: Particularly high due to supply chain disruptions, rising food grain prices, and climatic factors.
- Core Inflation: Remains moderate but still a concern for long-term economic stability.
- Government’s Inflation Control Measures
- Monetary Policy Measures:
- RBI increased repo rate to curb demand-driven inflation.
- Open Market Operations (OMOs) to absorb excess liquidity from the system.
- Supply-Side Measures:
- Reduction in import duties on essential goods (e.g., edible oil, pulses).
- Stock limits on essential commodities to prevent hoarding and price manipulation.
- Fiscal Interventions:
- Increased food and fertilizer subsidies to reduce cost burdens on consumers.
- Tax reductions on fuel and essential goods to lower costs.
- Agricultural Reforms:
- Expanding the buffer stock of food grains to stabilize prices.
- Promoting high-yield crop varieties and irrigation efficiency to boost production.
- Monetary Policy Measures:
Prelims Pointers
- Consumer Price Index (CPI): Measures retail inflation based on consumer goods and services.
- Repo Rate: Interest rate at which RBI lends money to commercial banks.
- Open Market Operations (OMO): Buying/selling of government securities by RBI to control liquidity.
- Buffer Stock: Reserve stock of food grains to stabilize prices.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Inflation Control
- Economic Stability: High inflation reduces savings and weakens economic confidence.
- Purchasing Power Protection: Rising prices erode consumers’ real income.
- Investment Climate: Stable inflation encourages foreign and domestic investments.
- Social Welfare: Prevents inflationary shocks that hurt low-income groups the most.
Challenges in Inflation Management
- Supply Chain Disruptions: Global geopolitical tensions affect imports and exports.
- Food Price Volatility: Climate change impacts agricultural production and food availability.
- Interest Rate Dilemma: Raising repo rates may curb inflation but reduce economic growth.
- Fiscal Constraints: Excessive government spending can fuel inflationary pressures.
Government Initiatives & Way Ahead
- Strengthening Food Supply Chains: Reduce storage losses and improve transportation networks.
- Expanding Rural Employment: MGNREGA and PM-KISAN to boost rural purchasing power.
- Diversifying Energy Sources: Reducing dependence on imported crude oil to avoid fuel-driven inflation.
- Promoting Digital Payments & Financial Inclusion: To reduce black money circulation and improve economic transparency.
Conclusion
Inflation control requires a balanced approach, integrating monetary, fiscal, and supply-side measures. While the government has taken strong steps to manage inflation, long-term structural reforms in agriculture, energy, and industrial production are crucial to ensuring stable prices and sustainable economic growth.
4. AI for Data Science – Innovations and Applications
GS Paper 3: Science & Technology
Introduction
The Jorhat Institute of Science and Technology (JIST) recently hosted an AICTE-sponsored Faculty Development Program (FDP) on “Artificial Intelligence for Data Science – Innovations and Applications.” The event brought together experts from IITs, Intel (USA), Palo Alto Networks (USA), Tezpur University, and Assam Don Bosco University, highlighting the transformative role of AI in data science, big data analytics, and machine learning applications.
Key Points
- Scope of AI in Data Science
- Machine Learning (ML): AI-powered models analyze massive datasets, identifying patterns and trends.
- Big Data Analytics: AI processes large-scale data for industries like finance, healthcare, and agriculture.
- Deep Learning & Neural Networks: Used for image recognition, speech processing, and automation.
- Predictive Analytics: AI-based forecasting for weather, stock markets, and disease outbreaks.
- AI Initiatives in Assam
- JIST AI Research Collaboration: Working with national and international institutions to advance AI applications.
- State-Level AI Adoption: Government initiatives integrating AI in agriculture, security, and digital governance.
- Skill Development Programs: AI workshops for students, researchers, and professionals.
- Potential Benefits of AI in Assam
- Boosting Agricultural Productivity: AI-driven crop monitoring and precision farming techniques.
- Improved Healthcare Diagnostics: AI tools assisting doctors in early disease detection and treatment.
- Enhancing Disaster Management: AI-powered flood prediction models for disaster mitigation.
- Strengthening Cybersecurity: AI-driven threat detection systems for safeguarding digital infrastructure.
Prelims Pointers
- Machine Learning (ML): AI technique enabling computers to learn from data.
- Big Data: Extremely large datasets that require advanced analytics and AI processing.
- Deep Learning: AI subset using neural networks for complex pattern recognition.
- Predictive Analytics: AI-driven forecasting for business and policy planning.
Mains Pointers
Importance of AI for Data Science
- Economic Growth
- Enhances business intelligence and automation, leading to cost savings.
- Encourages start-ups and AI-driven entrepreneurship.
- Sustainability & Development
- AI can be leveraged for climate modeling and environmental monitoring.
- Reduces carbon footprint through optimized energy use.
- Education & Research
- AI-powered e-learning platforms can improve access to education.
- Assists researchers in analyzing large-scale experimental data.
Challenges in AI Adoption
- Skill & Infrastructure Gaps
- Lack of AI-trained professionals and research facilities in Assam.
- Need for affordable AI tools and high-speed internet connectivity.
- Ethical & Privacy Concerns
- AI applications in surveillance raise data security and privacy issues.
- Potential for algorithmic bias, leading to unfair outcomes.
- High Implementation Costs
- AI adoption requires significant investment in technology and expertise.
- Dependence on foreign AI firms increases cybersecurity risks.
Government Initiatives & Way Ahead
- National AI Strategy (NITI Aayog): Focus on AI-based agriculture, healthcare, and governance.
- AI for Assam Program: Encouraging local AI research and start-ups.
- AI Training & Upskilling: Expanding tech-driven education in universities.
- Ethical AI Guidelines: Developing AI regulations to prevent misuse and bias.
Conclusion
AI-driven data science has revolutionized industries, offering immense potential for economic, social, and technological advancement. Assam’s initiatives in AI research, education, and policy integration will shape its digital future, making it a leader in AI adoption for sustainable development.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. President’s Rule in Manipur
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding President’s Rule (Article 356) is/are correct?
- The President’s Rule can be imposed in a state only after the Governor of the state submits a report recommending its imposition.
- Parliament must approve the President’s Rule within two months from the date of its imposition.
- Once imposed, the State Assembly must be dissolved immediately.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(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 Governor usually recommends President’s Rule, but in exceptional cases, it can be imposed even without the Governor’s report.
- Statement 2 is correct: As per Article 356, Parliament must approve it within two months.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: The State Assembly is not necessarily dissolved immediately; it can be put under suspended animation.
2. New Income Tax Bill 2025
Question 2
Consider the following changes introduced in the Income Tax Bill 2025:
- The ‘Tax Year’ replaces the existing concepts of Assessment Year and Previous Year.
- The total number of sections in the new tax law has been increased compared to the Income Tax Act of 1961.
- TDS (Tax Deducted at Source) and TCS (Tax Collected at Source) provisions have been presented in a tabular format for better clarity.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 3 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 2 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: (a) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Tax Year replaces the Assessment Year and Previous Year, simplifying the tax framework.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: The total number of sections has been reduced from 819 to 536.
- Statement 3 is correct: TDS/TCS provisions have been structured in tabular form for easy understanding.
3. Inflation Control Measures by the Government
Question 3
Which of the following tools are used by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) to control inflation in India?
- Repo Rate
- Open Market Operations (OMO)
- Fiscal Deficit Reduction
- Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1, 2, and 4 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1, 3, and 4 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Repo Rate (✓): RBI increases or decreases the repo rate to control liquidity and inflation.
- Open Market Operations (OMO) (✓): RBI buys/sells government securities to regulate money supply.
- Fiscal Deficit Reduction (✗): This is a fiscal policy tool, not a monetary tool.
- Cash Reserve Ratio (CRR) (✓): RBI increases CRR to reduce liquidity and control inflation.
4. AI for Data Science – Innovations and Applications
Question 4
Which of the following are common applications of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Data Science?
- Predicting stock market trends
- Diagnosing diseases using medical imaging
- Conducting Quantum Computing operations
- Identifying cyber threats in real-time
Select the correct answer using the code below:
(a) 1, 2, and 4 only
(b) 1, 3, and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: (a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Stock Market Prediction (✓): AI algorithms analyze historical data to forecast trends.
- Medical Diagnosis (✓): AI-powered image recognition detects diseases from X-rays, MRIs, etc.
- Quantum Computing (✗): While AI supports some computational research, Quantum Computing is an independent field.
Cybersecurity (✓): AI detects cyber threats using pattern recognition and machine learning.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Question: The imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur highlights the complexities of federalism and governance in India. Critically analyze the constitutional, political, and administrative implications of Article 356 in the Indian context. Suggest reforms to prevent its misuse while ensuring effective governance.
Model Answer
Introduction
President’s Rule under Article 356 of the Constitution is imposed when a state government fails to function in accordance with the Constitution. The recent imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur (2025) reflects ongoing governance challenges, including ethnic conflicts and political instability. While Article 356 aims to restore order, its frequent use raises concerns about federalism, democracy, and misuse for political ends.
Constitutional Provisions and Rationale
- Article 356 empowers the President to assume state governance functions if the Governor reports a constitutional breakdown.
- Parliament must approve it within two months, and it can last up to six months, extendable to three years with periodic approval.
- The Supreme Court’s SR Bommai Case (1994) set limits on arbitrary use, ensuring judicial review.
Political and Administrative Implications
1. Impact on Federalism
✅ Weakens State Autonomy: The central government gains control over a state, undermining the spirit of federalism.
✅ Governor’s Discretion: The role of the Governor becomes controversial, as they act on behalf of the Centre.
✅ Judicial Review & Checks: The SR Bommai case emphasized that President’s Rule cannot be used for political motives.
2. Governance & Administration
✅ Restoring Law and Order: In cases of ethnic violence or insurgency, central rule can stabilize governance.
✅ Suspended Animation vs. Dissolution: The Assembly is usually kept in suspended animation rather than dissolved, allowing future restoration.
✅ Bureaucratic Control: State administration runs under central directives, impacting local decision-making.
3. Challenges and Criticism
❌ Potential for Political Misuse: Historically, Article 356 has been used to topple opposition governments.
❌ Erosion of Democratic Mandate: Elected state governments may be dismissed prematurely.
❌ Delayed Resolution of Local Conflicts: President’s Rule is a short-term fix and does not always resolve root causes of instability.
Reforms to Prevent Misuse
- Stronger Judicial Oversight
- Mandate that the Governor’s report be subject to judicial review before imposing President’s Rule.
- Alternative Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
- Before invoking Article 356, explore Governor’s Rule or mediation by independent commissions.
- Parliamentary Approval with Stricter Conditions
- Require a special two-thirds majority in Parliament for extensions beyond six months.
- Decentralized Crisis Management
- Strengthen State Disaster Response Mechanisms to handle law-and-order situations locally.
Conclusion The recent imposition of President’s Rule in Manipur highlights the delicate balance between state autonomy and national governance. While Article 356 is necessary for constitutional crises, its misuse must be checked through judicial oversight and political accountability. Strengthening federal cooperation and local governance is the key to preventing repeated breakdowns in state administration.
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