APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (16/11/2024)

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 (16-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

Topic 1: Bodoland Mahotsav and Post-Peace Accord Development

GS Paper 2: Governance, Social Justice

Introduction:
The first Bodoland Mahotsav was inaugurated in Delhi, showcasing the positive impact of the Bodo Peace Accord signed in 2020. This historic agreement ended decades of violence, providing the foundation for inclusive development in the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).

Key Points:

• Prime Minister Modi highlighted the transformation of Bodoland, moving from conflict to progress, with enhanced infrastructure, education, and employment opportunities.
• Initiatives under the Bodo Peace Accord aim to strengthen the socio-cultural identity of the Bodo community.
• Former conflict zones, including forests, are now thriving hubs for sports and youth development.

Prelims Pointers:

• Bodo Peace Accord (2020): A tripartite agreement aimed at sustainable peace and development in Bodoland.
• Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR): A special administrative region in Assam created as part of the Accord.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Peace and Stability: Reduces insurgency and promotes regional harmony.
   • Economic Growth: Infrastructure development attracts investments.
   • Social Inclusion: Protects cultural heritage and ensures equal rights.
   • Youth Empowerment: Focuses on education and sports facilities.
   • Environmental Restoration: Promotes sustainable use of forest areas.
2. Challenges:
   • Implementation Delays: Delayed funds and policy execution hinder progress.
   • Inter-Community Tensions: Balancing interests of various ethnic groups.
   • Resource Allocation: Insufficient resources for comprehensive development.
   • Political Instability: Factionalism within Bodo organizations.
   • Long-term Integration: Ensuring former insurgents are fully reintegrated into society.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Accelerated Implementation: Ensure timely execution of Accord provisions.
   • Stakeholder Collaboration: Foster dialogue between communities.
   • Monitoring Mechanisms: Regular reviews of development projects.
   • Skill Development Programs: Focus on long-term employability.
   • Tourism Promotion: Leverage the region’s natural beauty to boost the economy.

Conclusion:
The Bodo Peace Accord has been a cornerstone for progress in Bodoland, paving the way for a harmonious future. Continued commitment to its goals can serve as a model for conflict resolution in India.

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Topic 2: Seaplane Demonstration at Brahmaputra for Tourism Growth

GS Paper 3: Infrastructure Development, Tourism

Introduction:
A seaplane successfully landed at Pandu Ghat on the Brahmaputra, marking a milestone in Northeast India’s aviation sector. This demonstration flight was part of efforts to boost high-end tourism in Assam.

Key Points:

• The event was organized by the Union Ministry of Civil Aviation and De Havilland Canada.
• The initiative aligns with India’s UDAN scheme, focusing on regional air connectivity.
• Future plans include seaplane services to tourist hotspots like Kaziranga and Majuli.

Prelims Pointers:

• UDAN Scheme: A government initiative aimed at enhancing regional air connectivity.
• De Havilland Canada: A leading manufacturer of seaplanes globally.
• Brahmaputra River: One of the largest rivers in India, crucial for transport and tourism in Assam.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Tourism Boost: Enhances access to remote yet scenic locations.
   • Economic Development: Generates revenue and employment.
   • Connectivity: Bridges geographical gaps in the Northeast.
   • Innovation: Demonstrates potential for sustainable air transport.
   • Global Attention: Positions Assam as a premier tourist destination.
2. Challenges:
   • Infrastructure Deficit: Lack of adequate docking and operational facilities.
   • Environmental Impact: Potential threats to aquatic ecosystems.
   • Financial Viability: High operating costs of seaplanes.
   • Regulatory Approvals: Extensive clearances required for operations.
   • Maintenance: Ensuring safety and upkeep of seaplanes.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Develop Infrastructure: Build seaplane docks and terminals.
   • Environmental Safeguards: Conduct thorough ecological impact assessments.
   • Subsidy Programs: Offer financial incentives to operators.
   • Public-Private Partnerships: Engage private players for investment and expertise.
   • Awareness Campaigns: Promote tourism packages featuring seaplane services.

Conclusion:
Seaplane operations in Assam can revolutionize tourism while showcasing the region’s natural beauty. However, balancing development with environmental conservation is essential for long-term success.

Topic 3: Mushroom Cultivation Demonstration in Biswanath Chariali

GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Rural Development

Introduction:
A demonstration on mushroom cultivation was conducted in Biswanath Chariali by local self-help groups (SHGs) and community leaders. The initiative focused on providing rural women with skills for sustainable income generation through agricultural entrepreneurship.

Key Points:

• The training included the complete process of mushroom cultivation, including bag preparation and growth management.
• Participants were educated on the health and economic benefits of mushroom farming.
• Emphasis was placed on identifying safe, edible mushrooms and avoiding poisonous varieties.

Prelims Pointers:

• Self-Help Groups (SHGs): Community-led groups focused on empowering women through income-generating activities.
• Mushroom Cultivation: A low-investment, high-return agricultural practice.
• Agripreneurship: Entrepreneurship in agriculture focusing on innovation and sustainable practices.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Rural Employment: Provides sustainable income opportunities for women.
   • Nutritional Benefits: Enhances dietary diversity in rural communities.
   • Skill Development: Encourages rural communities to adopt innovative agricultural practices.
   • Environmental Impact: Reduces reliance on chemical fertilizers through natural farming practices.
   • Economic Empowerment: Promotes financial independence among women.
2. Challenges:
   • Lack of Awareness: Limited knowledge about cultivation techniques.
   • Market Access: Difficulties in reaching profitable markets for mushrooms.
   • Storage Issues: Perishability of mushrooms requires advanced storage facilities.
   • Initial Investment: Despite being low-cost, small farmers may find even minimal capital requirements challenging.
   • Training Gaps: Lack of consistent follow-up training to enhance skills.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Government Support: Subsidies and training programs for rural farmers.
   • Market Linkages: Establishing direct supply chains for better prices.
   • Community Awareness: Workshops to educate rural populations on benefits and practices.
   • Technology Integration: Use of mobile apps to guide farmers on mushroom cultivation techniques.
   • Public-Private Partnerships: Encourage investments from agri-businesses in rural areas.

Conclusion:
Mushroom cultivation holds immense potential to transform rural livelihoods through low-cost, sustainable agriculture. Focused efforts to integrate technical knowledge and market access can drive agripreneurship in Assam.

Topic 4: Conservation of Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

GS Paper 3: Environment and Biodiversity

Introduction:
Conservationists have raised concerns about the electrification of railway tracks passing through Holongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary in Assam. The proposed project risks significant ecological damage, particularly to species like the hoolock gibbon and capped langur.

Key Points:

• The sanctuary is home to India’s only ape, the hoolock gibbon, and other rare species.
• Electrification of railway tracks increases risks of electrocution for arboreal species.
• The National Board for Wildlife has cleared the project, but local conservationists call it an “ecocide.”

Prelims Pointers:

• Hoolock Gibbon: India’s only ape, found in the Northeastern region, listed as Endangered by the IUCN.
• Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: Located in Assam, known for its unique biodiversity and rich canopy.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Biodiversity Hotspot: Critical habitat for endemic and endangered species.
   • Cultural Significance: Reflects local conservation ethics and tribal reverence for wildlife.
   • Ecosystem Services: Supports hydrological balance and serves as a carbon sink.
2. Challenges:
   • Electrocution Risk: Arboreal species vulnerable to high-voltage power lines.
   • Habitat Fragmentation: Railways disrupt animal movement corridors.
   • Lack of Stakeholder Engagement: Limited consultation with local communities.
   • Policy Oversight: Wildlife clearance without sufficient ecological assessment.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Alternate Routing: Explore alternate rail alignments to bypass the sanctuary.
   • Underground Cabling: Replace overhead electrification with underground systems.
   • Monitoring Mechanisms: Set up independent committees to track environmental impacts.
   • Conservation Investments: Allocate funds for wildlife protection measures.
   • Awareness Campaigns: Educate communities on the ecological value of the sanctuary.

Conclusion:
Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary represents the fragile balance between development and conservation. Sustainable solutions can ensure the coexistence of biodiversity and infrastructure growth.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

Topic 1: Bodoland Mahotsav and Post-Peace Accord Development

Question 1: With reference to the Bodo Peace Accord, 2020, consider the following statements:

1. It was a tripartite agreement involving the Government of India, the Government of Assam, and Bodo insurgent groups.
2. The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) was formed under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution as part of the Accord.
3. The Accord focuses exclusively on the socio-economic development of the Bodo community.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: A. 1 and 2 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct. The Bodo Peace Accord was signed between the Government of India, the Government of Assam, and Bodo groups to end decades of insurgency.
• Statement 2 is correct. The BTR was created under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution to grant autonomy to Bodo-dominated areas.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. While the Accord prioritizes the socio-economic upliftment of the Bodo community, it also focuses on regional stability and inclusivity for all communities in the region.

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Topic 2: Seaplane Demonstration at Brahmaputra for Tourism Growth

Question 2: Which of the following statements about the UDAN scheme is/are correct?

1. It aims to enhance regional air connectivity by making air travel affordable for the common man.
2. Seaplane operations under the UDAN scheme are focused exclusively on Northeast India.
3. The UDAN scheme operates under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

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

Answer: B. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct. The UDAN scheme (“Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik”) focuses on affordable regional air travel to enhance connectivity.
• Statement 2 is incorrect. Although the scheme includes seaplane services in Northeast India, it is not limited to this region.
• Statement 3 is correct. The scheme is implemented under the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

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Topic 3: Mushroom Cultivation Demonstration in Biswanath Chariali

Question 3: With reference to mushroom cultivation, consider the following statements:

1. Mushroom farming is a low-investment, high-return agricultural practice.
2. It relies heavily on chemical fertilizers for higher yields.
3. Agripreneurship through mushroom cultivation can provide sustainable income for rural women.

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. Mushroom cultivation requires minimal capital investment compared to other agricultural activities and yields high returns.
• Statement 2 is incorrect. Mushroom farming does not rely on chemical fertilizers; natural methods are often sufficient.
• Statement 3 is correct. Agripreneurship through mushroom farming empowers rural women with sustainable income opportunities.

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Topic 4: Conservation of Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

Question 4: With reference to the Holongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary, consider the following statements:

1. It is the only sanctuary in India dedicated to the conservation of the hoolock gibbon.
2. The sanctuary is known for its rich canopy and diverse arboreal species.
3. Electrification of railway tracks passing through the sanctuary has been widely supported by conservationists.

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 3 is incorrect. Conservationists have raised concerns about electrification of railway tracks through the sanctuary, citing risks to arboreal species like the hoolock gibbon.

Statement 1 is correct. Holongapar Gibbon Wildlife Sanctuary is India’s only sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of the hoolock gibbon.

Statement 2 is correct. The sanctuary is characterized by its rich canopy and unique arboreal biodiversity.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Topic: Balancing Development and Conservation in Protected Areas – The Case of Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary

Question: Infrastructure development in ecologically sensitive areas often leads to a conflict between economic growth and biodiversity conservation. Discuss this statement in the context of the Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary, highlighting the challenges and suggesting sustainable solutions to balance development with conservation efforts. (250 words)

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Model Answer:

Introduction:
Ecologically sensitive areas like the Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam are critical for biodiversity conservation. However, infrastructure projects such as railway electrification pose threats to their fragile ecosystems, highlighting the perennial conflict between development and conservation.

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Body:

Challenges of Development in Protected Areas:

1. Habitat Fragmentation: Railway lines and roads dissect wildlife corridors, restricting animal movement.
2. Direct Threats to Species: Electrification of railway tracks risks electrocution of arboreal species like the hoolock gibbon.
3. Policy Oversight: Infrastructure projects are often cleared without comprehensive ecological impact assessments.
4. Community Exclusion: Lack of local stakeholder involvement in decision-making leads to inadequate mitigation measures.
5. Ecosystem Imbalance: Disruption of habitats impacts ecosystem services like carbon sequestration and water balance.

Sustainable Solutions:

1. Alternate Routing: Reroute railway tracks to avoid passing through critical habitats.
2. Underground Cabling: Replace overhead electrification with underground systems to reduce risks to arboreal species.
3. Comprehensive Assessments: Mandate detailed environmental impact assessments (EIAs) before project approvals.
4. Eco-Friendly Infrastructure: Implement wildlife overpasses and underpasses to maintain connectivity.
5. Community Engagement: Involve local communities in conservation planning and decision-making.

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Conclusion:
Development and conservation need not be mutually exclusive. With innovative planning, transparent governance, and community involvement, infrastructure projects like the one in Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary can achieve a balance, ensuring long-term biodiversity protection alongside economic growth.

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