APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes by SuchitraACS 17-01-2025

APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (17/01/2025)

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 (17-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. ISRO’s Space Docking Success – A Leap Towards India’s Space Ambitions

GS Paper 3: Science and Technology

Introduction

On January 16, 2025, ISRO achieved a significant milestone with the successful docking of two satellites under the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). This positions India as the fourth country globally to master space docking technology after the USA, Russia, and China.

Key Points

  1. Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX):
    • Demonstrated in-orbit docking of two small satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target).
    • Launched aboard PSLV C60 on December 30, 2024, into a 475-km circular orbit.
  2. Significance of Space Docking:
    • Enables spacecraft to join and perform joint operations.
    • Paves the way for future missions like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and lunar exploration missions.
    • Essential for interplanetary exploration requiring multiple rocket launches.
  3. Technological Feats:
    • ISRO achieved control over the satellites as a single object post-docking.
    • Highlights India’s cost-effective engineering capabilities in space technology.

Prelims Pointers

  • SpaDeX: A technology demonstrator mission for space docking.
  • Bharatiya Antariksh Station: India’s proposed space station project.
  • Countries with Space Docking Technology: USA, Russia, China, and India.

Mains Pointers

Importance of Space Docking:

  1. Future Missions:
    • Enables the establishment of space stations.
    • Facilitates long-term lunar and interplanetary missions.
  2. Strategic Implications:
    • Enhances India’s position as a global space power.
    • Supports defense and surveillance capabilities.
  3. Scientific Contributions:
    • Promotes collaborative research with international space agencies.
    • Enables advanced experiments in microgravity.

Challenges:

  1. Technological Complexity:
    • Requires precise control and synchronization of satellite movements.
  2. Funding and Resources:
    • Sustained investment needed for scaling up capabilities.
  3. International Competition:
    • Race to develop advanced space technologies with major powers.

Government Initiatives:

  • Strengthening the capacity of ISRO and private players through public-private partnerships.
  • Encouraging startups in space technology under the SpaceCom Policy 2024.

Way Ahead

  1. Capacity Building:
    • Expand collaborations with global space agencies for knowledge sharing.
  2. Infrastructure Development:
    • Invest in advanced launch systems and modular spacecraft designs.
  3. Policy Framework:
    • Develop guidelines for private sector participation in space docking missions.

Conclusion

The success of SpaDeX highlights India’s potential to lead the global space race. By leveraging indigenous technology, fostering innovation, and enhancing international collaborations, ISRO can pave the way for ambitious projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station and interplanetary exploration. This achievement underscores India’s commitment to becoming a leading space-faring nation.

2. India’s Drone Revolution in Agriculture

GS Paper 3: Science and Technology, Agriculture

Introduction

The deployment of drones in agriculture has emerged as a transformative innovation, boosting efficiency and sustainability in farming practices. The Ministry of Agriculture recently highlighted the integration of drone technology for precision farming and its potential to revolutionize Indian agriculture.

Key Points

  1. Applications of Drones in Agriculture:
    • Precision Farming: Enables real-time monitoring of crops, soil, and irrigation patterns.
    • Pesticide Spraying: Ensures uniform application, reducing chemical wastage.
    • Crop Health Analysis: Uses sensors and imaging to detect diseases early.
  2. Government Push for Drones in Agriculture:
    • Launch of the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM) to subsidize drone purchases.
    • Custom hiring centers providing drone services to small and marginal farmers.
  3. Benefits of Drones in Agriculture:
    • Enhances productivity by optimizing resource use.
    • Reduces input costs for pesticides, water, and fertilizers.
    • Promotes environmental sustainability by minimizing chemical overuse.

Prelims Pointers

  • Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM): Promotes mechanized farming with subsidies for drones.
  • Kisan Drones: A government initiative to encourage drone use among farmers.
  • NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index): Used in drones to assess crop health.

Mains Pointers

Significance of Drones in Agriculture:

  1. Economic Benefits:
    • Saves costs through precise input application.
    • Reduces dependence on manual labor, addressing labor shortages.
  2. Environmental Benefits:
    • Optimizes water usage, contributing to climate resilience.
    • Limits overuse of fertilizers and pesticides, protecting soil health.
  3. Technology Empowerment:
    • Encourages adoption of modern farming techniques.
    • Improves farm management through data-driven decisions.

Challenges:

  1. High Costs:
    • Initial investment in drone technology remains prohibitive for small farmers.
  2. Regulatory and Training Issues:
    • Limited awareness and skilled manpower for operating drones.
    • Compliance with airspace and safety regulations.
  3. Infrastructure Constraints:
    • Lack of charging facilities and spare parts in rural areas.
    • Dependence on stable internet for data processing.

Government Initiatives:

  1. Kisan Drone Scheme: Offers subsidies for drone purchases under SMAM.
  2. Digital Agriculture Mission (2021-2025): Promotes agri-tech adoption, including drones.
  3. Drone Rules, 2021: Simplifies regulations to encourage drone usage in various sectors.

Way Ahead

  1. Subsidies and Incentives:
    • Expand financial assistance for drone purchases.
    • Encourage private sector participation in agri-tech innovations.
  2. Skill Development:
    • Establish training centers for farmers and drone operators.
    • Provide technical support through agricultural universities.
  3. Policy Reforms:
    • Streamline airspace permissions for agricultural drones.
    • Develop region-specific guidelines for optimal drone usage.

Conclusion

The integration of drones in agriculture represents a paradigm shift towards sustainable and efficient farming practices. By addressing affordability and training challenges, India can harness the full potential of drone technology, empowering its farmers and driving agricultural growth.

3. Advantage Assam 2.0 and its Role in Regional Connectivity

GS Paper 3: Economy, Infrastructure Development

Introduction

Advantage Assam 2.0, launched with the tagline “Invest in Assam: Connecting You to Millions Within Three Hours,” emphasizes the state’s strategic location and enhanced connectivity to attract investors. The initiative aligns with India’s Act East Policy to bolster economic growth and integration with Southeast Asia.

Key Points

  1. Enhanced Air Connectivity:
    • Assam’s seven operational airports connect the state to major Indian cities and neighboring countries.
    • Under the UDAN scheme, ten additional airports are proposed, including Chabua, Darrang, and Dinjan.
  2. Strategic Geographical Position:
    • Within three hours, air connectivity from Assam can reach cities like Dhaka, Mandalay, Hanoi, and Kuala Lumpur.
    • Boosts integration with ASEAN nations under the Act East Policy.
  3. Infrastructure Projects:
    • Construction of the new terminal at Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport with a capacity of 13 million passengers annually.
    • Expansion of waterways: 11 national waterways in Assam out of the country’s total of 31.

Prelims Pointers

  • UDAN Scheme: Government initiative to enhance regional air connectivity.
  • National Waterways: Inland water transport network; Assam plays a pivotal role with waterways like NW2 (Brahmaputra) and NW16.
  • Act East Policy: Strengthens India’s economic and strategic ties with Southeast Asia.

Mains Pointers

Significance of Advantage Assam 2.0:

  1. Economic Growth:
    • Boosts trade and investment in sectors like tea, oil, and agro-processing.
    • Enhances export potential by improving logistics and market access.
  2. Regional Integration:
    • Strengthens ties with ASEAN economies.
    • Positions Assam as a gateway for trade with neighboring countries.
  3. Employment Opportunities:
    • Infrastructure development creates jobs in construction, transport, and allied sectors.
    • Promotes local entrepreneurship through improved connectivity.

Challenges:

  1. Geographical Constraints:
    • Flood-prone regions and hilly terrain hinder infrastructure expansion.
  2. Environmental Concerns:
    • Infrastructure development impacts Assam’s wetlands, forests, and biodiversity.
  3. Funding and Execution:
    • Delays in project funding and execution due to bureaucratic inefficiencies.

Government Initiatives:

  1. Act East Policy: Facilitates cross-border trade and cultural exchange.
  2. Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Encourages private investment in infrastructure projects.
  3. NESIDS: Focuses on improving infrastructure in remote and isolated areas.

Way Ahead

  1. Integrated Development Planning:
    • Develop comprehensive strategies combining air, rail, and waterways.
    • Ensure alignment with sustainable development goals.
  2. Sustainability Measures:
    • Conduct environmental impact assessments.
    • Implement eco-friendly technologies in construction.
  3. Capacity Building:
    • Train local communities in skill development for infrastructure projects.
    • Promote start-ups focusing on logistics and supply chain.

Conclusion

Advantage Assam 2.0 aims to transform the state into a regional economic powerhouse by leveraging its strategic location and connectivity. Sustainable development, coupled with effective policy implementation, can position Assam as a key player in India’s Act East vision while ensuring inclusive growth.

4. Silpi Pension and Barxik Silpi Sanman for Artists in Assam

GS Paper 1: Indian Culture and Social Justice

Introduction

The Government of Assam announced the recipients of the Silpi Pension 2024–25, Barxik Silpi Sanman, and special assistance for families of deceased artists. This initiative highlights the state’s commitment to supporting cultural heritage and honoring contributions to the arts.

Key Points

  1. Silpi Pension Scheme:
    • A regular financial assistance program for artists aged 50 years or above.
    • Aims to provide financial stability to artists who have significantly contributed to Assam’s cultural heritage.
  2. Barxik Silpi Sanman:
    • Recognizes contributions from artists across various fields like folk singing, theatre, and traditional crafts.
    • Includes awards for differently-abled artists to ensure inclusivity.
  3. Special Assistance to Families:
    • One-time monetary aid for families of deceased artists.
    • Provides family pensions to ensure long-term support.
  4. Key Figures:
    • 73 artists awarded the Silpi Pension.
    • 179 artists received the Barxik Silpi Sanman, including five differently-abled artists.
    • Special assistance extended to families of 10 deceased artists.

Prelims Pointers

  • Silpi Pension Scheme: Financial support for senior artists in Assam.
  • Barxik Silpi Sanman: Annual honor for artists contributing to Assam’s cultural legacy.
  • Cultural Significance: Reflects Assam’s rich traditions in folk art, music, and theater.

Mains Pointers

Significance of the Initiative:

  1. Cultural Preservation:
    • Promotes and preserves Assam’s indigenous art forms.
    • Encourages younger generations to pursue traditional arts.
  2. Social Welfare:
    • Provides financial security for artists in their later years.
    • Supports families of deceased artists, acknowledging their contributions.
  3. Inclusivity:
    • Recognizes differently-abled artists, promoting equitable representation.

Challenges:

  1. Funding Issues:
    • Delayed disbursement of pensions and awards due to budget constraints.
  2. Lack of Awareness:
    • Many eligible artists remain unaware of such schemes.
  3. Limited Coverage:
    • The number of beneficiaries is small compared to the artist population in Assam.

Government Initiatives:

  1. Cultural Affairs Department: Administers awards and pensions for artists.
  2. Financial Assistance Schemes: Ensures regular review and expansion of artist welfare programs.
  3. Skill Development: Offers training programs to enhance artists’ skills and marketability.

Way Ahead

  1. Increase Outreach:
    • Use digital platforms to create awareness about available schemes.
  2. Enhance Funding:
    • Allocate higher budgets to expand coverage of pensions and awards.
  3. Skill Development and Market Linkages:
    • Organize workshops to train artists in contemporary techniques.
    • Facilitate platforms to market traditional art and craft.

Conclusion The Silpi Pension and Barxik Silpi Sanman reflect Assam’s dedication to preserving its cultural identity while supporting its artists. Strengthening these initiatives will not only uplift the artists’ community but also ensure the survival of Assam’s rich cultural heritage.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. ISRO’s Space Docking Success

Question 1:
Which of the following countries have mastered space docking technology?

  1. USA
  2. Russia
  3. China
  4. India

Select the correct answer using the code below:

  • (a) 1, 2, and 3 only
  • (b) 1, 3, and 4 only
  • (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
  • (d) 2 and 4 only

Answer: (c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation: The USA, Russia, and China have historically mastered space docking technology. With SpaDeX, India became the fourth country to achieve this milestone.

Question 2:
What was the primary objective of ISRO’s Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX)?

  • (a) Demonstrating reusable launch vehicles
  • (b) Testing interplanetary communication networks
  • (c) Conducting in-orbit docking of two satellites
  • (d) Launching India’s first manned space mission

Answer: (c) Conducting in-orbit docking of two satellites
Explanation: SpaDeX was designed to test the docking of two satellites, SDX01 (Chaser) and SDX02 (Target), demonstrating India’s capability in in-orbit docking technology essential for future space stations and interplanetary missions.

Question 3:
Which launch vehicle deployed the satellites for SpaDeX?

  • (a) GSLV Mk III
  • (b) PSLV C60
  • (c) RLV-TD
  • (d) Gaganyaan Module

Answer: (b) PSLV C60
Explanation: PSLV C60 launched the two satellites for SpaDeX into a 475-km circular orbit, enabling the experiment.

2. India’s Drone Revolution in Agriculture

Question 4:
Which of the following is/are applications of drones in agriculture?

  1. Precision farming
  2. Pesticide spraying
  3. Monitoring soil health

Select the correct answer using the code below:

  • (a) 1 only
  • (b) 1 and 2 only
  • (c) 2 and 3 only
  • (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation: Drones are used in precision farming to monitor crops, for pesticide spraying to ensure uniform application, and for monitoring soil and crop health using imaging and sensors.

Question 5:
What is the purpose of the Sub-Mission on Agricultural Mechanization (SMAM)?

  • (a) To promote mechanized farming and subsidize drone purchases
  • (b) To encourage organic farming practices
  • (c) To develop new hybrid crop varieties
  • (d) To provide loans for rural irrigation projects

Answer: (a) To promote mechanized farming and subsidize drone purchases
Explanation: SMAM supports mechanized farming by offering financial assistance for purchasing equipment, including drones, to increase productivity and reduce manual labor.

Question 6:
What does NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index) measure in agriculture?

  • (a) Soil nutrient levels
  • (b) Crop yield estimates
  • (c) Vegetation health and density
  • (d) Water usage efficiency

Answer: (c) Vegetation health and density
Explanation: NDVI, used in drones, measures the health and density of vegetation by analyzing the reflection of near-infrared and visible light, helping assess crop conditions.

3. Advantage Assam 2.0 and its Role in Regional Connectivity

Question 7:
Which of the following infrastructure developments are part of Advantage Assam 2.0?

  1. Expansion of Lokpriya Gopinath Bordoloi International Airport
  2. Development of 11 national waterways
  3. Construction of 10 additional airports under UDAN

Select the correct answer using the code below:

  • (a) 1 and 2 only
  • (b) 1 and 3 only
  • (c) 2 and 3 only
  • (d) 1, 2, and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation: Advantage Assam 2.0 focuses on expanding the airport, increasing waterways (11 out of 31 national waterways), and improving air connectivity under the UDAN scheme.

Question 8:
Which policy aligns Advantage Assam 2.0 with regional integration?

  • (a) Make in India
  • (b) Act East Policy
  • (c) National Logistics Policy
  • (d) NESIDS

Answer: (b) Act East Policy
Explanation: Advantage Assam 2.0 aligns with the Act East Policy, which aims to enhance economic and strategic ties between India and Southeast Asia through better connectivity and trade.

Question 9:
What is the significance of National Waterway 2 (NW2)?

  • (a) It connects Assam to the rest of India via the Ganga River
  • (b) It runs along the Brahmaputra River, enabling inland trade
  • (c) It links Indian ports to ASEAN countries
  • (d) It is exclusively for defense transport

Answer: (b) It runs along the Brahmaputra River, enabling inland trade
Explanation: NW2, on the Brahmaputra River, is crucial for Assam’s trade and connectivity, linking key ports and fostering economic growth in the region.

4. Silpi Pension and Barxik Silpi Sanman

Question 10:
What is the main objective of the Silpi Pension Scheme?

  • (a) To provide pensions to retired government employees in Assam
  • (b) To financially support senior artists contributing to Assam’s culture
  • (c) To honor traditional crafts with international awards
  • (d) To organize cultural festivals across Assam

Answer: (b) To financially support senior artists contributing to Assam’s culture
Explanation: The Silpi Pension Scheme provides regular financial assistance to artists aged 50 and above who have made significant contributions to Assam’s cultural heritage.

Question 11:
How many artists were awarded the Barxik Silpi Sanman in 2024–25?

  • (a) 100
  • (b) 123
  • (c) 179
  • (d) 200

Answer: (c) 179
Explanation: The Barxik Silpi Sanman was awarded to 179 artists in 2024–25, recognizing their contributions across fields like folk music, crafts, and theater.

Question 12:
Which department administers the Silpi Pension and Barxik Silpi Sanman schemes?

  • (a) Department of Social Welfare
  • (b) Department of Cultural Affairs
  • (c) Department of Finance
  • (d) Department of Tribal Affairs

Answer: (b) Department of Cultural Affairs
Explanation: These schemes are administered by the Department of Cultural Affairs, which oversees initiatives to support artists and preserve Assam’s cultural legacy.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. Discuss the significance of ISRO’s success in space docking technology through the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). Highlight its implications for India’s space program and the challenges in scaling such advancements.

Model Answer

Introduction
On January 16, 2025, ISRO achieved a significant milestone by successfully executing the Space Docking Experiment (SpaDeX). This positions India as the fourth country globally to master space docking technology after the USA, Russia, and China. This breakthrough marks a leap toward establishing India’s own space station and advancing interplanetary missions.

Significance of Space Docking Technology

  1. Facilitating Future Space Missions:
    • Enables the assembly and maintenance of modular space stations like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station.
    • Crucial for long-duration lunar and Mars missions requiring multiple launches for supplies and equipment.
  2. Strategic Advantages:
    • Enhances India’s stature as a global space power.
    • Strengthens defense and surveillance capabilities through advanced satellite technologies.
  3. Scientific Contributions:
    • Enables in-orbit experiments in microgravity conditions.
    • Opens avenues for international collaborations in space research.
  4. Economic and Technological Impact:
    • Showcases cost-effective engineering capabilities, boosting the global competitiveness of Indian space technology.
    • Encourages innovation in satellite manufacturing and docking systems, spurring private sector growth.

Challenges in Scaling Space Docking Technology

  1. Technological Complexity:
    • Requires high precision in satellite synchronization, orbital mechanics, and control systems.
    • Vulnerability to failures in automated systems during docking operations.
  2. Resource Allocation:
    • Sustained funding needed for R&D, infrastructure development, and human resource training.
    • Competition with other national priorities in space and defense sectors.
  3. International Competition and Collaboration:
    • Navigating geopolitical challenges and maintaining leadership amidst the space race with major powers like the USA, China, and Russia.
    • Balancing collaboration with self-reliance to avoid dependency on foreign technologies.

Implications for India’s Space Program

  1. Pathway to Self-Reliance:
    • Reduces dependency on foreign partners for docking and interplanetary logistics.
    • Accelerates India’s space station project and exploration missions.
  2. Boosting Private Sector Participation:
    • Encourages startups and private companies to develop ancillary technologies under the SpaceCom Policy 2024.
  3. Global Collaborations:
    • Positions India as a key partner for space exploration initiatives with other nations.
  4. Strengthening Act East and Global Outreach:
    • Leverages space diplomacy to forge ties with ASEAN nations and emerging space-faring countries.

Way Forward

  1. Capacity Building:
    • Invest in skill development and training for scientists and engineers.
    • Foster partnerships with global space agencies for knowledge sharing.
  2. Infrastructure Development:
    • Expand satellite launch facilities and create modular spacecraft assembly centers.
    • Develop robust testing mechanisms for space docking operations.
  3. Policy and Regulatory Support:
    • Formulate clear guidelines for private sector participation in docking-related technologies.
    • Encourage innovation through incentives and research grants.
  4. Sustainability Focus:
    • Ensure space debris management to avoid collisions during docking.
    • Promote reusable spacecraft technologies.

Conclusion
The success of SpaDeX underscores ISRO’s potential to lead the global space race through indigenous innovations. By overcoming technological and financial challenges, India can establish itself as a leader in space exploration. This milestone not only accelerates projects like the Bharatiya Antariksh Station but also inspires confidence in India’s long-term vision of interplanetary missions, marking a new era in its space journey.

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