APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (17/02/2025)
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 (17-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. State to Get 8th National Park – Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve
📌 GS Paper 3: Environment & Ecology, Conservation Efforts
Introduction
The Assam Cabinet has approved Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve Forest as the state’s eighth national park, strengthening Assam’s status as a biodiversity hotspot. Located between Raimona and Manas National Parks in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts, it aims to conserve endangered species and enhance eco-tourism in the Bodoland region.
With this addition, Assam now has the second-highest number of national parks in India, after Madhya Pradesh (10).
Key Points
1. About Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve Forest
- Situated in Kokrajhar & Chirang districts, near the Bhutan border.
- Rich biodiversity hotspot, forming an important corridor for wildlife migration.
- Hosts elephants, golden langurs, Bengal tigers, hornbills, and several rare bird species.
2. Significance of the Decision
✅ Strengthens Wildlife Conservation Efforts – Protects endangered species and ensures sustainable management of forest resources.
✅ Boosts Eco-Tourism – Encourages nature-based tourism, creating employment for local communities.
✅ Supports Climate Change Mitigation – National parks act as carbon sinks, helping reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
✅ Enhances Assam’s Role in Biodiversity Conservation – The addition of Sikhna Jwhwlao increases protected forest cover in Northeast India.
3. Challenges & Concerns
- Human-Wildlife Conflict: Encroachment in buffer zones may lead to conflicts with local communities.
- Infrastructure & Management: Need for trained personnel, anti-poaching squads, and advanced surveillance.
- Ecological Balance: Unchecked tourism could lead to waste disposal issues and habitat degradation.
Prelims Pointers
- Manas National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site in Assam.
- Raimona National Park: Declared in 2021, part of the Manas Biosphere Reserve.
- Difference Between National Park & Wildlife Sanctuary: National parks have stricter protection laws, while wildlife sanctuaries allow limited human activities.
- Golden Langur: A threatened primate species found only in Assam and Bhutan.
Mains Pointers
Why is Declaring Sikhna Jwhwlao as a National Park Important?
- Wildlife Protection & Conservation
- Ensures long-term protection for endangered flora & fauna.
- Strengthens Assam’s conservation corridors connecting Manas & Raimona.
- Boosts Eco-Tourism & Sustainable Development
- Promotes community-driven tourism in Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR).
- Encourages local handicrafts, homestays, and nature-based livelihoods.
- Climate Resilience & Sustainable Environment
- Dense forests act as carbon sinks, reducing CO2 emissions.
- Helps preserve groundwater and prevent soil erosion.
- Challenges in Implementation
- Encroachment & Illegal Logging threaten the ecosystem.
- Need for better wildlife monitoring & anti-poaching laws.
- Balancing development & conservation remains a key challenge.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthen Anti-Poaching Measures – Deploy drones, camera traps, and wildlife task forces.
✅ Involve Local Communities – Promote eco-tourism, afforestation drives, and conservation awareness.
✅ Sustainable Infrastructure Development – Build low-impact tourism facilities while protecting biodiversity.
✅ Collaborate with International Conservation Agencies – Seek support from UNESCO, WWF, and IUCN for better conservation strategies.
Conclusion
The designation of Sikhna Jwhwlao as Assam’s 8th National Park is a crucial step in protecting biodiversity, promoting sustainable tourism, and addressing climate challenges. With proper management and community involvement, this initiative can set an example for conservation-driven economic growth in Northeast India.
2. Govt & AASU Agree on Action Plan for Clause 6 Implementation
📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, Assam Accord, Linguistic & Cultural Protection
Introduction
The Assam government and the All Assam Students’ Union (AASU) have agreed on an action plan to implement Clause 6 of the Assam Accord, based on the Justice B.K. Sharma Committee recommendations. Clause 6 ensures constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards for Assamese people’s identity & culture.
The move is seen as a major political and social development, as it addresses long-standing demands for indigenous rights in Assam.
Key Points
1. Major Decisions Taken
✅ Assamese Language Mandate – Assamese to be mandatory in all schools up to Class 8, except for Barak Valley & Hill districts.
✅ Official Language Policy – All government notifications to be published in Assamese, Bengali (Barak Valley), and Bodo (Bodoland Territorial Region – BTR).
✅ Land Protection Measures – In selected revenue blocks, only families residing for three generations will be allowed to buy or sell land (exempting SC/ST communities).
✅ Legal Translation Initiative – All major laws, rules, and government notifications will be translated into Assamese, with assistance from Gauhati & Dibrugarh Universities.
✅ Satra Commission for Char Areas – A statutory commission will be established to protect historical & cultural sites in Assam, particularly in riverine (char) areas.
2. Challenges in Implementation
- Defining ‘Assamese People’ – The term remains vague, making eligibility criteria difficult to establish.
- Opposition from Some Communities – Bengali-speaking groups in Barak Valley have expressed concerns over exclusion.
- Legal & Constitutional Hurdles – Restrictions on land sales must align with fundamental rights under the Indian Constitution.
- Implementation at the Grassroots Level – Language policy execution may require additional teachers, textbooks, and financial support.
Prelims Pointers
- Clause 6 of Assam Accord (1985): Guarantees safeguards for Assamese people, ensuring protection of language, culture, and heritage.
- Assam Accord (1985): Signed between AASU, the Government of India, and the Government of Assam to resolve illegal immigration issues.
- Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR): An autonomous administrative region in Assam governed by the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC).
- Gauhati & Dibrugarh Universities: Key institutions assisting in Assamese language implementation and cultural research.
Mains Pointers
Why is Clause 6 Implementation Significant?
✅ Preserves Indigenous Identity – Ensures that demographic changes due to migration do not dilute Assamese culture.
✅ Addresses Long-Pending Issues – Helps fulfill Assam Accord commitments after 40 years.
✅ Strengthens Regional Governance – Allows Assam to protect land, language, and cultural heritage through legal safeguards.
Challenges in Implementing Clause 6
🚧 Lack of Consensus on Definition of ‘Assamese’ – Various ethnic groups have different claims to indigenous status.
🚧 Political & Social Tensions – Risk of alienating certain linguistic minorities in the state.
🚧 Practical Difficulties in Land Laws – Ensuring economic growth while maintaining restrictions on land transactions.
Way Ahead
✅ Clarifying Assamese Identity Definition – Establish a broad-based consensus involving all stakeholders.
✅ Legal Review on Land Laws – Ensure compliance with constitutional provisions on property rights.
✅ Public Awareness & Community Involvement – Conduct consultations, awareness drives, and stakeholder meetings.
Conclusion
The implementation of Clause 6 is a historic step for Assam. However, inclusive policy-making is required to balance linguistic & ethnic concerns while safeguarding indigenous identity. Careful execution with legal backing, public consensus, and government transparency will be crucial for its long-term success.
3. CRPF Sets Up New Forward Operating Base in Maoist-Hit Bijapur, Chhattisgarh
📌 GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), Counter-Insurgency Operations
Introduction
The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) has established a new Forward Operating Base (FOB) in Bijapur, Chhattisgarh, a region known as a Maoist stronghold. This move is part of India’s counter-insurgency strategy aimed at eliminating Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) by 2026.
The new base is strategically positioned to disrupt Maoist supply routes, improve security for local populations, and conduct intelligence-based operations against insurgents.
Key Points
1. Importance of Bijapur in the Maoist Conflict
✅ Maoist Core Zone – Bijapur, along with Dantewada and Sukma, forms the “Red Corridor”, where Maoists maintain strong influence.
✅ Difficult Terrain & Forest Cover – The dense forests provide natural hideouts for insurgents, making counter-insurgency operations challenging.
✅ Maoist Activities in the Region – Frequent attacks on security forces, civilians, and government infrastructure.
2. Role of the Forward Operating Base (FOB)
🔹 Permanent Presence of Security Forces – Instead of temporary operations, the FOB allows for a sustained counter-insurgency presence.
🔹 Restricts Maoist Movements – Disrupts insurgent supply lines, recruitment efforts, and arms smuggling.
🔹 Boosts Intelligence & Surveillance – Enhances drone operations, satellite tracking, and real-time communication with local security units.
🔹 Improves Civilian Security & Governance – The base provides medical aid, education, and development projects to tribal communities.
3. Government’s Larger Strategy Against Left-Wing Extremism
✔️ SAMADHAN Doctrine – India’s comprehensive LWE strategy focusing on Smart Policing, Aggressive Action, and Development Initiatives.
✔️ Security & Development Approach – The government is combining military operations with socio-economic development.
✔️ Eliminating Maoism by 2026 – Home Ministry aims to neutralize LWE activities in major districts through intelligence-led operations.
Prelims Pointers
- SAMADHAN Doctrine – India’s counter-LWE strategy.
- Operation Greyhound – Special forces trained for anti-Maoist operations.
- Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) Affected States – Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Maharashtra, Bihar, and Telangana.
- Red Corridor – Maoist insurgency-affected regions.
- Salwa Judum – A controversial anti-Maoist militia movement (disbanded).
Mains Pointers
Why is LWE a Major Internal Security Threat?
✅ Attacks on Security Forces – Maoists regularly target CRPF, police, and intelligence officers.
✅ Disrupts Infrastructure & Development – LWE-affected areas have poor roads, healthcare, and education due to insurgent activity.
✅ Exploits Tribal & Economic Grievances – Maoists recruit tribal youth by exploiting land disputes and poverty.
✅ Illegal Funding Sources – Extortion, illegal mining, and arms smuggling sustain LWE operations.
Challenges in Countering Maoism
🚧 Geographical Challenges – Dense forests provide natural hideouts for Maoists.
🚧 Intelligence & Coordination Issues – Need for better inter-agency collaboration between CRPF, state police, and IB.
🚧 Balancing Development & Security – Excessive military action can alienate tribal populations.
Way Ahead
✅ Expand Development Projects – Focus on education, healthcare, and employment opportunities in LWE areas.
✅ Strengthen Local Governance – Empower Panchayats & tribal communities to counter Maoist influence.
✅ Advanced Technology in Warfare – Use drones, AI-based surveillance, and cyber intelligence.
✅ Community Policing & Rehabilitation – Offer surrender & rehabilitation programs for former Maoist cadres.
Conclusion
The establishment of a Forward Operating Base in Bijapur marks a significant step in India’s counter-insurgency strategy. A multi-pronged approach combining military action, intelligence operations, and socio-economic development is essential to eliminate Left-Wing Extremism while ensuring inclusive growth for tribal communities.
4. Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station – 18 Dead
📌 GS Paper 3: Disaster Management, Urban Planning, Railway Safety
Introduction
A tragic stampede at New Delhi Railway Station has resulted in 18 deaths and several injuries, highlighting poor crowd management and infrastructure bottlenecks in India’s railway system. The incident occurred due to overcrowding, lack of proper announcements, and sudden platform changes, exposing serious flaws in passenger safety protocols.
This tragedy has once again raised concerns about railway safety measures, emergency preparedness, and the need for better urban mobility planning.
Key Points
1. Causes of the Stampede
🚨 Overcrowding – A massive surge of passengers returning from religious gatherings (Kumbh Mela special trains) overwhelmed the station.
🚨 Poor Announcement Systems – Passengers were misinformed about platform changes, leading to panic.
🚨 Narrow Foot Overbridges (FOBs) – Limited entry & exit points worsened congestion during peak hours.
🚨 Lack of Emergency Response Teams – Absence of adequate railway police and medical personnel delayed relief efforts.
2. Government Response
✔️ Compensation for Victims – ₹10 lakh to families of the deceased and ₹2.5 lakh for severely injured passengers.
✔️ High-Level Inquiry Commission – The Railway Ministry has ordered an investigation into the cause of the tragedy.
✔️ Immediate Safety Measures – Deployment of extra security personnel, better signages, and improved crowd control mechanisms at major railway stations.
✔️ Expansion of Foot Overbridges (FOBs) – Proposal to widen existing overbridges and build additional pedestrian pathways in high-footfall stations.
3. Lessons from the Incident & Preventive Measures
✅ Better Crowd Management Policies
- Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and CCTV monitoring to track real-time passenger movement.
- Smart crowd control strategies, such as entry-exit bifurcation and automated boarding announcements.
✅ Upgrading Infrastructure & Connectivity
- Expansion of FOBs, wider staircases, and additional escalators.
- Digital display boards and better signages for train movements.
✅ Deploying Disaster Response Teams at Major Stations
- Dedicated NDRF units for railway emergencies.
- More trained personnel for medical and crowd control assistance.
✅ Implementing a National Railway Safety Plan
- Setting up automated crowd flow analysis using AI-based systems.
- Learning from international best practices in railway station management.
Prelims Pointers
- Disaster Management Act, 2005 – Governs emergency response frameworks in India.
- Railway Protection Force (RPF) – Ensures passenger security at railway stations.
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) – Deploys units for railway accidents & stampedes.
- SMART Railway Safety Initiative – AI-driven railway safety and crowd monitoring program.
- Kumbh Mela Management Model – Large-scale crowd management strategies used for religious gatherings.
Mains Pointers
Why Do Railway Stampedes Occur in India?
✅ High Passenger Volume – India has one of the busiest railway networks in the world.
✅ Poor Infrastructure & Narrow Footbridges – Many railway stations are not designed to handle peak rush hours.
✅ Lack of Coordinated Crowd Control Mechanisms – Poor signage, last-minute train changes, and absence of monitoring systems worsen chaos.
✅ Ineffective Use of Technology in Crowd Management – Railways lag behind in AI-based crowd movement analysis.
Challenges in Implementing Railway Safety Reforms
🚧 Financial Constraints – Expanding railway infrastructure requires significant investments.
🚧 Coordination Between Agencies – Multiple agencies (Railway Ministry, State Governments, RPF, and local police) operate with limited synchronization.
🚧 Delayed Modernization of Railway Stations – Many old stations have not been upgraded to handle modern passenger loads.
Way Ahead
✅ Railway Modernization Projects – Build wider platforms, better escalators, and AI-based passenger monitoring.
✅ Real-Time Information Systems – Improve digital signage & mobile alerts for passenger movement.
✅ Strengthen Emergency Response Units – Deploy first-aid teams and security personnel at high-risk stations.
✅ Adopt International Best Practices – Implement Tokyo Metro’s congestion control models and European station management techniques.
Conclusion The stampede at New Delhi Railway Station underscores the urgent need for railway modernization. With a focus on better infrastructure, technology-driven crowd control, and emergency preparedness, India can ensure passenger safety and prevent future tragedies..
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Assam to Get 8th National Park – Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve
Question 1
Which of the following statements regarding Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve is/are correct?
- It is located between Raimona and Manas National Parks in Assam.
- It is a major habitat for golden langurs and Bengal tigers.
- Assam now has the highest number of national parks in India.
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct – Sikhna Jwhwlao Reserve is located between Raimona and Manas National Parks in Kokrajhar and Chirang districts.
- Statement 2 is correct – The park is a habitat for golden langurs, elephants, and Bengal tigers.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Assam has 8 national parks, while Madhya Pradesh has the highest (10 national parks).
Question 2
Which of the following national parks in Assam is a UNESCO World Heritage Site?
(a) Manas National Park
(b) Raimona National Park
(c) Dibru-Saikhowa National Park
(d) Orang National Park
✅ Answer: (a) Manas National Park
🔎 Explanation:
- Manas National Park and Kaziranga National Park are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.
2. Govt & AASU Agree on Action Plan for Clause 6 Implementation
Question 3
Clause 6 of the Assam Accord is related to which of the following?
(a) Providing special constitutional status to Assam
(b) Granting land rights to indigenous Assamese people
(c) Ensuring safeguards for Assamese identity, language, and culture
(d) Defining citizenship for people in Assam
✅ Answer: (c) Ensuring safeguards for Assamese identity, language, and culture
🔎 Explanation:
- Clause 6 of the Assam Accord (1985) aims to protect Assamese language, culture, and heritage through constitutional, legislative, and administrative safeguards.
Question 4
Which of the following provisions are part of the recent Assam government action plan under Clause 6 of the Assam Accord?
- Making Assamese language mandatory in all schools up to Class 8.
- Restricting land sales to non-Assamese citizens.
- Establishing a Satra Commission to protect religious & cultural sites.
Select the correct answer using the codes 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:
- All statements are correct – The Assam government has proposed making Assamese mandatory in schools, imposing land sale restrictions, and forming a Satra Commission for protecting historical sites.
3. CRPF Sets Up New Forward Operating Base in Maoist-Hit Bijapur
Question 5
Which of the following statements about Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) in India is correct?
- Maoist insurgency is primarily concentrated in the Red Corridor.
- The SAMADHAN doctrine is India’s strategy to counter LWE.
- The Indian Army is the lead agency handling Maoist insurgency in India.
Select the correct answer using the codes 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 Red Corridor includes Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and Maharashtra, where Maoist activities are concentrated.
- Statement 2 is correct – SAMADHAN is India’s counter-LWE strategy, focusing on smart policing, aggressive action, and development.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – The CRPF, not the Indian Army, is the lead agency for anti-Maoist operations.
Question 6
What is the SAMADHAN Doctrine, frequently mentioned in India’s internal security strategy?
(a) A peace treaty signed with Maoist insurgents
(b) A government program for rural employment in LWE-affected areas
(c) A multi-pronged strategy to tackle Left-Wing Extremism
(d) A cyber-surveillance system for monitoring terrorist activities
✅ Answer: (c) A multi-pronged strategy to tackle Left-Wing Extremism
🔎 Explanation:
- The SAMADHAN Doctrine focuses on Smart Policing, Aggressive Action, and Development Initiatives to counter Maoist insurgency.
4. Stampede at New Delhi Railway Station – 18 Dead
Question 7
Which of the following agencies are responsible for passenger safety at Indian railway stations?
- Railway Protection Force (RPF)
- National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
- Central Industrial Security Force (CISF)
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only
🔎 Explanation:
- RPF (Railway Protection Force) ensures security at railway stations.
- NDRF (National Disaster Response Force) responds to railway accidents & stampedes.
- CISF primarily secures airports, metros, and industrial zones, not railway stations.
Question 8
Which of the following measures can help prevent railway stampedes in India?
- AI-based real-time crowd monitoring systems
- Expansion of foot overbridges and wider platforms
- Deployment of additional Railway Protection Force (RPF) personnel
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 and 3 only
(c) 1 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (d) 1, 2, and 3
🔎 Explanation:All statements are correct – AI-driven monitoring, improved infrastructure, and increased security personnel can significantly reduce the risk of stampedes at railway stations.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Left-Wing Extremism (LWE) continues to pose a significant internal security challenge in India, despite efforts to curb it. Discuss the major causes of LWE, the government’s strategy to counter it, and the way forward for ensuring long-term peace in affected regions.
Model Answer
Introduction
Left-Wing Extremism (LWE), commonly known as Maoism or Naxalism, is one of India’s biggest internal security threats. It primarily affects central and eastern India, forming the ‘Red Corridor’ across Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Bihar, and Maharashtra. Despite significant security and development efforts, Maoist activities continue to disrupt governance, economic progress, and internal stability.
Major Causes of Left-Wing Extremism in India
- Economic Disparities & Tribal Alienation
- Widespread poverty, landlessness, and lack of basic amenities fuel resentment.
- Tribal communities face displacement due to mining, infrastructure, and deforestation.
- Weak Governance & Administrative Vacuums
- Poor implementation of welfare schemes and lack of government presence in remote areas.
- Corruption in local administration leads to mistrust among the rural population.
- Exploitation of Natural Resources
- Maoists capitalize on conflicts over land rights and environmental degradation.
- Illegal mining & deforestation drive rural grievances, which extremists exploit.
- Ineffective Law Enforcement & Intelligence Gaps
- Difficult forest terrain provides Maoists with safe havens.
- Limited coordination between central and state security agencies hampers counter-insurgency efforts.
Government’s Strategy to Counter LWE
- SAMADHAN Doctrine(Smart Policing, Aggressive Action, Development Initiatives)
- Focuses on strong security presence and socio-economic development in LWE areas.
- Operation Greyhound & Cobra Commandos
- Specialized forces trained for jungle warfare to neutralize Maoist hideouts.
- Development & Rehabilitation Efforts
- Aspirational Districts Programme (ADP) prioritizes LWE-affected regions.
- Skill training, rural employment (MGNREGA), and road construction improve connectivity and employment.
- Community Policing & Surrender Policies
- Encouraging Maoists to surrender with job opportunities and financial support.
- Empowering local governance (Panchayati Raj Institutions) to reduce extremist influence.
Challenges in Tackling LWE
🚧 Lack of Trust in Government Policies – Tribal communities often view government initiatives with suspicion.
🚧 Continued Maoist Influence in Forested Areas – Dense forests make military operations difficult.
🚧 Inadequate Socio-Economic Reforms – Development programs often fail to reach affected populations due to corruption.
Way Forward
✅ Strengthening Security & Intelligence Networks – Use AI-based surveillance, drones, and cyber-intelligence.
✅ Faster Infrastructure Development – Improve roads, schools, and healthcare in Maoist strongholds.
✅ Tribal Welfare & Land Reforms – Implement transparent land rights policies to prevent displacement.
✅ Rehabilitation & Reintegration of Ex-Maoists – Provide education, employment, and livelihood opportunities.
Conclusion LWE is not just a law and order issue but a socio-economic challenge. A balanced approach combining strong security measures, inclusive development, and tribal empowerment is necessary for long-term peace in Maoist-affected regions. By addressing root causes like poverty, governance failure, and land disputes, India can permanently weaken Left-Wing Extremism and ensure internal stability.
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