APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (17/03/2025)
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=7-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: HC Allows PWD to Carry Out Ancillary Works at Kamakhya
GS Paper 2: Governance, Infrastructure Development, Judicial Oversight
Introduction
The Gauhati High Court (HC) has permitted the Public Works Department (PWD) to carry out ancillary development works at the Kamakhya Temple premises, despite earlier concerns raised by environmentalists and heritage conservationists. The decision highlights the balance between infrastructure modernization and heritage preservation, a key issue in urban planning and governance.
Key Points
- Kamakhya Temple:
- One of the most sacred Shakti Peethas, dedicated to Goddess Kamakhya.
- Located on Nilachal Hill in Guwahati, attracting millions of pilgrims annually.
- Background of the Dispute:
- The PWD proposed renovation, parking facilities, drainage, and pathway improvements around the temple.
- Conservationists opposed major alterations, fearing damage to historical and religious significance.
- Legal petitions were filed, questioning environmental clearances and impact on temple heritage.
- High Court’s Ruling:
- Allowed PWD to continue minor developmental works, ensuring no structural damage to the temple.
- Mandated strict environmental and heritage impact assessments.
- Instructed authorities to consult temple trust, historians, and local bodies.
- Significance of the Verdict:
- Enables improved infrastructure for pilgrims while maintaining cultural and religious sanctity.
- Highlights judicial oversight on heritage conservation versus development projects.
Prelims Pointers
- Kamakhya Temple: A Shakti Peetha, associated with Tantric traditions.
- Shakti Peethas: 51 sacred sites where parts of Goddess Sati’s body are believed to have fallen.
- Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1958: Protects heritage sites from unregulated development.
- Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA): Mandates studies before large-scale infrastructure projects.
- Public Works Department (PWD): Responsible for infrastructure projects in roads, bridges, and public buildings.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of Infrastructure Development at Religious Heritage Sites
✅ 1. Improving Pilgrim Experience
- High footfall at Kamakhya Temple causes congestion and sanitation issues.
- Infrastructure upgrades help in better crowd management and tourism growth.
✅ 2. Economic & Tourism Boost
- Kamakhya is a major religious tourism destination, contributing to Assam’s economy.
- Improved access roads, parking, and drainage can boost local businesses and employment.
✅ 3. Preservation of Cultural Heritage
- Development must not compromise the temple’s ancient architecture.
- Use of traditional materials and designs ensures historical authenticity.
2. Challenges in Balancing Development & Heritage Conservation
✅ 1. Risk of Structural Damage
- Heavy construction near temples can cause long-term damage to foundations.
- Example: Jagannath Temple (Puri) faced similar controversies over infrastructural changes.
✅ 2. Environmental Concerns
- Unregulated construction on Nilachal Hill can trigger landslides and deforestation.
- Drainage system upgrades must ensure no pollution of Brahmaputra River.
✅ 3. Legal & Community Opposition
- Conservationists argue that PWD projects lack historical sensitivity.
- Some religious groups fear over-commercialization of pilgrimage sites.
✅ 4. Bureaucratic Delays & Legal Hurdles
- Frequent court cases stall infrastructure projects, leading to cost overruns.
- Example: Ram Janmabhoomi Corridor (Ayodhya) faced similar delays over land disputes.
3. Government & Judicial Interventions for Sustainable Development
✅ 1. High Court’s Monitoring of Heritage Projects
- Ensuring PWD’s compliance with heritage and environmental regulations.
- Directing state agencies to involve ASI (Archaeological Survey of India) in planning.
✅ 2. Sustainable Development Guidelines for Religious Sites
- Adoption of eco-friendly materials and non-intrusive construction techniques.
- Promoting green transport options like electric buses for pilgrims.
✅ 3. Public Participation in Decision-Making
- Formation of Temple Development Committees including priests, historians, and local stakeholders.
- Use of opinion surveys to incorporate citizen feedback in planning.
✅ 4. Strengthening Laws & Regulations
- Stringent environmental clearance norms for religious site infrastructure projects.
- Strict penalties for illegal constructions in heritage zones.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Implementing a Smart Pilgrimage Management Plan
- Use of digital crowd control systems and mobile navigation apps for pilgrims.
- Expansion of queue management and sanitation facilities.
✅ 2. Integrating Heritage Conservation with Urban Development
- Promotion of heritage-friendly urban designs in temple towns.
- Strict zoning laws to regulate commercial activities around temples.
✅ 3. Encouraging Community-Led Heritage Protection
- Local stakeholders must be involved in monitoring temple conservation projects.
- Temple trusts and conservation NGOs should play an active role in preservation efforts.
✅ 4. Expanding Religious Tourism in Assam
- Development of a “Shakti Peetha Circuit” linking Kamakhya with other major temples.
- Encouraging responsible tourism policies to prevent overcrowding.
Conclusion
The HC’s decision to allow PWD’s ancillary works at Kamakhya highlights the need for a balanced approach between infrastructure development and heritage conservation. While improving facilities for pilgrims is essential, cultural and environmental sensitivities must be respected. Going forward, a sustainable development framework involving judicial oversight, community participation, and eco-friendly construction will ensure that Kamakhya Temple retains its historical and spiritual significance while accommodating modern infrastructure needs.
Topic 2: Excavation at Dhekiajuli’s Gupteswar Devalaya
GS Paper 1: History, Archaeology, Cultural Heritage
Introduction
Recent archaeological excavations at Gupteswar Devalaya in Dhekiajuli, Assam, have revealed ancient temple structures, inscriptions, and artifacts, shedding new light on Assam’s medieval history. The discovery is expected to provide significant insights into the region’s religious traditions, architectural styles, and socio-cultural evolution. The Archaeological Survey of India (ASI) and state historians have called for conservation efforts to protect and study the site further.
Key Points
- Location & Significance:
- Gupteswar Devalaya is located in Dhekiajuli, Sonitpur district.
- The site is associated with Shakti worship and Shaivism, indicating strong religious traditions.
- Major Discoveries:
- Temple ruins with inscriptions in Sanskrit and ancient Assamese scripts.
- Idols of Hindu deities, suggesting influence of Hinduism and local tribal traditions.
- Stone carvings and relics dating back to the medieval period (9th–12th century CE).
- Possible Historical Linkages:
- May have connections to the Kamarupa Kingdom (4th–12th century CE), one of the earliest Assamese dynasties.
- Indicates the spread of Vaishnavism and Shaivism in Assam, alongside indigenous religious traditions.
- Challenges & Preservation Needs:
- The site is vulnerable to natural degradation and human encroachment.
- Lack of proper documentation threatens the historical value of the findings.
Prelims Pointers
- Kamarupa Kingdom (4th–12th century CE): An ancient Assamese dynasty known for Hindu-Buddhist cultural synthesis.
- Shakti Peetha Tradition: Assam is home to Kamakhya, one of the 51 Shakti Peethas, linked to Goddess worship.
- ASI (Archaeological Survey of India): The central agency responsible for excavations and conservation of historical sites.
- Epigraphy: The study of ancient inscriptions, crucial for deciphering historical records.
- Vaishnavism & Shaivism in Assam: Two major Hindu sects that influenced Assam’s medieval temple architecture.
Mains Pointers
1. Historical & Cultural Significance of the Discovery
✅ 1. Adds to Assam’s Religious Heritage
- Strengthens the historical narrative of Shaiva and Shakti worship traditions in Assam.
- Possible link to ancient pilgrimage routes and temple networks in the region.
✅ 2. Architectural & Artistic Insights
- Provides examples of medieval temple construction techniques in Assam.
- Presence of sculptures and inscriptions suggests a fusion of tribal and Hindu influences.
✅ 3. Expanding Knowledge of the Kamarupa Dynasty
- Confirms the dynasty’s role in temple-building and religious patronage.
- Links with other archaeological sites like Madan Kamdev, Navagraha Temple, and Da Parbatia.
2. Challenges in Conservation & Archaeological Research
✅ 1. Encroachment & Unregulated Development
- Nearby urban expansion and tourism threaten the site’s integrity.
- Illegal land occupation hampers proper excavation and conservation.
✅ 2. Lack of Funding & Preservation Efforts
- Limited financial support for detailed excavation, documentation, and restoration.
- Need for long-term government and academic collaboration.
✅ 3. Natural Erosion & Climate Impact
- Assam’s heavy monsoon and river erosion may damage unearthed structures.
- Soil preservation techniques needed to prevent further decay.
✅ 4. Weak Public Awareness & Tourism Development
- Lesser-known sites like Gupteswar Devalaya receive low attention compared to famous temples.
- Lack of tourism infrastructure prevents wider recognition.
3. Government Measures & Conservation Efforts
✅ 1. ASI & State Government Collaboration
- Proposal to declare the site a protected monument under ASI supervision.
- Digitization of inscriptions and artifacts for research and academic studies.
✅ 2. Introduction of Sustainable Tourism
- Development of eco-friendly visitor pathways and information centers.
- Training of local guides to educate tourists about the site’s historical significance.
✅ 3. Strengthening Legal Protection & Regulation
- Strict laws against illegal construction near heritage sites.
- Funding incentives for heritage conservation projects.
✅ 4. Academic Research & Public Awareness Campaigns
- Encouraging universities and historians to conduct detailed studies on Assam’s medieval heritage.
- Integration of archaeological findings into school and college history curricula.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Excavation & Documentation Efforts
- Use of modern technologies like 3D mapping and carbon dating to analyze findings.
- Collaboration with international archaeologists for advanced research.
✅ 2. Promoting Assam’s Archaeological Heritage
- Linking Gupteswar Devalaya to a larger cultural circuit with Kamakhya, Madan Kamdev, and Da Parbatia.
- Government-backed campaigns to boost cultural tourism.
✅ 3. Encouraging Community Participation
- Engaging local tribal communities in site protection through employment in conservation programs.
- Workshops and heritage walks to raise awareness.
✅ 4. Strengthening Policy Framework for Heritage Conservation
- Faster clearance of heritage protection status for historically significant sites.
- Increased allocation of funds under the National Heritage Mission.
Conclusion
The excavation at Gupteswar Devalaya in Dhekiajuli offers a unique opportunity to uncover Assam’s medieval history and religious traditions. While the findings have historical and cultural importance, strong conservation policies, archaeological research, and sustainable tourism are essential to ensure the site’s preservation. By promoting responsible heritage management and public awareness, Assam can further strengthen its position as a center of India’s ancient and medieval cultural heritage.
Topic 3: India Voices Concern Over Bangladesh Freeing ‘Violent Extremists’
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Regional Security, India-Bangladesh Ties
Introduction
India has expressed concern over Bangladesh’s decision to release certain violent extremists, citing potential threats to regional security. The move comes amid ongoing counterterrorism cooperation between the two nations. India fears that the release of radical elements could lead to cross-border security risks, affecting the Northeast and other sensitive areas. This development highlights the challenges in counterterrorism policies, border security, and diplomatic engagement between India and Bangladesh.
Key Points
- Who are the Released Extremists?
- Reports suggest that several members of Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI-B) and Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB) have been freed.
- These groups have been linked to terrorist activities in both Bangladesh and India, including past attacks in Assam and West Bengal.
- India’s Concerns:
- Possible infiltration of extremists into India through porous borders.
- Increased threat of radicalization in vulnerable regions, especially in Assam and West Bengal.
- Weakening of regional counterterrorism efforts, affecting security cooperation.
- Bangladesh’s Justification:
- Claimed that some prisoners had reformed or lacked sufficient evidence against them.
- Cited judicial independence and human rights concerns as reasons for their release.
- Regional Security Implications:
- Risk of terrorist resurgence in South Asia, affecting both Bangladesh and India.
- Increased tension in border management and intelligence-sharing mechanisms.
Prelims Pointers
- Harkat-ul-Jihad-al-Islami (HuJI-B): A banned terrorist outfit operating in Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan.
- Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh (JMB): Responsible for serial bomb blasts in Bangladesh (2005), with links to terror networks in India.
- Indo-Bangladesh Border Management: Governed by agreements like the 2015 Land Boundary Agreement (LBA) and Border Security Cooperation.
- SAARC Regional Anti-Terrorism Mechanism: A framework for counterterrorism efforts in South Asia.
- Mutual Legal Assistance Treaty (MLAT): Allows India and Bangladesh to exchange intelligence and extradite criminals.
Mains Pointers
1. India-Bangladesh Security & Counterterrorism Cooperation
✅ 1. Joint Counterterrorism Operations
- India and Bangladesh have collaborated on extraditing terror suspects and neutralizing sleeper cells.
- Example: Arrest of JMB operatives in Assam and Bengal through Indo-Bangladesh intelligence-sharing.
✅ 2. Border Security & Fencing Initiatives
- The Indo-Bangladesh border (4,096 km) is partially fenced, with ongoing security challenges.
- Cooperation between BSF (India) and BGB (Bangladesh) is crucial in preventing cross-border militancy.
✅ 3. Diplomatic Framework for Counterterrorism
- Regular Home Secretary-level meetings to discuss radicalization threats.
- Extradition agreements for capturing terrorists seeking refuge in either country.
2. Challenges in Indo-Bangladesh Counterterrorism Efforts
✅ 1. Porous Borders & Infiltration Risks
- Difficult terrain and riverine areas make the border vulnerable to illegal crossings.
- Extremists use fake identities and smuggling routes to enter India.
✅ 2. Radicalization & Extremist Networks
- Online propaganda by radical groups targeting youth in Northeast India.
- Weak monitoring of illegal madrasa networks with extremist funding.
✅ 3. Political & Diplomatic Sensitivities
- Bangladesh’s internal politics affects its approach to counterterrorism.
- India’s concerns may be perceived as interference in Bangladesh’s judiciary.
✅ 4. Lack of a Strong Regional Anti-Terror Framework
- SAARC’s anti-terror initiatives remain weak, with no dedicated counterterrorism body.
- Need for stronger cooperation between India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
3. Government Measures & Policy Recommendations
✅ 1. Strengthening Border Security & Intelligence Sharing
- Deploying advanced surveillance tech (drones, AI, facial recognition) at border posts.
- Increasing joint BSF-BGB patrols to monitor illegal movements.
✅ 2. Diplomatic Engagement & Stronger Bilateral Treaties
- India must push for a new Counterterrorism Cooperation Treaty with Bangladesh.
- Setting up real-time data-sharing units on radical elements.
✅ 3. Cyber & Digital Counter-Radicalization Initiatives
- Monitoring extremist social media content to prevent youth recruitment.
- India should help Bangladesh develop a digital anti-terror tracking system.
✅ 4. Expanding Regional Cooperation Beyond SAARC
- Encouraging BIMSTEC countries to form a regional security alliance.
- Greater cooperation with Interpol and ASEAN to track terrorist funding.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Faster Border Infrastructure Development
- Complete fencing of sensitive border areas, particularly in West Bengal and Assam.
- Deploying AI-based border tracking systems to identify illegal crossings.
✅ 2. Enhancing People-to-People Diplomacy
- Expanding cultural and student exchange programs to counter extremist propaganda.
- Promoting moderate Islamic scholars in counter-radicalization campaigns.
✅ 3. Legal & Institutional Strengthening
- Fast-track extradition treaties for capturing fugitives hiding in Bangladesh.
- Strengthening India’s Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA) to combat sleeper cells.
✅ 4. Coordinated International Efforts
- Joint anti-terror drills between India, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
- Collaborating with the United Nations and FATF (Financial Action Task Force) to curb terror financing.
Conclusion
Bangladesh’s decision to release extremists has raised security concerns for India, highlighting the need for stronger border security, intelligence-sharing, and diplomatic engagement. While India must respect Bangladesh’s legal framework, it is essential to enhance counterterrorism cooperation through stricter border management, cyber surveillance, and regional anti-terror alliances. A balanced approach of diplomacy and security measures will ensure that South Asia remains stable and free from extremist threats.
Topic 4: Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council Polls Announced
GS Paper 2: Governance, Federalism, Tribal Rights, Decentralization
Introduction
The Assam State Election Commission has announced elections for the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC), a major self-governance body for the Rabha tribal community. The polls are crucial in determining local leadership, resource distribution, and governance priorities for the council. The RHAC plays a vital role in protecting tribal rights, preserving indigenous culture, and ensuring socio-economic development in the Rabha-dominated regions of Assam.
Key Points
- What is the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council (RHAC)?
- A self-governing tribal body under Assam’s special provisions for indigenous communities.
- Established to safeguard the identity, culture, and development interests of the Rabha community.
- Covers areas in Goalpara and Kamrup districts.
- Election Significance:
- Determines new leadership for the council, which governs tribal welfare programs, education, and land rights.
- Impacts tribal reservation policies and political representation in Assam.
- Major Political & Social Issues:
- Demand for more autonomy and financial powers for the council.
- Disputes over land encroachment and rights of non-tribal settlers in RHAC areas.
- Need for better healthcare, education, and employment opportunities for Rabha youth.
- Challenges in Conducting the Elections:
- Ethnic tensions and inter-community conflicts with non-Rabha groups.
- Weak infrastructure and administrative delays in remote areas.
Prelims Pointers
- Rabha Tribe: An indigenous Tibeto-Burman ethnic group primarily in Assam and Meghalaya.
- Sixth Schedule vs. State-Recognized Autonomous Councils:
- RHAC is NOT under the Sixth Schedule (unlike Bodoland and Karbi Anglong).
- It functions under the Assam Tribal Autonomous Councils Act.
- State Election Commission: Conducts local body elections, including autonomous council polls.
- Panchayati Raj vs. Autonomous Councils:
- Panchayati Raj operates under Article 243, while autonomous councils have tribal-specific governance structures.
- Tribal Land Rights in Assam: Governed by Assam Land and Revenue Regulation, 1886.
Mains Pointers
1. Importance of Autonomous Councils for Tribal Governance
✅ 1. Protecting Indigenous Culture & Identity
- Councils preserve traditional customs, languages, and festivals of the Rabha people.
- Support tribal literature, art, and folklore preservation programs.
✅ 2. Socio-Economic Development
- RHAC manages schools, healthcare centers, and rural infrastructure in Rabha-majority areas.
- Allocates funds for tribal welfare schemes and employment programs.
✅ 3. Land & Resource Management
- Regulates tribal land ownership to prevent exploitation by non-tribal settlers.
- Promotes sustainable agriculture and community-led development projects.
✅ 4. Political Representation & Decentralization
- Strengthens local self-governance by giving tribal leaders a role in decision-making.
- Reduces bureaucratic delays by bringing administration closer to the people.
2. Challenges Facing the Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council
✅ 1. Demand for Greater Autonomy & Sixth Schedule Status
- Unlike Bodoland or Karbi Anglong, RHAC does not have Sixth Schedule protection.
- Rabha leaders have demanded direct funding from the central government for better administration.
✅ 2. Conflict with Non-Tribal Settlers
- Clashes between Rabha and non-Rabha communities over land rights.
- Encroachments by migrant communities lead to disputes over forest and agricultural lands.
✅ 3. Administrative & Financial Weaknesses
- RHAC lacks full control over funds and revenue collection, making it dependent on the Assam government.
- Delays in budget allocations affect development projects.
✅ 4. Political Fragmentation & Governance Issues
- Factionalism within Rabha political groups weakens unified demands.
- Lack of youth participation in governance leads to outdated policies.
3. Government Initiatives & Policy Measures
✅ 1. Assam Tribal Development Policy
- Special funds for infrastructure, education, and employment in tribal council areas.
- Strengthening of traditional tribal leadership institutions.
✅ 2. Constitutional & Legislative Provisions
- Assam Tribal Autonomous Councils Act provides governance rights.
- Proposal to amend laws for more financial independence to councils.
✅ 3. Economic Development Programs
- Expansion of tribal cooperative societies and skill development programs.
- Promoting eco-tourism and handicraft industries in Rabha-majority regions.
✅ 4. Conflict Resolution Mechanisms
- Government-led dialogues between Rabha leaders and non-tribal communities.
- Setting up grievance redressal mechanisms for land disputes.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening RHAC’s Financial & Administrative Autonomy
- Direct allocation of grants from the central government for tribal councils.
- Allowing councils to collect revenue from local businesses and tourism.
✅ 2. Expanding Tribal Land & Resource Rights
- Implementing land protection laws to prevent illegal settlements.
- Encouraging community-led forest conservation programs.
✅ 3. Promoting Tribal Entrepreneurship & Skill Development
- Establishing microfinance schemes for tribal businesses.
- Creating Rabha cultural hubs for tourism and heritage conservation.
✅ 4. Enhancing Political Representation & Youth Participation
- Encouraging youth leadership training programs in tribal governance.
- Conducting regular consultations between the Assam government and RHAC leaders.
Conclusion
The Rabha Hasong Autonomous Council elections are crucial for determining the future of self-governance, tribal welfare, and political stability in the Rabha-majority regions. While the council has played a key role in protecting indigenous identity and promoting development, it faces challenges like financial dependence, ethnic conflicts, and limited autonomy. Strengthening political representation, financial independence, and sustainable tribal policies will be essential for ensuring inclusive and effective governance for the Rabha community.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Shah Hails Progress of Bodo Peace Accord
Question 1
Which of the following provisions were included in the Bodo Peace Accord (2020)?
- Creation of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR)
- Granting statehood status to Bodoland
- Recognition of Bodo language as an associate official language of Assam
- Allocation of ₹1,500 crore development package for BTR
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 3, and 4 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 3, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Bodo Peace Accord led to the creation of the Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR), replacing BTAD.
- Statement 2 is incorrect: The accord did not grant statehood to Bodoland; instead, it provided greater autonomy within Assam.
- Statement 3 is correct: The Bodo language was recognized as an associate official language of Assam.
- Statement 4 is correct: A ₹1,500 crore economic package was allocated for infrastructure and employment in BTR.
Question 2
Which of the following constitutional provisions relate to the governance of Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR)?
- Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution
- Article 244A – Special provisions for Sixth Schedule areas
- Article 371B – Special provisions for Assam
- Article 280 – Finance Commission recommendations for autonomous councils
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 3, and 4 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 3, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Sixth Schedule (Statement 1 is correct): Grants autonomy to tribal regions, including BTR.
- Article 244A (Statement 2 is incorrect): It applies to autonomous state provisions in Meghalaya, not BTR.
- Article 371B (Statement 3 is correct): Provides special provisions for Assam’s governance, including tribal areas.
- Article 280 (Statement 4 is correct): The Finance Commission recommends fund allocations for autonomous councils like BTC.
Topic 2: Controversy Over Mining Lease in Mayong Hill
Question 3
Why is Mayong Hill in Assam significant?
- It is considered the “Land of Black Magic”, with ancient tantric traditions.
- It is part of the Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
- It is a major limestone mining hub, contributing to Assam’s industrial economy.
- It is classified as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) under the Environment Protection Act.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 4 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: Mayong is famous for its historical association with magic and tantra practices.
- Statement 2 is correct: It is part of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to rhinoceroses and diverse bird species.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: While limestone mining is proposed, it is not yet a major mining hub due to environmental concerns.
- Statement 4 is correct: Mayong is classified as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ), restricting industrial activities.
Question 4
Which of the following are potential environmental consequences of mining in Mayong Hill?
- Deforestation and habitat destruction
- Water source contamination due to mining runoff
- Loss of archaeological and cultural heritage
- Air pollution caused by industrial emissions
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation:
- Mining causes deforestation (1), water pollution (2), and loss of heritage sites (3).
- Dust and industrial emissions (4) from mining activities worsen air pollution.
Topic 3: India-New Zealand Announce Resumption of FTA Talks
Question 5
Which sectors are expected to benefit from an India-New Zealand Free Trade Agreement (FTA)?
- Agriculture & Dairy Trade
- Information Technology (IT) & Services
- Renewable Energy & Clean Technology
- Space Research & Satellite Technology
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Agriculture & Dairy (1) are key areas of negotiation, with India protecting its dairy sector.
- IT & Services (2) will benefit as Indian professionals gain better visa access.
- Renewable Energy (3) is an area of collaboration, as New Zealand is a leader in clean energy.
- Space Research (4) is not a primary focus of the FTA negotiations.
Question 6
Which of the following are challenges in finalizing the India-New Zealand FTA?
- India’s reluctance to reduce dairy import tariffs
- Stringent visa policies for Indian professionals in New Zealand
- Trade imbalance favoring New Zealand
- Disputes over intellectual property rights in pharmaceuticals
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- India opposes duty cuts on dairy (1), fearing competition for its farmers.
- Work visas (2) remain a contentious issue, with New Zealand limiting access.
- India has a trade deficit with New Zealand (3), making balance a negotiation concern.
- Intellectual property (IP) rights (4) are not a major issue in this FTA compared to EU or US agreements.
Topic 4: Jahnu Barua Conferred Moghai Ojah Award
Question 7
Which of the following films were directed by Jahnu Barua?
- Halodhia Choraye Baodhan Khai
- Baandhon
- Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara
- Village Rockstars
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2 and 4 only
d) 1, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
Village Rockstars was directed by Rima Das.
Jahnu Barua directed Halodhia Choraye Baodhan Khai, Baandhon, and Maine Gandhi Ko Nahin Mara.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
“Balancing economic development with environmental and cultural conservation remains a major challenge in policy-making. Discuss this statement in the context of the recent mining controversy in Mayong Hill, Assam. Suggest measures to ensure sustainable development while preserving ecological and historical heritage.” (GS Paper 3: Environment, Governance, Sustainable Development)
Model Answer
Introduction
Economic development often comes at the cost of environmental degradation and cultural loss, posing a challenge for policymakers. The recent controversy over the proposed limestone mining in Mayong Hill, Assam, highlights this dilemma. While the government argues that mining can boost Assam’s industrial and economic growth, environmentalists and locals oppose it due to ecological damage, biodiversity loss, and threats to Mayong’s historical heritage.
To ensure sustainable development, it is crucial to balance industrial expansion with environmental protection and cultural preservation.
Significance of Mayong Hill: Cultural, Environmental & Economic Aspects
✅ 1. Historical & Cultural Importance
- Mayong is known as “India’s Land of Black Magic”, holding a unique place in Assamese folklore.
- Home to archaeological relics, ancient manuscripts, and tantric traditions.
- A major tourism destination, attracting historians and cultural enthusiasts.
✅ 2. Ecological Significance
- Part of Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary, home to one-horned rhinoceroses, elephants, and migratory birds.
- Dense forests and rich biodiversity, crucial for maintaining Assam’s ecosystem.
- Acts as a natural carbon sink, regulating climate and preventing soil erosion.
✅ 3. Economic & Industrial Potential
- Limestone mining can boost Assam’s cement and construction industries.
- Generates employment and government revenue through mining royalties.
- Enhances infrastructure development and industrialization in the region.
Challenges of Mining in Mayong Hill
✅ 1. Environmental Degradation & Loss of Biodiversity
- Mining leads to deforestation, habitat destruction, and ecosystem imbalance.
- Water pollution from mining waste can contaminate nearby rivers and wetlands.
- Air pollution and dust emissions affect both human health and wildlife.
✅ 2. Threat to Cultural & Tourism Potential
- Damage to ancient sites and manuscripts due to excavation and industrial activities.
- Loss of eco-tourism revenue, affecting the livelihoods of local communities.
✅ 3. Conflict Between Development & Local Communities
- Locals fear displacement, loss of farmland, and loss of traditional occupations.
- Absence of community consultation before granting mining leases leads to opposition.
✅ 4. Weak Environmental Governance & Regulatory Challenges
- Lack of strict Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) before granting mining permits.
- Illegal mining risks, as past incidents in Assam show poor enforcement of environmental laws.
- Deforestation increases Assam’s vulnerability to floods and climate change.
Measures for Sustainable Development in Mayong
✅ 1. Strengthening Environmental Impact Assessments (EIA) & Legal Safeguards
- Mandatory independent environmental reviews before approving industrial projects.
- Declaring Mayong as an Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ) to prevent high-impact activities.
✅ 2. Promoting Alternative Economic Models
- Developing Mayong as a heritage and eco-tourism hub instead of mining.
- Encouraging organic farming and sustainable industries like bamboo-based products.
- Expanding handicrafts, local art, and cultural tourism initiatives.
✅ 3. Adopting Sustainable & Scientific Mining Practices
- Using environment-friendly mining technologies to reduce ecological damage.
- Strict afforestation and wildlife conservation mandates for mining companies.
- Developing a ‘No-Go’ mining policy for ecologically and culturally sensitive zones.
✅ 4. Community Participation in Decision-Making
- Conducting public hearings and local consultations before granting mining leases.
- Providing alternative employment and skill development programs for affected communities.
- Ensuring fair compensation for land loss and strict rehabilitation policies.
✅ 5. Strengthening Governance & Law Enforcement
- Strict monitoring of mining activities using satellite tracking and AI-based surveillance.
- Regular audits of industrial projects to ensure compliance with environmental laws.
- Imposing heavier penalties on illegal mining operations and deforestation violations.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Revisiting the Mining Proposal with a Sustainable Development Approach
- Relocating mining activities to non-eco-sensitive regions with fewer environmental risks.
- Strengthening regulations for mining projects near protected areas like Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary.
✅ 2. Promoting Ecotourism & Cultural Heritage Conservation
- Expanding eco-tourism policies that promote heritage conservation.
- Collaborating with international heritage organizations like UNESCO to preserve Mayong’s historical sites.
✅ 3. Investing in Renewable & Sustainable Industrial Alternatives
- Encouraging industries based on green technologies and alternative construction materials.
- Developing carbon credit incentives for companies investing in reforestation and conservation.
✅ 4. Strengthening Assam’s Environmental & Heritage Policies
- Updating Assam’s state-level environmental policies to include stricter mining regulations.
- Designating Mayong as a protected heritage site under the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI).
Conclusion
The Mayong mining controversy highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing economic growth with environmental and cultural conservation. While industrial expansion is essential for Assam’s economic progress, unsustainable mining practices in eco-sensitive zones can lead to irreversible damage.
By focusing on sustainable tourism, responsible mining, and community-driven conservation, Assam can achieve long-term economic benefits without sacrificing its cultural and ecological heritage. Stronger governance, scientific policies, and local participation will be key to ensuring a sustainable and inclusive development model for Assam’s future.
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