APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (18/03/2026)
For APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exam aspirants, staying consistently updated with reliable current affairs is essential for success. This blog provides a well-researched analysis of the most important topics from The Assam Tribune dated 18 March 2026. Each issue has been carefully selected and explained to support both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, ensuring alignment with the APSC CCE syllabus and the evolving trends of the examination.
✨ APSC CCE Prelims Crash Course, 2026
🛢️ LPG Shortage in India due to Strait of Hormuz Crisis
📘 GS Paper 3: Energy Security | Economy | International Relations
📘 GS Paper 2: International Relations | Governance
🔹 Introduction
The news highlights a potential LPG shortage in India caused by disruptions in maritime transport through the Strait of Hormuz, a critical global energy chokepoint. As reported (Page 1 & 2), several LPG vessels are stranded due to geopolitical tensions in West Asia, prompting India to engage diplomatically with multiple countries to ensure safe passage .
This issue underscores India’s energy vulnerability, dependence on imports, and the strategic importance of global sea lanes.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Cause | Conflict in West Asia affecting Strait of Hormuz |
| Impact | LPG vessels stranded → supply disruption |
| Govt Response | Diplomatic talks with Iran & other countries |
| Current Status | Some vessels arrived; others awaiting clearance |
| Additional Concern | Fertiliser imports also affected |
| Domestic Situation | Panic booking worsened shortage |
⚙️ Concept: Why Strait of Hormuz Matters
Narrow sea passage between Persian Gulf and Gulf of Oman
Handles ~20% of global oil trade
Critical for India’s energy imports (oil, LPG, LNG)
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Strait of Hormuz:
Connects Persian Gulf → Arabian Sea
Bordered by Iran and Oman
India’s Energy Imports:
~85% crude oil import dependence
Major LPG suppliers: Saudi Arabia, Qatar, UAE
Strategic Chokepoints:
Hormuz, Malacca Strait, Bab-el-Mandeb
Types of Petroleum Products:
LPG (Liquefied Petroleum Gas)
LNG (Liquefied Natural Gas)
Energy Security: Availability, affordability, accessibility
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance
1. Energy Security of India
LPG is essential for household cooking (Ujjwala Yojana beneficiaries)
Disruption affects millions of households
2. Strategic Maritime Importance
Highlights vulnerability of Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs)
Emphasizes role of Indian Navy & diplomacy
3. Economic Stability
Affects inflation, subsidy burden, and fiscal deficit
Impacts agriculture (fertiliser supply)
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Geopolitical Instability | Conflicts in West Asia disrupt supply chains |
| Import Dependence | Heavy reliance on foreign energy |
| Chokepoint Vulnerability | Overdependence on Strait of Hormuz |
| Panic Buying | Artificial demand spikes worsen crisis |
| Limited Alternatives | LPG not easily available in spot markets |
C. Government Initiatives
Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) – buffer against supply shocks
Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana (PMUY) – LPG access expansion
Diversification of Energy Sources
Imports from USA, Africa
International Energy Agency (IEA) cooperation
Push for Renewable Energy
Solar, ethanol blending, green hydrogen
D. Way Forward
1. Diversification of Supply Routes
Reduce dependence on single chokepoint (Hormuz)
Explore alternative maritime corridors
2. Strengthening Strategic Reserves
Expand petroleum storage capacity
3. Energy Transition
Promote electric cooking, solar energy, biogas
4. Maritime Security
Enhance naval presence & international cooperation
Secure SLOCs via QUAD and Indo-Pacific partnerships
5. Demand Management
Prevent panic buying through awareness + regulation
📊 Value Addition (For Mains Answer Writing)
Hormuz handles ~17–20 million barrels/day oil flow
India imports >60% LPG demand
Fertiliser security linked to energy imports
🧩 Conclusion
The LPG shortage triggered by disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz reflects the interconnected nature of geopolitics and energy security. For India, ensuring resilient energy systems requires a multi-pronged approach—diversification, strategic reserves, renewable transition, and robust diplomacy. This episode reinforces the need for long-term structural reforms in India’s energy architecture.
🗳️ Use of Black Money in Elections & IT Department Control Measures
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Elections | Transparency
📘 GS Paper 3: Economy | Internal Security (Money Power in Politics)
🔹 Introduction
Ahead of the Assam Assembly Elections 2026, the Income Tax Department has set up a 24×7 control room in Guwahati to monitor the movement of unaccounted cash and valuables. As reported on Page 3, this initiative aims to curb the influence of black money in elections, ensuring free and fair democratic processes .
The issue directly relates to electoral integrity, a critical pillar of Indian democracy.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Initiative | 24×7 IT control room at Aayakar Bhawan |
| Purpose | Monitor black money in elections |
| Coverage | Cash, bullion, precious metals |
| Public Role | Citizens can report suspicious activity |
| Tools | Helpline numbers, email reporting system |
| Context | Model Code of Conduct in force |
⚙️ Concept: Black Money in Elections
Definition: Income not reported to tax authorities used for illegal electoral practices
Includes:
Vote buying
Distribution of cash/gifts
Undisclosed campaign expenditure
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Model Code of Conduct (MCC)
Enforced by Election Commission during elections
Regulates political conduct
Election Commission of India (ECI)
Constitutional body (Article 324)
Ensures free and fair elections
Income Tax Department Role
Tracks tax evasion and illicit funds
Works with ECI during elections
Electoral Bonds (now debated/restricted)
Introduced for transparent funding
Criticised for anonymity
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance
1. Ensures Free & Fair Elections
Reduces influence of money power
Promotes level playing field
2. Strengthens Democracy
Prevents vote-buying and corruption
Enhances public trust in institutions
3. Promotes Transparency & Accountability
Encourages clean political funding
Reduces parallel economy influence
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Cash-based Economy | Easier circulation of unaccounted money |
| Weak Enforcement | Limited manpower & monitoring capacity |
| Political Funding Opacity | Lack of transparency in donations |
| Use of Technology | Hawala, digital laundering methods |
| Voter Vulnerability | Poverty makes voters susceptible |
C. Government / Institutional Measures
Election Commission Surveillance Teams
Flying squads, static surveillance teams
Income Tax Department Monitoring
Raids, seizure of illegal cash
Expenditure Monitoring Mechanism
Candidate spending limits
Supreme Court Judgments
Emphasis on transparency in funding
Digital Initiatives
Use of AI/data analytics for suspicious transactions
D. Way Forward
1. Electoral Reforms
State funding of elections
Full transparency in political donations
2. Strengthening Institutions
Better coordination between ECI, IT Dept, ED
3. Technological Monitoring
Use of big data analytics & financial intelligence tools
4. Voter Awareness
Educate voters against accepting money/gifts
5. Legal Reforms
Stricter penalties for electoral malpractices
📊 Value Addition
According to ECI reports, thousands of crores worth of cash/liquor/drugs are seized during elections annually
India ranks among countries where election spending is rapidly increasing
🧩 Conclusion
The establishment of a control room by the Income Tax Department reflects the growing recognition of money power as a major threat to democratic integrity. While enforcement mechanisms are improving, achieving truly fair elections requires systemic reforms, institutional synergy, and informed citizen participation.
🌐 Pakistan–Afghanistan Airstrike & Humanitarian Crisis
📘 GS Paper 2: International Relations | India’s Neighbourhood
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Disaster & Humanitarian Issues
🔹 Introduction
A major geopolitical development reported on Page 1 & Page 2 highlights that Pakistan carried out airstrikes in Afghanistan, allegedly targeting terrorist infrastructure. However, Afghan authorities claim the strike hit a drug rehabilitation hospital in Kabul, killing around 400 people and injuring many others .
This incident reflects escalating tensions in India’s extended neighbourhood and raises concerns regarding humanitarian law, cross-border terrorism, and regional stability.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Operation Name | Operation Ghazab lil Haq |
| Conducted By | Pakistan |
| Target (claimed) | Terrorist infrastructure |
| Actual Impact (Afghan claim) | Drug rehab hospital destroyed |
| Casualties | ~400 dead, 250 injured |
| Location | Kabul & Nangarhar |
| Background | Border tensions along 2600 km Pak-Afghan border |
⚙️ Concept: Cross-Border Airstrikes
Military action conducted across international borders
Often justified as counter-terrorism operations
Raises issues of:
Sovereignty violation
International humanitarian law (IHL)
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Afghanistan–Pakistan Border:
Known as Durand Line (not officially recognized by Afghanistan)
Taliban Regime:
Currently governs Afghanistan
Not widely recognized internationally
International Humanitarian Law (IHL):
Protects civilians during armed conflict
Geneva Conventions are key instruments
Drug Rehabilitation Centres:
Afghanistan has one of the highest rates of drug addiction globally
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance
1. Regional Stability (South Asia)
Escalation may destabilize India’s neighbourhood
Impacts security dynamics in South Asia
2. Humanitarian Concerns
Civilian casualties raise ethical and legal issues
Violations of human rights and IHL
3. Implications for India
Affects India’s strategic interests in Afghanistan
May increase terrorism spillover risks
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Sovereignty Violation | Cross-border strikes undermine international norms |
| Civilian Casualties | Raises humanitarian crisis |
| Terrorism Nexus | Continued instability fuels extremist groups |
| Diplomatic Tensions | Strains Pakistan–Afghanistan relations |
| Lack of Global Consensus | Weak enforcement of international law |
C. Global & Institutional Responses
International Human Rights Foundation (IHRF) condemned the attack (Page 4 context)
Calls for:
Independent investigation
Accountability of perpetrators
UN frameworks emphasize protection of civilians
D. Way Forward
1. Diplomatic Resolution
Encourage dialogue between Pakistan & Afghanistan
Use of regional forums (SAARC, SCO)
2. Strengthening International Law
Strict adherence to Geneva Conventions
Global pressure on violations
3. Counter-Terrorism Cooperation
Joint mechanisms to address terrorism without civilian harm
4. Humanitarian Assistance
Support for victims via international aid agencies
5. India’s Role
Balanced diplomacy
Continued humanitarian assistance to Afghanistan
📊 Value Addition
Afghanistan accounts for one of the world’s largest opium production regions
South Asia is among the most geopolitically volatile regions globally
🧩 Conclusion
The Pakistan–Afghanistan airstrike highlights the fragile nature of regional security and the grave consequences of military actions on civilian populations. For India, the situation underscores the need for strategic vigilance, diplomatic engagement, and a commitment to humanitarian principles in its neighbourhood policy.
⚖️ APSC Cash-for-Job Scam & Judicial Limits on Commission Reports
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Judiciary | Accountability
📘 GS Paper 4: Ethics | Integrity in Public Administration
🔹 Introduction
The Gauhati High Court, in a significant observation (Page 3), stated that the report of a Commission of Inquiry into the APSC cash-for-job scam is “recommendatory in nature” and not legally binding, and courts cannot compel the government to implement it .
This case raises critical questions regarding institutional accountability, administrative ethics, and the effectiveness of investigative commissions in India.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Case | APSC cash-for-job scam |
| Court | Gauhati High Court |
| Observation | Commission reports are recommendatory |
| Legal Position | Non-binding on government |
| Role of Court | Cannot compel implementation |
| Nature of Commission | Fact-finding body |
⚙️ Concept: Commission of Inquiry
Constituted under Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952
Purpose:
Investigate public issues/scandals
Nature:
Fact-finding, not adjudicatory
Output:
Recommendations (not enforceable)
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Commissions of Inquiry Act, 1952
Allows Centre/State to appoint commissions
APSC (Assam Public Service Commission)
Constitutional body (Article 315)
Conducts recruitment for state services
Judicial Review
Courts can examine legality, not policy decisions
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance
1. Upholding Rule of Law
Clarifies limits of judicial intervention
Reinforces separation of powers
2. Administrative Accountability
Highlights need for transparent recruitment processes
3. Ethical Governance
Exposes corruption in public institutions
Strengthens demand for integrity in civil services
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Non-binding Nature | Govt may ignore recommendations |
| Delay in Justice | Long inquiry processes |
| Political Influence | Selective implementation |
| Weak Enforcement | Lack of punitive power |
| Public Distrust | Reduces faith in institutions |
C. Government / Institutional Framework
Judiciary
Ensures procedural fairness
Executive (Government)
Decides implementation of reports
Anti-Corruption Agencies
Vigilance commissions, CBI
Reforms in APSC
Post-2014 improvements noted by HC
D. Way Forward
1. Strengthening Legal Backing
Give limited binding force to key recommendations
2. Time-bound Implementation
Mandate deadlines for action
3. Institutional Reforms
Transparent recruitment systems (digital exams, audits)
4. Ethical Governance
Promote integrity, accountability, transparency
5. Public Oversight
Parliamentary/legislative scrutiny of reports
📊 Value Addition
APSC scam involved cash-for-job allegations in civil service recruitment
Post-reforms, HC noted no major complaints after 2014, indicating improvement
🧩 Conclusion
The High Court’s ruling highlights a fundamental tension in governance—while commissions expose wrongdoing, their non-binding nature limits enforceability. Strengthening institutional mechanisms and ensuring ethical public administration remain essential to restore public trust and uphold meritocracy.
APSC Prelims MCQs
🔹 Q1. With reference to the Strait of Hormuz, consider the following statements:
- It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
- It is bordered by Iran and Oman.
- It handles a negligible share of global oil trade.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: A
Explanation:
- 1 ✔️ Correct
- 2 ✔️ Correct
- 3 ❌ Incorrect (handles ~20% global oil trade)
🔹 Q2. Which of the following best describes the nature of a Commission of Inquiry in India?
Options:
A. It acts as a judicial court with binding powers
B. It functions as a fact-finding body with recommendatory powers
C. It has constitutional status under Article 324
D. It can directly punish individuals found guilty
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
- Commission reports are recommendatory, not binding
🔹 Q3. Consider the following statements regarding the Model Code of Conduct (MCC):
- It is legally enforceable like a statute.
- It comes into force immediately after election dates are announced.
- It is implemented by the Election Commission of India.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
- 1 ❌ Not legally binding
- 2 ✔️ Correct
- 3 ✔️ Correct
🔹 Q4. The Durand Line, often seen in news, is associated with:
Options:
A. India–China border
B. India–Myanmar border
C. Pakistan–Afghanistan border
D. Saudi Arabia–Iran maritime boundary
✅ Answer: C
Explanation:
- Durand Line = Pakistan–Afghanistan border
🔹 Q5. Which of the following activities is MOST directly associated with black money in elections?
Options:
A. Digital payment of campaign expenses through official accounts
B. Distribution of unaccounted cash to voters
C. Public funding of elections
D. Submission of audited expenditure reports
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
- Black money = unaccounted cash used for vote buying
🔹 Q6. Which of the following correctly explains the role of the Income Tax Department during elections?
Options:
A. Conducts elections in coordination with the Election Commission
B. Investigates electoral disputes and petitions
C. Monitors movement of unaccounted cash and valuables
D. Regulates political party manifestos
✅ Answer: C
Explanation:
- IT Dept monitors cash, bullion, valuables during elections
🔹 Q7. Which of the following correctly describes International Humanitarian Law (IHL)?
Options:
A. It governs only trade relations between countries
B. It regulates conduct during armed conflicts and protects civilians
C. It is applicable only during peacetime
D. It is enforced only by national courts
✅ Answer: B
Explanation:
- IHL = laws of war protecting civilians
🔹 Q8. Which of the following countries are major suppliers of LPG to India?
- Saudi Arabia
- Qatar
- Russia
Select the correct answer:
Options:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D
Explanation:
- India imports LPG from multiple countries including Middle East & Russia
🔹 Q9. Consider the following statements regarding APSC (Assam Public Service Commission):
- It is a constitutional body.
- It is established under Article 315 of the Constitution.
- It conducts recruitment for state civil services.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Options:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D
Explanation:
- All statements correct
🔹 Q10. Which of the following is the MOST appropriate implication of panic booking of LPG cylinders?
Options:
A. Decrease in overall demand
B. Equitable distribution of resources
C. Increase in artificial shortage
D. Stabilization of supply chain
✅ Answer: C
Explanation:
Panic buying → artificial shortage
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 GS Mains Model Question
Q. “India’s energy security remains vulnerable to geopolitical disruptions in critical maritime chokepoints.”
In the light of recent disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz, critically examine the challenges to India’s energy security and suggest a comprehensive strategy to address them. (250 words)
✍️ Model Answer
🔹 Introduction
India’s energy security is intricately linked with global geopolitics, particularly due to its heavy dependence on imports. The recent disruption in LPG supply caused by tensions in the Strait of Hormuz, a vital energy chokepoint, highlights India’s structural vulnerabilities in ensuring uninterrupted energy access.
🔹 Challenges to India’s Energy Security
1. High Import Dependence
- India imports nearly 85% of crude oil and a significant portion of LPG
- Limited domestic production increases external vulnerability
2. Geopolitical Risks
- Conflicts in West Asia threaten Sea Lines of Communication (SLOCs)
- Hormuz disruption directly impacts fuel supply chains
3. Chokepoint Vulnerability
- Over-reliance on narrow routes like Strait of Hormuz
- Any blockade or conflict can halt supplies
4. Supply Chain Disruptions
- Shipping delays, insurance costs, and freight risks increase
- Panic buying worsens domestic shortages
5. Limited Strategic Reserves
- Existing petroleum reserves are insufficient for prolonged crises
🔹 Government Initiatives
- Strategic Petroleum Reserves (SPR) for emergency buffering
- Diversification of suppliers (USA, Africa)
- Promotion of renewable energy (solar, ethanol blending)
- Diplomatic engagement with Gulf countries
🔹 Way Forward
1. Diversification of Supply & Routes
- Reduce dependence on a single region
- Explore alternate maritime corridors
2. Strengthening Strategic Reserves
- Expand storage capacity for oil and LPG
3. Energy Transition
- Promote electric cooking, green hydrogen, biofuels
4. Maritime Security Cooperation
- Strengthen naval presence in Indo-Pacific
- Collaborate through QUAD and multilateral frameworks
5. Demand-Side Management
- Prevent panic buying and ensure efficient distribution
🔹 Conclusion
India’s energy security challenges are not merely economic but strategic. A resilient framework combining diversification, sustainability, and strong diplomacy is essential to safeguard national interests against future geopolitical shocks.
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