APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (18/04/2025)
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 (18-04-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
✨ Current Affairs Crash Course for the APSC Prelims 2025
🇮🇳 India’s Defence Production Surge: Towards Strategic Autonomy
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Defence Technology | Indigenisation of Defence Production
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies | International Relations
🔹 Introduction
India’s defence sector is undergoing a transformational shift, with the production value expected to cross ₹1.6 lakh crore in 2025. Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, at the ‘Defence Conclave 2025’, unveiled a roadmap to boost domestic manufacturing, targeting ₹3 lakh crore by 2029. This drive strengthens strategic autonomy, supports the Make in India vision, and positions India as a key player in the global arms ecosystem.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Current Production | ₹1.6 lakh crore (2025) |
| Target by 2029 | ₹3 lakh crore worth of indigenous defence manufacturing |
| Defence Exports | From ₹686 crore (2013–14) to ₹23,622 crore (2024–25); target ₹50,000 crore by 2029 |
| Major Developments | Missiles (Agni, BrahMos), Submarines (INS Arihant), Aircraft carriers (INS Vikrant), Drones, Cyber Defence |
| Key Projects | Kaveri Engine Project, Hypersonic tech, Aero Engine Collaboration (Safran, GE, Rolls Royce) |
| Procurement Reform | 75% of defence procurement reserved for Indian firms |
| Corporatisation | 200+ year-old Ordnance Factories now functioning as profit-making Defence PSUs |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Positive Indigenisation List: Prohibits import of 509 defence platforms, ensuring domestic production.
Make in India – Defence: Focuses on increasing domestic capability in manufacturing arms and equipment.
INS Vikrant: India’s first indigenous aircraft carrier, commissioned in 2022.
Kaveri Engine: Indigenous fighter jet engine project under DRDO.
Defence Corridors: Being developed in Uttar Pradesh and Tamil Nadu.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of India’s Defence Manufacturing Push
Strategic Autonomy: Reduces dependence on foreign suppliers amid global geopolitical uncertainty.
Economic Growth: Boosts GDP through industrial expansion, jobs, and exports.
Global Leadership: Positions India as a reliable supplier for Global South nations.
Technology Upgradation: Collaboration with global firms accelerates R&D and indigenous capabilities.
Security Preparedness: Ensures faster and region-specific defence readiness.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| R&D Bottlenecks | Defence R&D takes long gestation; Kaveri engine delayed for decades. |
| Technology Transfer Issues | Global firms reluctant to share core tech. |
| Low Private Sector Role | Large defence contracts still dominated by DPSUs. |
| Skilled Workforce Gap | Complex systems demand advanced design and AI-integrated skills. |
| Bureaucratic Hurdles | Licensing, procurement delays discourage startups and MSMEs. |
C. Key Government Initiatives
Defence Production and Export Promotion Policy (DPEPP), 2020
iDEX (Innovations for Defence Excellence) – Start-up ecosystem in defence innovation
Defence Testing Infrastructure Scheme (DTIS) – Supports R&D infrastructure
Defence Acquisition Procedure (DAP) 2020 – Promotes Indian vendors in procurement
Start-up India + Atmanirbhar Bharat + Make in India convergence in the defence ecosystem
D. Way Forward
Public-Private Synergy: Encourage Indian private giants (e.g., L&T, Tata, Mahindra) in complex manufacturing.
Focused Export Strategy: Target African, Southeast Asian nations with tailored tech.
University-Industry Collaboration: Boost research partnerships in AI, drones, cyber defence.
Global JV Frameworks: Structure joint ventures with clear ToT (transfer of technology) clauses.
Regulatory Streamlining: Faster clearances, transparent procurement to encourage MSMEs.
🧩 Conclusion
India’s defence industrial journey is evolving from a buyer to a builder of cutting-edge systems. With a sharp rise in domestic production, assertive export strategies, and strategic collaborations, India is moving towards true Atmanirbharta (self-reliance) in defence—crucial for its sovereignty, economy, and global standing in a multipolar world.
🛡️ Project PRABAL: India Builds 3D-Printed Bunkers for Ladakh Border
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Border Management | Technology in Defence
📘 GS Paper 1: Geography – Climate Adaptation in High-Altitude Areas
🔹 Introduction
India has successfully deployed 3D-printed permanent defence bunkers in Ladakh under Project PRABAL (Project for Ruggedized Aiding Bunkers for Army Logistics). These ultra-modern structures, built in just 36 hours, are designed to withstand -40°C temperatures, heavy snow, and even artillery impact — marking a technological leap in border infrastructure.
🔑 Key Features of Project PRABAL
| Feature | Description |
| Location | LAC – Eastern Ladakh, near Leh sector |
| Technology Used | 3D Concrete Printing (India’s first use in defence infrastructure at high altitude) |
| Execution Time | Each bunker built in 36 hours (compared to traditional 2–3 weeks) |
| Temperature Resistance | Functional in -40°C to +50°C temperature range |
| Impact Resistance | Designed to resist blast, snow load, and enemy fire |
| Stakeholders | Military Engineering Services (MES) + Indian private construction tech startups |
| Materials Used | Quick-curing fiber-reinforced concrete (FRC) for high durability and insulation |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
3D Printing in Infrastructure: Automated layer-by-layer concrete extrusion to rapidly build structures.
MES (Military Engineer Services): Construction wing of the Indian Army for buildings, roads, bunkers.
LAC (Line of Actual Control): Border between India and China; not formally demarcated.
Dual-Use Tech: Technologies with both civilian and military applications — like 3D printing, drones, AI.
Carbon Footprint: 3D-printed buildings reduce material waste and emissions.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of Project PRABAL
Time-Sensitive Border Readiness: Enables rapid deployment in flashpoints like Doklam or Galwan Valley.
Climate-Resilient Structures: Addresses limitations of conventional wood/brick bunkers in Himalayan winters.
Force Morale & Safety: Warm, insulated shelters enhance soldier well-being and operational efficiency.
Indigenous Tech Edge: Showcases Indian capability in high-altitude construction innovation.
Strategic Signalling: Reinforces India’s commitment to secure, sustainable, and self-reliant border presence.
B. Challenges and Considerations
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Logistics & Material Transport | Difficult to mobilize printers and materials at high altitudes. |
| Power Supply Constraints | Remote terrain limits electricity for machines. |
| Training & Manpower | Need for skilled engineers and operators on site. |
| Maintenance in Harsh Terrain | Long-term performance in extreme snow and seismic conditions needs monitoring. |
| Technology Security | Military-use 3D printing must ensure cyber protection and IP security. |
C. Government Initiatives & Complementary Projects
Border Infrastructure Projects: Under Vibrant Villages Programme, BRO (Border Roads Organisation) is enhancing road connectivity.
Make in India – Defence: Encourages private tech firms in defence logistics.
Innovations for Defence Excellence (iDEX): Supports startups like those behind Project PRABAL.
Digital Twin Modeling: Used in smart simulation of bunker stress testing.
VSHORAD & Drones: Parallel deployment of surveillance systems around new bunkers.
D. Way Forward
Replicate in Northeast Borders: Adapt PRABAL for Sikkim, Tawang, and Arunachal Pradesh deployment.
Mobile 3D Printing Units: Portable systems for quick deployment during crises.
Dual Use for Disaster Relief: Modify designs for shelters in flood/earthquake zones.
R&D Investment: Fund high-altitude civil engineering labs and AI-linked 3D design systems.
Export Potential: Position India as a supplier of modular military shelter tech to Global South allies.
🧩 Conclusion
Project PRABAL marks a paradigm shift in India’s approach to border infrastructure — blending speed, strength, and sustainability. In a geopolitically sensitive region like Ladakh, such innovations not only enhance military preparedness but also reflect India’s emergence as a tech-savvy defence power committed to self-reliance and smart security.
🐢 Olive Ridley’s 3,600 km Return: Tracking Marine Biodiversity & Conservation
📘 GS Paper 3: Environment & Ecology | Biodiversity | Conservation Efforts
📘 GS Paper 1: Indian Geography – Migration Patterns
🔹 Introduction
A tagged Olive Ridley turtle, which was released near Rushikulya coast (Odisha) in 2021, was recently spotted 3,600 km away off the coast of Maharashtra, revealing its remarkable migratory journey through Indian marine zones. This discovery has reignited attention on the ecological significance and conservation urgency surrounding India’s endangered marine megafauna.
🔑 Key Details
| Feature | Description |
| Species | Olive Ridley Turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea) |
| Conservation Status | Vulnerable (IUCN), Schedule I (Wildlife Protection Act, 1972) |
| Notable Fact | Travels thousands of km across the Indian Ocean to nest at same beach (natal homing) |
| Tagged Location | Rushikulya rookery, Odisha (2021) |
| Tracked Location | Maharashtra coast (2025) — shows connectivity of marine ecosystems |
| Threats | Fishing nets, marine debris, light pollution, beach erosion |
| Conservation Technique | Tagging, satellite telemetry, and seasonal beach protection |
| Government Agencies Involved | Forest Departments, Zoological Survey of India (ZSI), Wildlife Institute of India (WII) |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Arribada: Mass nesting event where thousands of Olive Ridleys come ashore simultaneously (notably at Gahirmatha & Rushikulya beaches, Odisha).
Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs): Net mechanism allowing turtles to escape from trawl nets — mandated by India in commercial fisheries.
Marine Protected Areas (MPAs): Designated ocean zones for ecosystem preservation (e.g., Gulf of Mannar, Malvan).
Wildlife Protection Act, 1972: Olive Ridleys listed under Schedule I, granting them highest protection.
UNCLOS (UN Convention on the Law of the Sea): India is a signatory; governs marine biodiversity protection.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Olive Ridley Conservation
Ecological Role: Help control jellyfish populations, maintain marine trophic balance.
Indicator Species: Reflect overall health of marine ecosystems.
Climate Change Vulnerability: Sex ratio imbalance due to sand temperature; rising sea levels threaten nesting beaches.
Cultural Value: Integral to coastal traditions and folk stories, especially in Odisha.
B. Threats to Olive Ridleys
| Threat | Explanation |
| Bycatch in Fishing Nets | Accidental entanglement leads to drowning. |
| Coastal Infrastructure | Ports, resorts disturb nesting sites. |
| Light Pollution | Disorients hatchlings, reducing survival rate. |
| Marine Debris | Ingestion of plastic mimicking jellyfish often proves fatal. |
| Illegal Egg Harvesting | For local consumption and trade in some coastal areas. |
C. Government and NGO Initiatives
Operation Olivia: Indian Coast Guard mission to patrol nesting beaches during breeding season.
Tagging Projects by ZSI, WII: Use satellite telemetry to study turtle migration patterns.
Marine Turtle Action Plan (2021–26): MoEFCC initiative to protect critical nesting and migratory habitats.
Beach Fencing and Seasonal Closures: Used in Odisha and Andhra Pradesh to protect eggs and hatchlings.
NGO Partnerships: Dakshin Foundation, Tree Foundation, etc., involved in community sensitization and habitat restoration.
D. Way Forward
Expand Marine Protected Zones: Designate more areas based on migration mapping data.
Enforce TED Use Strictly: Include penalties for non-compliant commercial trawlers.
Community-Based Eco-Watch: Involve fishermen in nest protection and awareness drives.
Smart Surveillance: Use drones and AI-based alert systems for poaching and net entanglement detection.
Ocean Literacy in Coastal Schools: Educate young populations about marine species and conservation ethics.
🧩 Conclusion
The Olive Ridley’s 3,600 km journey is not just a marvel of nature—it is a reminder of the ocean’s interconnected fragility. India’s marine biodiversity strategy must evolve into a comprehensive and community-inclusive framework, balancing development and conservation to safeguard these ancient navigators of the seas.
🚀 India Ranks 3rd in Global Startup Ecosystem: A Boost for Innovation & Jobs
📘 GS Paper 3: Indian Economy | Startups | Innovation & Employment
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies | E-Governance
🔹 Introduction
India has secured the 3rd position globally in terms of number of startups, trailing only behind the United States and the United Kingdom, as per the latest report by Startup Genome and NASSCOM. This surge is driven by a combination of policy support, investor confidence, digital penetration, and youth entrepreneurship, with over 130 unicorns and growing participation from Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities, including Guwahati.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Feature | Description |
| Global Rank | 3rd (after US and UK) in number of recognized startups |
| Total Startups | Over 1.25 lakh DPIIT-recognized startups |
| Unicorns | 130+ unicorns valued over $1 billion |
| Employment Impact | Over 11 lakh jobs created since 2016 |
| Top Sectors | Fintech, Edtech, Agri-tech, Healthtech, Climate-tech |
| Emerging Hubs | Pune, Bhubaneswar, Guwahati, Jaipur — showing rise in Tier-2 innovation |
| Gender Inclusion | ~18% of founders are women entrepreneurs |
| Assam’s Role | Assam Startup – The Nest incubator recognised as a Top Performer by DPIIT |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Startup India (2016): Flagship initiative to promote entrepreneurship through funding, tax relief, incubation.
DPIIT: Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade – certifies startups for official recognition.
Unicorn: Privately held startup valued at $1 billion+.
SIDBI Fund of Funds: Financial support for venture capital investment in early-stage startups.
Assam Startup – The Nest: Incubation centre in Guwahati offering mentoring, funding, networking to NE startups.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of India’s Startup Growth
Economic Diversification: Startups contribute to digital economy, SaaS exports, fintech access.
Job Creation: Especially in youth-dense demographics; reduces dependency on public sector jobs.
Innovation Engine: Promotes AI, drone tech, EVs, climate resilience — key for global competitiveness.
Grassroots Entrepreneurship: Growth in non-metro regions reduces urban migration.
Atmanirbhar Bharat Vision: Startups drive self-reliant solutions in manufacturing, health, and logistics.
B. Challenges Facing Startup Ecosystem
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Funding Winter | Global economic slowdown affects venture capital flow. |
| Regulatory Complexity | Tax compliance, FDI norms, and IP registration remain cumbersome. |
| High Failure Rate | ~90% of startups shut within 5 years due to poor product-market fit or scaling issues. |
| Digital Divide | Tier-3 and rural entrepreneurs lack access to startup enablers. |
| Inadequate Exit Ecosystem | Limited IPO readiness, mergers, or buyout options for mature startups. |
C. Government Schemes & Platforms
Startup India Seed Fund Scheme (SISFS) – Early-stage funding for idea-to-PoC stage.
Credit Guarantee Scheme for Startups (CGSS) – Collateral-free credit support.
Startup India Hub – One-stop digital platform for handholding, networking, and compliance.
TIDE 2.0 – Tech incubator programme for digital, IoT, and AI startups.
MeitY Startup Hubs + AIM (Atal Innovation Mission) – School and college-level ideation support.
D. Way Forward
Simplify Regulatory Compliance: One-window clearance and single compliance dashboard.
Regional Language Tech Tools: Expand digital business services in Assamese and NE languages.
Women & Tribal Startup Grants: Encourage inclusive innovation through focused mentorship.
Startup-Industry-Academia Linkages: Incubators in universities linked with market networks.
Global Integration: Facilitate cross-border startup mobility and soft-landing programs.
🧩 Conclusion
India’s rise to 3rd place globally in startup numbers signals the emergence of a new economic pillar—led by youth, tech, and innovation. For Assam and the Northeast, the time is ripe to nurture grassroots problem solvers through policy support, digital empowerment, and global exposure — making the region a true startup frontier within India’s innovation economy.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
🛡️ Topic 1: India’s Defence Production Push
Q1. With reference to defence indigenisation in India, consider the following statements:
- The Positive Indigenisation List bans the import of certain defence platforms and systems.
- Defence Public Sector Undertakings (DPSUs) were corporatized from the Ordnance Factory Board.
- India currently imports over 90% of its defence requirements.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: The Positive Indigenisation List restricts imports of specified defence equipment to promote domestic manufacturing.
- Statement 2 is correct: The Ordnance Factory Board (OFB) has been corporatized into 7 DPSUs.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: India has reduced import dependence, now producing over ₹1.6 lakh crore worth of arms domestically.
🧱 Topic 2: Project PRABAL – 3D Bunkers in Ladakh
Q2. Project PRABAL, recently in the news, is related to:
A. Indigenous UAV development for high-altitude surveillance
B. Construction of smart villages along the Indo-Nepal border
C. Deployment of AI-based cybersecurity units on border posts
D. 3D-printed, high-altitude defence bunkers for border troops
✅ Answer: D
🧠 Explanation: Project PRABAL is India’s first deployment of 3D-printed permanent defence bunkers in Eastern Ladakh, offering fast, weather-resistant shelter to troops.
Q3. Which of the following advantages are associated with 3D-printed concrete structures in defence use?
- Faster construction time
- Lower material waste and carbon footprint
- Enhanced blast resistance compared to traditional concrete
- Easier transportation in mountainous terrain
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
- 1, 2, and 3 are true.
- Statement 4 is not fully accurate — transporting 3D printers to mountains is logistically difficult due to size and power needs.
🐢 Topic 3: Olive Ridley Turtle Migration
Q4. With reference to the Olive Ridley sea turtle, consider the following statements:
- It is listed under Schedule I of the Wildlife Protection Act, 1972.
- It exhibits mass nesting behavior known as arribada.
- It migrates only within the Bay of Bengal region.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
- Statement 1: ✅ Correct — Olive Ridleys are under Schedule I, providing them highest protection.
- Statement 2: ✅ Correct — Arribada occurs in Odisha’s coasts.
- Statement 3: ❌ Incorrect — Recent tracking shows they migrate across entire Indian Ocean, even up to Maharashtra.
Q5. Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs), often seen in the news, are:
A. Navigation tools fitted on marine buoys for turtle migration tracking
B. Devices on trawl nets allowing turtles to escape without harming fish catch
C. Smart GPS tags embedded in turtle shells
D. Artificial intelligence systems that detect turtles on beaches using drones
✅ Answer: B
🧠 Explanation: TEDs are mechanical grid devices attached to fishing nets that allow sea turtles to escape, reducing bycatch mortality.
🚀 Topic 4: India’s Startup Ecosystem
Q6. Consider the following statements regarding India’s startup ecosystem:
- India has the highest number of unicorn startups globally.
- The DPIIT is the nodal agency for recognizing startups in India.
- Assam Startup – The Nest is a recognized incubator under the Startup India program.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: B
🧠 Explanation:
Statement 3: ✅ Correct — Assam Startup – The Nest in Guwahati is a top-rated DPIIT-supported incubator.
Statement 1: ❌ Incorrect — India ranks 3rd after the US and UK in number of startups/unicorns.
Statement 2: ✅ Correct — DPIIT is the official certifying body.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 Mains Question (GS Paper 3 – Environment & Biodiversity | Governance | Science & Tech)
Q.
“Tracking the Olive Ridley’s 3,600 km journey is a scientific breakthrough, but ensuring their survival needs much more than data.”
Critically examine the threats to Olive Ridley turtles in India and suggest a comprehensive strategy for their long-term conservation.
✅ Model Answer
🔹 Introduction
The Olive Ridley sea turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea), known for its spectacular mass nesting events (arribada), recently completed a 3,600 km migratory journey from Odisha to Maharashtra — tracked using satellite telemetry. While this showcases the success of marine tracking technologies, the species continues to face severe ecological threats, requiring coordinated conservation strategies.
🔹 Why Olive Ridley Conservation Matters
| Aspect | Significance |
| Ecological Role | Controls jellyfish populations, maintains seagrass and coral health. |
| Cultural Value | Revered in coastal traditions; associated with festivals and folk narratives. |
| Global Significance | Part of India’s commitment under UNCLOS and CBD (Convention on Biological Diversity). |
| Indicator Species | Their survival reflects the health of marine ecosystems. |
🔹 Key Threats to Olive Ridleys in India
| Threat | Explanation |
| Bycatch in Fishing Nets | Thousands die due to accidental entanglement in trawl and gill nets. |
| Coastal Development | Ports, resorts, and infrastructure disturb nesting beaches (e.g., Gahirmatha). |
| Light Pollution | Artificial lighting disorients hatchlings, reducing survival chances. |
| Marine Pollution | Plastic ingestion often fatal; mimics prey like jellyfish. |
| Illegal Egg Collection | Eggs harvested for consumption or trade in certain coastal regions. |
| Climate Change | Alters sand temperature, affecting hatchling sex ratios and nesting frequency. |
🔹 Conservation Efforts Taken
- Operation Olivia: Coast Guard patrols nesting beaches to protect turtles during breeding.
- Turtle Excluder Devices (TEDs): Mandated for trawl boats to reduce turtle mortality.
- Marine Turtle Action Plan (2021–2026): MoEFCC scheme for turtle habitat protection.
- Satellite Tagging by ZSI & WII: Enhances understanding of migration, nesting cycles.
- Community Involvement: NGOs like Tree Foundation and local volunteers monitor nesting sites.
- Beach Fencing & Hatchery Relocation: Done in Rushikulya and other Odisha coasts.
🔹 Gaps in Current Approach
- Weak enforcement of TED usage and coastal regulation norms.
- Poor coordination among Centre, states, and coastal fishers.
- Insufficient awareness and local incentives for turtle-safe practices.
- Limited coverage of Marine Protected Areas and zoning.
- Data often not used for adaptive policy feedback.
🔹 Way Forward: A Comprehensive Conservation Strategy
1. Strengthen Legal Enforcement
- Penalize non-compliance with TED norms under Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972.
- Monitor illegal construction along CRZ zones using drones.
2. Expand Marine Conservation Zones
- Map migratory routes using tracking data and declare new Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
- Prioritize multi-state collaboration for shared marine corridors.
3. Community-Based Eco-Conservation
- Empower local fisherwomen groups to act as beach monitors.
- Promote eco-tourism models that benefit communities while conserving turtles.
4. Technology-Enabled Protection
- Use AI and drone-based monitoring for poaching, light pollution, and hatchling movement.
- Real-time alerts to fishing boats via SMS on turtle movement zones.
5. Ocean Literacy in Schools
- Introduce marine conservation education in coastal districts.
- Collaborate with CSIR and ZSI to develop local-language conservation materials.
🔹 Conclusion
The Olive Ridley’s journey is a triumph of science, but conservation must go beyond tracking. India must build a science-backed, community-driven, and law-enforced marine protection model — one that ensures these ancient navigators survive not just the oceans, but the onslaught of human activity and climate change.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
🔔 Join Our WhatsApp Study Group!
For exclusive access to premium quality content, including study materials, current affairs, MCQs, and model answers for APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exams.
Click here to join: SuchitraACS Study WhatsApp Group
📚 Want to know more about SuchitraACS’s most affordable courses?
Click here to know more: SuchitraACS Courses for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations
