APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (20/02/2025)
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 (20-02-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. South West Guwahati Water Supply Project to be Completed by 2026
📌 GS Paper 2 & 3: Urban Infrastructure, Public Services, Governance
Introduction
The Assam government has announced that the South West Guwahati Water Supply Project will be completed by 2026, addressing the longstanding water crisis in the city. This project, initially launched in 2008 under JNNURM, had suffered significant delays due to contractor inefficiencies and lack of funding.
Key Points
1. Features of the Project
✅ 107 MLD Capacity – Designed to provide 107 million liters of water per day.
✅ 30,000 Families to Benefit – The project will ensure piped water access to urban households.
✅ New Contractors Engaged – L&T and DK Associates took over the project in 2022.
✅ Multiple Phases – Water supply will be rolled out in stages, starting in December 2025.
2. Challenges Faced
🚧 Delays in Execution – Initial contractor Gammon India Limited failed to meet deadlines.
🚧 Land Acquisition Issues – Obtaining necessary approvals caused bureaucratic hurdles.
🚧 Leakage & Pipeline Bursts – Poor quality construction under previous administrations.
Prelims Pointers
- JNNURM (Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission, 2005-2014) – Urban infrastructure improvement scheme.
- New Development Bank (NDB) Funding – Provides ₹882 crore for the second phase.
- Guwahati Jal Board – The authority responsible for water supply management in the city.
Mains Pointers
Why is Urban Water Supply Important for Guwahati?
✅ Ensures Access to Clean Drinking Water – Reduces dependency on borewells & tankers.
✅ Prevents Waterborne Diseases – Improves sanitation & public health.
✅ Enhances Quality of Life & Urban Development – Essential for smart city initiatives.
Way Ahead
✅ Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for Timely Completion.
✅ Modern Water Recycling & Conservation Methods.
✅ Strict Monitoring to Prevent Cost Overruns & Leakages.
Conclusion
The South West Guwahati Water Supply Project is a critical urban infrastructure initiative that, if successfully implemented, can solve the city’s long-standing water crisis. Timely execution and transparent governance will be key to its success.
2. Assam to Introduce ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ by March 2025
📌 GS Paper 2: Governance, Welfare Schemes, Public Distribution System (PDS)
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the full implementation of the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme by March 2025, allowing beneficiaries of the Public Distribution System (PDS) to access subsidized food grains anywhere in India. Assam is one of the last states to implement ONORC due to delays in digitizing ration cards and linking Aadhaar with the PDS database.
Key Points
1. Features of the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) Scheme
✅ Portability of Ration Cards – Beneficiaries can claim their food rations from any PDS outlet in India.
✅ Aadhaar-Based Authentication – Ensures transparent & leak-proof distribution of food grains.
✅ Mera Ration App – Beneficiaries can locate nearby fair price shops and check entitlements online.
✅ Integration with PM-GKAY – Works alongside PM Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana (PM-GKAY), providing free food grains to the poor.
2. Challenges in Assam’s Implementation
🚧 Low Aadhaar Seeding – Many ration cardholders lack Aadhaar-linkage with the PDS database.
🚧 Connectivity Issues in Remote Areas – Rural fair price shops lack digital POS machines.
🚧 Beneficiary Awareness & Fraud Prevention – Need for awareness campaigns to prevent misuse.
Prelims Pointers
- ONORC Launched in 2019 – Ensures nationwide food security portability.
- PM-GKAY (Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Anna Yojana) – Provides free food grains to the poor.
- National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013 – Covers 67% of India’s population under PDS.
Mains Pointers
Why is ONORC Important for Assam?
✅ Ensures Food Security for Migrant Workers – Beneficiaries can access rations even when migrating for work.
✅ Prevents PDS Leakages & Ghost Beneficiaries – Digitization ensures transparency.
✅ Strengthens Welfare Benefits for Rural & Urban Poor.
Way Ahead
✅ Faster Aadhaar Seeding & Digital POS Machine Installation.
✅ Training & Awareness Campaigns for Beneficiaries & Fair Price Shop Owners.
✅ Regular Monitoring to Prevent Technical & Logistical Issues.
Conclusion
The ONORC scheme will revolutionize Assam’s PDS, ensuring food security and transparency in welfare distribution. However, effective Aadhaar integration, digital infrastructure, and public awareness will be key to successful implementation.
3. Assam Signs MoU with Japanese Companies to Boost Bamboo-Based Industries
📌 GS Paper 3: Economy, International Relations, Sustainable Development
Introduction
The Assam government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Japanese firms to develop bamboo-based industries, focusing on sustainable products, biofuel production, and eco-friendly construction materials. This partnership aligns with India’s Act East Policy, strengthening economic ties between Assam and Japan while promoting green industry and rural employment.
Key Points
1. Objectives of the Assam-Japan MoU on Bamboo Industries
✅ Expansion of Bamboo-Based Manufacturing – Encouraging paper, furniture, and textile industries.
✅ Development of Biofuels from Bamboo – Research into ethanol & alternative fuels.
✅ Technology Transfer & Training Programs – Collaboration with Japanese experts for skill development.
✅ Eco-Friendly Urban Development – Using bamboo in affordable housing projects.
2. Why is Bamboo Important for Assam?
✔️ Largest Bamboo-Producing State in India – Assam has 18% of India’s total bamboo production.
✔️ High Export Potential – Demand for organic bamboo products in Southeast Asia & Europe.
✔️ Sustainable & Fast-Growing Resource – Bamboo matures faster than timber and is eco-friendly.
3. Challenges in Bamboo Industry Growth
🚧 Lack of Processing Units & Modern Technology.
🚧 Market Accessibility & Export Barriers.
🚧 Need for Better Policy Support & Incentives.
Prelims Pointers
- Bamboo is classified as a ‘Grass’ under the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (Amended in 2017).
- National Bamboo Mission (NBM, 2018) – Promotes bamboo cultivation & entrepreneurship.
- India’s Act East Policy – Strengthens economic ties with Japan & ASEAN nations.
Mains Pointers
How Can Bamboo-Based Industries Benefit Assam?
✅ Job Creation & Rural Development – Employs farmers, artisans, and MSMEs.
✅ Reduces Dependence on Timber – Sustainable alternative to deforestation-driven industries.
✅ Boosts Exports & Foreign Investment – Strengthens Northeast’s trade ties with ASEAN & Japan.
Way Ahead
✅ Expanding Bamboo Processing Units & Special Economic Zones (SEZs).
✅ Government Support Through Subsidies & Export Incentives.
✅ Encouraging Research & Innovation in Bamboo-Based Products.
Conclusion
This Assam-Japan partnership is a game-changer for Assam’s bamboo sector, promoting eco-friendly industries, job creation, and international trade. With policy support and infrastructure investment, Assam can become a global leader in bamboo-based manufacturing.
4. Assam Police to Launch Special Task Force (STF) Against Drug Trafficking
📌 GS Paper 3: Internal Security, Narcotics Control, Organized Crime
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the formation of a Special Task Force (STF) to combat drug trafficking, with a focus on dismantling organized crime networks operating across the Northeast. This move comes in response to the surge in narcotics smuggling from Myanmar via Assam, which serves as a major transit route for heroin, synthetic drugs, and opium.
Key Points
1. Features of the Special Task Force (STF) Against Drug Trafficking
✅ Dedicated Anti-Narcotics Units in Border Districts – Strengthening surveillance in Karbi Anglong, Cachar, and Dima Hasao.
✅ AI-Based Drug Detection Technology – Use of data analytics & AI tools for tracking illegal shipments.
✅ Collaboration with National Agencies – Coordinating with Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Assam Rifles, and Border Security Forces (BSF).
✅ Community Policing & Rehabilitation Programs – Focus on public awareness & de-addiction centers.
2. Why is Drug Trafficking a Concern in Assam?
✔️ Proximity to the ‘Golden Triangle’ – Assam is a key transit point for drug networks from Myanmar, Laos, and Thailand.
✔️ Youth Addiction Crisis – Rising cases of heroin & synthetic drug abuse in Assam’s urban areas.
✔️ Links to Organized Crime & Militant Funding – Drug money fuels insurgent groups in the Northeast.
3. Challenges in Curbing Drug Trafficking
🚧 Porous Borders with Myanmar & Bangladesh.
🚧 Need for Advanced Forensic Labs for Drug Analysis.
🚧 Coordination Issues Between State & Central Agencies.
Prelims Pointers
- Golden Triangle – One of the world’s largest drug-producing regions (Myanmar, Laos, Thailand).
- Narcotic Drugs & Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985 – India’s key anti-drug law.
- Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB) – India’s apex agency for drug law enforcement.
- Border Security Force (BSF) – Guards India’s border with Bangladesh and Pakistan.
Mains Pointers
How Can Assam Strengthen Its Anti-Drug Policies?
✅ Strengthening Border Security & Cross-Border Intelligence Sharing.
✅ Expanding De-Addiction Centers & Awareness Campaigns.
✅ Fast-Tracking Drug-Related Court Cases & Sentencing.
✅ Using AI-Based Surveillance & Tracking Systems.
Way Ahead
✅ Bilateral Coordination with Myanmar & Bangladesh to Curb Smuggling.
✅ Empowering STF with Advanced Training & Legal Powers.
✅ Involving Civil Society & NGOs in Drug Prevention Programs.
Conclusion
The formation of an STF against drug trafficking is a significant step in tackling the growing narcotics problem in Assam. A comprehensive approach combining strict law enforcement, border security, and rehabilitation efforts will be essential to protect Assam’s youth and curb organized crime networks.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. South West Guwahati Water Supply Project to be Completed by 2026
Question 1
Which of the following statements about the South West Guwahati Water Supply Project are correct?
- It is funded under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM).
- The project aims to provide 107 million liters per day (MLD) of drinking water to urban households.
- It was initially launched under the Jawaharlal Nehru National Urban Renewal Mission (JNNURM).
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: (b) 2 and 3 only
🔎 Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect – The project was not funded under the Jal Jeevan Mission (JJM) but was originally launched under JNNURM.
- Statement 2 is correct – The project has a capacity of 107 MLD.
- Statement 3 is correct – It was initiated under the JNNURM scheme to improve urban water supply.
2. Assam to Introduce ‘One Nation, One Ration Card’ (ONORC) by March 2025
Question 2
Which of the following are the key features of the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme?
- It allows ration card portability across India, enabling migrant workers to access food subsidies anywhere.
- It is implemented under the National Food Security Act (NFSA), 2013.
- Beneficiaries need Aadhaar-linked ration cards for authentication at Fair Price Shops.
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 – ONORC is a ration portability scheme, functioning under the NFSA, 2013, and requires Aadhaar authentication.
Question 3
Which of the following mobile applications are associated with the One Nation, One Ration Card (ONORC) scheme?
(a) Annavitran App
(b) Mera Ration App
(c) Arogya Setu App
(d) e-SHRAM Portal
✅ Answer: (b) Mera Ration App
🔎 Explanation:
- The Mera Ration App helps beneficiaries locate Fair Price Shops (FPS) and track ration availability.
- Annavitran App is used for PDS distribution monitoring.
- Arogya Setu App is for COVID-19 tracking, and e-SHRAM Portal is for unorganized sector workers.
3. Assam Signs MoU with Japanese Companies to Boost Bamboo-Based Industries
Question 4
Why is bamboo considered an economically valuable resource in Assam?
- It grows faster than timber, making it a sustainable alternative.
- It has high export potential, especially in the paper and furniture industries.
- It is classified as a forest tree species under the Indian Forest Act, 1927.
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 – Bamboo grows rapidly and regenerates easily, making it a sustainable resource.
- Statement 2 is correct – Assam has high export potential for bamboo-based products like paper, furniture, and biofuel.
- Statement 3 is incorrect – Bamboo was removed from the ‘tree’ category in the Indian Forest Act, 1927 (Amendment in 2017) to promote cultivation and trade.
Question 5
Which government scheme promotes bamboo-based industries in India?
(a) National Bamboo Mission (NBM)
(b) National Afforestation Programme (NAP)
(c) Green India Mission
(d) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY)
✅ Answer: (a) National Bamboo Mission (NBM)
🔎 Explanation:
- NBM (2018) promotes bamboo cultivation, processing, and value-added industries.
- NAP focuses on forest conservation, Green India Mission promotes climate resilience, and PMKSY is related to irrigation and agriculture.
4. Assam Police to Launch Special Task Force (STF) Against Drug Trafficking
Question 6
Which of the following factors make Assam a major hub for drug trafficking in India?
- Proximity to the Golden Triangle, a key global drug-producing region.
- Porous international borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.
- Presence of militant groups that use drug trade to finance activities.
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:
- Assam is a major transit point for heroin, methamphetamine, and opium from the Golden Triangle (Myanmar-Laos-Thailand).
- Porous borders allow easy smuggling into India.
- Insurgent groups have historically financed operations through narcotics trade.
Question 7
Which of the following laws govern drug control and narcotics smuggling in India?
- Narcotic Drugs and Psychotropic Substances (NDPS) Act, 1985
- Unlawful Activities (Prevention) Act (UAPA), 1967
- Arms Act, 1959
Select the correct answer using the codes below:
(a) 1 only
(b) 1 and 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, and 3
✅ Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only
🔎 Explanation:
Arms Act, 1959 is not related to narcotics but to firearm regulations.
NDPS Act, 1985 governs possession, trafficking, and punishment for drug-related offenses.
UAPA, 1967 is used in cases where drug trade funds extremist activities.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
Drug trafficking in Assam has emerged as a major internal security threat due to its proximity to international borders. Analyze the factors contributing to the rise of the narcotics trade in the region and suggest effective measures to counter this growing menace.
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam has become a hotspot for drug trafficking due to its strategic location near the Golden Triangle (Myanmar-Laos-Thailand), which is one of the world’s largest illicit drug-producing regions. The porous borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh have facilitated the smuggling of heroin, methamphetamine, and synthetic drugs into India, posing a serious challenge to law enforcement and public health.
Factors Contributing to the Rise of Drug Trafficking in Assam
✅ Proximity to the Golden Triangle
- Assam serves as a transit point for drugs smuggled from Myanmar into India and beyond.
✅ Porous Borders & Weak Surveillance
- The long, unfenced border with Myanmar and Bangladesh makes it easier for traffickers to operate.
✅ Insurgent Groups & Organized Crime Networks
- Militants and criminal syndicates use drug trafficking to finance illegal activities.
✅ Rising Drug Demand Among Youth
- Urban centers like Guwahati have seen an increase in heroin and synthetic drug abuse.
✅ Limited Law Enforcement Capabilities
- Shortage of trained anti-narcotics personnel, forensic labs, and intelligence sharing.
Measures to Counter Drug Trafficking in Assam
✅ Strengthening Border Security & Intelligence Networks
- Deploying drones, CCTV, and advanced surveillance along border areas.
✅ Enhanced Coordination Between State & Central Agencies
- Joint operations involving Assam Police, Narcotics Control Bureau (NCB), Border Security Force (BSF), and Assam Rifles.
✅ Fast-Tracking Cases Under the NDPS Act, 1985
- Setting up special fast-track courts for drug-related offenses.
✅ Community Awareness & Rehabilitation Programs
- Expanding de-addiction centers and awareness campaigns in schools and colleges.
✅ International Cooperation with Myanmar & Bangladesh
- Strengthening cross-border anti-drug agreements and information-sharing mechanisms.
Conclusion The rise in drug trafficking threatens internal security, public health, and socio-economic stability in Assam. A multi-pronged approach involving law enforcement, border management, rehabilitation programs, and international cooperation is essential to curb this menace and protect the youth from the dangers of drug abuse.
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