APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (22/01/2025)
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 (22-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Coal Mining and Environmental Governance in Assam
Relevance:
GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management, Economic Development
Introduction
Illegal coal mining in Assam has become a pressing concern due to its environmental impact and governance challenges. Regions like Margherita and Umrangso are hubs of illegal activities, despite efforts by the government to curb them. The issue highlights the need for stringent enforcement of environmental laws and sustainable resource utilization.
Key Points
- Extent of Illegal Mining:
- Coal mining activities in areas such as Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary and Margherita violate Supreme Court and NGT orders.
- Rat-hole mining prevalent in Umrangso and Ledo-Margherita regions.
- Environmental Impact:
- Deforestation and biodiversity loss in ecologically sensitive zones.
- Water pollution due to coal dust and chemical runoffs.
- Air pollution affecting nearby communities.
- Governance Issues:
- Lack of enforcement of mining regulations.
- Alleged complicity of local officials in supporting illegal mining syndicates.
- Stakeholder Involvement:
- Supreme Court and NGT orders for closures often remain unenforced.
- Inquiry commissions fail to initiate legal proceedings against identified culprits.
Prelims Pointers
- Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary: Known as “Amazon of the East,” it houses rich biodiversity.
- Rat-Hole Mining: Unscientific, small-scale mining technique harmful to the environment.
- NGT Orders: Mandates against illegal mining in wildlife zones.
Mains Pointers
Significance
- Economic Contribution:
- Coal is a significant contributor to Assam’s revenue.
- Provides livelihood to local communities.
- Environmental Sustainability:
- Conservation of Assam’s biodiversity and forest resources.
- Prevents soil erosion and maintains water quality.
Challenges
- Regulatory Enforcement:
- Weak monitoring mechanisms.
- Overlap in state and central regulatory bodies’ roles.
- Economic Trade-Offs:
- Balancing environmental conservation with economic needs.
- Dependency of local communities on mining for livelihood.
Government Initiatives
- Justice Brajendra Pratap Kataki Commission:
- Investigated illegal mining in Assam. Recommendations are yet to be implemented.
- Digital Monitoring:
- Satellite surveillance to track mining activities.
- Eco-Sensitive Zone Proposals:
- Dihing-Patkai demarcated as a no-mining zone.
Way Ahead
- Capacity Building:
- Training enforcement agencies for effective monitoring.
- Community Engagement:
- Alternative livelihoods for locals dependent on mining.
- Policy Frameworks:
- Adoption of strict penalties and real-time monitoring technologies.
- Transparency Mechanisms:
- Publish inquiry reports and enforce accountability.
Conclusion
Coal mining in Assam underscores the tension between economic growth and environmental preservation. A multi-stakeholder approach involving government, civil society, and local communities can ensure sustainable mining practices while preserving Assam’s unique ecological heritage.
2. Industrial Waste Management Innovations
Relevance:
GS Paper 3: Environment, Science, and Technology
Introduction
Industrial waste is a growing global challenge, particularly in rapidly industrializing regions. Assam’s Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Guwahati has developed a groundbreaking solution using industrial waste materials like water treatment sludge (WTS), fly ash (FA), and ground granulated blast furnace slag (GGBS) to create sustainable construction materials. This aligns with sustainable development goals and India’s commitment to reducing industrial pollution.
Key Points
- Scope of Industrial Waste in Assam:
- Industrialization has led to increased waste generation, including sludge from water treatment plants and ash from thermal power plants.
- Assam generates significant quantities of waste due to rapid urbanization and infrastructure expansion.
- Innovation by IIT Guwahati:
- Development of geopolymers using industrial by-products.
- Geopolymers are eco-friendly alternatives to conventional cement, offering high strength and durability.
- Use of water treatment sludge reduces environmental hazards and provides a cost-effective material.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Reduces landfill usage and associated groundwater contamination.
- Cuts down carbon emissions by minimizing traditional cement production.
- Challenges Addressed:
- Efficient utilization of waste materials that are otherwise discarded.
- Contributing to a circular economy by turning waste into a resource.
Prelims Pointers
- Geopolymers: Cement-like materials made from industrial by-products, offering sustainability.
- Fly Ash: A by-product from coal combustion, used in construction and cement.
- Circular Economy: An economic model focused on resource reuse and sustainability.
Mains Pointers
Significance
- Environmental Sustainability:
- Mitigates risks of hazardous waste dumping.
- Reduces dependency on non-renewable resources like limestone.
- Economic Potential:
- Cost-effective alternative to conventional construction materials.
- Opens new avenues for research and innovation in green technologies.
- Alignment with National Goals:
- Contributes to India’s “Waste to Wealth” mission under Swachh Bharat Abhiyan.
- Supports targets under the Paris Agreement to reduce emissions.
Challenges
- Adoption Barriers:
- Lack of awareness about geopolymers among builders and contractors.
- Higher initial costs compared to traditional materials.
- Technological Constraints:
- Need for advanced processing facilities for material preparation.
- Limited availability of consistent raw materials like high-quality fly ash.
Government Initiatives
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan: Promotes innovative waste management practices.
- National Policy on Waste Management: Encourages research on sustainable practices.
- Subsidies for Green Technologies: Financial support for industries adopting eco-friendly methods.
Way Ahead
- Research and Development:
- Enhance efficiency and scalability of geopolymer production.
- Awareness Campaigns:
- Educate stakeholders about the benefits of sustainable construction materials.
- Policy Interventions:
- Mandate the use of eco-friendly materials in public infrastructure projects.
- Infrastructure Support:
- Build advanced recycling facilities for industrial waste processing.
Conclusion
Industrial waste management presents a dual opportunity for environmental conservation and economic growth. IIT Guwahati’s innovations highlight how technology can transform waste into wealth, paving the way for a greener future in Assam and beyond.
3. Railway Infrastructure and Economic Development
Relevance:
GS Paper 3: Infrastructure, Economic Development
Introduction
The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has embarked on a mission to improve railway infrastructure and train speeds in Assam and surrounding states. This includes the removal of Permanent Speed Restrictions (PSRs) and upgrading tracks, bridges, and signaling systems. These efforts aim to enhance economic connectivity and boost regional development in Assam, a crucial link in India’s Act East Policy.
Key Points
- NFR’s Development Initiatives:
- Track Upgrades: Realigning track geometry and strengthening bridges to allow higher train speeds.
- Signaling Modernization: Deployment of advanced signaling and control systems.
- Loop Line Enhancements: Increasing speeds on loop lines for improved train handling.
- Economic Benefits:
- Reduced travel time improves the efficiency of goods transport.
- Boosts trade and tourism in Northeast India.
- Creates employment opportunities during construction and maintenance.
- Technological Improvements:
- Use of satellite-based monitoring for track conditions.
- Integration of modern track renewal technologies.
- Environmental Considerations:
- Improved efficiency reduces fuel consumption and emissions.
- Encouragement of rail transport as a cleaner alternative to roadways.
Prelims Pointers
- Permanent Speed Restrictions (PSRs): Limitations on train speeds due to track or infrastructure conditions.
- NFR Zone: Covers the northeastern states, parts of Bihar, and West Bengal.
- Act East Policy: India’s initiative to enhance connectivity with Southeast Asia through the Northeast.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Railway Development
- Economic Growth:
- Facilitates faster movement of goods, reducing logistic costs.
- Promotes industries like tourism, agriculture, and handicrafts in the Northeast.
- Social Impact:
- Improves connectivity for remote and tribal areas.
- Provides better access to healthcare and education.
- Strategic Importance:
- Enhances defense logistics in border areas.
- Strengthens India’s ties with Southeast Asia under the Act East Policy.
Challenges
- Geographical Constraints:
- Difficult terrain increases construction and maintenance costs.
- Frequent landslides and floods disrupt operations.
- Funding Issues:
- High capital investment required for large-scale projects.
- Dependency on central allocations and international funding.
- Environmental Concerns:
- Projects often face delays due to ecological clearances.
- Impact on forested areas and wildlife corridors.
Government Initiatives
- Budget Allocation: Increased focus on railway development in Union Budgets.
- Act East Policy: Prioritizes infrastructure projects in the Northeast.
- PPP Models: Encouraging public-private partnerships to fund and execute projects.
- Smart Stations: Upgrading railway stations with modern amenities under the Smart City initiative.
Way Ahead
- Technology Integration:
- Use AI for predictive maintenance of tracks and bridges.
- Implement green energy solutions like solar-powered stations.
- Regional Development:
- Develop local industries along railway corridors to boost economic activities.
- Community Engagement:
- Conduct public consultations to address environmental and social concerns.
- International Collaboration:
- Partner with ASEAN nations for cross-border connectivity projects.
Conclusion
The Northeast Frontier Railway’s initiatives highlight the transformative potential of improved infrastructure in driving economic and social development. By addressing challenges and leveraging advanced technologies, Assam can become a vital hub for regional and international trade, fostering prosperity in the Northeast and beyond.
4. Sustainable Practices in Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
Relevance:
GS Paper 2: Governance, Health
Introduction
The Assam government recently launched a project to promote Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene (WASH) practices in Raha, particularly in flood-prone areas. This initiative emphasizes improving public health outcomes and addressing challenges posed by frequent flooding in Assam, which exacerbates hygiene issues and waterborne diseases.
Key Points
- Need for WASH in Assam:
- Assam experiences recurrent floods, contaminating water sources and disrupting sanitation infrastructure.
- High prevalence of waterborne diseases such as diarrhea, cholera, and hepatitis during and after floods.
- Highlights of the WASH Initiative:
- Focus on ensuring access to clean drinking water and sanitation in flood-affected areas.
- Community awareness programs on hygiene practices.
- Distribution of water purification kits and mobile toilets in emergency shelters.
- Technology and Innovation:
- Use of low-cost water filtration systems to ensure safe drinking water.
- Deployment of early warning systems to prepare sanitation responses before floods.
- Collaboration:
- Partnerships with NGOs and international organizations to fund and implement the program.
- Engagement of local self-help groups (SHGs) to monitor sanitation conditions in villages.
Prelims Pointers
- WASH: Stands for Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, crucial for public health.
- Flood-Prone Areas in Assam: Brahmaputra Valley, Barak Valley, and regions like Dhemaji and Lakhimpur.
- Jal Jeevan Mission: National mission to ensure piped water supply to rural households.
Mains Pointers
Significance of WASH
- Health Benefits:
- Reduces the incidence of waterborne diseases.
- Improves maternal and child health outcomes.
- Economic Impact:
- Reduces healthcare costs associated with poor sanitation.
- Increases productivity by reducing absenteeism due to illness.
- Social Empowerment:
- Women and children benefit from better hygiene facilities, especially in schools.
- Promotes community participation in managing water and sanitation resources.
Challenges
- Infrastructure Gaps:
- Lack of resilient water and sanitation facilities in flood-prone areas.
- Insufficient waste management systems lead to contamination.
- Behavioral Barriers:
- Resistance to adopting hygiene practices due to lack of awareness.
- Funding Constraints:
- Dependence on external aid and limited state budget allocations.
Government Initiatives
- Jal Jeevan Mission: Ensures household tap connections in rural areas.
- Swachh Bharat Abhiyan (Gramin): Promotes rural sanitation through the construction of toilets.
- Flood Resilience Programs: Focus on climate-adaptive sanitation solutions.
Way Ahead
- Capacity Building:
- Train local volunteers to manage water and sanitation systems during floods.
- Policy Integration:
- Align WASH programs with disaster management policies for better preparedness.
- Innovation in Sanitation:
- Promote portable toilets and bio-digesters in flood-prone regions.
- Community Engagement:
- Empower women’s SHGs to take ownership of WASH facilities in their areas.
Conclusion
Sustainable WASH practices are vital to improving health and resilience in Assam’s flood-prone areas. By integrating innovative solutions, strong governance, and community participation, Assam can address long-standing sanitation challenges and set an example for other flood-affected regions in India.
5. Advantage Assam: Clean Energy Goals
Relevance:
GS Paper 3: Economy, Renewable Energy, Environment
Introduction
Assam has set an ambitious goal to generate 3,000 MW of clean energy by 2030, aligning with India’s renewable energy commitments under the Paris Agreement. This initiative focuses on solar, hydropower, and bioenergy projects to promote sustainable development while addressing the state’s growing energy demands.
Key Points
- Current Energy Scenario in Assam:
- Assam relies heavily on thermal power, leading to significant greenhouse gas emissions.
- The state’s power deficit affects industrial growth and rural electrification.
- Clean Energy Initiatives:
- Solar Energy: Large-scale solar parks and rooftop solar systems being developed.
- Hydropower Projects: Harnessing rivers like the Brahmaputra and Barak for sustainable energy.
- Bioenergy: Utilizing agricultural waste and biomass for electricity generation.
- Strategic Importance:
- Enhances energy security by reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.
- Positions Assam as a leader in renewable energy in the Northeast region.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Reduces carbon emissions and air pollution.
- Conserves natural resources and mitigates climate change impacts.
Prelims Pointers
- Paris Agreement (2015): International treaty aimed at limiting global warming to below 2°C.
- National Solar Mission: Targets 100 GW of solar power capacity in India by 2030.
- Brahmaputra Basin: Potential hub for hydropower development in Northeast India.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Clean Energy
- Economic Growth:
- Promotes investment in renewable energy infrastructure.
- Creates green jobs and stimulates local economies.
- Social Impact:
- Provides reliable electricity access to rural households.
- Improves quality of life through sustainable energy solutions.
- Environmental Sustainability:
- Reduces reliance on coal-based power plants.
- Protects biodiversity by adopting eco-friendly technologies.
Challenges
- Geographical Constraints:
- Flood-prone and hilly areas make solar and hydropower projects challenging.
- Land acquisition issues for large-scale solar parks.
- Technological Barriers:
- Lack of advanced infrastructure for energy storage and distribution.
- High initial costs for renewable energy installations.
- Policy and Funding:
- Inconsistent policies and limited financial incentives for private players.
Government Initiatives
- Assam Solar Energy Policy: Encourages rooftop solar installations and large solar parks.
- Hydropower Development Policy: Focuses on sustainable harnessing of the Brahmaputra basin.
- National Green Energy Corridor: Ensures efficient transmission of renewable energy across regions.
- Subsidy Schemes: Financial assistance for individuals and industries adopting renewable energy systems.
Way Ahead
- Infrastructure Development:
- Invest in modern grid systems to integrate renewable energy efficiently.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPP):
- Foster collaboration with private firms for funding and technology transfer.
- Research and Development:
- Innovate low-cost and efficient renewable energy solutions tailored for Assam.
- Community Engagement:
- Encourage local participation in renewable energy projects to ensure equitable benefits.
Conclusion Assam’s push for 3,000 MW of clean energy by 2030 showcases its commitment to sustainable development and energy security. With strategic planning, robust policy support, and community involvement, the state can become a model for green energy in India, contributing to both local and national environmental goals.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Coal Mining and Environmental Governance in Assam
Q1. With reference to coal mining in Assam, consider the following statements:
- Rat-hole mining is a prevalent method of coal extraction in the state.
- The Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary is a major coal mining area.
- The National Green Tribunal (NGT) has never intervened in cases of illegal mining in Assam.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 only
b) 1 and 2 only
c) 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: b) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Rat-hole mining, an unscientific method of coal extraction, is widely practiced in Assam.
- Statement 2: Correct. The Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary is known for illegal coal mining activities.
- Statement 3: Incorrect. The NGT has actively intervened and passed orders to prevent illegal mining in Assam.
Topic 2: Industrial Waste Management Innovations
Q2. Which of the following best describes a “geopolymer”?
a) A naturally occurring mineral used in construction.
b) A polymer derived from industrial by-products like fly ash and water treatment sludge.
c) A synthetic polymer used to enhance soil fertility.
d) A chemical compound used for wastewater treatment.
Answer: b) A polymer derived from industrial by-products like fly ash and water treatment sludge.
Explanation:
Geopolymers are eco-friendly construction materials made from industrial by-products such as fly ash, water treatment sludge, and blast furnace slag. They are durable and sustainable alternatives to conventional cement.
Topic 3: Railway Infrastructure and Economic Development
Q3. Consider the following statements about the Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR):
- It is responsible for managing railway operations in all northeastern states.
- The NFR is undertaking projects to remove Permanent Speed Restrictions (PSRs).
- Loop line enhancements by the NFR aim to improve freight movement efficiency.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
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:
- Statement 1: Correct. NFR manages railway operations across the northeastern states and parts of Bihar and West Bengal.
- Statement 2: Correct. NFR is removing PSRs to enhance train speeds.
- Statement 3: Correct. Loop line enhancements improve freight and passenger train efficiency.
Topic 4: Sustainable Practices in Water Sanitation and Hygiene (WASH)
Q4. The term “WASH” often mentioned in governance initiatives stands for:
a) Water Accessibility and Sanitation for Health
b) Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
c) Water and Sanitation for Habitat
d) Wastewater Accessibility and Sanitation Hygiene
Answer: b) Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene
Explanation:
WASH is a widely recognized term representing Water, Sanitation, and Hygiene, essential for public health and disaster resilience, especially in flood-prone areas.
Topic 5: Advantage Assam: Clean Energy Goals
Q5. Consider the following pairs regarding clean energy initiatives in Assam:
| Initiative | Description |
| 1. Assam Solar Policy | Focuses on large-scale solar park development. |
| 2. Hydropower Policy | Promotes bio-digesters for energy generation. |
| 3. National Green Energy Corridor | Ensures efficient transmission of renewable energy. |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: b) 1 and 3 only
Explanation:
- Pair 1: Correct. Assam Solar Policy focuses on solar parks and rooftop solar projects.
- Pair 2: Incorrect. Hydropower Policy pertains to utilizing water resources, not bio-digesters.
Pair 3: Correct. The National Green Energy Corridor ensures renewable energy transmission.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Illegal coal mining poses significant challenges to environmental governance and sustainable development in Assam. Critically analyze the issues involved and suggest a comprehensive way forward. (250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
Illegal coal mining in Assam, particularly in ecologically sensitive areas like Dihing-Patkai Wildlife Sanctuary, has emerged as a pressing issue. It not only undermines environmental governance but also impacts sustainable development by disrupting ecosystems and threatening local livelihoods.
Body
Issues Involved
- Environmental Impact:
- Deforestation and biodiversity loss in protected areas.
- Water and air pollution due to unregulated mining practices.
- Governance Challenges:
- Weak enforcement of regulations and lack of accountability.
- Political interference and alleged complicity of local officials.
- Economic Trade-offs:
- Dependence of local communities on mining for livelihood.
- Loss of state revenue due to illegal activities.
- Social Implications:
- Displacement of tribal communities.
- Health hazards caused by air and water pollution.
Way Forward
- Strengthening Regulatory Framework:
- Ensure strict implementation of Supreme Court and NGT orders.
- Leverage technology like satellite monitoring for real-time tracking.
- Community Engagement:
- Provide alternative livelihoods through skill development programs.
- Encourage community-based monitoring of mining activities.
- Policy Reforms:
- Implement transparent e-auctioning of mining leases.
- Promote sustainable mining practices through public-private partnerships.
- Environmental Safeguards:
- Declare eco-sensitive zones around wildlife sanctuaries.
- Conduct regular environmental impact assessments (EIAs).
- Capacity Building:
- Train enforcement agencies and local officials in environmental governance.
Conclusion
Illegal coal mining in Assam highlights the delicate balance between economic development and environmental conservation. A multi-stakeholder approach combining robust governance, community participation, and sustainable practices is essential to address these challenges and ensure long-term environmental and economic sustainability.
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