APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (22/11/2024)
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 (22-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. Illegal Infiltration and Pushback of Bangladeshi Nationals
- Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Governance; GS Paper 3: Internal Security
Introduction:
The Assam Border Police Force has intensified efforts to curb illegal infiltration from Bangladesh, successfully pushing back 180 Bangladeshi nationals in 2024. This highlights the region’s vulnerabilities as a transit route and the challenges in managing border security effectively.
Key Facts:
- Pushback Operations: 144 infiltrators were deported via the Karimganj border.
- Transit Dynamics: Assam is a common gateway for infiltrators heading toward South India.
- Root Causes: Factory closures and socio-economic unrest in Bangladesh driving migration.
Prelims Pointers:
- Karimganj District: A strategic point along the porous India-Bangladesh border.
- Border Management Tools: Use of drones and riverine patrolling by BSF.
- NRC (National Register of Citizens): Aimed at identifying illegal residents in Assam.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- National Security: Prevents potential infiltration of extremist elements.
- Social Harmony: Reduces friction between communities over resource competition.
- Economic Stability: Protects employment opportunities for local populations.
- Bilateral Ties: Ensures compliance with bilateral agreements with Bangladesh.
- Challenges:
- Porous Riverine Borders: Difficult terrain complicates patrolling.
- Legal and Ethical Issues: Ensuring human rights while enforcing strict deportation policies.
- Resource Constraints: Limited manpower and infrastructure for border surveillance.
- NRC Concerns: Discontent over its implementation and identification processes.
- Government Initiatives:
- Deployment of advanced surveillance equipment, including drones and CCTV.
- Setting up new Border Outposts (BOPs) to enhance monitoring.
- Regular engagement with Bangladesh to address migration push factors.
- Way Ahead:
- Expand intelligence-sharing mechanisms with neighboring countries.
- Conduct socio-economic programs in vulnerable areas to reduce local tensions.
- Integrate technological advancements like AI in border surveillance.
Conclusion:
Effective border management in Assam is crucial for maintaining national security and ensuring social stability. A combination of diplomatic, technological, and administrative solutions is essential to address this persistent challenge.
2. Export of Assam Tea Reaches New Highs
- Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Economy; Agriculture
Introduction:
Assam Tea, renowned globally for its strong flavor and aroma, has reached record export levels in 2024. Increased demand from European and Middle Eastern markets highlights its growing global appeal.
Key Facts:
- Export Volume: 270 million kg in 2024, a 15% increase from 2023.
- Major Importers: UK, UAE, and Germany.
- Premium Varieties: Orthodox and specialty teas are in high demand.
Prelims Pointers:
- Assam Tea: A GI-tagged product known for its strong flavor and briskness.
- Orthodox Tea: Processed by traditional methods, highly valued in international markets.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Economic Growth: Boosts income for tea planters and workers.
- Global Branding: Strengthens Assam’s identity as a premium tea producer.
- Employment Generation: Provides livelihoods to over 1 million workers, mostly women.
- Sustainability Practices: Encourages eco-friendly cultivation techniques.
- Challenges:
- Climate Vulnerability: Erratic weather patterns affecting yields.
- Price Volatility: International market fluctuations impacting profitability.
- Worker Welfare: Low wages and inadequate living conditions for plantation workers.
- Government Initiatives:
- Financial incentives for exporters under the Tea Development and Promotion Scheme.
- Capacity building for small tea growers in modern farming practices.
- Way Ahead:
- Diversify export destinations to reduce dependency on specific markets.
- Strengthen branding and marketing for specialty teas.
- Improve living standards for plantation workers through welfare programs.
Conclusion:
Assam Tea’s record exports reaffirm its global reputation. Addressing challenges in cultivation and welfare can ensure sustainable growth for the industry.
3. Women SHGs to Promote Millet Farming in Assam
- Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Agriculture; Women Empowerment
Introduction:
The Assam government has launched a program to involve women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in promoting millet farming under the National Millet Mission. This initiative aims to boost nutritional security and empower rural women economically.
Key Facts:
- Districts Covered: Kamrup, Sonitpur, and Barpeta in the pilot phase.
- Objective: Increase millet production and awareness about its nutritional benefits.
Prelims Pointers:
- National Millet Mission: A central scheme to promote millet cultivation.
- Millets: Nutrient-rich grains like ragi, bajra, and jowar, often called “superfoods.”
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Nutritional Security: Millets are drought-resistant and rich in essential nutrients.
- Economic Empowerment: Provides SHGs with income opportunities through farming and marketing.
- Sustainability: Millets require less water and are climate-resilient crops.
- Policy Alignment: Supports India’s declaration of 2023 as the International Year of Millets.
- Challenges:
- Market Access: Limited marketing infrastructure for millet-based products.
- Traditional Crop Bias: Farmers’ preference for high-yield crops like rice and wheat.
- Knowledge Gaps: Lack of awareness among SHG members about best practices.
- Government Initiatives:
- Financial incentives under the National Millet Mission.
- Training programs for SHGs in millet farming and product development.
- Way Ahead:
- Develop millet value chains by linking SHGs with food processing units.
- Promote millet consumption through public awareness campaigns.
Conclusion:
Integrating women SHGs into millet farming is a step toward achieving food security, women empowerment, and climate resilience in Assam.
4. Assam’s First AI-Powered Agro-Advisory Service
- Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Science & Technology; Agriculture
Introduction:
Assam has launched its first AI-powered agro-advisory service to support farmers with real-time solutions for crop management, pest control, and weather forecasting.
Key Facts:
- Platform Name: Smart Krishi.
- Features: Provides region-specific recommendations based on AI analysis of soil, weather, and market data.
Prelims Pointers:
- AI in Agriculture: Use of machine learning and data analytics to enhance farming efficiency.
- Smart Krishi: Assam’s flagship platform for precision farming.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Precision Agriculture: Improves productivity by offering customized advice.
- Climate Adaptation: Helps farmers respond to changing weather patterns.
- Cost Savings: Reduces input costs by optimizing resource use.
- Digital Inclusion: Introduces rural farmers to advanced technologies.
- Challenges:
- Digital Divide: Limited smartphone access in remote areas.
- Data Accuracy: Dependence on reliable and updated data for accurate recommendations.
- Adoption Resistance: Hesitation among older farmers to use technology.
- Way Ahead:
- Expand the reach of Smart Krishi through training programs and subsidies.
- Partner with private tech firms to enhance platform features.
Conclusion:
AI-powered agro-advisory services like Smart Krishi have the potential to revolutionize farming practices in Assam, ensuring sustainability and resilience against climate change.
5. New Biodiversity Park in Majuli
- Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Environment and Biodiversity
Introduction:
The Assam government has announced the creation of a biodiversity park in Majuli, the world’s largest river island, to conserve its unique ecosystem and promote eco-tourism.
Key Facts:
- Location: Majuli, situated on the Brahmaputra River.
- Area Covered: 150 hectares, including wetlands and grasslands.
Prelims Pointers:
- Majuli: Known for its cultural heritage, Vaishnavite monasteries (Satras), and fragile ecosystem.
- Biodiversity Park: A protected area focused on conservation and education.
Mains Pointers:
- Importance:
- Ecosystem Conservation: Preserves wetlands, a critical habitat for migratory birds.
- Flood Management: Enhances natural defenses against Brahmaputra floods.
- Eco-Tourism Potential: Attracts visitors and promotes local livelihoods.
- Cultural Preservation: Supports the Satra-based lifestyle and traditions of Majuli.
- Challenges:
- Erosion Threats: Majuli is shrinking due to severe riverbank erosion.
- Maintenance Costs: High costs of maintaining infrastructure and biodiversity.
- Local Participation: Ensuring the community benefits equitably from eco-tourism.
- Government Initiatives:
- Anti-erosion projects to protect Majuli from flooding.
- Partnerships with NGOs for park management and conservation.
- Way Ahead:
- Integrate the biodiversity park with anti-erosion initiatives for holistic development.
- Enhance community participation through eco-tourism training programs.
Conclusion:
The biodiversity park in Majuli will play a vital role in conserving Assam’s ecological and cultural heritage, ensuring sustainability and resilience.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Illegal Infiltration and Pushback of Bangladeshi Nationals
Question:
Which of the following measures can effectively address illegal infiltration across the India-Bangladesh border in Assam?
- Deployment of drones and advanced surveillance technologies.
- Strengthening riverine patrolling along porous border areas.
- Collaborative efforts with Bangladesh to address migration push factors.
- Easing restrictions for border communities to promote free movement.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 4 only
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Correct Measures:
- Statement 1: Advanced surveillance technologies like drones are essential for monitoring difficult terrains along the India-Bangladesh border.
- Statement 2: Strengthened riverine patrolling addresses infiltration through waterways.
- Statement 3: Collaborative measures with Bangladesh, such as addressing economic push factors, can reduce illegal migration.
- Incorrect Measure:
- Statement 4: Easing restrictions for border communities would likely increase illegal movement rather than mitigate it.
This question emphasizes practical solutions while testing the candidate’s ability to identify inappropriate measures.
2. Export of Assam Tea Reaches New Highs
Question:
Why is Orthodox tea from Assam highly valued in international markets?
- It is processed using traditional hand-rolling methods that enhance its flavor profile.
- It has been granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag for its unique quality.
- It requires lower input costs compared to CTC (Crush, Tear, Curl) tea.
- Its strong flavor and briskness cater to European and Middle Eastern taste preferences.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 4 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: B
Explanation:
- Correct Reasons:
- Statement 1: Orthodox tea is processed using traditional techniques, enhancing flavor.
- Statement 2: Assam Tea, including its Orthodox variety, has GI recognition.
- Statement 4: Its robust flavor appeals to European and Middle Eastern markets.
- Incorrect Statement:
- Statement 3: Orthodox tea has higher input costs due to labor-intensive processing.
This question evaluates a candidate’s awareness of the tea industry and export dynamics.
3. Women SHGs to Promote Millet Farming in Assam
Question:
Why is millet farming being promoted as a sustainable agricultural practice in Assam?
- Millets are drought-resistant and require less water compared to rice and wheat.
- They are rich in nutrients, contributing to improved food and nutritional security.
- Millet farming supports the objectives of India’s International Year of Millets initiative.
- Millets are more profitable than high-yield crops like rice and wheat due to global demand.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 2, 3, and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Correct Reasons:
- Statement 1: Millets’ drought resistance makes them a sustainable choice.
- Statement 2: Their nutrient density enhances food security.
- Statement 3: Promotion aligns with India’s initiative for the International Year of Millets.
- Incorrect Statement:
- Statement 4: Millets are not necessarily more profitable than rice or wheat; their profitability depends on market access and demand.
This question integrates sustainability, policy alignment, and economic factors.
4. Assam’s First AI-Powered Agro-Advisory Service
Question:
How does the AI-powered Smart Krishi platform benefit farmers in Assam?
- It provides real-time advice on pest control and weather forecasts.
- It ensures equitable access to irrigation through remote monitoring systems.
- It helps farmers optimize resource use and reduce input costs.
- It introduces farmers to precision farming practices through region-specific recommendations.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 3, and 4 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2, 3, and 4 only
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Correct Benefits:
- Statement 1: Real-time pest control and weather advisory services are core features of Smart Krishi.
- Statement 3: Resource optimization reduces costs for farmers.
- Statement 4: Precision farming practices improve productivity.
- Incorrect Statement:
- Statement 2: The platform does not focus on irrigation monitoring, limiting its scope to crop and market management.
This question combines the application of technology with agricultural development in Assam.
5. New Biodiversity Park in Majuli
Question:
How will the proposed biodiversity park in Majuli contribute to the conservation and development of the region?
- It will preserve critical wetland ecosystems that support migratory bird species.
- It will provide eco-tourism opportunities to enhance local livelihoods.
- It will address riverbank erosion through vegetation-based solutions.
- It will promote the Satra-based Vaishnavite cultural heritage of Majuli.
Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2, and 4 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, 3, and 4
Answer: B
Explanation:
Statement 3: While erosion control is a broader issue for Majuli, the biodiversity park does not directly address it.
Correct Contributions:
Statement 1: Preserving wetlands protects biodiversity.
Statement 2: Eco-tourism initiatives can provide sustainable income for locals.
Statement 4: Supporting Vaishnavite traditions promotes cultural preservation.
Incorrect Statement:
APSC Mains Practice Question
Topic: Women SHGs to Promote Millet Farming in Assam
GS Paper 3: Agriculture; Women Empowerment
How can millet farming contribute to addressing nutritional security, women empowerment, and climate resilience in Assam? Discuss the role of women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in promoting millet cultivation and the challenges they face.
Model Answer
Introduction:
Millets, often termed “superfoods,” are nutrient-rich, drought-resistant crops essential for ensuring food security and sustainable agriculture. In Assam, the government has engaged women-led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) under the National Millet Mission to enhance millet production, thereby addressing nutritional needs, empowering rural women, and fostering climate-resilient farming.
Significance of Millet Farming in Assam:
- Nutritional Security:
- Rich in essential nutrients like calcium, iron, and dietary fiber.
- Promotes healthier diets in rural and urban populations.
- Women Empowerment:
- SHGs provide women with opportunities for income generation through farming and marketing.
- Encourages skill development in sustainable agricultural practices.
- Climate Resilience:
- Millets thrive in water-scarce and drought-prone areas.
- Low input requirements make them suitable for small-scale and subsistence farming.
- Economic Sustainability:
- Millets fetch higher prices in niche markets due to their health benefits.
- Opens avenues for value-added products like millet-based snacks and flours.
Role of Women SHGs in Promoting Millet Cultivation:
- Training and Capacity Building: Women SHGs are trained in modern farming techniques, processing, and marketing.
- Market Linkages: SHGs play a key role in connecting rural producers with urban consumers.
- Community Mobilization: Women-led groups encourage widespread adoption of millet farming within their communities.
Challenges Faced by Women SHGs in Millet Farming:
- Market Access:
- Inadequate infrastructure for storage, transportation, and marketing.
- Limited awareness of market opportunities for value-added millet products.
- Traditional Crop Bias:
- Preference for high-yield crops like rice and wheat due to existing subsidies and demand.
- Knowledge Gaps:
- Insufficient understanding of millet-specific farming practices and crop diversification.
- Financial Constraints:
- Limited access to credit for SHGs to scale their operations.
Way Ahead:
- Develop Millet Value Chains:
- Strengthen processing and packaging units to create market-ready products.
- Promote partnerships with food processing companies for value addition.
- Policy Support:
- Extend subsidies and incentives to millet farmers, akin to rice and wheat.
- Create marketing platforms like e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) for millets.
- Awareness Campaigns:
- Highlight the nutritional and ecological benefits of millets to increase demand.
- Financial Inclusion:
- Ensure easy access to credit and grants for women SHGs under the National Millet Mission.
Conclusion:
Promoting millet farming through women-led SHGs aligns with India’s goals of ensuring food security, women empowerment, and climate resilience. By addressing existing challenges, Assam can emerge as a leader in sustainable millet production, contributing to local economies and global food systems. project can serve as a blueprint for similar endeavors nationwide, securing India’s rich biodiversity while supporting its infrastructure goals.
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