APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (23/05/2025)
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 (23-05-2025). 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
🟢 Topic: Redevelopment of Haibargaon Railway Station under Amrit Bharat Scheme
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure – Transport | Urban Development
📘 GS Paper 1 (APSC): Economic Development of Assam | Modern Indian History (Colonial Infrastructure)
🔹 Introduction
Prime Minister Narendra Modi virtually inaugurated the redeveloped Haibargaon railway station, a 138-year-old British-era facility located in Nagaon, Assam. This station is part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS)—a national initiative aimed at modernizing over 1,300 railway stations across India. Haibargaon becomes the first ABSS-inaugurated station in Assam, highlighting the Northeast’s inclusion in India’s infrastructure growth narrative.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Description |
| Inaugurated By | PM Narendra Modi (virtually) |
| Location | Nagaon District, Assam |
| Historical Background | Built in 1887 by British to aid tea transport |
| Redevelopment Cost | ₹15.85 crore |
| Scheme | Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) |
| New Features | Spacious concourse, murals of Assamese culture, accessible toilets, ramps, parking, modular ticket counters |
| Cultural Emphasis | Assamese sculptures, murals, heritage integration |
| Strategic Importance | One of 50 ABSS stations selected in Assam |
⚙️ Prelims Pointers
Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS): Launched in 2022 to revamp 1,309 stations nationwide.
Haibargaon Station: Built in 1887, associated with Assam’s tea industry and British colonial railway expansion.
North East Frontier Railway (NFR): Headquartered in Maligaon, Guwahati; manages rail infra in NE.
Indian Railways Modernisation Goal: Targeting smart stations, green energy, and last-mile connectivity.
Swachh Rail, Swachh Bharat: Clean station initiative linked with ABSS rollout.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of Haibargaon Station Redevelopment
Boosts Regional Connectivity: Enhances access to interior Assam and neighboring hill districts
Heritage Revitalization: Combines colonial architecture with local Assamese themes
Tourism Promotion: Cultural aesthetics and amenities may attract tourists to Nagaon
Local Economic Benefits: Station-led development could spur hospitality, retail, and local employment
Symbol of Inclusive Development: Reflects Act East Policy’s implementation through infrastructure
B. Challenges in Station Redevelopment in NE
| Challenge | Impact |
| Land Acquisition | Delays due to compensation issues in congested urban zones |
| Flood and Monsoon Impact | Drainage issues affect low-lying stations during monsoon |
| Security Concerns | Border proximity necessitates security-sensitive construction norms |
| Logistics and Transport | Transporting high-quality construction materials to interior NE areas is logistically difficult |
| Heritage Conservation Conflicts | Balancing modern design with colonial-era preservation |
C. Government Initiatives Related to Rail Infra in Assam
ABSS Coverage in Assam: 50 stations identified for revamp under Phase I
Railway Electrification: Targeting 100% electrification of NE routes by 2026
Bharat Gaurav Trains: Pilgrim tourism trains to include stops in Assam
Gati Shakti Master Plan: Integrating multimodal transport in Assam including air, road, rail, and water
Vande Bharat Trains in NE: Guwahati–New Jalpaiguri route already operational
📚 Relevant Schemes & Reports
Amrit Bharat Station Scheme Guidelines (2022)
National Rail Plan 2030
NITI Aayog’s Strategy for NE Development
India Infrastructure Report (IIR)
Swachh Rail Survey Rankings
🧭 Way Forward
Fast-Track Remaining ABSS Stations: Ensure all 50 planned Assam stations meet deadlines.
Sustainable Construction Models: Use green architecture, solar roofing, and efficient lighting.
Stakeholder Consultations: Engage local communities to preserve cultural landmarks.
Last-Mile Integration: Add e-rickshaws, bus bays, and boat docks for seamless passenger movement.
Digital Ticketing and Smart Surveillance: Roll out tech solutions like AI cameras, mobile apps, and real-time displays.
🧩 Conclusion
The redevelopment of Haibargaon railway station is more than just infrastructure upgradation—it represents a convergence of heritage, connectivity, and inclusive growth. If implemented across the state with similar vision and community integration, Assam can become a model for station modernization in frontier regions of India.
🟢 Topic: Union Cabinet Approves India-Oman Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)
📘 GS Paper 2: Bilateral Relations | International Agreements
📘 GS Paper 3: Economy | Taxation | Investment & Trade
📘 APSC GS Paper 5: India’s Economic Diplomacy | West Asia Engagement
🔹 Introduction
On 22 May 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a bilateral Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) between India and Oman, aiming to prevent fiscal evasion, encourage investment, and boost bilateral trade. This agreement marks another step in India’s strategy to deepen ties with the Gulf region, home to millions of Indian workers and key trade partners.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Countries Involved | India and Oman |
| Agreement Type | Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) |
| Approval Authority | Union Cabinet chaired by PM Modi |
| Main Objectives | Prevent double taxation, reduce tax disputes, foster trade and investment |
| Key Provisions | – Residence-based taxation clarity – Information exchange – Anti-abuse clauses |
| Target Beneficiaries | NRIs, Indian investors in Oman, Omani firms investing in India |
⚙️ Prelims Pointers
DTAA: A bilateral agreement that ensures a taxpayer is not taxed twice on the same income in both countries.
CBDT (Central Board of Direct Taxes): Nodal body for drafting and negotiating tax treaties.
India’s Gulf Relations: Oman, UAE, and Saudi Arabia are key energy and trade partners.
Tax Residency Certificate (TRC): Required by Indian residents to claim DTAA benefits.
OECD BEPS Framework: India aligns its DTAA clauses with anti-tax base erosion norms of OECD.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the DTAA with Oman
Promotes FDI and Trade: Reduces tax burden and uncertainty for companies operating in both countries.
Protects NRIs from Double Tax: Especially Indian professionals and workers in Oman.
Boosts Services Sector: Encourages cross-border contracts in logistics, IT, education, and tourism.
Supports “Make in India”: By facilitating smoother capital flows and joint ventures.
Strengthens Strategic Partnership: Oman is India’s maritime and energy partner in the western Indian Ocean.
B. Challenges in Implementation
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Tax Evasion Risks | DTAA may be misused by shell companies unless anti-abuse rules are enforced. |
| Information Sharing Delays | Exchange of tax data often slow due to bureaucratic hurdles. |
| Treaty Shopping | Third-party entities may route investments through Oman to exploit low-tax treaties. |
| Legal Interpretation Disputes | Varying definitions of “residency” and “permanent establishment” can lead to conflict. |
| Overlap with Domestic Law | Confusion between Indian tax code and treaty clauses. |
C. Oman–India Economic Linkages
Energy Sector: Oman exports LNG and oil to India; Indian firms have stakes in Oman’s energy infrastructure.
Diaspora Links: Over 6 lakh Indians live and work in Oman.
Strategic Port Access: Duqm Port offers India a naval and commercial foothold.
India–GCC Trade: GCC countries contribute over 15% of India’s global trade.
Bilateral Agreements: Defence MoUs, health cooperation, and disaster management training.
D. Way Forward
Robust Monitoring Systems: Use AI-based platforms for tracking tax disclosures under DTAA.
Capacity Building in Tax Administration: Train officers in treaty interpretation and dispute resolution.
Integrate with Digital Tax Filing: Automatic DTAA benefits during ITR filing via PAN validation.
Enhance Economic Diplomacy: Use trade officers in Muscat to promote Indian business.
Promote NE Exports to Gulf: Assam’s tea, agri-products can reach Gulf markets via streamlined trade norms.
📚 Relevant Agreements & Frameworks
India’s DTAA Network: 90+ countries including UAE, US, Singapore, Japan
UN & OECD Model Tax Conventions
Base Erosion and Profit Shifting (BEPS) – Multilateral treaty to curb tax evasion
Income Tax Act, 1961 – Section 90: Provides legal backing for DTAA
Foreign Trade Policy 2023 – Emphasis on West Asia as a trade corridor
🧩 Conclusion
The India–Oman DTAA is a strategic and economic milestone, promoting fair taxation, legal clarity, and investor confidence. It strengthens India’s position as a responsible economic partner in the Gulf and supports its broader vision of deepening economic diplomacy in West Asia and beyond.
🟢 Topic: PM Praises Assam’s Flood Management Initiatives in ‘Mann Ki Baat’
📘 GS Paper 3: Disaster Management | Environment
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Role of Civil Society and Local Bodies
📘 APSC GS Paper 5: Assam-Specific Disaster Preparedness | Flood Resilience
🔹 Introduction
During his monthly radio address ‘Mann Ki Baat’, Prime Minister Narendra Modi lauded Assam’s community-led flood mitigation efforts, especially initiatives taken by local panchayats and volunteers in flood-prone districts like Barpeta, Dhemaji, and Morigaon. These remarks come ahead of the monsoon season and highlight the importance of bottom-up approaches in disaster management.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
| Mentioned By | PM Modi in ‘Mann Ki Baat’ (May 2025 edition) |
| Focus Areas in Assam | Barpeta, Dhemaji, Morigaon – chronically flood-affected districts |
| Local Initiatives Appreciated | – Elevated platforms for shelter – Mobile flood early warning units – Use of traditional boats for evacuation |
| State Government Role | Collaboration with SDRF, local schools, SHGs, and digital platforms |
| National Programs Linked | Jal Shakti Abhiyan, PM Gati Shakti for flood-resilient infrastructure |
⚙️ Prelims Pointers
ASDMA (Assam State Disaster Management Authority): Coordinates flood preparedness and relief in Assam.
“Mann Ki Baat”: Monthly All India Radio programme by PM; highlights grassroots success stories.
Char Areas: Riverine islands in the Brahmaputra, prone to erosion and flash floods.
Boat Clinics: Public health initiative by C-NES delivering services to remote flood-hit villages.
Flood Early Warning System (FEWS): Operated in collaboration with IMD and IIT Guwahati.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Assam’s Flood Vulnerability Profile
Geographical Factors: Brahmaputra and its tributaries carry high sediment loads.
Climate Change Impact: Erratic rainfall and glacial melt increase flood intensity.
Encroachment on Wetlands: Shrinking of beels (wetlands) reduces water retention capacity.
Poor Drainage Infrastructure: Particularly in urban belts like Guwahati and Silchar.
Riverbank Erosion: Over 8,000 hectares lost annually, displacing thousands.
B. Innovative Community-Led Solutions
| Innovation | Outcome |
| Raised Bamboo Platforms | Shelter for people and livestock during floods |
| Digital Mapping of Char Areas | Better resource allocation and evacuation planning |
| Self-Help Group (SHG) Engagement | Women-led response units managing food and supplies |
| Boat Ambulances | Emergency medical access during water-logged periods |
| Use of Traditional Wisdom | Evacuation based on signs of river flow and bird migration patterns |
C. Institutional & Government Measures
Assam State Flood Mitigation Plan 2030: Long-term blueprint under State Action Plan on Climate Change
Riverbank Erosion Protection Works (RBPW): Geo-bags, revetment, bamboo matting projects by WRD
Digital Flood Dashboard: Real-time data sharing between ASDMA, SDRF, and local governments
Integration with NDMA Guidelines: Emphasis on pre-disaster risk reduction rather than reactive relief
Multi-purpose Cyclone/Flood Shelters: Being constructed under centrally sponsored schemes
D. Way Forward
Early Warning Expansion: Use of SMS, WhatsApp alerts in local languages
Decentralised Relief Storage: Stock emergency supplies at block and GP levels
Ecological Interventions: Wetland restoration and afforestation along embankments
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Raise roads and embankments in low-lying flood zones
Community Flood Brigades: Youth volunteer units trained in rescue and first aid
📚 Relevant Reports & Frameworks
Assam SDMP (State Disaster Management Plan)
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction (2015–2030)
CAG Report on Flood Management in Assam (2022)
Assam Water Resource Department Annual Report
UNDRR Local Disaster Resilience Scorecard
🧩 Conclusion
The PM’s recognition of Assam’s localised flood management strategies reinforces the value of community-led resilience. Going forward, a synergistic approach involving technology, local knowledge, and government support is essential to mitigate Assam’s chronic flood woes and ensure safety and dignity for millions affected each year.
🟢 Topic: Massive Fire Destroys Parts of Asia’s Largest Wooden Market in Dimapur, Nagaland
📘 GS Paper 1: Art & Culture | Traditional Economy
📘 GS Paper 3: Disaster Management | Urban Safety
📘 APSC GS Paper 5: Northeast-Specific Issues | Heritage Protection
🔹 Introduction
A massive fire engulfed significant parts of Dimapur’s Hongkong Market, Asia’s largest wooden market, destroying over 300 shops and displacing hundreds of vendors. While no casualties were reported, the fire caused extensive economic and infrastructural loss. The incident has raised questions over fire preparedness, urban safety regulations, and heritage protection in Northeast India.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Parameter | Details |
| Location | Hongkong Market, Dimapur, Nagaland |
| Casualties | None reported |
| Shops Destroyed | Over 300; mostly wooden stalls |
| Cause (Preliminary) | Suspected electrical short-circuit; investigation ongoing |
| Fire Services Response | Delay due to congested lanes and lack of water points |
| Relief Measures | Emergency assistance from Nagaland govt; assessment teams deployed |
⚙️ Prelims Pointers
Dimapur: Largest city in Nagaland; commercial hub connecting Assam and the rest of NE
Hongkong Market: Known for imported goods, electronics, and local crafts – built mostly with timber
Fire Safety Rules: Regulated under National Building Code of India
Smart Cities Mission: Dimapur not under the mission; lacks urban fire resilience infrastructure
Disaster Management Act, 2005: Framework for state response and compensation in such cases
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Why the Fire Became So Destructive
Wooden Infrastructure: The market is Asia’s largest timber-based retail space – highly combustible.
Lack of Safety Norms: No modern fire extinguishers, fire lanes, or evacuation plans.
Unregulated Electricity Use: Heavy dependence on overburdened wires and illegal connections.
Congested Urban Layout: Narrow alleys hindered rescue and water delivery.
Poor Enforcement of Urban Codes: No audit or registration of temporary vendors and stall design.
B. Economic and Cultural Loss
| Impact Type | Description |
| Livelihood Loss | Thousands depend on market stalls for daily earnings |
| Displacement | Many migrant vendors lost assets and inventory |
| Loss of Traditional Market Culture | Hongkong Market is a cultural node in Dimapur’s identity |
| Tourism Decline | Market attracted domestic and foreign buyers |
| Damage to Informal Sector | MSMEs, artisans, and second-hand traders impacted |
C. Broader Policy Lessons for NE Cities
Need for Heritage-Sensitive Urban Planning
Strengthen Fire Safety Units in Hill Towns
Mandatory Electrical Audits in Old Markets
Urban Vendor Regulation under Street Vendors Act, 2014
Model Market Redevelopment Policy for traditional markets in NE
D. Way Forward
Fire-Resilient Reconstruction: Use fire-retardant materials while preserving traditional architecture
Insurance Coverage for Vendors: Promote affordable micro-insurance for MSMEs and traders
Pre-Monsoon Fire Audits: Especially in timber structures and heritage zones
Market Evacuation Drills: Involve shopkeepers and local volunteers
Public–Private Partnerships: Rebuild markets with safety + economic vision (e.g., night bazaars, craft hubs)
📚 Relevant Policies & Acts
National Building Code of India, 2016
Street Vendors (Protection of Livelihood and Regulation of Street Vending) Act, 2014
Urban Renewal Guidelines (MoHUA)
Sendai Framework for Disaster Risk Reduction
MSME Disaster Recovery Framework (SIDBI)
🧩 Conclusion
The Dimapur market fire is a wake-up call to improve safety in traditional commercial spaces across the Northeast. By blending disaster resilience with cultural preservation, governments can ensure that economic growth in the region does not come at the cost of safety and sustainability.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
✅ Topic 1: Redevelopment of Haibargaon Railway Station under Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Q1. The Amrit Bharat Station Scheme (ABSS) primarily focuses on:
A. Privatizing railway stations in a PPP mode
B. Modernizing railway stations with focus on sustainability and heritage
C. Converting all stations into high-speed rail terminals
D. Merging metro services with Indian Railways
✅ Answer: B.
Explanation:
- ABSS aims to upgrade over 1,300 railway stations with amenities such as clean platforms, escalators, local cultural art, and sustainable features. It emphasizes inclusivity, aesthetics, and utility, not privatization or metro integration.
Q2. The Haibargaon railway station, recently redeveloped under ABSS, is located in which district?
A. Sivasagar
B. Tinsukia
C. Nagaon
D. Barpeta
✅ Answer: C.
Explanation:
- Haibargaon station is a historically significant station located in Nagaon district, Assam.
✅ Topic 2: India–Oman Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA)
Q3. The purpose of signing a Double Taxation Avoidance Agreement (DTAA) is:
A. To ensure full tax exemption for NRIs
B. To prevent taxing the same income in both countries
C. To replace existing bilateral investment treaties
D. To ban offshore investments in low-tax jurisdictions
✅ Answer: B.
Explanation:
- DTAAs are designed to prevent the same income from being taxed twice in both the source and residence countries, thereby encouraging trade and investment.
Q4. Which of the following statements regarding DTAA is correct?
- It is governed by the Income Tax Act, 1961.
- It can override domestic tax laws where beneficial.
- India has signed DTAAs with over 90 countries.
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: D.
Explanation:
- All three statements are correct. Section 90 of the Income Tax Act provides legal backing for DTAAs, which can override domestic laws if more beneficial to taxpayers. India has signed DTAAs with more than 90 countries.
✅ Topic 3: Assam’s Flood Management Recognition in ‘Mann Ki Baat’
Q5. Which of the following is/are features of Assam’s community-led flood management?
- Use of traditional bamboo platforms
- Deployment of boat clinics in char areas
- Real-time flood dashboards and warning systems
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D.
Explanation:
- Assam’s flood resilience involves local innovations like bamboo shelters, boat-based healthcare, and digital flood warning dashboards, especially in areas like Barpeta, Dhemaji, and Morigaon.
Q6. Which of the following bodies is primarily responsible for coordinating flood preparedness and disaster management in Assam?
A. NDMA
B. ASDMA
C. IMD
D. NDRF
✅ Answer: B.
Explanation:
- ASDMA (Assam State Disaster Management Authority) is the nodal agency for disaster preparedness, early warning systems, and flood mitigation in Assam.
✅ Topic 4: Fire in Dimapur’s Wooden Market
Q7. The Hongkong Market in Dimapur, affected by a major fire recently, is notable because:
A. It is a UNESCO cultural heritage site
B. It is Asia’s largest market made predominantly of timber
C. It is India’s largest port-based fish market
D. It houses the only bamboo research centre in NE India
✅ Answer: B.
Explanation:
- Hongkong Market in Dimapur is Asia’s largest timber-built market, known for its informal trade networks and imported goods. The fire incident revealed urban fire safety gaps.
Q8. Which of the following national frameworks guides urban fire safety and market construction standards in India?
- National Building Code (NBC), 2016
- Street Vendors Act, 2014
- Model Municipal Laws, 2019
- Environment Protection Act, 1986
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: C.
Explanation:
EPA, 1986 is more focused on environmental pollutants, not fire safety in markets.
NBC 2016 provides fire and structural safety norms.
Street Vendors Act, 2014 regulates urban markets and vendor zones.
Model Municipal Laws help enforce safety rules at ULB level.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 Mains Question:
Q. Discuss the importance of community-led flood management in Assam. What innovative practices have been adopted, and how can these be institutionalized across other flood-prone regions of India?
(GS Paper 3 – Disaster Management | APSC GS Paper 5 – Assam-Specific Disaster Preparedness)
Word Limit: 250
✅ Model Answer:
🔹 Introduction
Assam, home to the mighty Brahmaputra and its vast floodplains, faces annual monsoon floods, displacing lakhs and damaging infrastructure. In recent years, community-led flood management initiatives in Assam—especially in districts like Barpeta, Morigaon, and Dhemaji—have emerged as low-cost, effective, and locally adaptive solutions. Their success was recently acknowledged by the Prime Minister in the May 2025 edition of Mann Ki Baat.
🔍 Importance of Community Participation
- Local Knowledge: Communities can predict flood patterns using traditional signs (e.g., river color, bird behavior).
- Timely Response: Local actors act faster than state machinery, especially in remote char (river island) areas.
- Social Cohesion: Collective preparation and risk-sharing promote resilience and recovery.
- Resource Mobilization: Locals mobilize boats, shelters, and food supplies ahead of floods.
🌱 Innovative Practices
| Practice | Outcome |
| Raised Bamboo Platforms | Used as shelters for people and livestock |
| Boat Clinics | Healthcare delivery in inaccessible villages (C-NES model) |
| Mobile Flood Warning Systems | SMS and sirens for early evacuation |
| Women-Led SHG Brigades | Manage relief, distribute supplies, cook meals |
| Community Flood Mapping | GIS-aided planning by Panchayats |
🛠️ Institutionalization Strategies
- Integrate with ASDMA Programs: Train volunteers as part of state disaster response units.
- Disaster Resilience Scorecards: Rate panchayats on preparedness; reward best practices.
- Involve NGOs and Schools: Flood drills in local schools and community centers.
- Replicate in Ganga-Brahmaputra Basin States: Bihar, UP, and Bengal can adapt Assam’s model.
- Funding via CSR & Climate Grants: Mobilize private sector for decentralized flood resilience.
🧩 Conclusion
Community-led flood management in Assam represents a bottom-up model of climate adaptation, blending traditional wisdom with modern tools. Its institutionalization can serve as a template for inclusive disaster governance across India’s flood-prone geographies.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
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