APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (23/11/2024)

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 (23-11-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. Assam Cancer Care Foundation’s Comprehensive Screening Plan

Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Health; GS Paper 3: Social Justice

Introduction:

Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF), a collaboration between the Assam government and Tata Trusts, has launched an ambitious cancer and non-communicable diseases (NCDs) screening initiative. The program targets the eligible population of Assam aged 30 years and above, aiming for early detection and timely intervention to reduce mortality rates.

Key Facts:

• Coverage Target: Screening 1.2 million people (37% of the population) within two years.
• Focus Areas: Oral, breast, and cervical cancers, with follow-up care for confirmed cases.
• Progress: Over 10.48 lakh people screened, with significant success in detecting early-stage cases.

Prelims Pointers:

• Assam Cancer Care Foundation (ACCF): South Asia’s largest affordable cancer care network.
• Cancer Types Targeted: Oral, breast, and cervical cancers—common and treatable if detected early.
• SDG-3 (Good Health and Well-being): Promotes health equity and early detection of diseases.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Health Equity: Reduces disparities in healthcare access, particularly in rural and underserved regions like tea gardens.
2. Early Intervention: Detects cancers and NCDs at early stages, significantly improving survival rates.
3. Policy Synergy: Aligns with National Health Policy and SDG-3, focusing on preventive healthcare.
4. Community Awareness: Empowers people to seek timely medical care through public health campaigns.

Challenges:

1. Infrastructure Gaps: Shortage of diagnostic centers and treatment facilities in remote areas.
2. Workforce Limitations: Insufficient trained healthcare workers for large-scale screenings.
3. Behavioral Barriers: Stigma, fear, and low health literacy hindering participation.
4. Follow-Up Care: Ensuring timely treatment after diagnosis is a persistent issue.

Government Initiatives:

• Expansion of cancer hospitals under ACCF (9 operational, 8 under construction).
• Training ASHAs and Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) for community outreach and screening.
• Subsidized cancer treatment schemes for economically weaker sections.

Way Ahead:

1. Strengthen mobile screening units to reach remote areas.
2. Enhance partnerships with NGOs and private organizations for funding and technical expertise.
3. Promote awareness campaigns to reduce stigma and encourage preventive health check-ups.
4. Improve follow-up care infrastructure to ensure continuity of treatment.

Conclusion:
The ACCF’s initiative is a transformative step in addressing Assam’s high cancer burden. Holistic implementation and robust public participation will ensure better health outcomes for the state.

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2. Crackdown on Unregistered Health Institutions in Assam

Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Governance; GS Paper 4: Ethics

Introduction:

The Assam government has launched a state-wide operation to regulate health institutions under the Clinical Establishment Act, 2010. The crackdown aims to ensure compliance with healthcare standards and curb unethical practices in private healthcare.

Key Facts:

• Scope: Covers Kamrup Metro and other districts, focusing on registration and adherence to quality norms.
• Violations Identified: Government doctors working in private institutions during public duty hours, and lack of proper documentation.
• Action Taken: Penalties and closure notices issued to non-compliant institutions.

Prelims Pointers:

• Clinical Establishment Act, 2010: Mandates the registration of all healthcare facilities to ensure quality and accountability.
• Non-Practicing Allowance (NPA): An incentive for government doctors to discourage private practice during duty hours.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Standardized Healthcare: Ensures uniformity in healthcare quality across public and private sectors.
2. Accountability: Reduces malpractices and builds public trust in healthcare systems.
3. Ethical Governance: Promotes adherence to ethical standards in medical practice.
4. Public Health Outcomes: Enhances overall access to reliable and safe healthcare.

Challenges:

1. Non-Compliance: High prevalence of unregistered clinics and hospitals.
2. Pushback: Resistance from private healthcare providers citing operational challenges.
3. Resource Deficit: Inadequate manpower for monitoring and enforcement at the district level.
4. Corruption Risks: Potential misuse of regulatory powers for personal or political gains.

Government Initiatives:

• District-level health monitoring committees for real-time enforcement.
• Online registration and grievance platforms to simplify compliance and reporting.
• Regular training for health inspectors to handle inspections efficiently.

Way Ahead:

1. Conduct awareness programs for private healthcare providers about compliance requirements.
2. Digitize health institution records to improve transparency and monitoring.
3. Strengthen grievance mechanisms to empower patients against unethical practices.

Conclusion:
The crackdown on unregistered health institutions marks a significant step toward ensuring quality healthcare for all. Sustained efforts and balanced enforcement will build a transparent and ethical healthcare ecosystem in Assam.

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3. Assam’s Rising Status in Inland Fisheries

Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Economy; Environment

Introduction:

Assam has achieved the rank of fifth in India’s inland fish production, showcasing its potential as a leader in sustainable fisheries. Recognized on World Fisheries Day 2024, the state’s initiatives have transformed rural livelihoods and food security.

Key Facts:

• Awards:
  • Darrang district: Best Himalaya and Northeastern district for fisheries.
  • Srijoni Min Unnayan Samabai Samity: Best Inland Fisheries Cooperative.
• Production Potential: Over 3,500 water bodies are available for pisciculture in Assam.

Prelims Pointers:

• Inland Fisheries: Includes fish farming in rivers, wetlands, and ponds.
• World Fisheries Day: Celebrated annually on November 21 to promote sustainable fisheries.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Economic Empowerment: A critical source of income for rural households and youth entrepreneurs.
2. Food Security: Reduces dependency on fish imports, supporting local consumption.
3. Sustainability: Encourages eco-friendly and scientific fish farming techniques.
4. Regional Development: Contributes to Assam’s economic diversification, reducing reliance on traditional agriculture.

Challenges:

1. Ecosystem Degradation: Pollution and encroachment reducing the productivity of water bodies.
2. Overfishing: Unsustainable practices during breeding seasons impact fish stock.
3. Climate Impacts: Erratic weather patterns affecting fish breeding cycles.
4. Market Infrastructure: Poor storage and transport facilities lead to post-harvest losses.

Government Initiatives:

• Financial aid under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
• Introduction of community-based fish farming cooperatives.
• Use of GIS mapping for water body identification and planning.

Way Ahead:

1. Enforce sustainable fishing practices and seasonal bans during breeding.
2. Promote value-added fish products for domestic and export markets.
3. Build robust cold chain infrastructure to reduce post-harvest losses.

Conclusion:
With focused policies and sustainable practices, Assam’s fisheries sector can emerge as a national leader, ensuring economic growth and ecological conservation.

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4. Flood Management through Satellite Data in Assam

Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Disaster Management; Science & Technology

Introduction:

The Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), in collaboration with ISRO, is using satellite data to enhance flood forecasting and response systems. This initiative aims to minimize loss of life and property during annual floods.

Key Facts:

• Technology Utilized: Advanced Satellite Remote Sensing (ASRS) and GIS mapping for real-time flood monitoring.
• Partnership: Joint effort of ASDMA, ISRO, and the Ministry of Earth Sciences.
• Achievements: Development of flood hazard zoning maps for 31 districts.

Prelims Pointers:

• ASDMA: Responsible for disaster preparedness and mitigation in Assam.
• Flood Hazard Zoning Maps: Visual tools highlighting flood-prone areas for planning and risk reduction.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Early Warning Systems: Satellite data provides precise predictions, improving evacuation and relief efforts.
2. Policy Making: GIS maps support the formulation of localized flood management strategies.
3. Resource Allocation: Enables efficient deployment of resources to high-risk areas.
4. Data-Driven Mitigation: Facilitates long-term planning for flood-resilient infrastructure.

Challenges:

1. Data Accuracy: Variability in rainfall patterns affects prediction accuracy.
2. Infrastructure Gaps: Inadequate flood shelters and embankments in rural areas.
3. Community Awareness: Limited public understanding of flood warnings and preparedness measures.

Government Initiatives:

• Development of real-time flood monitoring portals.
• Construction of raised platforms and disaster-resilient housing.
• Integration of satellite data into district-level disaster management plans.

Way Ahead:

• Enhance satellite coverage for better resolution and accuracy.
• Conduct community training programs to ensure effective use of flood warnings.
• Collaborate with private sectors for advanced forecasting technologies.

Conclusion:
Satellite-based flood management represents a significant step forward in reducing Assam’s vulnerability to annual floods. Effective implementation can save lives and build disaster-resilient communities.

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5. Solar Power Projects to Meet Assam’s Energy Needs

Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Infrastructure; Environment

Introduction:

Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL) has signed an MoU with NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. to establish a 600 MW solar park in lower Assam, aimed at reducing the state’s dependency on coal-based power.

Key Facts:

• Capacity Target: 1,000 MW of renewable energy by 2030.
• Focus Area: Solar parks in Kokrajhar and Dhubri districts.
• Environmental Impact: Expected reduction in CO2 emissions by 1 million tons annually.

Prelims Pointers:

• APDCL: State-run utility responsible for electricity distribution in Assam.
• Renewable Energy Targets: Aligned with India’s goal of achieving 50% renewable capacity by 2030.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Energy Security: Reduces Assam’s dependence on imported coal and fossil fuels.
2. Economic Benefits: Creates job opportunities in the renewable energy sector.
3. Climate Action: Contributes to reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
4. Cost Efficiency: Lowers long-term power generation costs compared to thermal power.

Challenges:

1. Land Acquisition: Difficulty in acquiring large tracts of land for solar projects.
2. Intermittent Power Supply: Solar energy depends on weather conditions, requiring backup systems.
3. Funding Gaps: High upfront capital costs for renewable energy infrastructure.

Government Initiatives:

• Subsidies under the PM-KUSUM scheme for renewable energy projects.
• State-level incentives for private investment in green energy.

Way Ahead:

• Develop hybrid renewable systems combining solar and wind energy.
• Invest in battery storage systems to address power intermittency.
• Expand public-private partnerships for faster execution of projects.

Conclusion:
Solar power initiatives in Assam offer a sustainable solution to the state’s energy challenges. Strategic investments and robust policies can position Assam as a leader in renewable energy.

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6. Assam’s First Rural Skill Development Hub Inaugurated

Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Education; GS Paper 3: Economy

Introduction:

The Assam government inaugurated its first Rural Skill Development Hub in Jorhat district, focusing on vocational training for youth in agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts.

Key Facts:

• Target Groups: Rural youth and women from economically weaker sections.
• Courses Offered: Organic farming, agro-tourism, and handloom techniques.
• Collaboration: Partnership with the National Skill Development Corporation (NSDC).

Prelims Pointers:

• NSDC: A public-private partnership promoting skill development in India.
• Skill India Mission: A national initiative aimed at equipping the workforce with relevant skills.

Mains Pointers:

Importance:

1. Employment Generation: Prepares youth for jobs in agriculture, tourism, and MSMEs.
2. Rural Development: Promotes self-reliance by building skills aligned with local industries.
3. Economic Diversification: Reduces dependency on traditional farming by introducing value-added activities.
4. Women Empowerment: Trains women in income-generating activities like weaving and handicrafts.

Challenges:

1. Training Infrastructure: Limited access to modern equipment and facilities.
2. Market Access: Lack of linkages between trained individuals and job markets.
3. Awareness Issues: Many rural youth remain unaware of available training programs.

Government Initiatives:

• Tie-ups with local NGOs for mobilizing rural participation.
• Subsidized loans for setting up small businesses post-training.

Way Ahead:

1. Develop partnerships with local industries for apprenticeship programs.
2. Create digital platforms to connect skilled workers with job opportunities.
3. Monitor training outcomes to ensure skill relevance and impact.

Conclusion:
The Rural Skill Development Hub in Jorhat is a promising initiative for empowering Assam’s rural workforce. Expanding such hubs across the state will boost self-reliance and economic resilience.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Flood Management through Satellite Data in Assam

Question:
Which of the following are benefits of using satellite data for flood management in Assam?

1. Accurate real-time flood prediction for better disaster response.
2. Development of flood hazard zoning maps to identify high-risk areas.
3. Monitoring post-flood rehabilitation through remote sensing.
4. Creation of embankments in flood-prone areas using satellite imagery.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 2 and 4 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Correct Statements:
  • 1 and 2: Satellite data is widely used for real-time flood prediction and creating flood hazard maps.
  • 3: Satellite imagery helps monitor post-disaster scenarios, including rehabilitation.
• Incorrect Statement:
  • 4: Satellite imagery supports planning embankments but does not directly “create” embankments.

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2. Solar Power Projects to Meet Assam’s Energy Needs

Question:
Which of the following challenges are commonly associated with large-scale solar energy projects in India?

1. Difficulty in acquiring large tracts of land for solar parks.
2. High costs of developing battery storage for power backup.
3. Dependence on weather conditions for power generation.
4. Lack of technology for solar panel manufacturing in India.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1, 2, and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3, and 4
D. 1 and 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Correct Statements:
  • 1, 2, and 3: Land acquisition, storage costs, and weather dependency are significant challenges for solar energy projects.
• Incorrect Statement:
  • 4: India has established a strong domestic solar panel manufacturing base under initiatives like Make in India.

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3. Assam’s First Rural Skill Development Hub

Question:
Which of the following sectors are prioritized under Assam’s first Rural Skill Development Hub?

1. Agro-tourism
2. Organic farming
3. Handloom and handicrafts
4. IT and software development

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 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Correct Statements:
  • 1, 2, and 3: The skill development hub focuses on locally relevant sectors like agro-tourism, organic farming, and handloom.
• Incorrect Statement:
  • 4: IT and software development are not part of the hub’s training focus.

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4. Flood Hazard Zoning Maps in Assam

Question:
What is the primary purpose of flood hazard zoning maps developed for Assam?
A. Identifying potential locations for new embankments.
B. Highlighting high-risk areas prone to flooding for planning mitigation measures.
C. Calculating the financial losses caused by floods annually.
D. Monitoring water quality changes during flood events.

Answer: B

Explanation:

• Flood hazard zoning maps are developed to identify areas prone to flooding and guide mitigation efforts such as evacuation planning and resource allocation.

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5. Solar Energy Expansion in Assam

Question:
Which of the following initiatives directly support Assam’s solar energy expansion?

1. PM-KUSUM Scheme
2. Pradhan Mantri Ujjwala Yojana
3. NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. Partnerships
4. Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2, 3, and 4 only
C. 1, 3, and 4 only
D. 1, 2, and 3 only

Answer: A

Explanation:

2 and 4: Ujjwala Yojana is related to LPG connections, and Matsya Sampada Yojana focuses on fisheries.

Correct Initiatives:

1 and 3: The PM-KUSUM Scheme promotes solar energy for farmers, and partnerships with NTPC Renewable Energy Ltd. are directly tied to Assam’s solar projects.

Incorrect Initiatives:

APSC Mains Practice Question

Topic: Flood Management through Satellite Data in Assam
GS Paper 3: Disaster Management; Science and Technology

How can satellite data and GIS mapping improve flood management in Assam? Discuss the challenges in implementing such technologies and suggest measures for effective disaster mitigation.

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Model Answer

Introduction:
Assam faces recurring floods, affecting millions annually and causing extensive damage to lives and property. To address this, the Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), in collaboration with ISRO, is utilizing satellite data and GIS mapping for real-time flood monitoring and hazard mapping. These technologies provide actionable insights for proactive disaster management and long-term planning.

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Role of Satellite Data and GIS in Flood Management:

1. Early Warning Systems:
   • Satellite-based real-time monitoring enables accurate flood forecasting, improving preparedness and evacuation efforts.
2. Flood Hazard Zoning:
   • GIS mapping identifies high-risk areas, aiding in resource allocation and infrastructure planning.
3. Post-Flood Analysis:
   • Remote sensing helps assess damage to crops, infrastructure, and settlements, supporting efficient relief distribution.
4. Data-Driven Policies:
   • Facilitates informed decision-making for embankment construction, wetland conservation, and river management.

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Challenges in Implementation:

1. Data Accuracy:
   • Satellite-based predictions are sometimes limited by variability in rainfall and hydrological conditions.
2. Infrastructure Gaps:
   • Lack of adequate ground sensors and real-time data integration systems.
3. Community Awareness:
   • Poor understanding of early warning systems among vulnerable populations reduces their effectiveness.
4. Financial Constraints:
   • High costs of satellite operations and GIS infrastructure hinder widespread adoption.

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Measures to Enhance Flood Management:

1. Improve Accuracy:
   • Use a combination of satellite data, ground-based sensors, and AI for precise predictions.
2. Strengthen Infrastructure:
   • Invest in modern GIS platforms and ensure real-time integration with disaster management systems.
3. Community Engagement:
   • Conduct awareness campaigns and mock drills to educate people on responding to early warnings.
4. Collaborative Efforts:
   • Partner with private tech firms for innovative solutions and cost-sharing mechanisms.

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Conclusion:
Satellite data and GIS mapping have the potential to revolutionize flood management in Assam by providing accurate, real-time insights. Overcoming challenges through investments in technology, capacity building, and public awareness will enable Assam to mitigate flood impacts effectively, safeguarding lives and livelihoods.

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