APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (25/03/2025)
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 (25-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
Topic 1: Assam Most Vulnerable to Soil Erosion, Finds Study
GS Paper 1: Geography
GS Paper 3: Environment & Disaster Management
Introduction
A recent national study on soil erosion found that Assam has nine out of the 20 most erosion-prone districts in India, making it the most vulnerable state to soil erosion. The study, conducted by ICAR’s Indian Institute of Soil Science, introduced a new erosion-severity classification system that covered 28 states and 8 Union Territories.
The research highlights that the Brahmaputra basin has the highest risk of soil erosion in India, with an alarming erosion rate of 47.64 tonnes per hectare per year. This has serious implications for agriculture, biodiversity, and disaster management in Assam.
Key Points
✅ 1. Most Affected Districts in Assam
- Nine of India’s 20 worst erosion-hit districts are in Assam:
- Goalpara, Dhubri, Chirang, Baksa, Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, Udalguri, Nalbari, and Barpeta.
- These districts experience catastrophic soil loss exceeding 100 tonnes per hectare per year.
✅ 2. Causes of Soil Erosion in Assam
- Heavy Monsoon Rains & Floods → High rainfall intensity causes rapid soil displacement.
- Brahmaputra River’s Dynamics → The river’s strong currents lead to bank erosion & sediment loss.
- Deforestation & Uncontrolled Land Use → Cutting trees for agriculture and urban expansion weakens soil stability.
- Shifting Cultivation (Jhum) → Traditional farming methods remove vegetation cover, making soil vulnerable.
- Unregulated Sand & Gravel Mining → Extracting riverbed materials increases erosion.
✅ 3. Impact of Soil Erosion on Assam
- Agricultural Losses: Fertile topsoil is lost, reducing crop productivity.
- Increased Flooding: Eroded sediments clog river channels, leading to frequent floods.
- Threat to Biodiversity: Wetlands, forests, and Kaziranga National Park face degradation.
- Displacement of Communities: Riverbank erosion displaces thousands of people every year.
✅ 4. Government & Scientific Recommendations
- Afforestation & Riverbank Stabilization → Planting bamboo & vetiver grass to prevent erosion.
- Sustainable Farming Practices → Adopting contour plowing & agroforestry to maintain soil health.
- Check Dams & Embankments → Constructing small reservoirs & stone bunds to slow water flow.
- Erosion-Resistant Crop Varieties → Encouraging deep-rooted crops for soil stability.
Prelims Pointers
- ICAR – Indian Institute of Soil Science: Premier institute researching soil conservation in India.
- Brahmaputra River: One of the world’s most erosion-prone rivers due to heavy monsoons & sediment transport.
- Agroforestry: A farming practice that integrates trees and crops to prevent soil erosion.
- Contour Farming: Cultivating crops along slopes to reduce water runoff and soil loss.
- Vetiver Grass Technique: Using deep-rooted grass for soil conservation on riverbanks.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Can Assam Combat Soil Erosion?
🔹 1. Riverbank Protection Measures
- Building embankments & revetments along vulnerable areas.
- Using geotextiles & bamboo structures to slow erosion.
🔹 2. Sustainable Land Use Planning
- Shifting from Jhum cultivation to agroforestry for long-term soil protection.
- Regulating mining activities to prevent excessive sediment loss.
🔹 3. Strengthening Disaster Management Policies
- Integrating soil erosion control into flood management strategies.
- Early warning systems for soil erosion-prone zones.
🔹 4. Community Participation in Soil Conservation
- Involving local farmers & NGOs in reforestation projects.
- Providing financial incentives for sustainable agriculture.
Challenges in Implementing Soil Conservation Measures
✅ 1. Lack of Funds & Infrastructure
- Solution: State & Central Government collaboration for long-term investment.
✅ 2. Resistance to Land Use Change
- Solution: Educate & incentivize farmers for adopting erosion-resistant practices.
✅ 3. Rapid Urbanization & Industrial Expansion
- Solution: Strict environmental regulations for construction & mining industries.
✅ 4. Coordination Among Departments
- Solution: Establish a centralized erosion control task force under Assam’s Disaster Management Authority.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding Erosion Prevention Programs in Assam
- Government should increase funding for soil conservation projects.
✅ 2. Promoting Scientific Soil Management Techniques
- Encouraging the use of bioengineering solutions like bamboo fencing & vetiver grass.
✅ 3. Strengthening Climate Resilience Strategies
- Combining flood management, afforestation & sustainable farming for long-term erosion control.
✅ 4. International Best Practices for Erosion Control
- Learning from China’s Loess Plateau restoration model and USA’s Mississippi River erosion management.
Conclusion
Assam’s vulnerability to severe soil erosion poses serious environmental, economic, and social challenges. Urgent measures are required to protect agriculture, biodiversity, and human settlements.
The government, scientists, and local communities must collaborate to implement sustainable erosion control strategies and prevent further land degradation.
With scientific solutions, policy interventions, and community participation, Assam can mitigate soil erosion risks and ensure sustainable land use for future generations.
Topic 2: Assam to Implement AI-Based Crop Monitoring System for Farmers
GS Paper 3: Agriculture, Science & Technology, E-Governance
GS Paper 2: Government Policies, Rural Development
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the launch of an AI-based Crop Monitoring System (AICMS) to support farmers in improving productivity, reducing crop losses, and ensuring sustainable agricultural practices. This initiative, in collaboration with agri-tech startups and research institutes, will use satellite imagery, machine learning models, and IoT-based sensors to monitor soil health, weather patterns, pest infestations, and crop growth in real-time.
With Assam’s agriculture sector facing climate variability, pest outbreaks, and soil degradation, this AI-driven system is expected to boost farm efficiency, increase yields, and help in precision farming.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of Assam’s AI-Based Crop Monitoring System
- Early pest and disease detection to minimize crop damage.
- Precision farming through AI-driven soil and weather analysis.
- Reducing water and fertilizer wastage with real-time recommendations.
- Providing market intelligence to help farmers get better prices.
✅ 2. How the AI-Based System Works
- AI-powered drones & satellites monitor crop health and soil moisture levels.
- IoT-based soil sensors track temperature, pH levels, and water content.
- Machine learning models predict droughts, pest outbreaks, and yield estimates.
- Mobile app alerts for farmers to guide them on irrigation, pest control, and harvesting.
✅ 3. Why AI-Based Crop Monitoring is Crucial for Assam?
- Assam loses 15-20% of crops annually due to pest attacks and unpredictable weather.
- Climate change is increasing flood and drought risks, affecting farm productivity.
- High input costs for fertilizers and pesticides require better precision farming.
- Most farmers lack real-time access to advisory services on crop diseases and best practices.
✅ 4. Potential Benefits for Farmers
- Early warning alerts for floods, droughts, and pests.
- Higher crop yields through optimized water and nutrient usage.
- Cost savings on fertilizers and pesticides due to precision farming.
- Access to digital advisory services for better decision-making.
✅ 5. Challenges in AI-Based Crop Monitoring Implementation
- Limited digital literacy among farmers.
- High infrastructure cost for IoT sensors and satellite data.
- Connectivity issues in remote rural areas.
- Need for government-private sector collaboration for scaling up.
Prelims Pointers
- Precision Farming: Data-driven approach to optimize agricultural inputs.
- IoT-Based Soil Sensors: Devices that measure soil nutrients and moisture levels.
- NDVI (Normalized Difference Vegetation Index): Satellite imagery technique to assess plant health.
- Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs): Agricultural research centers assisting farmers with tech adoption.
- PM Kisan Samruddhi Yojana: Government scheme providing financial support for agri-tech adoption.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How AI-Based Crop Monitoring Can Revolutionize Agriculture?
🔹 1. Enhancing Productivity & Efficiency
- AI analyzes soil health and recommends the best crops for each season.
- Farmers can prevent yield losses by receiving early weather warnings.
🔹 2. Promoting Sustainable Agriculture
- Reduces overuse of water, fertilizers, and pesticides.
- Encourages organic and climate-resilient farming.
🔹 3. Strengthening Farmer Income & Market Access
- AI predicts best times for selling crops to maximize profits.
- Digital platforms connect farmers directly with buyers.
🔹 4. Strengthening Disaster Preparedness in Agriculture
- AI models predict floods & droughts, helping in crop insurance planning.
- Remote sensing helps assess crop losses for faster government compensation.
Challenges & Solutions
✅ 1. Low Digital Awareness Among Farmers
- Solution: Digital literacy programs and farmer training workshops.
✅ 2. High Cost of AI Infrastructure & Data Collection
- Solution: Government subsidies and Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) for cost reduction.
✅ 3. Connectivity & Internet Issues in Rural Areas
- Solution: Expanding BharatNet broadband and using offline AI models.
✅ 4. Limited Private Investment in Agri-Tech in Assam
- Solution: Providing incentives for startups working in agricultural AI.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Expanding AI-Based Crop Monitoring to All Districts
- Government should scale up the project beyond pilot initiatives.
✅ 2. Strengthening Farmer Advisory Services
- Integrate AI with Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) & FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations).
✅ 3. Developing AI-Based Crop Insurance Schemes
- AI-driven loss assessments for faster & fairer insurance claims.
✅ 4. Strengthening Policy Support for Agri-Tech in Assam
- Dedicated AI research centers for agriculture in Assam’s universities.
Conclusion
The introduction of AI-based Crop Monitoring Systems in Assam marks a significant shift towards modern, technology-driven agriculture. With climate risks, rising input costs, and market inefficiencies, AI has the potential to empower farmers, reduce crop losses, and improve sustainability.
However, successful implementation will depend on strong policy support, farmer education, and infrastructure investment. If scaled effectively, Assam can become a model state for AI-powered precision farming in India.
Topic 3: Assam to Develop Integrated River Basin Management Plan to Tackle Floods
GS Paper 1: Geography – Rivers & Floods
GS Paper 3: Disaster Management, Environment, Infrastructure Development
Introduction
The Assam government has announced plans to develop an Integrated River Basin Management Plan (IRBMP) to tackle recurrent floods, riverbank erosion, and water resource management. The initiative will involve collaboration with experts from the World Bank, National Institute of Hydrology (NIH), and the Brahmaputra Board.
Assam faces severe flooding every year due to monsoon rains, glacial melts from the Himalayas, and river course changes in the Brahmaputra and Barak basins. The IRBMP aims to integrate scientific planning, early warning systems, and infrastructure projects to reduce flood impacts and improve water conservation.
Key Points
✅ 1. Objectives of the Integrated River Basin Management Plan (IRBMP)
- Flood control & mitigation through structural and non-structural measures.
- Sustainable water resource management to balance irrigation, drinking water, and hydroelectric needs.
- Riverbank erosion prevention using eco-friendly engineering solutions.
- Integration of climate adaptation strategies in flood-prone areas.
✅ 2. Why Assam Needs an Integrated River Basin Approach?
- Annual floods affect 25 lakh people, leading to loss of lives and economic damages.
- Soil erosion displaces thousands of families each year, reducing agricultural land.
- Brahmaputra’s dynamic nature causes frequent course shifts, increasing flood risks.
- Climate change is increasing the intensity of floods, requiring long-term mitigation plans.
✅ 3. Key Components of the IRBMP
- Construction of multipurpose reservoirs to store excess floodwater.
- Strengthening embankments & river training works to prevent erosion.
- Developing AI-based early warning systems for real-time flood alerts.
- Promoting afforestation in catchment areas to control soil erosion.
- Implementation of dredging & riverbed management to maintain water flow.
✅ 4. Challenges in Implementing the IRBMP
- Large-scale land acquisition needed for flood mitigation projects.
- Coordination challenges among multiple government agencies.
- High infrastructure costs requiring international funding & private sector participation.
- Need for community engagement in flood prevention strategies.
Prelims Pointers
- Brahmaputra Board: Agency responsible for managing flood control projects in Northeast India.
- Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS): AI-based system to predict and mitigate flood risks.
- Multipurpose Reservoirs: Structures that store water for irrigation, drinking, and hydroelectric generation.
- Eco-Friendly Riverbank Protection: Using bamboo, vetiver grass, and geotextiles for erosion control.
- Catchment Area Treatment (CAT): Strategies to restore vegetation and reduce siltation in rivers.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Can Integrated River Basin Management Reduce Floods in Assam?
🔹 1. Infrastructure-Based Solutions for Flood Mitigation
- Constructing large reservoirs to store floodwaters.
- Reinforcing embankments with stronger materials to prevent breaches.
🔹 2. Using Technology for Flood Forecasting & Response
- AI-based flood early warning systems for real-time alerts.
- Satellite & drone monitoring for river dynamics and erosion tracking.
🔹 3. Sustainable Land & Water Management Strategies
- Dredging & deepening riverbeds to increase water-carrying capacity.
- Encouraging wetland conservation to absorb excess floodwaters.
🔹 4. Strengthening Disaster Preparedness & Community Engagement
- Training local communities in flood-resilient housing techniques.
- Developing rapid response teams for flood rescue operations.
Challenges & Possible Solutions
✅ 1. High Cost of Infrastructure Projects
- Solution: International funding through World Bank & ADB loans.
✅ 2. Need for Multi-State & International Cooperation
- Solution: Agreements with China & Bhutan for upstream water flow management.
✅ 3. Resistance to Land Acquisition for Flood Mitigation Projects
- Solution: Providing fair compensation & relocation assistance to affected communities.
✅ 4. Climate Change Impact on River Flow Patterns
- Solution: Implementing adaptive water management models.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Strengthening Assam’s Water Governance Framework
- Establishing a River Basin Authority for coordinated flood management.
✅ 2. Expanding Flood Resilience Infrastructure
- Investing in climate-resilient embankments & flood-resistant housing.
✅ 3. Enhancing Regional & International Cooperation
- Strengthening India-Bhutan-China water-sharing agreements.
✅ 4. Developing Integrated Flood & Drought Management Plans
- Balancing flood control with irrigation & hydroelectric needs.
Conclusion
An Integrated River Basin Management Plan (IRBMP) is essential for long-term flood control in Assam. By combining engineering solutions, sustainable land-use practices, and technological innovations, the state can reduce flood risks, protect communities, and enhance water resource management.
However, its success will depend on strong government coordination, scientific research, and active participation from local communities. If implemented effectively, the IRBMP can make Assam more flood-resilient and environmentally sustainable.
Topic 4: Assam to Introduce Electric Buses in Guwahati to Reduce Pollution
GS Paper 3: Environment, Infrastructure, Sustainable Development
GS Paper 2: Government Policies, Urban Mobility
Introduction
The Assam government has announced the introduction of electric buses (e-buses) in Guwahati as part of its green mobility initiative to reduce air pollution and promote sustainable urban transportation. The initiative, under the Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME) scheme, aims to replace diesel and petrol-run public transport with electric vehicles (EVs), reducing the state’s carbon footprint.
The move is in line with India’s National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP), which encourages states to transition towards clean energy-based public transport.
Key Points
✅ 1. Features of Assam’s Electric Bus Initiative
- Phase 1: Deployment of 200 e-buses in Guwahati under the state’s Smart City project.
- Charging stations to be set up across the city, integrated with solar energy.
- AI-powered fleet management system for real-time tracking of buses.
- Collaboration with private companies under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model.
✅ 2. Why Guwahati Needs Electric Buses?
- Rising air pollution levels due to increasing vehicle emissions.
- High dependency on fossil fuels, leading to high fuel costs.
- Traffic congestion and poor public transport infrastructure.
- Guwahati’s inclusion in the Smart Cities Mission requires sustainable urban mobility solutions.
✅ 3. Expected Benefits of Electric Buses
- Zero emissions, reducing air pollution and improving urban air quality.
- Lower operational costs compared to diesel buses.
- Reduction in noise pollution, enhancing the quality of urban life.
- Job creation in the EV sector, including battery charging and maintenance.
✅ 4. Challenges in Implementing the E-Bus Project
- High initial cost of electric buses and charging infrastructure.
- Limited battery range and charging time concerns.
- Need for a strong electricity grid to support high power demand.
- Lack of trained workforce for EV maintenance.
Prelims Pointers
- FAME India Scheme: Government program to promote electric vehicles in India.
- National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP): Aims to achieve 30% EV adoption by 2030.
- Battery Swapping Technology: Quick replacement of drained EV batteries to reduce downtime.
- Smart Cities Mission: Urban renewal program focusing on sustainable infrastructure.
- PPP Model in EV Sector: Private sector investment in electric vehicle adoption and charging networks.
Mains Pointers
✅ 1. How Can Assam Benefit from Electric Public Transport?
🔹 1. Environmental Sustainability & Climate Action
- Reducing vehicular emissions and improving air quality.
- Aligning with India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
🔹 2. Economic & Energy Security Benefits
- Reduced dependency on imported fossil fuels lowers expenditure.
- Cost-effective public transport leads to long-term savings.
🔹 3. Strengthening Urban Mobility & Public Transport
- Reducing traffic congestion by encouraging public transport use.
- Developing charging infrastructure to support e-mobility expansion.
🔹 4. Enhancing Assam’s Role in India’s EV Industry
- Promoting local manufacturing of EV components.
- Encouraging research in battery technology & sustainable transport.
Challenges & Possible Solutions
✅ 1. High Cost of E-Bus Procurement & Charging Stations
- Solution: Central and state government subsidies to offset initial investments.
✅ 2. Limited Charging Infrastructure & Power Supply Issues
- Solution: Expansion of solar-powered EV charging stations.
✅ 3. Lack of Skilled Workforce for EV Maintenance
- Solution: Training programs in collaboration with automobile and tech institutes.
✅ 4. Need for Stronger Policy Frameworks & Incentives
- Solution: Implement tax incentives and low-interest loans for EV adoption.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Scaling Up the E-Bus Project Beyond Guwahati
- Expanding electric buses to other major cities like Dibrugarh and Silchar.
✅ 2. Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships in the EV Sector
- Encouraging private investment in battery manufacturing & e-bus fleets.
✅ 3. Promoting Research & Development in Battery Technology
- Encouraging local production of lithium-ion and alternative batteries.
✅ 4. Integrating E-Buses with Smart City Initiatives
- AI-based traffic management & real-time monitoring for efficient fleet operations.
Conclusion
The introduction of electric buses in Guwahati is a crucial step towards green mobility, reduced pollution, and a modern public transport system. By addressing infrastructure challenges, expanding charging networks, and promoting private sector participation, Assam can become a leader in sustainable urban transport.
With strong policy implementation, investment in EV infrastructure, and public awareness, Assam can successfully transition towards a clean and efficient public transport system.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Assam Most Vulnerable to Soil Erosion, Finds Study
Question 1
Which of the following factors contribute to high soil erosion in Assam?
- Heavy monsoon rainfall
- Riverbank erosion by the Brahmaputra River
- Deforestation and shifting cultivation
- High industrial pollution levels
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Assam experiences heavy monsoon rainfall, which accelerates runoff and soil erosion.
- Brahmaputra River’s strong currents cause severe bank erosion, displacing communities.
- Deforestation and shifting cultivation (Jhum) reduce soil stability, leading to higher erosion risks.
- Industrial pollution does not directly cause soil erosion but may affect soil quality, making statement 4 incorrect.
Question 2
Which of the following techniques can help control soil erosion in Assam?
- Contour plowing
- Vetiver grass plantation along riverbanks
- Unregulated sand and gravel mining
- Check dams and embankments
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 4 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 3, and 4 only
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Contour plowing reduces surface runoff, minimizing soil loss.
- Vetiver grass plantation strengthens riverbanks, preventing erosion.
- Check dams and embankments regulate water flow, reducing erosion intensity.
- Unregulated sand and gravel mining worsens soil erosion, making statement 3 incorrect.
Topic 2: Assam to Implement AI-Based Crop Monitoring System for Farmers
Question 3
Which of the following technologies are used in AI-based crop monitoring systems?
- Satellite imagery and drones
- IoT-based soil sensors
- Blockchain technology
- Machine learning-based pest prediction models
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1, 2, and 4 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: a) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Satellite imagery and drones provide real-time monitoring of crops.
- IoT sensors measure soil health, moisture, and nutrient levels.
- Machine learning models predict pest outbreaks and recommend preventive actions.
- Blockchain is not a primary tool in crop monitoring but is used for agricultural supply chain management, making statement 3 incorrect.
Question 4
Which government schemes support technology-driven agriculture in India?
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)
- National e-Governance Plan in Agriculture (NeGPA)
- Soil Health Card Scheme
- Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 3 only
b) 1, 2, and 4 only
c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
d) 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: c) 1, 2, 3, and 4
Explanation:
- PMFBY uses AI and satellite data for crop insurance assessments.
- NeGPA promotes digital agriculture and precision farming.
- Soil Health Card Scheme integrates AI for better soil fertility recommendations.
- RKVY provides funds for agri-tech adoption in states.
Topic 3: Assam to Develop Integrated River Basin Management Plan to Tackle Floods
Question 5
Which of the following are components of an Integrated River Basin Management Plan (IRBMP)?
- Multipurpose reservoirs for water storage
- AI-based flood early warning systems
- Expansion of riverbank sand mining
- Afforestation in catchment areas
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 4 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
- Multipurpose reservoirs store excess floodwater and ensure water availability.
- AI-based early warning systems help in flood forecasting.
- Afforestation in catchment areas reduces soil erosion and sedimentation.
- Sand mining increases erosion risks, making statement 3 incorrect.
Question 6
Which agencies are involved in flood management in Assam?
- Brahmaputra Board
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA)
- Central Water Commission (CWC)
- Geological Survey of India (GSI)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- Brahmaputra Board plans flood mitigation and river management in Assam.
- NDMA coordinates national-level disaster preparedness, including floods.
- CWC monitors water levels in major rivers and provides flood forecasts.
- GSI is mainly responsible for geological studies, not flood management, making statement 4 incorrect.
Topic 4: Assam to Introduce Electric Buses in Guwahati to Reduce Pollution
Question 7
Which of the following schemes support electric mobility in India?
- Faster Adoption and Manufacturing of Electric Vehicles (FAME)
- National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP)
- Smart Cities Mission
- Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 3 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 3 only
Explanation:
- FAME promotes EV adoption through subsidies.
- NEMMP sets targets for increasing EV production and infrastructure.
- Smart Cities Mission encourages green urban transport, including EVs.
- PMGSY focuses on rural road connectivity, not EV promotion, making statement 4 incorrect.
Question 8
Which of the following are advantages of electric buses?
- Zero tailpipe emissions
- Lower fuel costs compared to diesel buses
- Higher maintenance costs than conventional buses
- Reduced noise pollution
Select the correct answer using the code below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1, 2, and 4 only
c) 2, 3, and 4 only
d) 1, 2, 3, and 4
✅ Answer: b) 1, 2, and 4 only
Explanation:
Electric buses reduce noise pollution, making them ideal for urban transport.
Electric buses produce no emissions, improving air quality.
EVs have lower fuel costs due to electricity being cheaper than diesel.
They have lower, not higher, maintenance costs due to fewer moving parts.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Mains Question
“Floods and soil erosion have emerged as major environmental challenges in Assam. Discuss the impact of these issues on the state’s economy and ecology. Suggest integrated solutions to mitigate the risks while ensuring sustainable development.”
(GS Paper 3: Disaster Management, Environment, Sustainable Development)
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam, due to its geographical location and climatic conditions, faces severe floods and riverbank erosion every year, primarily caused by the Brahmaputra and Barak river systems. These disasters destroy agricultural land, displace communities, and weaken economic stability, making them a major challenge for sustainable development in the region.
With climate change, deforestation, and unregulated land use worsening these hazards, an integrated approach combining engineering solutions, ecosystem-based strategies, and policy reforms is necessary to mitigate their impact.
Impact of Floods and Soil Erosion on Assam
✅ 1. Economic Consequences
🔹 Agricultural Losses:
- Over 3 lakh hectares of farmland are submerged annually, leading to reduced crop yields.
- Soil degradation due to erosion affects long-term fertility and productivity.
🔹 Damage to Infrastructure:
- Floods damage roads, bridges, and public infrastructure, disrupting connectivity.
- Recurrent erosion destroys embankments, requiring high-cost maintenance.
🔹 Displacement & Livelihood Losses:
- Around 10,000 families are displaced annually due to riverbank erosion.
- Loss of arable land forces migration, increasing unemployment and urban overcrowding.
🔹 Impact on Trade & Commerce:
- Flood-affected transport routes disrupt supply chains, affecting the tea, tourism, and handloom industries.
- Reduced agricultural output raises food prices, impacting consumers.
✅ 2. Environmental & Ecological Impact
🔹 Loss of Wetlands & Biodiversity:
- Kaziranga National Park and Pobitora Wildlife Sanctuary face frequent floods, endangering wildlife.
- Soil erosion increases sedimentation in rivers, altering aquatic ecosystems.
🔹 River Course Changes & Habitat Destruction:
- Brahmaputra’s shifting course leads to unpredictable erosion, destroying settlements.
- Loss of forest cover due to erosion disrupts ecosystem balance.
🔹 Water Pollution & Groundwater Contamination:
- Floods wash chemicals and sewage into water bodies, causing health hazards.
- Erosion-induced sedimentation affects river water quality and fisheries.
Integrated Solutions to Mitigate Floods & Soil Erosion in Assam
✅ 1. Infrastructure-Based Flood Control Measures
🔹 Constructing Multi-Purpose Reservoirs & Storage Dams:
- Regulates river flow during monsoons, reducing peak flood levels.
- Ensures water availability for irrigation & hydropower generation.
🔹 Strengthening & Modernizing Embankments:
- Geo-bag and bamboo-based embankments offer cost-effective, eco-friendly erosion control.
- Regular maintenance & use of flood-resistant materials enhance durability.
🔹 Implementing Smart Water Management & Drainage Systems:
- Dredging & deepening riverbeds to increase water-holding capacity.
- Urban drainage planning to prevent waterlogging & flash floods.
✅ 2. Ecosystem-Based Approaches for Erosion Control
🔹 Afforestation & Riverbank Stabilization:
- Planting deep-rooted trees (like bamboo & vetiver grass) along vulnerable areas.
- Rehabilitating degraded forest lands to reduce surface runoff.
🔹 Wetland Conservation & Floodplain Management:
- Expanding protected wetland areas (e.g., Deepor Beel, Maguri Beel) for flood absorption.
- Preventing encroachments in floodplains to maintain natural water retention.
🔹 Regulated Sand & Gravel Mining:
- Uncontrolled riverbed mining accelerates erosion, affecting natural sediment flow.
- Strict enforcement of mining policies is needed to prevent further degradation.
✅ 3. Use of Technology for Disaster Prediction & Management
🔹 AI-Based Flood Early Warning Systems (FEWS):
- Real-time satellite & drone monitoring for flood-prone areas.
- Automated SMS alerts to warn vulnerable communities in advance.
🔹 Geospatial Mapping & Risk Assessment:
- Mapping erosion-prone zones using GIS & remote sensing.
- Using digital models to predict flood intensity & impact.
✅ 4. Community Participation & Policy Reforms
🔹 Disaster-Resilient Housing & Relocation Strategies:
- Encouraging flood-resistant construction techniques.
- Providing government support for relocating erosion-affected communities.
🔹 Strengthening Assam’s River Management Policy:
- Creating a dedicated “Assam River Basin Authority” for multi-stakeholder coordination.
- Integrating flood control with hydroelectric & irrigation planning.
🔹 Encouraging Climate-Resilient Farming Practices:
- Promoting climate-resilient rice varieties & organic farming techniques.
- Incentivizing farmers to adopt soil conservation methods.
Challenges in Implementation & Solutions
✅ 1. High Cost of Infrastructure Development
- Solution: Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) and World Bank funding for flood mitigation projects.
✅ 2. Resistance to Land Acquisition for Flood Projects
- Solution: Transparent compensation & community engagement in decision-making.
✅ 3. Lack of Inter-State & International Coordination
- Solution: Strengthening India-Bhutan-China dialogues for upstream water management.
✅ 4. Climate Change Impact on River Behavior
- Solution: Expanding research on climate-resilient water management policies.
Way Forward
✅ 1. Integrating Flood & Erosion Management into Assam’s Development Plan
- Aligning with the National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC).
✅ 2. Expanding Flood-Resilient Infrastructure Projects
- Pilot projects for smart embankments & flood-resistant housing.
✅ 3. Strengthening Early Warning & Disaster Response Mechanisms
- Deploying AI-based monitoring tools in all flood-prone districts.
✅ 4. Promoting Sustainable Land Use & Afforestation in Erosion-Prone Areas
- Expanding agroforestry-based livelihood programs.
Conclusion
Floods and soil erosion remain severe challenges for Assam, impacting agriculture, biodiversity, and economic stability. While traditional flood control methods have had limited success, an integrated approach combining engineering solutions, ecological conservation, and technology-driven early warning systems can provide long-term resilience.
By ensuring strong governance, community participation, and sustainable infrastructure investment, Assam can effectively manage its water resources and protect vulnerable populations from the devastating impacts of floods and erosion.
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