APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (26/04/2025)
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 (26-04-2025). 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
🌍 Consumerism and Environment: Lessons from the Rio Earth Summit
📘 GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology | Sustainable Development
📘 GS Paper 2: Global Governance | International Relations
🔹 Introduction
The 1992 United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), popularly called the Rio Earth Summit, was a landmark global initiative to address environmental degradation and promote sustainable development. Reflecting on the Rio legacy today is crucial, as consumerism and unsustainable practices continue to threaten ecological balance.
🔑 Key Aspects from the 1992 Rio Earth Summit
| Component | Details |
| Rio Declaration | 27 principles for sustainable development |
| Agenda 21 | Action plan for sustainable development at global, national, and local levels |
| UNFCCC (Climate Convention) | Led to the creation of future treaties like Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement |
| CBD (Biodiversity Convention) | First global agreement on the conservation of biodiversity |
| UNCCD (Desertification Convention) | Combating desertification in drylands |
| Major Debate | Conflict between developed nations vs developing nations on responsibility |
⚙️ Key Themes Highlighted
🌿 Environmental Justice: Developed nations recognized as the biggest polluters; burden-sharing essential.
🌏 Common But Differentiated Responsibilities (CBDR): Developed countries to take lead in reducing emissions.
💸 Technology Transfer: Financial and technological support promised to developing nations.
❗ Consumerism Critique:
U.S. President George H.W. Bush famously said, “The American lifestyle is not negotiable.”
Highlights global tension between economic growth and ecological conservation.
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Agenda 21: Non-binding, voluntary action plan for sustainable development.
Rio+20 (2012): Reaffirmed Rio principles; initiated discussions on Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
UNFCCC: Mother convention from which Paris Agreement (2015) evolved.
Principle 7 of Rio Declaration: Introduced the concept of CBDR.
Earth Charter (2000): Ethical framework inspired by Rio but developed separately.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Rio Earth Summit Today
| Factor | Importance |
| Climate Crisis | Strengthened global resolve for Paris Agreement, COPs |
| Biodiversity Loss | Led to formation of Aichi Biodiversity Targets, post-2020 Global Framework |
| Desertification | Inspired dryland management under UNCCD |
| Sustainable Consumption | Early recognition of the dangers of over-consumption, now core of SDG 12 |
B. Challenges in Implementing Rio Vision
| Challenge | Description |
| North-South Divide | Developing countries demand more support, climate finance remains low |
| Greenwashing | Many corporations falsely claim eco-friendly initiatives without systemic change |
| Weak Enforcement | Non-binding nature of Rio outcomes leads to patchy global compliance |
| Rising Consumerism | Global material consumption up 70% since 1992 |
C. Way Forward
Reviving Multilateralism: Strengthen trust in UN bodies, G20, COP forums.
Just Transition: Green economy shifts must protect workers and marginalized communities.
Youth and Indigenous Leadership: Empower voices traditionally sidelined.
Lifestyle Changes: Promote ‘Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE)’ initiative as championed by India at COP26.
Binding Global Pacts: Negotiate enforceable environmental laws (e.g., Global Plastics Treaty in progress).
🧩 Conclusion
The Rio Earth Summit sowed the seeds for global environmental consciousness. However, the world’s continued addiction to consumerism and short-term profits threatens those very ideals. In the face of worsening climate disasters, reaffirming the Rio spirit through actionable, inclusive, and just global frameworks is not just important—it is urgent.
📚 Legacy of Dr. K. Kasturirangan: A Visionary of Space and Education
📘 GS Paper 2: Education | Governance | Policy Reforms
📘 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology | Space | Innovation Ecosystem
🔹 Introduction
Dr. K. Kasturirangan, a pioneering scientist and policy architect, has left an indelible mark on India’s space program and education system. From steering ISRO’s Earth observation satellites to shaping the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, his contributions underscore the transformative power of science-informed governance.
🔑 Major Contributions
| Domain | Contribution |
| Space Science | Project Director for BHASKARA I & II, India’s first experimental remote sensing satellites |
| Oversaw IRS-1A, India’s first operational Earth observation satellite | |
| Chaired ISRO (1994–2003); pivotal in developing GSLV, INSAT, and satellite navigation systems | |
| Education Reform | Chaired the committee that drafted the National Education Policy 2020 |
| Advocated multidisciplinary, skill-based, and flexible learning pathways | |
| Emphasized mother tongue instruction, foundational literacy, and research promotion | |
| Recognition | Recipient of Padma Shri, Padma Bhushan, and Padma Vibhushan |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
BHASKARA Satellites: India’s early experiments with Earth observation—focused on hydrology and forestry.
NEP 2020 Highlights:
5+3+3+4 structure replacing 10+2
National Research Foundation (NRF) to fund innovation
Emphasis on vocational education, coding, and critical thinking
IRS-1A: Launched in 1988; laid foundation for India’s remote sensing capabilities.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Why Dr. Kasturirangan’s Legacy Matters
| Area | Significance |
| Science Leadership | Democratized access to satellite data, vital for agriculture, disaster management, urban planning |
| Policy Vision | Envisioned a learner-centric, inclusive education system responsive to 21st-century needs |
| Institution Building | Advocated strengthening of institutions like ISRO, UGC, NCERT, and research universities |
B. Challenges in Sustaining His Vision
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Fragmented Implementation | NEP 2020 faces uneven rollout across states |
| Research Ecosystem Gaps | India lags in R&D investment (<1% of GDP) and innovation output |
| Digital Divide | Hurdle in equitable access to tech-based learning and satellite services |
| Brain Drain | Loss of talent to foreign universities and tech firms |
C. Way Forward
Decentralize NEP Implementation
Empower state school boards and local institutions with NEP-aligned tools
Boost Space–Society Linkages
Expand satellite-driven services for climate forecasting, crop insurance, and telemedicine
Invest in Research & Faculty Development
Set up Chairs and fellowships in honor of visionaries like Kasturirangan
Strengthen Data Democratization
Make ISRO datasets and education analytics open-source for public innovation
🧩 Conclusion
Dr. Kasturirangan’s twin legacies in space science and education remind us that true progress lies in integrating technological excellence with societal need. Honoring his vision means investing not just in rockets and reforms, but in the people they aim to empower.
🛣️ Revival of NH-37 in Assam: Infrastructure and Ecological Balancing Act
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure | Environment | Disaster Management
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Government Policies
🔹 Introduction
The National Highway-37 (NH-37), a vital transport artery in Assam, is set for revamp and upgradation after years of damage due to floods, soil erosion, and poor maintenance. The highway, which runs parallel to the Brahmaputra, is crucial for connectivity, trade, tourism, and disaster response, especially in Upper Assam and Kaziranga regions.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Feature | Detail |
| Highway | NH-37, running through Lower and Upper Assam |
| Issue | Severely damaged in stretches due to flooding and subsidence |
| Planned Action |
Strengthening embankments and culverts
Elevation of flood-prone stretches
Road widening and drainage channels
| Departments Involved | MoRTH, Assam PWD, Forest Department (Kaziranga stretch)
| Budget Allocation | ₹1,200 crore proposed under Bharatmala Phase-II
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Bharatmala Pariyojana: Flagship road and highway development program under MoRTH
NH-37: Runs close to Kaziranga National Park, often disrupted by floods and animal crossings
Green Highways Policy (2015): Mandates plantation and green belts along highways
Embankment Roads: Dual-purpose roads acting as flood protection and connectivity lines
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of NH-37
| Benefit | Explanation |
| Strategic Connectivity | Links riverine and tea-producing belts to Guwahati and beyond |
| Disaster Resilience | Vital for movement during floods and evacuation |
| Tourism Boost | Major route to Kaziranga, Majuli, Sivasagar |
| Livelihood Access | Critical for movement of goods (agri, tea, fishery) from rural to urban markets |
B. Challenges in Upgrading NH-37
| Challenge | Impact |
| Frequent Flooding | Repeated road damage, waterlogging, and erosion |
| Kaziranga Ecology | Risk to wildlife due to road widening and speeding |
| Land Acquisition | Disputes in densely populated areas |
| Funding Delays | Centre-state coordination often slow |
| Animal Corridor Conflicts | Elephant, rhino movement zones cross the highway |
C. Way Forward
Eco-Sensitive Engineering
Build elevated corridors with underpasses in wildlife zones
Use flood-resistant materials and geotextiles for long-term resilience
Smart Monitoring Systems
Install CCTV, animal alert sensors, and speed regulation signage
Community Participation
Involve local Panchayats and tea garden workers in maintenance and feedback loops
Disaster Resilient Infrastructure
Integrate NH-37 into Assam Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA) evacuation grid
Green Highways Model
Implement bio-fencing, tree plantations, and percolation channels to conserve ecology
🧩 Conclusion
NH-37 is more than a highway—it is a lifeline for Assam’s economy, ecology, and emergency preparedness. Its revival offers a chance to build back better—blending resilience, sustainability, and community ownership into one integrated infrastructure model.
📘 Assam’s State-Level Exhibition on ‘Mission Viksit Bharat’
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies & Interventions | Cooperative Federalism
📘 GS Paper 3: Inclusive Growth | Infrastructure | Social Welfare
🔹 Introduction
The state-level exhibition on the theme ‘Mission Viksit Bharat @2047’ was inaugurated in Assam, highlighting flagship schemes and developmental initiatives by the Government of India. This exhibition reflects the central government’s vision for an inclusive, self-reliant, and future-ready India, while allowing states like Assam to showcase region-specific achievements.
🔑 Key Highlights
| Feature | Details |
| Event | State-level ‘Mission Viksit Bharat @2047’ Exhibition |
| Organised By | Ministry of Information & Broadcasting in collaboration with the Assam Government |
| Location | Assam Engineering Institute playground, Chandmari, Guwahati |
| Duration | April 26–30, 2025 |
| Themes Showcased | Digital India, Infrastructure, Women Empowerment, Health, Green Energy, Skill Development, Startup India, etc. |
| Public Engagement | Cultural performances, quiz, selfie booths, and awareness sessions |
| Objective | Mass awareness, citizen participation in the roadmap to ‘Viksit Bharat’ |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Mission Viksit Bharat @2047: Vision to make India a developed country by 2047 (centenary of independence).
Amrit Kaal: Term used in the Union Budget 2023–24 to describe the next 25 years as India’s development journey.
Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav: Precursor celebration launched in 2021 to mark 75 years of independence.
Digital India: Flagship programme to transform India into a digitally empowered society and knowledge economy.
Jan Bhagidari: Emphasized in all recent schemes, referring to citizen participation in governance.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Significance of the Exhibition for Assam
| Benefit | Explanation |
| Awareness Creation | Helps citizens understand ongoing schemes in simple formats |
| Regional Inclusion | Showcases Assam-specific implementations like PMAY-G in tribal belts, Jal Jeevan Mission in riverine areas |
| Youth Engagement | Involves college students, startups, and SHGs in policy dialogue |
| Public Feedback | Provides feedback loop for govt schemes from citizens |
B. Challenges in Realising Viksit Bharat in Assam
| Challenge | Details |
| Connectivity Gaps | Road and digital infrastructure lag in rural Assam |
| Human Capital Shortage | Skill mismatch and dropout rates in secondary education |
| Regional Disparities | Flood-prone and insurgency-affected zones lag behind |
| Implementation Bottlenecks | Fund delays, poor inter-departmental coordination |
C. Way Forward
Hyperlocal Outreach
Use vernacular languages and mobile vans to reach interior Assam
State-Specific Milestones
Integrate Assam’s SDGs and Vision Document 2030 with national ‘Viksit Bharat’ goals
Institutional Capacity Building
Train PRI members, district collectors, and SHGs to align development with Viksit Bharat
Use of Digital Platforms
Expand MyGov Assam, telemedicine, eNAM, and DBT to increase inclusion
🧩 Conclusion
The Mission Viksit Bharat @2047 exhibition in Assam is more than a celebration—it’s a call to action. By linking national ambition with local innovation, it can create a development narrative that is inclusive, participatory, and forward-looking.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
🌍 Topic 1: Rio Earth Summit & Consumerism
Q1. The principle of “Common But Differentiated Responsibilities” (CBDR) was formally introduced in:
A. Kyoto Protocol, 1997
B. Paris Agreement, 2015
C. Rio Declaration, 1992
D. UNFCCC COP-1
✅ Answer: C
🧠 Explanation:
CBDR was first articulated as Principle 7 of the Rio Declaration (1992). It became foundational for later climate treaties like Kyoto and Paris.
Q2. Which of the following were outcomes of the Rio Earth Summit?
- UNFCCC
- Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD)
- Convention to Combat Desertification (UNCCD)
- Cartagena Protocol on Biosafety
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 2 and 3 only
C. All of the above
D. 2 and 4 only
✅ Answer: B
🧠 Explanation:
The first three were outcomes of the 1992 Earth Summit. The Cartagena Protocol came later (2000) under the CBD.
🚀 Topic 2: Dr. K. Kasturirangan’s Legacy
Q3. Consider the following achievements:
- Directed IRS-1A, India’s first operational remote sensing satellite
- Headed the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 drafting committee
- Was the founding chairman of the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO)
Which of the above is/are correct about Dr. Kasturirangan?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
Dr. Kasturirangan did lead IRS-1A and NEP 2020, but Dr. Vikram Sarabhai was ISRO’s founding chairman, not Kasturirangan.
Q4. Which of the following features are part of NEP 2020?
- 10+2 structure replaced with 5+3+3+4
- National Research Foundation (NRF) to fund R&D
- Emphasis on mother-tongue based early education
- Privatization of all higher education institutions
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1 and 4 only
C. 2, 3 and 4 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
NEP promotes multilingual learning, research funding, and new curricular structure, but does not mandate privatization of HEIs.
🛣️ Topic 3: NH-37 Infrastructure & Ecology
Q5. The NH-37 in Assam is environmentally significant because:
A. It runs through the Namdapha National Park
B. It is a notified UNESCO Biosphere Reserve
C. It cuts across wildlife corridors near Kaziranga National Park
D. It is India’s first solar-powered expressway
✅ Answer: C
🧠 Explanation:
NH-37 passes along Kaziranga, where animal crossings (elephants, rhinos) are common. It’s a known conflict zone for road ecology.
Q6. Which of the following features are associated with India’s Green Highways (Plantation and Maintenance) Policy, 2015?
- Mandatory tree plantation along national highways
- Public–private partnership in highway greening
- Establishment of dedicated Forest Checkposts along highways
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
The policy promotes plantation and maintenance through PPP, but checkposts are not part of it.
🏛️ Topic 4: Mission Viksit Bharat Exhibition
Q7. The term “Viksit Bharat @2047” refers to:
A. India’s commitment under the Paris Agreement
B. A UN-backed Sustainable Agriculture Scheme
C. India’s long-term vision to become a developed nation by 2047
D. An intergovernmental G20 agreement on digital economy
✅ Answer: C
🧠 Explanation:
Viksit Bharat @2047 is India’s national vision document to become a developed nation by its centenary of independence.
Q8. Which of the following is/are key components of Digital India?
- Digital infrastructure as utility to every citizen
- Governance and services on demand
- Digital empowerment of citizens
- Free internet to all rural households
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 2 and 4 only
C. 1 and 4 only
D. All of the above
✅ Answer: A
🧠 Explanation:
Free internet for all is not guaranteed. The first three are pillars of Digital India.
APSC Mains Practice Question
📝 Mains Question
“The Rio Earth Summit of 1992 laid the foundation for global environmental governance, but its vision remains only partially realized. Critically evaluate the relevance of Rio’s principles in today’s context.”
🔹 Introduction
The Rio Earth Summit (1992), formally known as the United Nations Conference on Environment and Development (UNCED), was a watershed moment in the evolution of global environmental governance. It produced landmark frameworks like the Rio Declaration, Agenda 21, UNFCCC, CBD, and UNCCD. While these initiatives outlined a blueprint for sustainable development, the world still struggles with climate crisis, biodiversity loss, and unequal ecological burdens.
🔹 Achievements of the Rio Earth Summit
| Outcome | Relevance Today |
| Rio Declaration (27 principles) | Introduced key concepts like precautionary principle, CBDR (Common But Differentiated Responsibilities), and intergenerational equity |
| Agenda 21 | A voluntary action plan for sustainable development at global, national, and local levels—precursor to SDGs |
| UNFCCC | Led to the Kyoto Protocol, Paris Agreement, and successive COP summits |
| CBD & UNCCD | Institutionalized global efforts for biodiversity conservation and combating desertification |
🔹 Challenges in Realizing the Rio Vision
| Challenge | Explanation |
| North–South Divide | Developed nations reluctant to fund climate adaptation; developing nations burdened despite minimal historic emissions |
| Weak Legal Enforcement | Rio agreements largely non-binding, limiting accountability |
| Overconsumption | Global material use has increased 70% since 1992; consumerism still drives ecological degradation |
| Greenwashing | Companies and governments often misrepresent eco-credentials without systemic change |
| Inequitable Technology Access | Slow progress on climate finance and green tech transfer |
🔹 India’s Role in Upholding Rio Principles
- Led global push for climate equity and CBDR
- Promoted Lifestyle for Environment (LiFE) mission at COP26
- Achieved its Paris targets ahead of schedule: renewable energy, carbon intensity
- Launched National Biodiversity Mission and Desertification neutrality targets
🔹 Way Forward
- Global Green Deal
- Create enforceable agreements for emission cuts, green finance, and biodiversity protection
- Climate Justice Platforms
- Empower voices from Global South, indigenous communities, and frontline nations
- Multistakeholder Action
- Foster partnerships between governments, youth, civil society, and businesses
- Sustainable Lifestyles
- Promote low-carbon habits, mindful consumption, and localized production models
- Accountable Multilateralism
- Reform UN institutions and COP mechanisms for transparency, fairness, and compliance
🔹 Conclusion
The Rio Earth Summit gave us the vocabulary, vision, and values for sustainable development. But without equity, enforcement, and empathy, its legacy risks being symbolic. As the climate clock ticks faster, nations must move from promises to performance, from summits to solutions.
✨ APSC Prelims Crash Course, 2025
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