APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (26/10/2024)

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 (26-10-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

1. India and China Begin Troop Disengagement in Ladakh

• Relevant for: GS Paper 2: International Relations; GS Paper 3: Security

Introduction: India and China have commenced troop disengagement at the Demchok and Depsang Plains in Ladakh. This follows diplomatic and military agreements to reduce tensions along the LAC.

Key Points:

• Joint agreements for troop pullbacks from disputed areas.
• Troops dismantle structures to return to pre-April 2020 conditions.
• Significance for Indo-China relations amidst geopolitical pressures.

Prelims Pointers:

• LAC: Line of Actual Control, the de facto India-China border.
• Demchok and Depsang: Key areas of recent military disengagement.
• Galwan Valley Incident: Notable 2020 clash, influencing subsequent LAC engagements.

Mains Pointers:

• Importance:
  • Strategic Stability: Decreases risk of armed conflict and fosters diplomatic cooperation.
  • Economic Impacts: Re-established trade and investment channels.
  • Regional Security: Improved stability in South Asia.
  • Resource Reallocation: Allows focusing on other national security priorities.
• Challenges:
  • Mistrust: Longstanding border tensions require persistent diplomatic effort.
  • Lack of Clear Border Demarcations: Ambiguities hinder definitive solutions.
  • Geopolitical Pressures: Competition with other regional influences.
  • Monitoring Compliance: Ensuring both sides adhere to agreements.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Border Infrastructure Development: Strategic road and bridge projects.
  • Corps Commander Talks: Routine military dialogue to address flashpoints.
  • Strengthening Surveillance: Drones and satellite imaging for better monitoring.
  • Strategic Partnerships: Collaborating with other nations to secure borders.
• Way Ahead:
  • Confidence-Building Measures: More joint exercises and communication channels.
  • Balanced Diplomatic Relations: With other regional powers, including China.
  • Public Awareness: Inform local populations about border activities.
  • Flexible Response Systems: Enhanced readiness for rapid response.

Conclusion: The disengagement process is a significant step towards peace. Maintaining diplomatic momentum is crucial to ensure continued cooperation and stability.

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2. NIA Investigation into Possible Train Sabotage Attempts

• Relevant for: GS Paper 3: Security, Disaster Management

Introduction: The National Investigation Agency (NIA) has begun investigating recent train derailments with potential sabotage elements. This includes probing incidents where obstructions were intentionally placed on railway tracks.

Key Points:

• Multiple incidents under NIA review for suspected sabotage.
• Recent train derailments hint at targeted disruptions.
• Collaboration with local police to prevent railway threats.

Prelims Pointers:

• NIA: Investigates and combats terror threats in India.
• Railway Protection Force (RPF): Responsible for railway safety.
• Kanpur Incident: Sabarmati Express derailment with suspected foul play.

Mains Pointers:

• Importance:
  • Public Safety: Protects citizens from targeted attacks.
  • Railway Security: Ensures smooth transportation crucial for economic activities.
  • Public Trust: Strengthens confidence in the rail network’s security.
  • National Economy: Prevents financial losses due to transport delays.
• Challenges:
  • Detection: Identifying isolated acts of sabotage in vast rail networks.
  • Coordination Gaps: Ensuring timely data sharing between agencies.
  • Limited Surveillance: Need for advanced monitoring in remote areas.
  • Threat Response: Rapid response to potential attacks remains complex.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Surveillance Enhancements: CCTV and AI-integrated security monitoring.
  • Coordination between NIA and Railways: Streamlined communication.
  • Public Safety Campaigns: Encouraging reporting of suspicious activities.
  • Technological Integration: Using advanced tech for predictive analysis.
• Way Ahead:
  • Automated Monitoring: Integration of AI-based systems.
  • Public Awareness Programs: Mobilize communities for vigilant reporting.
  • Strengthen Infrastructure: Regular audits and upgrades on railway tracks.
  • Emergency Protocols: Regular training for railway staff on handling threats.

Conclusion: With increasing threats, enhancing security through technology and public vigilance is vital for ensuring a safe and reliable railway system.

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3. Cyclone Dana’s Impact and Preparedness Measures in Coastal Regions

• Relevant for: GS Paper 1: Geography; GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management

Introduction: Cyclone Dana recently hit Odisha and West Bengal, causing severe rainfall and flooding in some areas. Effective disaster preparedness by local governments mitigated potential losses.

Key Points:

• Minimal casualties but significant property and infrastructure damage.
• Timely evacuation and preparedness limited severe impacts.
• Strengthened embankments reduced flood risks in vulnerable zones.

Prelims Pointers:

• Cyclone: Defined by wind speeds and regional impact.
• Disaster Preparedness: Role of IMD in forecasting cyclones.
• Zero Casualty Mission: Odisha’s proactive disaster response goal.

Mains Pointers:

• Importance:
  • Public Safety: Reduces life loss through timely response.
  • Economic Security: Coastal economies suffer less disruption.
  • Community Resilience: Trains local communities for emergency responses.
  • Climate Adaptation: Helps address changing climate impacts.
• Challenges:
  • Infrastructure Gaps: Limited resources in rural coastal regions.
  • Funding Limitations: Constraints on resources for long-term resilience.
  • Awareness Levels: Varying levels of community awareness and preparedness.
  • Increased Cyclone Frequency: More frequent storms strain resources.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Early Warning Systems: IMD’s enhanced cyclone forecasting.
  • NDMA Guidelines: Ensuring all regions follow disaster preparedness.
  • Coastal Defense Initiatives: Building embankments and seawalls.
  • Evacuation Drills: Regular community training in high-risk zones.
• Way Ahead:
  • Advanced Technology for Forecasting: Increased IMD funding.
  • Strengthening Coastal Infrastructure: Building stronger embankments.
  • Community Programs: Enhanced public awareness and emergency response.
  • Investments in Adaptation: Long-term plans to handle climate change.

Conclusion: Building resilient infrastructure and promoting community preparedness are essential to minimize the impact of severe cyclones in India’s coastal regions.

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4. Dengue Outbreak in Guwahati

• Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Health; GS Paper 3: Environment

Introduction: Guwahati is currently experiencing a dengue outbreak, attributed to water storage practices due to water shortages. The city has reported over 235 cases this year, urging a comprehensive public health response.

Key Points:

• Increasing dengue cases are primarily attributed to stagnant water.
• Poor municipal water supply drives people to store water, creating mosquito breeding grounds.
• Local authorities and health departments are focusing on awareness campaigns.

Prelims Pointers:

• Dengue Virus: Transmitted by Aedes mosquitoes.
• Symptoms: High fever, body aches, and joint pain.
• Preventive Measures: Importance of eliminating standing water.

Mains Pointers:

• Importance:
  • Public Health Safety: Prevents a rise in vector-borne diseases.
  • Community Awareness: Educates people about dengue prevention.
  • Resource Allocation: Provides necessary healthcare facilities.
  • Economic Stability: Reduces healthcare costs for affected families.
• Challenges:
  • Inadequate Water Supply: Drives mosquito-breeding water storage.
  • Resource Constraints: Limited capacity for comprehensive mosquito control.
  • Public Awareness Gaps: Low awareness in affected neighborhoods.
  • Healthcare Pressure: Burdens public health services.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Mosquito Control Programs: Regular fogging and spray programs.
  • Public Education Campaigns: Information on preventing dengue.
  • Improved Sanitation Measures: Addressing urban water logging.
  • Health Facility Upgrades: Temporary dengue treatment centers.
• Way Ahead:
  • Improved Water Access: Reducing need for water storage.
  • Increased Surveillance: Monitoring hotspots for dengue spread.
  • Community Involvement: Engaging local groups for awareness.
  • Healthcare Expansion: Additional facilities for timely treatment.

Conclusion: Controlling dengue in urban areas like Guwahati requires a multi-faceted approach, focusing on public health infrastructure, education, and consistent vector control.

5. VIP Culture in India and its Impact on Public Life

• Relevant for: GS Paper 2: Governance

Introduction: VIP culture in India, with practices like fast-tracked VIP convoys and prioritized public services, often disrupts daily life and undermines the democratic principle of equality. Public inconvenience and safety concerns are frequent side effects.

Key Points:

• VIP movement often causes traffic disruptions, affecting public safety.
• Preferential treatment frustrates citizens and erodes trust in governance.
• Issues of road accidents and healthcare access are compounded by VIP prioritization.

Prelims Pointers:

• VIP Culture: System where VIPs receive preferential treatment over ordinary citizens.
• Democracy and Equality: Core democratic values advocating equal treatment.
• Madras HC Order: Limits VIP convoy delays to a maximum of 10 minutes.

Mains Pointers:

• Importance:
  • Public Safety: VIP convoys at high speeds can lead to road accidents.
  • Democratic Principles: Ensuring all citizens have equal access to public spaces.
  • Public Trust: Reduces resentment and frustration among citizens.
  • Efficient Governance: Reduces disruptions in public service availability.
• Challenges:
  • Traffic Congestion: Frequent VIP convoys lead to significant delays.
  • Law Enforcement Pressure: Allocating resources to VIP convoys burdens police.
  • Public Discontent: VIP culture creates public frustration with inequality.
  • Implementation Gaps: Policies often overlook enforcing limits on VIP privileges.
• Government Initiatives:
  • Traffic Management Regulations: Efforts to reduce traffic halts for VIPs.
  • Public Awareness Initiatives: Educating VIPs on public impact.
  • Use of Technology: Monitoring VIP movements to minimize delays.
  • Enforcement of High Court Orders: Ensuring VIP movement restrictions.
• Way Ahead:
  • Equal Treatment Policies: Limit VIP privileges in public spaces.
  • Public Dialogue: Engage stakeholders on reducing VIP disruptions.
  • Transparent VIP Movement Protocols: Clear guidelines to reduce delays.
  • Civic Awareness Programs: Inform VIPs and citizens on the importance of shared public space.

Conclusion: Addressing VIP culture is essential to uphold democratic values of equality and fairness. Balancing respect for VIP safety with public convenience will enhance both governance and social harmony.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. India-China Border Disengagement

Question:
Which of the following statements regarding the India-China border disengagement is/are correct?

1. The recent disengagement took place at Galwan Valley and Hot Springs.
2. This disengagement aims to restore troop positions to the pre-April 2020 status along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
3. Both countries conduct regular joint military exercises along the disputed border to foster mutual trust.

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

Answer: B

Explanation:

• The recent disengagement between India and China took place at Demchok and Depsang Plains, not Galwan Valley and Hot Springs. Galwan was the site of earlier clashes in 2020.
• The disengagement indeed aims to restore troop positions to pre-April 2020 status, aligning with diplomatic agreements to reduce tension along the LAC.
• India and China do not conduct joint military exercises along the disputed border; however, they engage in periodic commander-level talks to address friction points.

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2. National Investigation Agency (NIA) and Train Security

Question:
Consider the following statements about the National Investigation Agency (NIA) in India:

1. The NIA can investigate cases related to terrorism and sabotage but does not have jurisdiction over cases involving railway security.
2. The NIA was involved in recent investigations of train derailments suspected to involve sabotage attempts.
3. Railway Protection Force (RPF) primarily assists the NIA in all railway-related investigations.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, and 3

Answer: B

Explanation:

• The NIA has jurisdiction over cases that include terrorism and related security threats, such as sabotage attempts on infrastructure like railway tracks, making statement 1 incorrect.
• The NIA was recently tasked with investigating several suspected train derailments due to sabotage, confirming statement 2 is correct.
• While the RPF does support security in the railway sector, it does not assist the NIA in all railway-related investigations, as it is primarily responsible for general railway safety. Therefore, statement 3 is incorrect.

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3. Cyclone Preparedness and Disaster Management

Question:
Which of the following measures are typically part of India’s disaster preparedness for cyclones along coastal regions?

1. Construction of embankments and seawalls.
2. Establishment of cyclone warning systems under the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
3. Installation of water reservoirs in coastal villages to prevent flooding.
4. Routine community awareness and evacuation drills.

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

• India’s cyclone preparedness measures include constructing embankments and seawalls to prevent coastal flooding, utilizing IMD’s cyclone warning systems, and conducting routine community awareness and evacuation drills.
• Installation of water reservoirs is not typically aimed at cyclone preparedness or flood prevention but rather water conservation, so statement 3 is incorrect.

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4. Dengue Outbreak and Mosquito-Borne Diseases

Question:
Which of the following are effective strategies to prevent dengue outbreaks in urban areas?

1. Eliminating standing water sources.
2. Increasing public awareness on dengue prevention.
3. Ensuring regular fogging in mosquito-prone areas.
4. Increasing the use of antibiotics to treat early dengue symptoms.

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

Answer: A

Explanation:

However, antibiotics are not effective against dengue as it is a viral infection, not a bacterial one, making statement 4 incorrect.

Eliminating standing water sources, public awareness campaigns, and regular fogging in affected areas are recognized strategies to control mosquito populations and prevent dengue.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Question

Topic: India-China Border Relations
GS Paper 2: International Relations

The recent troop disengagement between India and China in the Ladakh region reflects a cautious step towards de-escalation. Critically examine the significance of this disengagement for India’s broader geopolitical strategy. What challenges does India face in sustaining a stable relationship with China?

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Model Answer

Introduction: The recent disengagement between India and China at Demchok and Depsang Plains in eastern Ladakh marks a significant development in their border relations, which have been tense since the 2020 Galwan Valley clash. This disengagement, achieved through diplomatic and military dialogue, signifies a cautious approach toward reducing friction along the Line of Actual Control (LAC) and improving bilateral relations.

Significance of Disengagement for India’s Geopolitical Strategy:

1. Enhanced Regional Stability:
   By reducing tensions along the LAC, India can focus on stabilizing other critical borders, such as those with Pakistan. A peaceful northern frontier allows India to allocate its military and financial resources more effectively, aiding regional stability in South Asia.
2. Economic Diplomacy:
   Improving relations with China could bolster trade and economic ties, especially considering the large-scale imports from China that support India’s manufacturing and technology sectors. Peace at the border could facilitate further economic cooperation, contributing positively to India’s economic agenda.
3. Strengthened Multilateral Influence:
   As two influential Asian powers, reduced hostility between India and China strengthens India’s positioning within multilateral forums such as BRICS and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO). Stable bilateral relations enable India to pursue a more assertive foreign policy in global issues, including climate change and trade.
4. Strategic Autonomy and Global Partnerships:
   A stable India-China relationship allows India to maintain its strategic autonomy, especially amid the U.S.-China rivalry. A balanced relationship helps India navigate its partnerships with other global powers, notably the U.S. and Russia, without becoming entangled in their confrontations with China.

Challenges in Sustaining a Stable Relationship with China:

1. Border Ambiguity and Mistrust:
   The lack of clear demarcation along the LAC creates recurring friction points. This ambiguity, combined with historical mistrust, undermines the sustainability of agreements and challenges confidence-building efforts. Effective and lasting stability would require resolving the fundamental issue of border clarity, which has eluded both nations.
2. Geopolitical Pressures:
   India’s expanding ties with the U.S. and its role in the Quadrilateral Security Dialogue (Quad) are seen by China as potential threats. India’s engagement with regional and global alliances places it at odds with China’s influence, particularly in the Indo-Pacific region. Balancing these relationships while maintaining autonomy in foreign policy remains a complex challenge.
3. Economic Dependency and Trade Deficits:
   India’s economic reliance on Chinese imports, especially in electronics and manufacturing, gives China leverage in bilateral relations. Sustaining stability while reducing this dependency through self-reliant initiatives, such as “Atmanirbhar Bharat,” presents a dual challenge in maintaining economic resilience without sacrificing national interests.
4. Internal and Regional Security Concerns:
   China’s growing influence in neighboring countries, particularly through the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) and its strategic foothold in the Indian Ocean, impacts India’s security dynamics. Additionally, China’s support for Pakistan complicates India’s security calculus. India must strengthen regional diplomacy and improve defense capabilities to counterbalance China’s regional strategy effectively.

Conclusion: The recent disengagement in Ladakh is a constructive step toward peace along the LAC, fostering stability and aligning with India’s broader geopolitical goals. However, maintaining this stability requires addressing deep-seated challenges, including border ambiguity, geopolitical rivalries, and economic dependencies. For a sustained, peaceful relationship, both countries must prioritize confidence-building, transparent diplomacy, and cooperative regional engagement. A balanced approach will allow India to protect its sovereignty while achieving its economic and strategic aspirations in the Indo-Pacific and beyond.

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