APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (28/01/2025)
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 (28-01-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. India-China Agreement to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Relevance:
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Bilateral Relations, Cultural Diplomacy
Introduction
In a positive step toward rebuilding bilateral ties, India and China agreed to resume the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra in 2025 after a hiatus caused by geopolitical tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic. This pilgrimage holds immense religious and cultural significance and is viewed as a confidence-building measure in the strained relationship between the two countries.
Key Points
- Agreement Details:
- The agreement was reached during the Foreign Secretary-Vice Foreign Minister meeting in Beijing.
- Resumption is part of efforts to normalize relations following the disengagement process in border areas.
- Strategic Importance:
- Enhances people-to-people connections between India and China.
- Reinstates a key cultural and religious practice for Indian pilgrims.
- Demonstrates a willingness to cooperate despite lingering border disputes.
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra Significance:
- Religious Importance: Sacred for Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon adherents.
- Geographical Context: Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake are located in Tibet, an autonomous region under Chinese administration.
- Tourism and Connectivity: Promotes regional tourism and boosts India’s Act East Policy objectives.
- Resumption Plans:
- Modalities for the pilgrimage will be discussed under existing frameworks.
- Technical discussions are set to address logistical concerns and ensure the safety of pilgrims.
Prelims Pointers
- Kailash Mansarovar Yatra: Pilgrimage to Mount Kailash and Mansarovar Lake in Tibet.
- India-China Border Disputes: Include issues along the Line of Actual Control (LAC).
- Act East Policy: India’s strategic framework to enhance connectivity and cooperation with East Asian and Southeast Asian countries.
Mains Pointers
Significance of the Agreement
- Cultural Diplomacy:
- Strengthens cultural and religious ties between the two nations.
- Resumption of the Yatra symbolizes mutual respect for cultural sensitivities.
- Confidence-Building Measure:
- Provides a platform to ease tensions amidst border disputes.
- Reinforces mutual trust and opens avenues for further dialogue.
- Tourism and Regional Economy:
- Boosts regional tourism in Uttarakhand and Tibet.
- Generates economic opportunities for local communities.
- International Relations:
- Highlights India’s balanced approach of engagement and caution with China.
- Aligns with efforts to ensure peace in the Indo-Pacific region.
Challenges
- Border Tensions:
- Geopolitical conflicts, such as those in Ladakh, create uncertainties.
- Logistical Complexities:
- Managing the influx of pilgrims while maintaining security and safety.
- Dependence on Chinese Cooperation:
- Success of the Yatra hinges on China’s willingness to facilitate it.
Government Initiatives
- Infrastructure Development:
- Improved roads and bridges for easier access to the Lipulekh Pass.
- Diplomatic Engagement:
- Regular talks through the Foreign Secretary-Vice Foreign Minister mechanism.
- Tourism Promotion:
- Efforts to include the Yatra in India’s broader tourism framework.
Way Forward
- Enhanced Coordination:
- Streamline processes with Chinese authorities for seamless pilgrim movement.
- Infrastructure Boost:
- Develop robust connectivity to border areas, ensuring ease of travel.
- People-Centric Measures:
- Simplify visa processes for pilgrims.
- Increase the quota for Yatra participants.
- Strengthening Bilateral Ties:
- Use cultural diplomacy as a tool to reduce hostility and enhance cooperation.
Conclusion
The resumption of the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a testament to the potential of cultural diplomacy in fostering bilateral trust. While challenges persist, the initiative opens a path for meaningful engagement and cooperation between India and China, contributing to regional stability and mutual prosperity.
2. Assam’s Plan for Statewide Implementation of NEP 2020
Relevance:
GS Paper 2: Education, Governance, and Policy Implementation
Introduction
The Assam government has announced its roadmap for the statewide implementation of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, aiming to transform the education system by focusing on inclusivity, innovation, and skill development. This step aligns with the vision of NEP 2020 to make India a global knowledge superpower while addressing the specific educational challenges of the state.
Key Points
- Key Features of NEP Implementation in Assam:
- Multilingual Approach: Teaching in the local language while promoting English and Hindi as secondary languages.
- Foundational Literacy and Numeracy: Special focus on early education programs to improve foundational learning.
- Skill Development and Vocational Training: Introduction of courses in agriculture, weaving, and IT tailored to Assam’s economic strengths.
- Integration of Technology: Deployment of digital tools to enhance teaching and learning in rural and remote areas.
- Proposed Changes in the Education System:
- School Structure: Shift from 10+2 to 5+3+3+4 system, aligning with NEP guidelines.
- Higher Education: Establishment of multidisciplinary institutions with emphasis on research and innovation.
- Teacher Training: Implementation of continuous professional development (CPD) for teachers.
- Significance for Assam:
- Reduces dropout rates by making education more accessible and engaging.
- Aligns vocational training with Assam’s traditional industries like tea, bamboo, and silk.
- Promotes inclusivity by integrating tribal and marginalized communities into the mainstream education system.
Prelims Pointers
- NEP 2020: Aims to overhaul the education system by focusing on holistic development and skill-oriented learning.
- 5+3+3+4 System: Divides school education into foundational, preparatory, middle, and secondary stages.
- Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER): NEP 2020 aims to increase GER in higher education to 50% by 2035.
Mains Pointers
Significance of NEP for Assam
- Inclusive Education:
- Focuses on tribal and rural students by providing education in local languages.
- Promotes gender equity through scholarships and enrollment drives for girls.
- Skill-Oriented Learning:
- Enhances employability through vocational training.
- Aligns with Assam’s local economic needs, including agriculture and tourism.
- Digital Inclusion:
- Addresses the digital divide by introducing e-learning tools in schools and colleges.
- Promotes digital literacy among students and teachers.
- Economic Growth:
- Reduces unemployment by equipping students with industry-relevant skills.
- Fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in the state.
Challenges in Implementation
- Infrastructure Deficit:
- Lack of digital infrastructure in rural and remote areas.
- Teacher Shortage:
- Inadequate number of trained teachers to implement the new curriculum.
- Funding Constraints:
- Limited financial resources to build schools, colleges, and digital facilities.
- Regional Disparities:
- Ensuring uniform implementation across districts with varying literacy levels.
Government Initiatives
- Digital Assam Mission: Enhances digital infrastructure for schools.
- Mid-Day Meal Scheme Expansion: Supports improved nutritional outcomes for school children.
- Samagra Shiksha Abhiyan: Focuses on quality and inclusive education.
- Scholarship Programs: Encourages higher education among underprivileged students.
Way Forward
- Capacity Building:
- Train teachers in new pedagogical techniques under NEP guidelines.
- Establish resource centers to assist teachers in rural areas.
- Infrastructure Development:
- Invest in building classrooms, libraries, and digital labs.
- Ensure uninterrupted electricity and internet connectivity in remote schools.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):
- Collaborate with private institutions and NGOs to enhance resource availability.
- Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Set up robust mechanisms to track the progress of NEP implementation.
- Conduct regular assessments to identify and address gaps.
Conclusion
The implementation of NEP 2020 in Assam represents a significant opportunity to revitalize the state’s education system. By addressing existing challenges and leveraging Assam’s unique cultural and economic strengths, the government can create an inclusive, skill-oriented, and globally competitive education framework that aligns with India’s broader developmental goals.
3. Assam’s Policy for Women-Led Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Relevance:
GS Paper 2: Social Justice, Women Empowerment, and Governance
GS Paper 3: Economy, Inclusive Growth
Introduction
Assam has launched a comprehensive policy to support Women-Led Self-Help Groups (SHGs) as part of its strategy for economic empowerment and poverty alleviation. The initiative aligns with national schemes like the Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM), aiming to foster financial independence, skill development, and social inclusion for women, especially in rural areas.
Key Points
- Key Features of the Policy:
- Financial Support:
- Subsidized loans and revolving funds for SHGs.
- Access to microcredit facilities through cooperative banks and rural financial institutions.
- Skill Development:
- Training programs in weaving, handicrafts, agriculture, and agro-processing.
- Use of digital platforms for marketing and e-commerce.
- Market Access:
- Promotion of SHG products at state-level fairs and online platforms like GeM (Government e-Marketplace).
- Branding and packaging support for local products like Muga silk and bamboo crafts.
- Financial Support:
- Economic Significance:
- Enhances women’s participation in the economy.
- Promotes entrepreneurship and boosts local industries.
- Encourages community-driven economic development.
- Social Impact:
- Strengthens decision-making abilities of women in households and communities.
- Improves the standard of living for women and their families.
- Promotes gender equality in traditionally male-dominated sectors like agriculture and small-scale enterprises.
Prelims Pointers
- Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – NRLM: Aims to reduce poverty through SHG formation and capacity building.
- SHGs in Assam: Over 5 lakh SHGs are active, with a focus on agriculture, weaving, and rural entrepreneurship.
- Muga Silk: Exclusive to Assam, it is a key product promoted by SHGs.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Women-Led SHGs in Assam
- Economic Empowerment:
- Provides women with access to credit and market opportunities.
- Reduces dependency on informal lenders, improving financial security.
- Social Empowerment:
- Enhances women’s leadership roles in communities.
- Promotes literacy and awareness about rights and entitlements.
- Preservation of Heritage:
- SHGs involved in weaving, bamboo craft, and organic farming preserve Assam’s cultural and ecological heritage.
- Inclusive Growth:
- Reduces rural poverty by encouraging collective economic efforts.
- Encourages participation of marginalized groups, including tribal women.
Challenges in Implementation
- Access to Credit:
- Many SHGs face difficulties in obtaining loans due to bureaucratic delays.
- Market Linkages:
- Limited access to national and international markets for SHG products.
- Capacity Building:
- Lack of adequate training in financial management, digital literacy, and marketing.
- Sustainability Issues:
- Dependence on government schemes for financial support.
Government Initiatives
- Assam Rural Infrastructure and Agricultural Services Project (ARIAS): Provides training and market access to SHGs.
- Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – NRLM: Focuses on poverty alleviation through SHG-based economic activities.
- Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY): Offers loans to SHGs for entrepreneurial activities.
- Mission Shakti: A national-level initiative promoting SHGs and women empowerment.
Way Forward
- Strengthen Financial Inclusion:
- Expand access to microfinance and low-interest loans for SHGs.
- Enhance Market Linkages:
- Promote SHG products through online platforms and tie-ups with large retailers.
- Capacity Building Programs:
- Conduct workshops on digital literacy, financial management, and value addition.
- Encourage Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):
- Collaborate with private entities to ensure sustainable growth and scale.
- Monitoring and Evaluation:
- Set up robust mechanisms to track the performance and impact of SHGs.
Conclusion
Women-led SHGs in Assam play a transformative role in promoting socio-economic empowerment, reducing rural poverty, and preserving cultural heritage. With enhanced financial support, skill development, and market linkages, these groups can emerge as key drivers of inclusive growth, ensuring sustainable development across the state.
4. Assam’s Push for Renewable Energy through Solar and Hydropower Projects
Relevance:
GS Paper 3: Environment, Energy, and Infrastructure Development
Introduction
Assam is accelerating its efforts to achieve sustainable energy security by focusing on renewable energy projects, particularly solar and hydropower. Recent initiatives aim to diversify the state’s energy portfolio, reduce dependency on fossil fuels, and meet growing energy demands while contributing to India’s national renewable energy targets.
Key Points
- Solar Energy Initiatives:
- 1,000 MW Solar Project in Karbi Anglong: A flagship project expected to be operational by 2025, promoting clean energy and reducing carbon emissions.
- 3,000 MW Renewable Energy Projects: Joint ventures with SJVN, OIL, and NTPC focusing on solar and hybrid solutions with energy storage facilities.
- Expansion of solar energy parks in districts like Udalguri, Lakhimpur, and Sonitpur.
- Hydropower Projects:
- Lower Kopili Hydropower Project (120 MW): Targeted for commissioning in 2025, focusing on flood control and energy production.
- Bilateral hydropower agreements with Bhutan and Arunachal Pradesh for clean energy imports.
- Collaboration with NHPC on the Lower Subansiri Project (208 MW) for eco-friendly energy generation.
- Government Policies and Support:
- Incentives for renewable energy developers under Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2022.
- Emphasis on public-private partnerships to enhance investment in energy infrastructure.
- Integration of renewable energy in state grids to ensure stable supply.
- Environmental Impact:
- Reduction of greenhouse gas emissions through clean energy adoption.
- Mitigation of deforestation and soil erosion in hydropower regions through eco-sensitive projects.
Prelims Pointers
- Lower Kopili Hydropower Project: A project under Assam Power Generation Corporation Limited (APGCL).
- Solar Energy Corporation of India (SECI): A central body supporting solar energy projects nationwide.
- Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2022: Focuses on achieving 5 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.
Mains Pointers
Significance of Renewable Energy in Assam
- Energy Security:
- Reduces Assam’s dependency on fossil fuels and coal imports.
- Addresses the state’s rising power demand, projected to exceed 7,000 MW by 2041-42.
- Economic Growth:
- Encourages investments in renewable energy, creating job opportunities.
- Enhances energy availability for industries and MSMEs, boosting economic productivity.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Supports India’s climate commitments under the Paris Agreement.
- Reduces pollution levels, improving air and water quality.
- Regional Development:
- Improves rural electrification and access to energy in remote areas.
- Promotes local entrepreneurship in the renewable energy sector.
Challenges in Implementation
- Infrastructure Deficits:
- Inadequate transmission networks and grid connectivity in remote areas.
- Land Acquisition Issues:
- Difficulty in acquiring land for large-scale solar and hydropower projects.
- High Initial Costs:
- Significant capital investment required for renewable energy technologies.
- Environmental Concerns:
- Hydropower projects often face criticism for impacting local biodiversity and water resources.
Government Initiatives
- National Solar Mission: Part of India’s target to achieve 175 GW of renewable energy by 2022 and 500 GW by 2030.
- North Eastern Region Power System Improvement Project (NERPSIP): Strengthens transmission infrastructure in the Northeast.
- State Solar Rooftop Scheme: Promotes solar installations on residential and commercial rooftops in Assam.
- National Green Hydrogen Mission: Aims to integrate green hydrogen production with renewable energy in the future.
Way Forward
- Strengthen Infrastructure:
- Upgrade transmission lines and grids to support renewable energy integration.
- Promote Decentralized Energy Systems:
- Encourage rooftop solar and mini-hydro projects in rural areas.
- Public Awareness Campaigns:
- Educate citizens about the benefits of renewable energy and its long-term sustainability.
- Collaborate with Private Players:
- Attract investments through incentives and transparent bidding processes.
- Leverage Technology:
- Use AI and IoT for efficient energy management and storage solutions.
Conclusion
Assam’s focus on renewable energy highlights its commitment to sustainable development and energy security. By addressing implementation challenges and fostering public-private partnerships, the state can lead the Northeast in clean energy adoption, contributing to India’s renewable energy goals while ensuring long-term ecological and economic benefits.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. India-China Agreement to Resume Kailash Mansarovar Yatra
Q1. With reference to the Kailash Mansarovar Yatra, consider the following statements:
- Mount Kailash is sacred to Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and followers of Bon religion.
- The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra resumed in 2025 after being halted due to border tensions and the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The Yatra route exclusively passes through the Lipulekh Pass in Uttarakhand.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. Mount Kailash holds religious significance for multiple faiths, including Hindus, Buddhists, Jains, and Bon followers.
- Statement 2: Correct. The Yatra was resumed in 2025 after being suspended due to the pandemic and geopolitical issues.
- Statement 3: Incorrect. The Yatra has multiple routes, including through Lipulekh (Uttarakhand), Nathu La (Sikkim), and Nepal.
Q2. Consider the following pairs of international agreements and their purposes:
- Ganga Water Treaty (1996): Water-sharing agreement between India and Nepal.
- Indo-Bangladesh Kushiyara Agreement: Sharing of water resources between India and Bangladesh.
- India-China Kailash Mansarovar Agreement: Bilateral tourism and cultural cooperation.
Which of the pairs is/are correctly matched?
a) 1 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 2 only
d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: c) 2 only
Explanation:
- Pair 1: Incorrect. The Ganga Water Treaty (1996) is a water-sharing agreement between India and Bangladesh.
- Pair 2: Correct. The Indo-Bangladesh Kushiyara Agreement facilitates water-sharing of the Kushiyara River.
- Pair 3: Incorrect. The Kailash Mansarovar Yatra is a religious pilgrimage agreement and not primarily tourism-oriented.
2. Assam’s Plan for Statewide Implementation of NEP 2020
Q3. The 5+3+3+4 structure under NEP 2020 refers to:
a) Five levels of education focused on technical and vocational skills.
b) A new pedagogical framework for school education in India.
c) Five years of foundational education followed by specialized higher education.
d) A restructuring of higher education curricula into five distinct stages.
Answer: b) A new pedagogical framework for school education in India.
Explanation:
The 5+3+3+4 framework divides school education into foundational (5 years), preparatory (3 years), middle (3 years), and secondary (4 years) stages to focus on age-appropriate learning.
Q4. Consider the following statements regarding the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020:
- It aims to achieve a 50% Gross Enrollment Ratio (GER) in higher education by 2035.
- Vocational education will begin from Grade 6 under NEP 2020.
- Multilingual education is discouraged under NEP 2020 to promote English as the primary medium of instruction.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
- Statement 1: Correct. NEP 2020 aims for a 50% GER in higher education by 2035.
- Statement 2: Correct. NEP promotes vocational education from Grade 6 onwards.
- Statement 3: Incorrect. NEP encourages multilingual education, promoting the use of regional languages along with English.
3. Assam’s Policy for Women-Led Self-Help Groups (SHGs)
Q5. Which of the following schemes support Self-Help Groups (SHGs) in Assam?
- Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana – National Rural Livelihoods Mission (DAY-NRLM)
- Pradhan Mantri Mudra Yojana (PMMY)
- Assam Rural Infrastructure and Agricultural Services Project (ARIAS)
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
All three initiatives—DAY-NRLM, PMMY, and ARIAS—provide financial and capacity-building support to SHGs in Assam, enhancing their economic and social empowerment.
Q6. Muga silk, which is promoted by women-led SHGs in Assam, is:
a) The most common silk in India, produced in multiple states.
b) A variety of silk exclusive to Assam, known for its natural golden color.
c) A genetically modified variant of silk introduced under the Silk Samagra Scheme.
d) A synthetic silk-like fabric widely used for mass production.
Answer: b) A variety of silk exclusive to Assam, known for its natural golden color.
Explanation:
Muga silk is a unique product of Assam, celebrated for its natural golden sheen and traditional importance.
4. Assam’s Push for Renewable Energy through Solar and Hydropower Projects
Q7. Which of the following renewable energy projects are operational or planned in Assam?
- Karbi Anglong Solar Project
- Lower Kopili Hydropower Project
- Jagiroad Wind Energy Project
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 2 and 3 only
c) 1 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: a) 1 and 2 only
Explanation:
Assam focuses on solar and hydropower projects like the Karbi Anglong Solar Project and the Lower Kopili Hydropower Project. Wind energy projects, such as Jagiroad Wind Energy, have not been announced in Assam.
Q8. Which of the following are objectives of Assam’s Renewable Energy Policy 2022?
- Achieving 5 GW renewable energy capacity by 2030.
- Encouraging private sector investment in renewable energy projects.
- Promoting green hydrogen production in the state.
Select the correct answer using the codes given below:
a) 1 and 2 only
b) 1 and 3 only
c) 2 and 3 only
d) 1, 2, and 3
Answer: d) 1, 2, and 3
Explanation:
Assam Renewable Energy Policy 2022 includes targets like 5 GW capacity by 2030, promoting private sector participation, and exploring green hydrogen production in the future.
APSC Mains Practice Question
Q. Assam has taken significant steps to boost its renewable energy capacity through solar and hydropower projects. Discuss the potential of renewable energy in Assam and highlight the challenges in its implementation. Suggest measures to overcome these challenges. (250 words)
Model Answer
Introduction
Assam’s renewable energy initiatives, such as the Karbi Anglong Solar Project and the Lower Kopili Hydropower Project, underscore its commitment to sustainable development and energy security. With rising energy demand, projected to exceed 7,000 MW by 2041-42, renewable energy offers an environmentally sustainable and economically viable solution.
Body
Potential of Renewable Energy in Assam
- Abundant Natural Resources:
- High solar radiation and large water resources offer immense potential for solar and hydropower projects.
- Economic Opportunities:
- Creates jobs in project construction, maintenance, and local entrepreneurship.
- Enhances power availability for MSMEs and industries, boosting economic productivity.
- Environmental Benefits:
- Reduces greenhouse gas emissions and dependence on coal-based energy.
- Protects biodiversity through eco-sensitive projects.
- Energy Security:
- Diversifies the state’s energy portfolio, reducing dependency on imported fossil fuels.
Challenges
- Infrastructure Deficit:
- Limited transmission and distribution networks for renewable energy integration.
- Land Acquisition:
- Delays due to disputes and resistance from local communities.
- High Initial Costs:
- Capital-intensive nature of solar and hydropower projects.
- Environmental Concerns:
- Hydropower projects often lead to ecological disruptions and displacement of communities.
Measures to Overcome Challenges
- Strengthen Infrastructure:
- Upgrade transmission lines and create robust storage solutions for renewable energy.
- Policy Support and Incentives:
- Provide subsidies and tax benefits to attract private investment.
- Simplify regulatory processes for faster approvals.
- Community Engagement:
- Ensure local participation to address concerns and promote land acquisition.
- Promote Technology:
- Use AI and IoT for efficient energy management and reduce operational costs.
- Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs):
- Collaborate with private players for funding and technology transfer.
Conclusion
Renewable energy has the potential to transform Assam into a hub of sustainable development by ensuring energy security, boosting economic growth, and mitigating environmental challenges. By addressing implementation bottlenecks and fostering innovation, Assam can lead the way in the Northeast’s renewable energy revolution.
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