APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (28/03/2025)
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 (28-03-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
1. NITI Aayog’s Warning on Climate Change-Induced Economic Losses
GS Paper 3: Environment, Economy
Introduction
NITI Aayog has issued a cautionary note on the looming economic risks posed by climate change, particularly to India’s GDP. With rising global temperatures, extreme weather events, and shifting monsoon patterns, the country faces potential economic losses amounting to trillions of dollars. This calls for urgent mitigation and adaptation measures, especially in vulnerable states like Assam.
Key Points
NITI Aayog’s Assessment:
Predicts India could lose up to 3% of GDP annually by 2030 due to climate-induced disruptions.
Focus on sectors like agriculture, infrastructure, and water resources that are highly vulnerable.
Impact on Assam and the Northeast:
Increased flooding, erosion, and heat stress.
Assam’s riverine economy and agriculture are severely threatened.
Deforestation in the Northeast has worsened the ecological imbalance.
Highlighted Data & Concerns:
Assam witnessed disasters in 24 districts in 2024, causing massive displacement and loss.
Concerns over rising urban heat islands in Guwahati and other towns.
Need for Climate-Resilient Planning:
Urban planning must integrate climate risk assessments.
Emphasis on green infrastructure, wetlands conservation, and sustainable development.
Prelims Pointers
NITI Aayog: India’s public policy think tank involved in strategic planning and research.
Urban Heat Island: Urban area significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas due to human activity.
Climate Risk Assessment: Method of analyzing vulnerability and exposure to climate hazards.
Green Infrastructure: Infrastructure that uses natural systems for environmental benefits (e.g., green roofs, permeable pavements).
Mains Pointers
Importance
Economic Stability: Climate-resilient infrastructure reduces long-term financial losses.
Food Security: Protecting agriculture from climate shocks ensures stable food supplies.
Disaster Risk Reduction: Proactive planning saves lives and livelihoods.
Inclusive Development: Prioritizes vulnerable communities and ecosystems.
Challenges
Funding Constraints:
Limited allocation for climate adaptation at the state level.
Institutional Gaps:
Poor coordination between environmental, disaster management, and urban development departments.
Data Deficiency:
Inadequate localized climate data to inform micro-level planning.
Community Awareness:
Low awareness among rural and urban populations regarding sustainable practices.
Government Initiatives
National Adaptation Fund for Climate Change (NAFCC): Financial assistance for climate adaptation projects.
State Action Plans on Climate Change (SAPCC): Assam’s SAPCC focuses on agriculture, water, and biodiversity.
Mission LiFE (Lifestyle for Environment): Promotes individual and community efforts for sustainable living.
PM Gati Shakti Mission: Integrates climate considerations into infrastructure planning.
Way Ahead
Localised Climate Modelling:
Invest in district-level data systems and forecasting models.
Mainstreaming Climate Resilience:
Make climate-resilient design mandatory in public infrastructure.
Nature-Based Solutions:
Focus on afforestation, river rejuvenation, and wetland protection.
Capacity Building:
Train urban planners, disaster managers, and community leaders.
Incentivise Green Practices:
Tax breaks or subsidies for eco-friendly infrastructure and practices.
Conclusion
Climate change is not a distant threat but a present economic and environmental reality. NITI Aayog’s warning must serve as a wake-up call for both national and state governments, especially in vulnerable regions like Assam. Integrating resilience into planning and promoting sustainable living can ensure long-term economic and ecological stability.
2. India-Myanmar Border Closure and Its Impact on Northeast India
GS Paper 2: International Relations, Internal Security
GS Paper 3: Border Management
Introduction
The Indian government’s decision to end the Free Movement Regime (FMR) along the India-Myanmar border has sparked concerns in the Northeast, especially in states like Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland, and Arunachal Pradesh. The FMR allowed people living within 16 km of the border to move freely across for cultural and trade purposes. The closure reflects rising security and immigration concerns amid escalating instability in Myanmar.
Key Points
Free Movement Regime (FMR):
Introduced to allow border tribes to maintain socio-cultural ties.
Enabled movement without visa for up to 72 hours within 16 km of the border.
Reason for Closure:
Rising insurgency and drug trafficking from Myanmar.
Influx of refugees due to Myanmar’s military crackdown on ethnic groups.
Internal security concerns in border states like Manipur.
Impact on Northeast India:
Disruption of tribal and ethnic ties (especially among Zomi, Mizo, and Kuki communities).
Potential economic impact on cross-border informal trade.
Humanitarian issues: Refugee flows may now become “illegal”, straining local administration.
Political and Social Reactions:
Mizoram CM and civil society groups have opposed the decision, citing humanitarian and cultural concerns.
Demands for a compassionate and culturally sensitive border policy.
Prelims Pointers
FMR (Free Movement Regime): A border arrangement with Myanmar allowing tribal communities to cross without visa restrictions.
India-Myanmar Border: Spans 1,643 km across four states — Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Manipur, and Mizoram.
Zomi/Mizo/Kuki Tribes: Ethnic groups residing on both sides of the Indo-Myanmar border.
Tamu-Moreh: Major trading point between Manipur and Myanmar.
Mains Pointers
Significance
Cultural Ties:
Preserves historic kinship bonds between cross-border tribal communities.
Soft Diplomacy:
FMR helped foster goodwill and stability in the region.
Local Economy:
Boosted informal trade and border livelihoods.
Strategic Importance:
India’s Act East Policy and Kaladan project hinge on stable border relations with Myanmar.
Challenges
Security Threats:
Myanmar-based insurgents use porous border for infiltration.
Drug smuggling and arms trafficking have increased post-2021 Myanmar coup.
Refugee Crisis:
Thousands have fled from Chin state into Mizoram.
Administrative and humanitarian burden on Indian states.
Centre-State Disagreements:
States like Mizoram oppose the closure, creating federal friction.
Alienation of Tribes:
Closure may alienate border communities and increase discontent.
Government Initiatives
Fencing of India-Myanmar Border: Plans to install 10-feet fencing in sensitive zones.
Smart Border Management: Use of surveillance and integrated checkpoints.
Humanitarian Aid: Support through local NGOs and relief camps for refugees.
Diplomatic Engagement: Talks with Myanmar’s military regime on border stability.
Way Ahead
Balanced Policy:
Combine security needs with humanitarian and cultural considerations.
Special Permit System:
Replace FMR with controlled permit systems to allow legal cross-border visits.
Community Engagement:
Involve local tribal councils in decision-making and confidence-building.
Strengthen Border Infrastructure:
Improve roads, surveillance, and legal checkpoints to manage movement.
Enhance Act East Policy Execution:
Prioritize development and connectivity in the Northeast to offset disruptions.
Conclusion
The closure of the India-Myanmar Free Movement Regime is a complex issue involving national security, diplomacy, and ethnic sensitivities. While ensuring border integrity is essential, India must also uphold humanitarian values and safeguard the unique identity of its northeastern border communities. A nuanced, inclusive approach will help strike the right balance.
3. Assam’s Ethanol Push: Towards a Green Fuel Economy
GS Paper 3: Economy, Environment, Science & Technology
Introduction
Assam is accelerating its shift toward ethanol-blended fuels as part of India’s larger biofuel policy. The state has launched several ethanol production units to reduce fossil fuel dependence, boost rural incomes, and support sustainable practices. With abundant biomass availability and agro-based industries, Assam holds significant potential in India’s bioenergy transition.
Key Points
Ethanol Policy Backdrop:
India aims for 20% ethanol blending in petrol by 2025.
Assam is aligning with this national target under the Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme.
Assam’s Initiatives:
New distilleries set up in Golaghat, Dibrugarh, and Bongaigaon.
Use of molasses, rice husk, and maize as feedstock for ethanol.
Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model encouraged for production units.
Economic and Environmental Benefits:
Reduces oil import bill.
Adds value to agricultural waste.
Generates rural employment and boosts farmers’ income.
Challenges Noted:
Irregular supply of feedstock.
Water-intensive nature of ethanol production.
Need for better logistics and storage infrastructure.
Prelims Pointers
Ethanol: A renewable biofuel made from biomass like sugarcane, maize, or agricultural waste.
E20 Fuel: Petrol blended with 20% ethanol.
Ethanol Blended Petrol (EBP) Programme: Launched in 2003 to promote alternative fuel use.
Molasses-based Ethanol: Byproduct of sugarcane processing, widely used for ethanol in India.
Mains Pointers
Importance
Energy Security:
Diversifies India’s fuel mix, reducing dependency on imported crude oil.
Sustainable Agriculture:
Encourages utilization of surplus and waste agricultural produce.
Economic Boost:
Incentivizes rural entrepreneurship and investment in agri-infrastructure.
Climate Action:
Lower carbon emissions compared to fossil fuels.
Challenges
Feedstock Supply Chain:
Seasonal availability of biomass affects consistent ethanol output.
Water Footprint:
Ethanol distillation requires large volumes of water, raising ecological concerns.
Land Use Conflicts:
Risk of shifting land use from food to fuel crops.
Lack of Awareness:
Farmers and cooperatives need sensitization about economic benefits.
Government Initiatives
National Bio-Energy Programme (2022–2030): Supports ethanol, biogas, and biomass projects.
Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana: Incentivizes second-generation (2G) ethanol projects from agri-waste.
Viability Gap Funding for ethanol projects in the Northeast.
Assam State Bio-Energy Mission (proposed): A state-level coordination body to streamline efforts.
Way Ahead
Integrated Feedstock Strategy:
Promote multi-feedstock models to ensure round-the-year ethanol production.
Technology Upgradation:
Invest in 2G ethanol technologies to use crop waste, bamboo, and water hyacinth.
Farmer-Centric Models:
Create ethanol cooperatives linked to FPOs (Farmer Producer Organizations).
Environmental Safeguards:
Monitor water usage and effluent discharge through green compliance mechanisms.
Infrastructure Investment:
Develop ethanol storage and blending facilities near refineries and retail outlets.
Conclusion
Assam’s ethanol expansion marks a pivotal step in its transition toward a green economy. While it aligns with national energy and environmental goals, success depends on holistic policy support, efficient resource management, and empowering stakeholders — especially farmers. With strategic planning, Assam can emerge as a leading biofuel hub in the Northeast.
4. Assam’s Forest Fires: A Growing Environmental Crisis
GS Paper 3: Environment, Disaster Management, Ecology
Introduction
Assam has witnessed an alarming surge in forest fires in recent months, with over 3,500 fire incidents reported between November 2024 and March 2025. The situation has sparked concern among environmentalists and policymakers as the fires threaten biodiversity, human settlements, and the ecological balance of the region. Climate change, human negligence, and weak institutional response have compounded the problem.
Key Points
Scale of the Crisis:
Over 3,500 fire incidents reported in Assam’s protected areas and reserved forests.
Notable fires in Kaziranga, Nameri, and Karbi Anglong.
Fires spread across grasslands, hill slopes, and buffer zones.
Primary Causes:
Dry spells, increased temperature, and rainfall deficit.
Jhum cultivation (slash-and-burn agriculture) in fringe areas.
Poaching and encroachment linked to fire triggers.
Lack of early-warning systems and poor fire management planning.
Impact on Ecology and Society:
Habitat destruction affecting endangered species like the rhino and hoolock gibbon.
Air pollution and health hazards in nearby towns.
Disruption of eco-tourism and local livelihoods.
Response from Authorities:
Forest department activated fire lines and deployed watchtowers and patrol units.
Engagement with local communities for fire control and awareness.
Prelims Pointers
Jhum Cultivation: Shifting agriculture practiced in Northeast India, involving burning of vegetation.
Fire Line: Cleared strips in forests to prevent spread of fire.
Kaziranga National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site known for one-horned rhinoceroses.
Forest Fire Alert System (FIRE): Developed by FSI and NRSC for real-time fire monitoring.
Mains Pointers
Importance of Forests in Assam
Biodiversity Hotspot:
Home to rare and endemic flora and fauna.
Carbon Sink:
Forests absorb CO₂, aiding in climate change mitigation.
Livelihoods:
Many tribal communities depend on NTFPs (Non-Timber Forest Products).
Ecological Services:
Forests protect watersheds, prevent erosion, and regulate microclimates.
Challenges in Managing Forest Fires
Climate Vulnerability:
Rising temperatures and erratic rainfall patterns increase flammability.
Resource Constraints:
Limited equipment, trained personnel, and fire-fighting infrastructure.
Anthropogenic Pressures:
Encroachment, poaching, and careless tourism practices.
Coordination Gaps:
Poor integration between disaster management, forest, and local departments.
Government Initiatives
Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme (FPM): Provides funds for fire-line maintenance, equipment, and community involvement.
State Forest Fire Action Plan (Assam): Includes satellite-based monitoring, rapid response teams, and fire watchtowers.
National Action Plan on Forest Fires (NAPFF): Centralised policy framework for prevention and mitigation.
Involvement of Joint Forest Management Committees (JFMCs).
Way Ahead
Early Warning and Technology:
Expand use of remote sensing and AI-based fire detection systems.
Community-Based Fire Management:
Train and incentivize local youth as forest fire volunteers.
Climate Adaptation:
Integrate fire risk assessment into climate-resilient forest policies.
Legal Enforcement:
Strengthen anti-encroachment and anti-poaching measures near protected areas.
Afforestation & Fire-Resistant Species:
Promote planting of native, fire-resilient species in vulnerable zones.
Conclusion
Assam’s forest fire crisis underlines the urgency of strengthening forest governance and climate resilience. A blend of technology, community participation, and responsive administration is essential to protect Assam’s ecological treasures from recurring disasters. With proactive steps, the state can safeguard both its biodiversity and its people.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Assam’s Push for AI-Based Agriculture Development
Q1. (Multiple Statement – UPSC Style)
Consider the following statements about the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in agriculture:
- AI-based tools can help in early pest detection and crop health monitoring.
- Assam has started using AI in its tea plantations for water management.
- Precision farming using AI often leads to increased input costs for farmers.
Which of the above statements 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
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is correct: AI is widely used for early detection of pest infestations through image analysis and sensors.
- Statement 2 is correct: Assam has launched pilot programs using AI in tea plantations.
- Statement 3 is incorrect: AI tends to reduce input costs in the long run through efficient use of resources.
Q2. (Assertion-Reason Type)
Assertion (A): Assam is promoting AI in agriculture to address climate variability.
Reason (R): AI can help forecast weather patterns and suggest optimal planting schedules.
A. Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A
B. Both A and R are true but R is not the correct explanation of A
C. A is true but R is false
D. A is false but R is true
Answer: A
Explanation:
AI helps tackle issues like unpredictable rainfall and droughts by offering predictive analytics and advisory services, directly supporting the state’s objectives.
Topic 2: Ethanol Push in Assam
Q3. (Matching Type)
Match the following ethanol feedstocks with their description:
| Feedstock | Description |
| A. Molasses | 1. Residue from sugarcane processing |
| B. Maize | 2. A cereal crop used as food and ethanol source |
| C. Rice husk | 3. Agricultural waste often used in 2G ethanol |
A. A-1, B-2, C-3
B. A-2, B-3, C-1
C. A-3, B-1, C-2
D. A-1, B-3, C-2
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Molasses: Sugar industry byproduct.
- Maize: First-generation ethanol feedstock.
- Rice husk: Considered for 2G ethanol production.
Q4. (Single Statement – True/False Type)
Ethanol production is completely water-neutral and environmentally sustainable.
Answer: False
Explanation:
Ethanol distillation is water-intensive, and sustainability depends on feedstock choice and process efficiency.
Topic 3: Forest Fires in Assam
Q5. (Multiple Choice)
Which of the following factors contribute to the rising incidence of forest fires in Assam?
- Prolonged dry spells
- Shifting cultivation (Jhum)
- Lightning-induced ignition
- Poaching and encroachment
A. 1, 2 and 4 only
B. 2, 3 and 4 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Lightning is a major cause in central India and western Ghats but less common in Assam.
- Other factors like dry spells, Jhum cultivation, and human interference are more prominent.
Q6. (Arrange in Order – Chronological Policy)
Arrange the following forest fire management efforts in chronological order of launch:
- National Action Plan on Forest Fires (NAPFF)
- Forest Fire Prevention & Management Scheme (FPM)
- Assam Forest Fire Action Plan (state-level)
A. 2-1-3
B. 1-2-3
C. 2-3-1
D. 3-2-1
Answer: A
Explanation:
- FPM was the earliest (revamped in 2017).
- NAPFF followed as a national framework.
- Assam’s state-specific action plan came later.
Topic 4: AI-Based Agriculture and Tea Sector in Assam
Q7. (Statement-Based MCQ)
Consider the following statements regarding AI adoption in Assam’s agriculture:
- Assam has launched mobile apps offering real-time crop advisory to farmers.
- AI can help minimize water usage in irrigation practices.
- AI-based advisory systems are already mandated under PM-KISAN.
Which of the above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. All of the above
Answer: A
Explanation:
- Statement 3 is incorrect: PM-KISAN is a financial support scheme, not a tech-adoption mandate.
- The rest are factually correct.
Bonus Conceptual Question (Integrative – Science & Policy)
Q8. (Conceptual – UPSC Style)
With reference to India’s biofuel policy, consider the following statements:
- The National Bio-Energy Programme supports only first-generation (1G) ethanol projects.
- The Pradhan Mantri JI-VAN Yojana supports the use of non-food biomass for ethanol production.
- Northeast India is excluded from ethanol-related viability gap funding.
Which of the above statements is/are correct?
A. 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
Answer: A
Explanation:
Statement 3 is incorrect: Northeast receives special support, not exclusion.
Statement 1 is incorrect: The National Bio-Energy Programme supports both 1G and 2G.
Statement 2 is correct.
APSC Mains Practice Question
UPSC Mains GS Paper-3 Question:
“Forest fires in Assam are no longer seasonal or localized – they have become a systemic ecological and governance challenge. Critically examine the causes, impacts, and institutional responses to the increasing forest fires in Assam. Also suggest a holistic mitigation strategy.” (15 marks)
Model Answer:
Introduction
Assam, often called the ‘Green Lung of the Northeast,’ is now grappling with frequent forest fires—turning its ecological wealth into a crisis zone. This evolving disaster is no longer natural but deeply embedded in human action and governance inertia.
1. Rising Forest Fires in Assam: A Recent Snapshot
- Over 3,500 fire incidents reported between Nov 2024–Mar 2025 (Assam Forest Dept.)
- Major hotspots: Kaziranga, Nameri, Karbi Anglong
- Assam ranked among top 5 Indian states in Forest Fire Vulnerability (FSI Report 2023)
2. Causes of Increasing Forest Fires
A. Environmental Triggers
- Dry spells and Rainfall deficit – due to El Niño impact (IMD 2024)
- Rising average temperatures – 1.5°C higher in NE India (IPCC Sixth Assessment)
B. Anthropogenic Factors
- Jhum cultivation – slash-and-burn agriculture along forest fringes
- Encroachments – settlements and illegal grazing disrupting forest integrity
- Poaching activities – use of fire to divert forest patrols
C. Institutional Gaps
- Lack of Early Warning Systems and fire detection drones
- Weak inter-departmental coordination – forest, disaster, tribal welfare
3. Multidimensional Impacts
A. Ecological
- Loss of endangered species habitats – e.g., one-horned rhino, hoolock gibbon
- Degradation of wetlands and buffer zones – vital for migratory birds
B. Social & Economic
- Threat to eco-tourism (e.g., Kaziranga revenue drop by 30% – ATDC 2023)
- Health hazards – increase in respiratory ailments near forest belts
C. Climate Change Link
- Forests lose carbon sink capacity – contributing to regional warming
- Adds to India’s GHG emissions – ~3% from forest fires (MoEFCC, 2023)
4. Institutional Response: Current Efforts
| Initiative | Key Features |
| Forest Fire Prevention Scheme | Fund allocation for watchtowers, fire-lines |
| Assam Forest Fire Action Plan | State-level satellite-based early monitoring |
| Joint Forest Management | Community involvement in fire watch and control |
| Van Agni Alert (FSI) | Real-time alerts using MODIS/Suomi satellite data |
5. Way Forward: A Holistic Mitigation Strategy
A. Technological Upgradation
- AI-driven prediction models and drones for real-time surveillance
(Example: Uttarakhand Drone Pilot – 2023)
B. Community Engagement
- Forest Fire Volunteer Brigades in vulnerable villages
(Similar to Odisha’s fire resilience model)
C. Climate Adaptation Measures
- Promote fire-resistant native species under CAMPA funds
- Integrate fire risk in State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC)
D. Policy & Legal Reforms
- Strengthen Assam Forest Regulation (AFR) for stricter encroachment control
- Make Forest Fire Management Plans mandatory under Disaster Management Act
E. Institutional Coordination
- Establish Inter-agency Task Force: Forest, Disaster, Revenue, Environment Depts
- Link with Gram Panchayats and Tribal Councils for last-mile execution
Diagram: Forest Fire Response Ecosystem
Early Detection (AI, Satellites)
↓
Local Response (Community Brigades)
↓
Govt Action (Fire Lines, Patrol Units)
↓
Policy Reform (CAMPA, DM Act, AFR Amendments)
↓
Ecosystem Resilience & Fire Mitigation
Conclusion
Forest fires in Assam are not just ecological disturbances—they’re a test of our climate preparedness and governance depth. By blending community wisdom, tech innovation, and institutional synergy, Assam can reclaim its forests as sanctuaries—not sacrifice zones.
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