APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (28/04/2026)

India–Bangladesh Relations: Strategic Reset & Security Concerns

📘 GS Paper II: International Relations | Neighbourhood Policy
📘 GS Paper III: Internal Security (cross-border terrorism)
📘 Prelims Link: BNP | ABT | JMB

Introduction

India–Bangladesh relations are witnessing a phase of recalibration, with improvements under the new political leadership in Bangladesh. However, persistent security concerns due to terrorist networks continue to pose challenges.

👉 As reported on Page 1 of The Assam Tribune (28 April 2026), relations have improved after the BNP government came to power, though terrorist outfits remain active, necessitating continued vigilance .

Key Points from Newspaper

Background

Earlier phase:

Relations deteriorated during caretaker regime under Md. Yunus

Bangladesh reportedly moved closer to Pakistan

Current phase:

BNP government adopting a more pragmatic stance toward India

Prelims Pointers

BNP (Bangladesh Nationalist Party)

JMB (Jamaat-ul-Mujahideen Bangladesh)

ABT (Ansar Bangla Team)

👉 Known extremist organizations operating in Bangladesh

Mains Pointers

A. Positive Developments

B. Security Concerns

C. Internal Security Implications (India)

Vulnerability of Northeast states

Need for border vigilance

Risk of terrorist expansion into mainland India

D. Challenges

E. Way Forward

Strengthen Border Management

Enhance Intelligence Sharing

Deepen Diplomatic Engagement

Counter Radicalization Efforts

Promote Economic Cooperation

Analytical Insight

👉 Core issue:

Balancing diplomatic engagement with security vigilance”

👉 Key concept:

Neighbourhood First Policy

Conclusion

India–Bangladesh relations are improving, but the persistence of terror networks necessitates a cautious and calibrated approach. A combination of strategic cooperation and robust security measures is essential for long-term regional stability.

Padma Awards & “People’s Padma”: Democratisation of Civilian Honours

📘 GS Paper II: Governance | Transparency | Citizen Participation
📘 Prelims Link: Padma Awards | Rashtriya Puraskar Portal

Introduction

India’s Padma Awards—among the highest civilian honours—are undergoing a transformation towards greater inclusivity and transparency under the concept of “People’s Padma.”

👉 As reported on Page 2 of The Assam Tribune (28 April 2026), the government has invited public nominations (including self-nominations) for Padma Awards 2027 through an online portal .

Key Points from Newspaper

Background

Instituted in:

1954

Objective:

Recognize “work of distinction” across fields

Fields include:

Art, science, social work, public affairs, etc.

Prelims Pointers

No discrimination:

Based on race, occupation, gender

Government servants:

Generally not eligible (except scientists, doctors)

Mains Pointers

A. Significance of “People’s Padma”

B. Governance Relevance

Promotes:

Participatory governance

Transparency and accountability

Aligns with:

Citizen-centric administration

C. Social Impact

D. Challenges

E. Way Forward

Increase Awareness Campaigns

Strengthen Verification Mechanisms

Ensure Transparency in Selection

Promote Rural Participation

Use Digital + Offline Outreach

Analytical Insight

👉 Core issue:

Recognition system becoming citizen-driven”

👉 Key concept:

Participatory governance

Conclusion

The shift towards “People’s Padma” reflects a broader move toward inclusive and participatory governance, ensuring that recognition reaches the grassroots level, beyond traditional elites.

Iran–US Strait of Hormuz Tensions: Strategic & Economic Implications

📘 GS Paper II: International Relations | Global Politics
📘 GS Paper III: Economy | Energy Security
📘 Prelims Link: Strait of Hormuz | OPEC | Crude Oil Trade Routes

Introduction

The Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most critical oil chokepoints, has once again come into focus due to rising Iran–US tensions, posing serious risks to global energy security and economic stability.

👉 As reported on Page 1 (International section) of The Assam Tribune (28 April 2026), escalating tensions have raised fears of disruption in global oil supply chains, potentially impacting oil-importing countries like India .

Key Points from Newspaper

Background

Strait of Hormuz:

Connects Persian Gulf → Gulf of Oman → Arabian Sea

Handles ~20% of global oil trade

Iran:

Strategic control over the strait

Prelims Pointers

Strait of Hormuz:

Key global oil transit chokepoint

OPEC:

Organization of oil-exporting countries

Mains Pointers

A. Strategic Importance

B. Economic Implications

C. Implications for India

Heavy dependence on imported crude oil

Vulnerability to price shocks

Impact on:

Fiscal deficit

Current account deficit

D. Challenges

E. Way Forward

Diversify Energy Sources

Increase Strategic Petroleum Reserves

Promote Renewable Energy

Strengthen Diplomatic Engagement

Enhance Energy Security Policies

Analytical Insight

👉 Core issue:

Geopolitics influencing global energy markets”

👉 Key concept:

Energy security

Conclusion

The Strait of Hormuz tensions highlight the fragility of global energy supply chains. For India, ensuring energy security through diversification and strategic planning is essential to mitigate such geopolitical risks.

Urban Solid Waste Management Crisis in Assam: Governance & Environmental Challenges

📘 GS Paper III: Environment | Pollution | Urban Issues
📘 GS Paper II: Governance | Public Service Delivery
📘 Prelims Link: Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016 | Municipal Waste

Introduction

Rapid urbanisation in Assam, especially in cities like Guwahati, has led to a growing crisis in solid waste management (SWM), reflecting gaps in urban governance, infrastructure, and environmental sustainability.

👉 As highlighted in The Assam Tribune (28 April 2026, State section), improper waste disposal and inadequate processing facilities are leading to environmental degradation and public health concerns .

Key Points from Newspaper

Background

Solid Waste:

Includes household, commercial, and municipal waste

Rules:

Solid Waste Management Rules, 2016

Prelims Pointers

SWM Rules, 2016:

Source segregation mandatory

Urban Local Bodies:

Responsible for waste management

Mains Pointers

A. Nature of the Problem

B. Environmental Impacts

C. Governance Challenges

D. Public Health Concerns

Spread of diseases

Vector breeding (mosquitoes, rodents)

Respiratory issues

E. Way Forward

Strict Implementation of SWM Rules

Source Segregation at Household Level

Waste-to-Energy & Recycling Plants

Capacity Building of ULBs

Public Awareness Campaigns

Analytical Insight

👉 Core issue:

Urban governance failure leading to environmental crisis”

👉 Key concept:

Sustainable urban development

Conclusion

The solid waste management crisis in Assam reflects deeper issues of urban governance and environmental neglect. A shift toward scientific waste management and citizen participation is essential for sustainable cities.