APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (28/10/2024)

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 (28-10-2024). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

Topic 1: Biogas Sector Development in Assam

GS Paper 3: Environment, Economic Development

Introduction:
The Assam State Cabinet has approved a significant plan to boost the biogas sector through a partnership with Reliance Bio-Energy Limited. The initiative aims to establish a network of integrated compressed biogas (CBG) plants across the state, promoting the use of organic waste for renewable energy production, reducing pollution, and enhancing rural incomes.

Key Points:

• A memorandum of understanding (MoU) was signed between the Assam government and Reliance Bio-Energy Limited to set up CBG plants.
• Focus on converting agricultural and organic waste into biogas, supporting India’s goals of reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• The initiative includes developing biogas infrastructure, including collection centers and production plants, and linking them with the existing gas distribution network.
• The project promises to create a sustainable value chain, benefiting farmers by providing an alternative market for agricultural residues like rice straw.

Prelims Pointers:

• Compressed Biogas (CBG): A renewable form of energy produced from organic waste, which can be used as a substitute for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).
• Reliance Bio-Energy Limited: A partner in the biogas project, focusing on clean energy solutions.
• NABARD’s RIDF-XXX Scheme: Provides funding support for rural infrastructure development, including biogas projects.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Renewable Energy Transition: Supports India’s shift towards clean energy by reducing dependence on fossil fuels.
   • Environmental Benefits: Reduces methane emissions from agricultural waste decomposition, helping mitigate climate change.
   • Economic Upliftment: Creates employment opportunities in rural areas and increases farmers’ income through the sale of organic waste.
   • Energy Security: Contributes to a more self-sufficient energy ecosystem, reducing dependency on imported natural gas.
   • Circular Economy: Promotes waste-to-energy solutions, turning agricultural residues into a valuable resource.
2. Challenges:
   • High Initial Costs: Establishing biogas plants requires substantial investment in infrastructure and technology.
   • Farmer Awareness: Low awareness among farmers about the benefits of biogas production and waste collection systems.
   • Technological Adaptation: Need for advanced technology to ensure efficient production, storage, and transportation of biogas.
   • Market Development: Building a stable market for biogas products and integrating them with existing fuel distribution networks.
   • Policy Implementation: Requires coordination between state and central policies for renewable energy promotion.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Incentivizing Farmers: Offer subsidies and financial incentives to farmers for providing organic waste.
   • Strengthening Public-Private Partnerships: Leverage private sector expertise for efficient management of biogas production and distribution.
   • Capacity Building: Conduct training programs for farmers and local communities on biogas production techniques.
   • Expanding Infrastructure: Improve transport and distribution networks to ensure the efficient supply of biogas to urban markets.
   • Focus on Research and Innovation: Invest in research to enhance the efficiency and scalability of biogas technology in varied agro-climatic conditions.

Conclusion:
The development of the biogas sector in Assam offers a strategic opportunity to promote sustainable energy while improving rural livelihoods. By addressing challenges through collaborative efforts, Assam can emerge as a leader in renewable energy, contributing to India’s green growth agenda.

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Topic 2: Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary Under Threat

GS Paper 3: Environment and Ecology

Introduction:
Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary in Assam is a critical habitat for India’s only ape species, the hoolock gibbon. However, the sanctuary faces multiple threats, including infrastructure projects like railway electrification and proposed oil drilling activities in its eco-sensitive zone (ESZ). These developments risk disrupting the sanctuary’s delicate ecosystem.

Key Points:

• The sanctuary spans 25 square kilometers and is home to the endangered Western hoolock gibbon.
• A railway line passing through the sanctuary is being electrified, posing new threats to arboreal species that depend on uninterrupted canopy cover.
• Approval for oil exploration activities in the ESZ surrounding the sanctuary has raised environmental concerns.
• Conservationists and environmental groups have criticized the state forest department for not adequately protecting the sanctuary’s ecological integrity.

Prelims Pointers:

• Hoolock Gibbon: India’s only ape species, found mainly in the Northeast region.
• Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Buffer areas around protected regions to regulate activities that could harm the environment.
• Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary: A protected area in Assam known for its primate diversity, including hoolock gibbons.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Biodiversity Conservation: The sanctuary is crucial for preserving Assam’s unique primate species and other biodiversity.
   • Research and Education: It serves as a valuable site for ecological studies and educational programs on conservation.
   • Tourism Potential: The sanctuary attracts eco-tourism, contributing to local economic growth.
   • Carbon Sequestration: The dense forest cover of the sanctuary plays a role in carbon absorption, aiding climate regulation.
   • Cultural Significance: The sanctuary holds importance for indigenous communities that depend on the forest for livelihood and cultural practices.
2. Challenges:
   • Infrastructure Development: Railway electrification and oil exploration can fragment habitats and disrupt wildlife corridors.
   • Human-Wildlife Conflict: Increased human activity around the sanctuary can lead to conflicts with species like elephants and gibbons.
   • Inadequate Regulation: Gaps in enforcing ESZ rules can lead to unchecked developmental activities.
   • Limited Funding: Insufficient financial resources for effective management and conservation of the sanctuary.
   • Community Engagement: Difficulty in involving local communities in conservation efforts due to livelihood dependencies.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Alternative Infrastructure Planning: Explore rerouting of railway lines and other infrastructure to minimize impact on the sanctuary.
   • Strict Enforcement of ESZ Norms: Ensure compliance with environmental guidelines for activities around the sanctuary.
   • Community Participation: Engage local communities through eco-tourism and conservation jobs to balance development with preservation.
   • Awareness Campaigns: Educate the public about the ecological importance of the Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary.
   • Focus on Sustainable Tourism: Develop guidelines for sustainable tourism to ensure minimal ecological disruption while supporting local economies.

Conclusion:
The conservation of Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is vital for maintaining Assam’s ecological diversity and preserving its natural heritage. A balanced approach that integrates sustainable development with strict conservation measures is essential to ensure the long-term survival of this critical habitat.

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Topic 3: Rising Dust Pollution in Guwahati

GS Paper 3: Environment and Public Health

Introduction:
Rapid urbanization and ongoing construction projects in Guwahati have led to increased dust pollution, raising health concerns among residents. The construction of flyovers and other infrastructure, particularly in the Dispur area, has contributed significantly to the deterioration of air quality in Assam’s largest city.

Key Points:

• Persistent dust clouds from construction activities have resulted in a rise in respiratory ailments among residents.
• The Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC) has been urged to implement measures like regular water-spraying and installing dust barriers.
• The Air Quality Index (AQI) in some parts of the city has consistently recorded unhealthy levels.
• Local businesses, especially food vendors, have reported losses due to reduced customer footfall in dust-affected areas.

Prelims Pointers:

• Guwahati Municipal Corporation (GMC): The civic body responsible for managing urban services and infrastructure in Guwahati.
• Particulate Matter (PM2.5): Fine particles in the air that pose health risks when inhaled.
• Air Quality Index (AQI): A measure of air quality, with higher values indicating poorer air conditions.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Public Health: Managing dust pollution is crucial to prevent respiratory diseases and ensure a healthy living environment.
   • Urban Sustainability: Effective control of pollution is key to sustainable urban development and livability.
   • Economic Stability: Improved air quality can attract tourists and support local businesses.
   • Role of Governance: Highlights the responsibility of urban authorities like GMC in maintaining environmental standards.
   • Community Well-being: Clean air is integral to overall well-being and quality of life for city residents.
2. Challenges:
   • Inadequate Infrastructure: Limited resources for regular dust control measures such as water-spraying.
   • Rapid Urban Expansion: Ongoing construction activities without adequate pollution control norms.
   • Public Awareness: Low levels of public awareness about preventive measures against dust pollution.
   • Coordination Issues: Lack of coordination between urban planning and environmental management.
   • Air Quality Monitoring: Insufficient monitoring capabilities for air quality across different parts of the city.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Enforce Construction Norms: Ensure compliance with pollution control guidelines during construction projects.
   • Promote Green Cover: Increase urban green spaces to naturally absorb dust particles.
   • Use of Technology: Install air purifiers in critical areas and employ sensors for real-time air quality monitoring.
   • Community Engagement: Conduct public awareness campaigns on the importance of air quality and protective measures.
   • Regular Inspections: Carry out inspections of construction sites to ensure compliance with dust management practices.

Conclusion:
Addressing dust pollution in Guwahati is crucial for balancing urban development with environmental sustainability. By adopting proactive measures and involving the community, the city can ensure a healthier, cleaner living environment for its residents.

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Topic 4: Assam Government’s DA Hike for State Employees

GS Paper 2: Governance, Social Justice

Introduction:
The Assam State Cabinet has approved a 3% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for state government employees and pensioners, effective from July 2024. This decision aims to alleviate the impact of inflation on public sector workers, ensuring that their purchasing power is maintained amidst rising living costs.

Key Points:

• The DA hike raises the allowance for state employees from 50% to 53%, mirroring similar adjustments by the Central Government.
• Over 4 lakh state employees and pensioners will benefit from the increase.
• The move is part of the government’s efforts to support its workforce amid inflationary pressures affecting daily essentials and services.
• The decision aligns with the broader strategy to ensure fair compensation and maintain the morale of government employees.

Prelims Pointers:

• Dearness Allowance (DA): An inflation-linked allowance paid to government employees and pensioners to offset rising prices.
• Consumer Price Index (CPI): A measure of inflation used for calculating DA rates.
• State Cabinet: The executive body of the state responsible for decision-making.

Mains Pointers:

1. Importance:
   • Economic Support: Provides relief to employees and pensioners, helping them cope with inflation.
   • Boost to Local Economy: Increased disposable income among state employees can stimulate demand in local markets.
   • Aligning with Central Policies: Ensures parity with the Central Government’s measures, maintaining consistency in employee benefits.
   • Social Welfare: Offers financial stability to retired personnel, contributing to social security.
   • Employee Morale: Positive for employee morale, promoting a motivated and efficient public service workforce.
2. Challenges:
   • Fiscal Strain: The hike imposes an additional burden on the state’s budget, impacting other welfare expenditures.
   • Inflationary Impact: The increased spending capacity could contribute to higher demand-driven inflation.
   • Sustainability: Maintaining such allowances over time requires careful financial planning.
   • Regional Disparities: Balancing the needs of employees across different regions and income levels.
   • Pressure for Future Increases: Potential demands from other groups for similar adjustments can lead to further fiscal strain.
3. Way Ahead:
   • Focus on Revenue Generation: Explore avenues for increasing state revenues, such as tax reforms and better resource management.
   • Balanced Budgeting: Prioritize spending to ensure essential services are not compromised due to increased DA expenditure.
   • Regular Adjustments: Review DA rates periodically to keep pace with actual inflation trends.
   • Public Awareness: Educate employees on managing finances to handle the effects of inflation better.
   • Investment in Social Infrastructure: Complement DA hikes with investments in healthcare and education to improve overall living standards.

Conclusion:
The Assam government’s decision to increase DA is a crucial step towards supporting its employees amidst inflation. While it provides immediate relief, a balanced approach towards fiscal management will be essential to sustain such measures without compromising long-term economic stability.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

Topic 1: Biogas Sector Development in Assam

Question 1: With reference to Compressed Biogas (CBG), consider the following statements:

1. CBG is a renewable energy source produced from organic waste such as agricultural residues.
2. The production of CBG helps in reducing methane emissions from decomposing organic matter.
3. CBG is used exclusively for cooking purposes and cannot be used as a substitute for Compressed Natural Gas (CNG).

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 is correct. CBG is produced from organic waste materials like agricultural residues, animal dung, and food waste.
• Statement 2 is correct. CBG production captures methane that would otherwise be released during the natural decomposition of organic matter, reducing greenhouse gas emissions.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. CBG can be used as a substitute for CNG in various applications, including vehicles and power generation, not just for cooking.
  Thus, the correct answer is A.

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Topic 2: Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary Under Threat

Question 2: Which of the following statements regarding Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is/are correct?

1. It is the only habitat for the hoolock gibbon, the only species of ape found in India.
2. The sanctuary has recently faced threats due to the electrification of a railway line passing through it.
3. Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is located in the state of Arunachal Pradesh.

Select the correct answer using the code given below:
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 is correct. Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is known for being a critical habitat for the Western hoolock gibbon, which is the only ape species found in India.
• Statement 2 is correct. The sanctuary faces threats from the electrification of a railway line that cuts through its habitat, which can disrupt the movement of arboreal species like the hoolock gibbon.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. Holongapar Gibbon Sanctuary is located in Assam, not Arunachal Pradesh.
  Thus, the correct answer is A.

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Topic 3: Rising Dust Pollution in Guwahati

Question 3: Which of the following measures can effectively control dust pollution in urban areas like Guwahati?

1. Regular water-spraying on roads and construction sites.
2. Increasing urban green spaces and planting trees.
3. Use of air quality sensors and real-time monitoring systems.
4. Complete ban on all construction activities in urban areas.

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

Answer: B. 1, 2, and 3 only

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct. Regular water-spraying can help settle dust, reducing its dispersion into the air.
• Statement 2 is correct. Increasing green cover in urban areas can help absorb dust particles, improving air quality.
• Statement 3 is correct. Using air quality sensors and real-time monitoring systems helps track pollution levels and take timely action.
• Statement 4 is incorrect. While regulating construction activities can help reduce dust pollution, a complete ban is not practical as it can halt essential urban development.
  Thus, the correct answer is B.

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Topic 4: Assam Government’s DA Hike for State Employees

Question 4: Consider the following statements regarding the recent Dearness Allowance (DA) hike for state government employees in Assam:

1. The DA hike is aimed at compensating state employees for inflation.
2. The increase in DA applies only to pensioners and not to current state government employees.
3. The DA hike in Assam aligns with a similar increase announced by the Central Government.

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

Answer: C. 1 and 3 only

Explanation:

Statement 3 is correct. The DA hike in Assam is in line with similar adjustments made by the Central Government, ensuring parity in compensation.
Thus, the correct answer is C.

Statement 1 is correct. The primary purpose of a DA hike is to compensate employees and pensioners for rising inflation, ensuring that their purchasing power is maintained.

Statement 2 is incorrect. The DA increase benefits both current state government employees and pensioners, not just pensioners.

APSC Mains Practice Question

Question: “Discuss the potential of the biogas sector in Assam for promoting sustainable energy and rural development. What are the major challenges in scaling up biogas production in the state, and suggest measures to overcome these challenges?” (250 words)

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Model Answer:

Introduction:
Assam’s recent partnership with Reliance Bio-Energy Limited to develop the biogas sector is a strategic move aimed at promoting sustainable energy and rural development. Biogas production involves converting organic waste into compressed biogas (CBG), providing a renewable energy source that can reduce pollution and enhance rural incomes.

Body:
Potential of the Biogas Sector in Assam:

• Sustainable Energy Production: Biogas provides a renewable alternative to fossil fuels, helping Assam transition to cleaner energy sources.
• Waste Management: Converts agricultural residues and organic waste into useful energy, reducing methane emissions and pollution.
• Rural Employment: Establishing biogas plants and collection centers creates job opportunities, particularly in rural areas.
• Farmer Income: Farmers can sell agricultural residues like rice straw for biogas production, providing them with an additional source of income.
• Contribution to Energy Security: By producing CBG, Assam can reduce its dependence on imported fuels, enhancing energy self-sufficiency.

Challenges in Scaling Up Biogas Production:

• High Initial Costs: Establishing biogas plants requires significant investment in infrastructure and technology.
• Awareness and Adoption: Low awareness among farmers and rural communities about the benefits of biogas production can hinder adoption.
• Technological Limitations: Efficient production, storage, and transportation of biogas require advanced technology, which can be a barrier for small-scale producers.
• Market Development: Establishing a stable market for CBG and integrating it with existing gas distribution networks is challenging.
• Policy Implementation: Coordination between state and central governments for policy support is crucial for scaling up production.

Measures to Overcome Challenges:

• Financial Incentives: Provide subsidies and low-interest loans to farmers and entrepreneurs to reduce the initial investment burden.
• Awareness Campaigns: Conduct training programs and awareness campaigns to educate farmers about the economic and environmental benefits of biogas production.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPP): Leverage the expertise of private companies like Reliance Bio-Energy Limited to improve technology and market access.
• Infrastructure Development: Improve transport and distribution infrastructure to ensure efficient delivery of CBG to urban markets.
• Research and Innovation: Invest in research to enhance the efficiency of biogas production and adapt technology to local conditions.

Conclusion:
The biogas sector in Assam holds immense potential for promoting sustainable energy and rural development. Addressing the challenges through targeted policy measures and community engagement can ensure the successful scaling up of biogas production. This will not only contribute to Assam’s economic growth but also support India’s broader renewable energy goals.

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