APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (25/06/2026)

For APSC CCE and other Assam competitive exam aspirants, staying consistently updated with reliable current affairs is essential for success. This blog provides a well-researched analysis of the most important topics from The Assam Tribune dated 25 June 2026. Each issue has been carefully selected and explained to support both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, ensuring alignment with the APSC CCE syllabus and the evolving trends of the examination.

✨ APSC CCE Prelims Crash Course, 2026

 

UK–Assam Clean Energy Collaboration: Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) under UK PACT

• GS Paper II: International Relations | Government Policies & Interventions
• GS Paper III: Infrastructure | Energy | Science & Technology | Environment
• GS Paper V: Assam Economy | Energy Infrastructure | Sustainable Development

🔴 Introduction

• Assam is collaborating with the UK under the UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions (UK PACT) programme for a cleaner, resilient power sector.
• Phase-I report on Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) handed to Assam Power Distribution Company Limited (APDCL); Phase-II focuses on execution.
• Aim: Strengthen grid, integrate Renewable Energy (RE), and ensure reliable 24×7 power supply.

🔴 Key Points

• Programme: UK PACT
• Partners: Government of UK & Government of Assam
• State Agency: APDCL
• Technology: BESS
• Phase-I: Grid readiness assessment & storage planning
• Phase-II: Site identification, financial modeling & implementation planning
• Objective: RE integration & grid stability
• Long-term Goal: Affordable, sustainable, and reliable electricity

🔴 What is Battery Energy Storage System (BESS)?

• A system that stores electrical energy in rechargeable batteries and releases it when electricity demand exceeds supply.

🔴 Components

• Battery modules (primarily Lithium-ion)
• Battery Management System (BMS)
• Power Conversion System (PCS)
• Inverters
• Energy Management System (EMS)

🔴 Why is BESS Important?

• RE intermittency: Solar works during the day; wind fluctuates.
• Mismatch in timing: Electricity demand peaks in the evening.
• Solution: Store excess power during high production → Supply during peak demand.

🔴 How BESS Works

• Solar/Wind Power → Excess Electricity → Battery Storage → Evening Peak Demand → Consumers

🔴 Objectives of the UK–Assam Collaboration

• Improve grid flexibility and power quality.
• Increase RE penetration.
• Reduce reliance on fossil-fuel-based peaking power.
• Enhance energy security and ensure uninterrupted supply.
• Strengthen Assam’s climate resilience.

🔴 Significance for Assam

• 1. Supports RE Expansion: Efficiently integrates Solar Parks, Rooftop Solar, Small Hydro, and Biomass Energy.
• 2. Grid Stability: Regulates voltage, frequency, load balancing, and peak demand.
• 3. Rural Electrification: Ensures stable power for remote, flood-prone, Char, and tea garden areas.
• 4. Disaster Resilience: Maintains power for critical services (hospitals, water supply, relief centres) during floods/storms.
• 5. Industrial Development: Attracts investments (Advantage Assam, electronics, Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs), industrial parks).
• 6. Climate Commitments: Aids India’s Net Zero by 2070 target, Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), and Energy Transition.

🔴 Phase-I Findings

• Identified rising electricity demand and growing RE capacity in Assam.
• Highlighted the critical need for flexible storage.
• Recommended hybrid deployment: Both Grid-level and Distribution-level storage.
• Conducted capacity-building workshops.

🔴 Phase-II Focus

• Identifying priority BESS sites.
• Conducting grid studies and assessing financial feasibility.
• Risk assessment and finalizing the implementation model.
• Technical capacity building and knowledge sharing with UK experts.

🔴 UK PACT

• Full Form: UK Partnering for Accelerated Climate Transitions.
• Objective: Technical assistance to accelerate low-carbon development.
• Funding: UK International Climate Finance (ICF).
• Focus Areas: RE, Clean Transport, Green Finance, Climate Resilience, Sustainable Infrastructure.

🔴 India–UK Vision 2035

• Collaboration aligns with the bilateral vision emphasizing: Climate partnership, clean energy cooperation, climate finance, technology transfer, and sustainable economic growth.

🔴 Prelims Pointers

• Important Organisations: APDCL, UK PACT, UK ICF, Ministry of Power, Central Electricity Authority (CEA).
• Important Terms: BESS, Grid Flexibility, Peak Load, Energy Storage, Smart Grid, RE Integration.
• Possible Facts:
  • Lithium-ion batteries are the most common for utility-scale BESS.
  • BESS explicitly supports frequency regulation and peak shaving.
  • BESS is distinct from pumped-storage hydropower, though both store energy.

🔴 Mains Pointers

• A. Importance:
  • Energy Security: Cuts conventional power reliance.
  • Renewable Energy: Facilitates solar/wind integration.
  • Climate Action: Supports low-carbon growth; meets NDC targets.
  • Economic Growth: Reliable power improves ease of doing business.
  • Disaster Resilience: Ensures emergency power backup.
• B. Challenges:
  • High Initial Cost: Requires massive capital investment.
  • Battery Disposal: End-of-life environmental hazards.
  • Import Dependence: Heavy reliance on imported lithium/critical minerals.
  • Skilled Workforce: Deficit of trained engineers/technicians.
  • Grid Integration: Needs advanced management systems.
  • Regulatory Issues: Evolving storage regulations/market mechanisms.
• C. Government Initiatives:
  • National: National Electricity Plan, National Smart Grid Mission, Green Energy Corridor, PM Surya Ghar: Muft Bijli Yojana, National Green Hydrogen Mission, Revamped Distribution Sector Scheme (RDSS).
  • Assam: APDCL modernisation, Assam RE Policy, UK PACT–APDCL tie-up, Advantage Assam.
• D. Way Forward:
  • Develop domestic manufacturing via Production Linked Incentive (PLI).
  • Diversify technologies (sodium-ion, flow batteries).
  • Promote battery recycling and circular economy.
  • Deploy pilot BESS projects in vulnerable districts.
  • Integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) for smart grid management.
  • Expand public-private partnerships for finance and tech transfer.
  • Build skilled manpower.

🔴 Conclusion

• The UK–Assam BESS collaboration is a strategic leap toward a modern, resilient, and sustainable power sector.
• By enabling efficient RE integration and improving grid reliability, it accelerates Assam’s clean energy transition while securing long-term economic growth.
• Success relies heavily on proper implementation, domestic manufacturing, and establishing a robust recycling ecosystem.

Flash Floods in Arunachal and Downstream Flood Preparedness in Assam

• GS Paper I: Physical Geography | Indian Geography | Disaster Geography
• GS Paper III: Disaster Management | Environment | Climate Change | Infrastructure
• GS Paper V (Assam): Flood Management | Disaster Preparedness | Brahmaputra Basin | Assam Geography

🔴 Introduction

• Heavy rainfall in the Lower Subansiri catchment of Arunachal Pradesh (June 2026) triggered flash floods, landslides, and high river discharge.
• Floodwaters rapidly travelled down Brahmaputra tributaries, prompting Assam to issue high alerts for downstream districts (Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Biswanath, Sonitpur, etc.).
• State Disaster Response Force (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF) were put on standby; early warning and evacuation protocols were initiated.

🔴 Key Points

• Trigger: Extreme rainfall in Lower Subansiri district (Arunachal Pradesh).
• Major Cause: Intense rain causing sudden flash floods and river discharge.
• Affected Infrastructure: North Eastern Electric Power Corporation Limited (NEEPCO) project area, roads, bridges, and residential quarters.
• Major Rivers: Panyor (Ranganadi), Subansiri, and Brahmaputra tributaries.
• Downstream Districts on Alert: Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, Biswanath, Sonitpur, extending up to Dhubri.
• Response Agencies: Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA), SDRF, NDRF, District Administration, India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• Precaution: High alert, river monitoring, evacuation readiness, and controlled dam water release.

🔴 What is a Flash Flood?

• A sudden flood developing within minutes to 6 hours post-intense rainfall, cloudburst, dam failure, glacial lake outburst, or rapid runoff.
• Characteristics: Very little warning time, high flow velocity, large debris load, and severe destruction to life/infrastructure.
• Highly destructive and much faster-onset compared to standard riverine floods.

🔴 Why is Assam Highly Vulnerable?

• 1. Upstream Catchments in Arunachal Pradesh: Major north-bank tributaries (Subansiri, Siang, Dibang, Lohit, Kameng, Jia Bharali) originate in steep Himalayas. Runoff quickly reaches Assam plains.
• 2. Himalayan Geology: Young fold mountains, fragile rocks, active tectonics, and frequent landslides accelerate water and sediment transport.
• 3. Monsoon Rainfall: The Southwest Monsoon (June–September) brings extreme orographic rainfall.
• 4. Brahmaputra Basin Characteristics: Braided river system, high sediment load, frequent channel shifting, and extensive floodplains.

🔴 How Upstream Floods Affect Assam

• Heavy Rainfall in Arunachal → Flash Floods in Upper Catchments → Rapid Rise in Tributary Discharge (Subansiri/Ranganadi/Brahmaputra) → Flood Wave Moves into Assam → Flooding of Low-lying Districts.

🔴 Immediate Impacts

• Human Impact: Loss of life, missing persons, injuries, displacement.
• Infrastructure: Damaged roads, bridges, power infrastructure, and residential buildings.
• Agriculture: Massive crop destruction, sand deposition, and soil erosion.
• Environment: Severe riverbank erosion, landslides, and habitat degradation.

🔴 Institutional Response

• Assam Government: Issued high alerts, continuous river monitoring, identified vulnerable areas.
• ASDMA: Monitored situation, coordinated agencies, disseminated early warnings.
• SDRF & NDRF: Maintained rescue preparedness, supported evacuations and relief.
• IMD: Provided rainfall forecasting, radar monitoring, and weather alerts.
• Central Water Commission (CWC): Conducted river-level monitoring and flood forecasting.
• NEEPCO: Executed controlled release of excess water; temporarily shut down powerhouses for safety.

🔴 Why This Event is Important for Assam

• 1. Demonstrates Upstream–Downstream Linkages: Arunachal’s hydrology directly dictates Assam’s flood reality.
• 2. Importance of Early Warning Systems: Timely alerts are critical to evacuate people, protect livestock, and secure supplies.
• 3. Need for Interstate Coordination: Demands absolute synergy among Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and Central agencies.
• 4. Climate Change Signal: Proves that extreme, intense rainfall events are becoming more frequent, escalating flash flood risks.

🔴 Prelims Pointers

• Important Organisations: ASDMA, National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), NDRF, SDRF, IMD, CWC, NEEPCO.
• Important Rivers: Brahmaputra, Subansiri, Ranganadi (Panyor), Siang, Lohit, Dibang, Jia Bharali.
• Important Concepts: Flash Flood vs. Riverine Flood, Catchment Area, Flood Plain, Early Warning System, Flood Forecasting, River Discharge, Sediment Load.
• Legal Framework: Disaster Management Act, 2005, National/State Disaster Management Plans.

🔴 Mains Pointers

• A. Importance:
  • Human Security: Protects lives and lowers disaster mortality.
  • Economic Stability: Minimises agi/infra damage; ensures trade continuity.
  • Environmental Protection: Conserves ecosystems, curbs land degradation.
  • Cooperative Federalism: Forces required coordination across state borders.
• B. Challenges:
  • Extreme Rainfall: Increasing frequency of intense precipitation.
  • Short Warning Time: Rapid development of flash floods.
  • Fragile Himalayan Terrain: Landslides/debris flows multiply destruction.
  • Riverbank Erosion: Continuous threat along the Brahmaputra basin.
  • Encroachment: Floodplain settlements massively increase vulnerability.
  • Sedimentation: Raises riverbeds, reducing water carrying capacity.
  • Dam Operation Coordination: Critical need for timely water-release data.
• C. Government Initiatives:
  • National Level: Disaster Management Act 2005, National Disaster Management Plan, Flood Management and Border Areas Programme (FMBAP), National Hydrology Project, Dam Safety Act, 2021, IMD impact-based forecasting.
  • Assam: ASDMA, Flood Early Warning Systems, embankment strengthening, community-based preparedness, integrated district/SDRF response.
• D. Way Forward:
  • Strengthen Early Warning Systems: Real-time monitoring, Artificial Intelligence (AI)-based forecasting, and community mobile/satellite alerts.
  • Basin-Level Management: Integrated Brahmaputra planning, upstream catchment treatment, and scientific sediment management.
  • Improve Infrastructure Resilience: Climate-proof roads/bridges, slope stabilization, and flood-resilient public assets.
  • Enhance Interstate Cooperation: Real-time hydro-data sharing between Assam and Arunachal; joint emergency protocols.
  • Community-Based Preparedness: Village disaster committees, mock drills, and optimized flood shelters/evacuation planning.

🔴 Value Addition for GS Answers

• Flash Flood vs. Riverine Flood:
  • Onset: Sudden (develops in hours) vs. Gradual (develops over days).
  • Velocity & Extent: High velocity & localized vs. Slower velocity & large geographical extent.
  • Trigger: Intense rain, cloudburst, dam failure vs. Prolonged rain and river overflow.

🔴 Conclusion

• The June 2026 flash floods underline the hydrological interdependence of Arunachal Pradesh and Assam within the Brahmaputra basin.
• It highlights the urgent need to shift from reactive relief to an integrated river-basin management approach.
• Combining scientific forecasting, strict interstate coordination, resilient infrastructure, ecosystem-based solutions, and community preparedness is paramount to surviving increasingly frequent climate-induced extremes.

Iran Peace Framework and the Role of Gulf Countries

• GS Paper II: International Relations
• GS Paper III: Security | Energy Security

🔴 Introduction

• Diplomatic talks between the United States (US) and Iran in Switzerland have gained momentum, supported by key Gulf nations: United Arab Emirates (UAE), Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman.
• US Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted Gulf partners as indispensable to a sustainable peace framework.
• Core Aims: Reduce regional tensions, revive diplomatic ties, secure maritime lanes, and resolve Iranian nuclear concerns via the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA).
• Status: The process remains fragile due to deep-seated, unresolved structural issues.

🔴 Key Points

• Main Issue: US–Iran peace negotiations and regional de-escalation.
• Key Mediators: UAE, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, Oman, and Switzerland.
• Main Concern: Iran’s nuclear programme and regional security risks.
• International Agency: IAEA.
• US Position: Diplomacy backed by strict verification and regional consultations.
• Iran’s Position: Supports talks but disputes specific inspection modalities.
• Strategic Objective: Long-term regional peace, maritime security, and stability.

🔴 Background

• Tensions have persisted since the 1979 Iranian Revolution, driven by:
  • The Iranian nuclear and missile programmes.
  • US economic sanctions.
  • Regional proxy conflicts and support for armed groups in West Asia.
  • Security vulnerabilities in the Strait of Hormuz.

🔴 Why are Gulf Countries Important?

• 1. Geographic Proximity: Gulf states share immediate maritime boundaries with Iran across the Persian Gulf.
• 2. Strait of Hormuz Chokepoint: Nearly one-fifth of global oil trade and massive Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) exports traverse this chokepoint; conflict threatens global energy prices and shipping.
• 3. Regional Security: Prolonged friction directly jeopardises the infrastructure and economic stability of Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, and Qatar.
• 4. Diplomatic Mediation: Multiple Gulf nations serve as trusted, capable intermediaries between Washington and Tehran.

🔴 Switzerland’s Role

• Acts as a neutral diplomatic facilitator, historical venue for talks, and the Protecting Power representing US interests in Iran.

🔴 Role of the IAEA

• Profile: Established in 1957, headquartered in Vienna, Austria.
• Objective: Promotes peaceful nuclear energy use and verifies that nuclear materials are not diverted for military applications via safeguards/inspections.
• Current Focus: Resuming structured inspections, though the exact timeline and scope remain contested.

🔴 Why is it Important for India?

• 1. Energy Security: Stabilises oil price volatility and prevents supply disruptions from West Asia.
• 2. Indian Diaspora: Safeguards millions of Indian expatriates working in the Gulf and secures consistent remittance inflows.
• 3. Maritime Trade: Protects critical commercial sea lanes connecting India to Europe and West Asia via the Strait of Hormuz.
• 4. Strategic Autonomy: Complements India’s multi-alignment strategy by preserving balanced ties with Iran, Israel, the US, and Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.

🔴 Prelims Pointers

• Important Organisations: IAEA, GCC (Members: Saudi Arabia, UAE, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar), United Nations (UN).
• Geographic Mapping: Strait of Hormuz (connects Persian Gulf to the Gulf of Oman and Arabian Sea). Locate: Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Israel, Switzerland.
• Possible Facts:
  • Strait of Hormuz is the world’s premier oil transit chokepoint.
  • IAEA vs. NPT: IAEA handles field operations (inspections and verification); the Treaty on the Non-Proliferation of Nuclear Weapons (NPT) is the formal international legal treaty preventing weapon proliferation.

🔴 Mains Pointers

• A. Importance:
  • Regional Peace: Replaces military friction with structured diplomacy.
  • Global Energy Security: Prevents shipping bottlenecks and market shocks.
  • Nuclear Non-Proliferation: Empowers the international safeguards regime.
• B. Challenges:
  • Mutual Distrust: Decades of open geopolitical hostility.
  • Nuclear Verification: Disagreements regarding compliance and snap inspections.
  • Regional Proxies & Missiles: Complex security challenges outside the nuclear scope.
  • Domestic Politics: Hardline internal political pressures in both Washington and Tehran.
• C. International Efforts:
  • Application of IAEA safeguards, Swiss facilitation, GCC-led mediation, and UN-supported dispute resolution frameworks.
• D. Way Forward:

• Implement incremental, verifiable Confidence-Building Measures.
• Institutionalise regional security dialogues involving Gulf states.
• Guarantee freedom of navigation in the Strait of Hormuz.
• Resume regular, mutually agreed IAEA monitoring.

🔴 Conclusion

• The evolving framework proves that a durable West Asian peace architecture requires multilateral backing from Gulf states and the IAEA alongside direct US–Iran engagement.
• For India, regional stability is indispensable to its energy matrix, diaspora welfare, and maritime trade.
• Achieving a final, comprehensive deal will demand persistent diplomacy to bridge legacy mistrust and resolve nuclear verification disputes.

National Emergency (1975–1977): The Darkest Chapter of Indian Democracy

• GS Paper I: Post-Independence India | Political Developments after Independence
• GS Paper II: Constitution | Polity | Fundamental Rights | Parliament | Executive | Governance
• GS Paper IV: Ethics | Constitutional Morality | Civil Services Values
• GS Paper V (Assam): Political Developments in Assam | Democratic Movements | Role of Assam during the Emergency

🔴 Introduction

• Proclaimed on the midnight of 25 June 1975 by President Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed under Article 352 on grounds of Internal Disturbance (replaced by Armed Rebellion via the 44th Constitutional Amendment).
• Triggered by political unrest following the Allahabad High Court judgment invalidating Prime Minister Indira Gandhi’s election.
• Lasted until 21 March 1977, marking India’s longest internal emergency.
• Democratic institutions were tested via suspension of Fundamental Rights (FRs), press censorship, preventive detention, and executive concentration of power.
• Assam impact: Opposition leaders, journalists, and student activists were arrested, severely curtailing democratic activities.

🔴 Timeline of Events

• 12 June 1975: Allahabad High Court invalidated Indira Gandhi’s election.
• 24 June 1975: Supreme Court (SC) granted conditional stay.
• 25 June 1975: National Emergency proclaimed.
• 26 June 1975: Press censorship imposed; opposition leaders arrested.
• 1976: 42nd Constitutional Amendment enacted.
• January 1977: General elections announced.
• 21 March 1977: Emergency withdrawn.
• 1978: 44th Constitutional Amendment passed to prevent misuse.

🔴 Key Highlights

• Type of Emergency: Internal Emergency (Article 352).
• Period: 25 June 1975 – 21 March 1977.
• Prime Minister: Indira Gandhi.
• President: Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed.
• Immediate Trigger: Allahabad High Court Judgment.
• Major Impact: Suspension of civil liberties and democratic rights.
• Famous Amendment: 42nd Constitutional Amendment.
• Safeguard Introduced: 44th Constitutional Amendment.

🔴 Constitutional Provisions Related to Emergency

• Article 352 – National Emergency: Declared for War, External Aggression, or Armed Rebellion (formerly Internal Disturbance).
• Article 353 – Effects: Centre gains wider executive powers; Parliament can legislate on State List subjects.
• Article 358: Suspends Article 19 only during War or External Aggression (exempts Armed Rebellion post-44th Amendment).
• Article 359: President may suspend enforcement of specified FRs (except Articles 20 and 21 post-44th Amendment).
• Article 356: President’s Rule in States.
• Article 360: Financial Emergency.

🔴 Why was Emergency Declared?

• Immediate Cause: Allahabad High Court voided Indira Gandhi’s 1971 election due to electoral malpractice.
• Political Situation: Instability fueled by the Jayaprakash (JP) Movement, nationwide protests, and labour/student agitations.
• Government’s Justification: Claimed threats to national security, public order, and economic stability.

🔴 Major Features of the Emergency

• Suspension of Fundamental Rights: Habeas Corpus ineffective; freedoms of speech and assembly restricted; preventive detention spiked.
• Press Censorship: Prior government approval required; criticism strictly censored.
• Preventive Detention: Thousands detained under the Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), 1971.
• Centralisation of Power: Executive dominance overshadowed Parliament; federal balance severely disrupted.
• 42nd Constitutional Amendment (1976): Termed the “Mini Constitution.” Strengthened Parliament, curtailed judicial review, added Socialist, Secular, Integrity to Preamble, and introduced Fundamental Duties (Part IVA).

🔴 Assam During the Emergency

• Widespread arrests of opposition leaders, student activists, and journalists.
• Censorship imposed, protests suppressed, and political workers forced underground.
• Assam Public Service Commission (APSC) Value Addition: Highlights the regional reach of the Emergency, showcasing how local democratic institutions and civil society were impacted, with local activists playing a key role in safeguarding values.

🔴 Landmark Supreme Court Cases

• ADM Jabalpur v. Shivkant Shukla (1976): The “Habeas Corpus Case.” The SC ruled citizens could not seek judicial remedy for unlawful detention during the Emergency (highly criticized).
• Kesavananda Bharati v. State of Kerala (1973): Established the Basic Structure Doctrine; Parliament cannot destroy foundational constitutional features.
• Minerva Mills v. Union of India (1980): Reaffirmed Basic Structure, limited Parliament’s amending power, and invalidated parts of the 42nd Amendment.

🔴 44th Constitutional Amendment (1978)

• Purpose: Enacted to prevent future misuse of Emergency powers.
• Key Changes:
  • Replaced “Internal Disturbance” with Armed Rebellion.
  • Mandated written advice of the Cabinet.
  • Required Parliamentary approval within one month.
  • Mandated special majority for continuation.
  • Ensured Articles 20 and 21 cannot be suspended.
  • Strengthened safeguards against arbitrary proclamations.

🔴 Prelims Pointers

• Articles: 352 (National Emergency), 353 (Effect), 358 (Art 19 Suspension), 359 (FR Enforcement Suspension), 356 (President’s Rule), 360 (Financial Emergency).
• Acts: Maintenance of Internal Security Act (MISA), 1971 (repealed 1978).
• Amendments: 38th, 39th, 42nd, and 44th.
• Personalities: Indira Gandhi, Jayaprakash Narayan, Fakhruddin Ali Ahmed, Justice Jagmohanlal Sinha, Morarji Desai.

🔴 Mains Pointers

• A. Importance:
  • Constitutional: Tested framework resilience and highlighted the need for checks and balances.
  • Democratic: Reinforced the necessity of civil liberties, an independent judiciary, and free media.
  • Political: Led to 1977 electoral accountability and major constitutional reforms.
• B. Challenges Exposed:
  • Executive Overreach: Unchecked executive power.
  • Weak Checks: Diminished Parliamentary oversight.
  • Censorship & Detention: Suppressed information and mass arrests without trial.
  • Judiciary & Federalism: ADM Jabalpur ruling weakened rights; Centre heavily controlled states.
• C. Constitutional Safeguards Introduced: The 44th Amendment ensured stricter Parliamentary approval, written Cabinet advice, enhanced judicial scrutiny, and protected Articles 20/21.
• D. Lessons for Indian Democracy: Constitutional morality outweighs political expediency. Free press, independent judiciary, and civil society are non-negotiable for democratic resilience.
• E. Way Forward: Strengthen institutions and judicial independence, protect media freedom, promote constitutional literacy, review emergency laws periodically, and foster a culture of accountability and fundamental rights.

🔴 Committees, Reports & Value Addition

• Shah Commission (1977): Set up by the Janata Government to investigate Emergency-era abuses.
• Basic Structure Doctrine: The ultimate shield against arbitrary constitutional tampering.
• Constitutional Morality: A principle frequently cited by the SC as the bedrock for preserving democracy.

🔴 Conclusion

The 1975–77 Emergency showcased the immense power of the State and the severe dangers of unchecked executive authority. However, subsequent reforms, primarily the 44th Constitutional Amendment, reinforced democratic primacy, the rule of law, and fundamental rights. Remembering this era serves as a crucial deterrent against future constitutional excesses and a reminder to fiercely protect democratic values.

APSC Prelims MCQs

Q1. With reference to Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), consider the following statements:

1. BESS can store excess electricity generated from renewable sources for later use.
2. BESS helps in maintaining grid frequency and stability.
3. Utility-scale BESS can only be installed alongside hydroelectric projects.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

• Statement 1 is correct.
• Statement 2 is correct.
• Statement 3 is incorrect. BESS can be integrated with solar, wind, thermal and transmission networks.

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Q2. Consider the following regarding the UK PACT Programme:

1. It is funded through the UK’s International Climate Finance.
2. It supports low-carbon transitions in partner countries.
3. It is implemented by the International Energy Agency.

Which of the statements given above 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:

UK PACT is funded by the UK International Climate Finance (ICF) to support climate transitions. It is not implemented by the International Energy Agency.

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Q3. Which one of the following best explains the term “Grid Flexibility”?

A. Ability of power grids to generate only renewable electricity

B. Ability of the electricity system to balance changing supply and demand

C. Complete replacement of thermal power plants

D. Inter-state transfer of electricity without transmission lines

Answer: B

Explanation:

Grid flexibility refers to the capability of the electricity system to balance variable demand and supply while maintaining reliability.

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Q4. With reference to Flash Floods, consider the following statements:

1. Flash floods generally develop within a few hours after intense rainfall.
2. Flash floods usually have higher flow velocity than riverine floods.
3. Flash floods occur only in mountainous regions.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

Flash floods develop rapidly and move with high velocity. They can also occur in urban and plain areas due to cloudbursts or poor drainage.

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Q5. Which of the following rivers originate in Arunachal Pradesh and significantly influence flood conditions in Assam?

1. Dibang
2. Lohit
3. Subansiri
4. Mahanadi

Select the correct answer using the code 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:

Dibang, Lohit and Subansiri originate in Arunachal Pradesh. Mahanadi does not.

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Q6. Consider the following organizations:

1. National Disaster Response Force (NDRF)
2. State Disaster Response Force (SDRF)
3. Assam State Disaster Management Authority (ASDMA)

Which of the above play a role in disaster management?

A. 1 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Explanation:

All three are integral components of India’s disaster management framework.

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Q7. With reference to the Strait of Hormuz, consider the following statements:

1. It connects the Persian Gulf with the Gulf of Oman.
2. It is one of the world’s most important oil transit chokepoints.
3. It lies between Iran and Oman.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Explanation:

All three statements are correct.

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Q8. The International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) primarily aims to:

A. Promote nuclear disarmament through military inspections only

B. Promote peaceful uses of nuclear energy while ensuring safeguards against military diversion

C. Regulate global oil markets

D. Monitor international climate agreements

Answer: B

Explanation:

IAEA promotes peaceful nuclear energy and verifies compliance through safeguards and inspections.

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Q9. Which of the following countries are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC)?

1. Bahrain
2. Kuwait
3. Iran
4. Oman

Select the correct answer using the code below.

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 1, 2 and 4 only

C. 2, 3 and 4 only

D. 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: B

Explanation:

Iran is not a member of the GCC.

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Q10. With reference to the National Emergency declared in 1975, consider the following statements:

1. It was proclaimed under Article 352.
2. It was declared on the ground of Internal Disturbance.
3. It continued until March 1977.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 and 3 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: D

Explanation:

All three statements are correct.

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Q11. Which one of the following Constitutional Amendments replaced the expression “Internal Disturbance” with “Armed Rebellion” in Article 352?

A. 38th Constitutional Amendment

B. 42nd Constitutional Amendment

C. 44th Constitutional Amendment

D. 52nd Constitutional Amendment

Answer: C

Explanation:

The 44th Constitutional Amendment (1978) introduced this safeguard.

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Q12. With reference to Article 359 of the Constitution, consider the following statements:

1. It empowers the President to suspend the enforcement of specified Fundamental Rights during a National Emergency.
2. After the 44th Constitutional Amendment, Articles 20 and 21 cannot be suspended.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 only

B. 2 only

C. Both 1 and 2

D. Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Explanation:

Both statements correctly describe Article 359 after the 44th Amendment.

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Q13. Consider the following pairs:

Case	Principle Established
1. Kesavananda Bharati	Basic Structure Doctrine
2. ADM Jabalpur	Expanded protection of personal liberty during Emergency
3. Minerva Mills	Limited Parliament’s amending power

How many of the above pairs are correctly matched?

A. Only one

B. Only two

C. All three

D. None

Answer: B

Explanation:

Pair 1 and Pair 3 are correct. ADM Jabalpur is known for restricting, not expanding, protection of personal liberty during the Emergency.

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Q14. Which of the following statements best explains the significance of the 44th Constitutional Amendment?

A. It abolished preventive detention laws.

B. It strengthened safeguards against the misuse of Emergency provisions.

C. It removed Fundamental Duties.

D. It introduced the Basic Structure Doctrine.

Answer: B

Explanation:

The 44th Amendment strengthened constitutional safeguards against arbitrary proclamation and continuation of National Emergency.

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Q15. Consider the following statements:

1. Energy security, disaster resilience and democratic governance are all important dimensions of national security.
2. Climate-induced disasters can directly affect critical infrastructure and energy systems.
3. Constitutional governance and disaster management have no relevance to sustainable development.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

A. 1 and 2 only

B. 2 and 3 only

C. 1 only

D. 1, 2 and 3

Answer: A

Explanation:

Statements 1 and 2 are correct. Statement 3 is incorrect because constitutional governance and effective disaster management are essential for sustainable development.

APSC Mains Practice Question

📘 GS Mains Model Question (APSC CCE)

📝 Question

Q. “The National Emergency (1975–77) exposed vulnerabilities in India’s constitutional framework but also led to significant democratic and constitutional reforms.” Critically examine. (15 Marks, 250 Words)

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Model Answer

Introduction (2–3 lines)

The National Emergency (1975–77), proclaimed under Article 352 on the ground of Internal Disturbance, was one of the most controversial phases in independent India’s history. While it revealed the susceptibility of democratic institutions to executive overreach, it also prompted reforms that strengthened constitutional safeguards.

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Body

I. Constitutional and Democratic Vulnerabilities Exposed

1. Executive Overreach

• Concentration of power in the executive.
• Reduced parliamentary scrutiny.
• Weakening of federal principles.

2. Curtailment of Fundamental Rights

• Suspension of civil liberties under Articles 358 and 359.
• Preventive detention under MISA.
• Restrictions on freedom of speech and assembly.

3. Weak Institutional Checks

• Press censorship reduced transparency.
• ADM Jabalpur (1976) weakened judicial protection of personal liberty.
• Limited accountability mechanisms.

4. Impact on Democratic Culture

• Suppression of political opposition.
• Restrictions on civil society and public dissent.
• Erosion of citizens’ trust in institutions.

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II. Constitutional and Democratic Reforms After the Emergency

1. 44th Constitutional Amendment (1978)

• Replaced “Internal Disturbance” with “Armed Rebellion” in Article 352.
• Made written Cabinet advice mandatory.
• Required parliamentary approval by a special majority.
• Protected Articles 20 and 21 even during an Emergency.

2. Strengthening Judicial Review

• Minerva Mills (1980) reaffirmed the Basic Structure Doctrine.
• Reinforced constitutional limitations on Parliament’s amending power.

3. Greater Institutional Accountability

• Shah Commission examined excesses committed during the Emergency.
• Renewed emphasis on judicial independence and media freedom.

4. Strengthened Democratic Consciousness

• The 1977 General Election demonstrated peaceful democratic accountability.
• Increased public awareness of constitutional rights and civil liberties.

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Conclusion (2–3 lines)

The Emergency remains a defining constitutional lesson for India. It demonstrated that constitutional safeguards alone are insufficient without institutional integrity and constitutional morality. The post-Emergency reforms, particularly the 44th Constitutional Amendment and judicial reaffirmation of the Basic Structure Doctrine, have significantly strengthened India’s democratic resilience.

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