APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (12/08/2025)
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 (12-08-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
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🏞️ Assam to Launch “Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority”
📘 GS Paper 3: Environment | Disaster Management | Water Resources
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Inter-State Relations
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Flood & Erosion Management | Riverine Ecosystems
🔹 Introduction
The Government of Assam has announced the creation of a Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority (BRBMA) to address recurring floods, erosion, and ecological degradation in the Brahmaputra basin. The authority will adopt a holistic, basin-wide approach involving multiple states and agencies.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Jurisdiction | Entire Assam stretch of the Brahmaputra and key tributaries. |
| Mandate | Integrated flood management, erosion control, river navigation, biodiversity conservation. |
| Approach | Multi-disciplinary: hydrology, ecology, engineering, and social impact assessment. |
| Coordination | Collaboration with Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, and Bhutan for upstream planning. |
| Funding | State govt, central schemes (e.g., Flood Management Programme), international agencies. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Brahmaputra River: Origin – Tibet (Yarlung Tsangpo), length ~2,900 km; enters India at Arunachal Pradesh (Siang River).
Flood Management Programme (FMP): Centrally sponsored scheme under Ministry of Jal Shakti.
Riparian States: Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Meghalaya, West Bengal (India) + cross-border with China and Bangladesh.
Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM): Global best practice in water governance.
National Waterways in Assam: NW-2 (Brahmaputra) & NW-16 (Barak).
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Flood & Erosion Mitigation – Brahmaputra floods displace millions annually; erosion affects agricultural land.
Disaster Preparedness – Predictive modelling for flood alerts and evacuation.
Navigation & Trade – Potential for inland water transport to NE and Bangladesh.
Biodiversity Conservation – Protects species like Gangetic dolphin, migratory birds.
Inter-State Cooperation – Joint water management with upstream states reduces flood peaks.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Siltation & River Dynamics | Brahmaputra’s high sediment load causes frequent channel shifts. |
| Institutional Overlap | Multiple agencies like WRD, IWAI, Disaster Management already working in silos. |
| Funding & Maintenance | Large-scale infrastructure and continuous dredging are costly. |
| International Coordination | Water-sharing issues with China and Bangladesh. |
| Climate Change Impact | Increased glacial melt and erratic monsoon intensify floods. |
C. Govt Initiatives
National Flood Control Programme – Ongoing since 1954.
Assam State Water Policy 2022 – Focus on basin-wide planning.
NITI Aayog’s Brahmaputra Basin Study – Suggests multi-sectoral management.
India-Bangladesh Inland Waterway Protocol – Enhances cross-border navigation.
D. Way Ahead
Real-Time River Monitoring – Install river gauges and satellite-linked sensors.
Community-Based Flood Management – Training local volunteers for rescue operations.
Sustainable Engineering – Use bioengineering and river training structures.
Diplomatic Engagement – Strengthen water cooperation with upstream and downstream countries.
🧩 Conclusion
The creation of the BRBMA signals a paradigm shift from piecemeal flood control to integrated river basin management in Assam. With sustained funding, interstate collaboration, and community participation, it can turn the Brahmaputra from a source of disaster into a driver of sustainable development.
🚉 Northeast Frontier Railway to Electrify Entire Assam Rail Network by 2030
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure | Energy | Environment
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies & Interventions
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Transport Development in Assam | Regional Connectivity
🔹 Introduction
The Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR) has set a target to fully electrify Assam’s rail network by 2030, aligning with Indian Railways’ mission to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2035. The move aims to reduce fuel costs, enhance efficiency, and promote sustainable transport in the North-East.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Current Electrification Status | Partial — Guwahati–Rangiya section electrified; ongoing work in key corridors. |
| Goal Year | 2030 for Assam; 2035 for entire Indian Railways net-zero target. |
| Benefits | Lower operational costs, reduced carbon footprint, improved train speeds. |
| Technology | 25 kV AC overhead lines, regenerative braking systems in locomotives. |
| Funding | Central budgetary allocation + green energy financing. |
| Coverage | All major lines including Guwahati–Dibrugarh, Lumding–Silchar, and Rangiya–Murkongselek. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Northeast Frontier Railway (NFR): One of 18 railway zones in India; HQ – Maligaon, Guwahati.
25 kV AC Electrification: Standard in Indian Railways for mainline routes.
Net Zero by 2035: Indian Railways aims to be the world’s largest green railway network.
Regenerative Braking: Converts kinetic energy back to electrical energy, saving power.
Mission Electrification: Railway Board’s plan to electrify 100% broad gauge routes.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Environmental Gains – Reduces diesel use and greenhouse gas emissions.
Economic Benefits – Lower fuel costs improve railway finances.
Operational Efficiency – Electric locomotives offer higher speeds and load capacity.
Regional Integration – Boosts connectivity within NE and with rest of India.
Support for Freight Corridors – Enhances transport of tea, coal, and agricultural products.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Terrain Complexity | Hilly areas and bridges require customised engineering solutions. |
| Monsoon Impact | Floods and landslides may delay construction. |
| Power Supply Reliability | Continuous high-voltage supply needed; may strain state grids. |
| Funding Needs | Electrification of remote lines requires large investment. |
| Land Acquisition | For traction substations and maintenance depots. |
C. Govt Initiatives
Mission 100% Electrification – All broad-gauge routes targeted by 2030.
National Electric Mobility Mission Plan (NEMMP) – Synergy with renewable-powered transport.
Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFC) – Although not in NE yet, electrification preps region for integration.
Renewable Energy Integration – Solar and wind energy for traction power in some zones.
D. Way Ahead
Renewable Energy Sourcing – Set up solar plants along railway land.
Public–Private Partnerships – Attract investment for faster electrification.
Skill Development – Train workforce for OHE (Overhead Equipment) installation and maintenance.
Synchronised Grid Upgrades – Coordinate with Assam Power Distribution Company Ltd (APDCL).
🧩 Conclusion
Railway electrification in Assam is a strategic move towards sustainable infrastructure, reducing carbon emissions while improving economic and operational efficiency. Timely completion and integration with renewable energy will make Assam a model for green transport in the North-East.
🛡️ Assam to Strengthen Indo-Bangladesh Border Fencing with Smart Surveillance
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Border Management
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Centre–State Relations
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Border Issues and Security Challenges
🔹 Introduction
The Assam government, in coordination with the Border Security Force (BSF) and the Ministry of Home Affairs, has decided to upgrade border fencing along the Indo-Bangladesh boundary with smart surveillance technologies to curb illegal infiltration, smuggling, and cross-border crimes.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Border Length in Assam | ~263 km (part of India’s 4,096 km border with Bangladesh). |
| Upgrade Plan | Replace damaged fencing, add flood-resilient structures, and deploy sensors. |
| Smart Surveillance | CCTV, thermal imagers, ground sensors, and drone-based monitoring. |
| High-Risk Zones | Dhubri sector (riverine border), Karimganj and South Salmara-Mankachar districts. |
| Implementing Agencies | BSF, Assam Police, PWD (Border Roads). |
| Objective | Strengthen security, reduce illegal migration, and protect local livelihoods. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Indo-Bangladesh Border (IBB): Longest international boundary India shares with any country.
Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS): MHA initiative for tech-enabled borders.
Riverine Border Security: Special floating Border Outposts (BOPs) in Dhubri.
Assam Accord (1985): Agreement to detect and deport illegal migrants.
‘Smart Fence’ Pilot: Installed along Jammu’s international border.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Curbing Illegal Migration – Addresses demographic and socio-political concerns.
Anti-Smuggling Operations – Prevents cattle, narcotics, and arms smuggling.
Law & Order Stability – Reduces communal tensions linked to infiltration.
Economic Security – Protects local jobs and resources from illicit activities.
National Security – Stops possible infiltration of extremist elements.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Riverine Terrain | Difficult to fence and patrol; prone to seasonal flooding. |
| Cross-Border Ties | Local communities often have family connections across the border. |
| Climate Vulnerability | Fencing damage due to erosion and storms. |
| Technological Maintenance | High upkeep cost for electronic systems in humid environments. |
| Human Rights Concerns | Risk of excessive force or restrictions on legitimate movement. |
C. Govt Initiatives
CIBMS – Integrates tech like infrared sensors, laser barriers.
Floating BOPs – Specialised boats for patrolling riverine stretches.
Border Infrastructure Development Programme (BIDP) – Improves roads and outposts.
Bharat Drone Shakti – Induction of drones for security monitoring.
D. Way Ahead
Hybrid Border Security – Combine fencing with high-tech surveillance.
Community Policing – Engage border villagers for intelligence sharing.
Flood-Resilient Infrastructure – Elevated fencing in flood-prone areas.
Bilateral Cooperation – Strengthen ties with Bangladesh’s Border Guard (BGB) for joint operations.
🧩 Conclusion
Upgrading Assam’s Indo-Bangladesh border security with smart surveillance is a strategic step to balance physical barriers with advanced monitoring systems, ensuring national security while adapting to the region’s unique terrain and socio-political sensitivities.
🌱 Assam Launches ‘Organic Assam Mission 2030’ to Boost Organic Farming
📘 GS Paper 3: Agriculture | Environment | Sustainable Development
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies & Interventions | Rural Development
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Agriculture in Assam | Rural Economy
🔹 Introduction
The Government of Assam has rolled out the ‘Organic Assam Mission 2030’, a comprehensive plan to convert 10 lakh hectares into certified organic farmland by 2030. The mission aligns with India’s push for sustainable agriculture and caters to the growing domestic and global demand for chemical-free produce.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Target Area | 10 lakh hectares by 2030. |
| Crops in Focus | Tea, rice, horticultural crops, spices, pulses. |
| Certification | Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) and third-party certification. |
| Support Mechanisms | Subsidies for organic inputs, training, market linkages. |
| Export Potential | Especially in organic tea and spices for EU, US, and Middle-East markets. |
| Nodal Agency | Assam Agriculture Department with APEDA coordination. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Participatory Guarantee System (PGS): Decentralised organic certification system under PGS-India programme.
APEDA: Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority – promotes organic exports.
Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER): Central scheme promoting organic farming in NE states.
IFOAM: International Federation of Organic Agriculture Movements – sets global organic standards.
Organic Tea in Assam: Recognised as a premium export commodity.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Environmental Benefits – Reduces chemical runoff into rivers like Brahmaputra.
Soil Health – Promotes biodiversity and long-term productivity.
Market Premium – Organic products fetch higher prices in global markets.
Employment Generation – Encourages agro-based entrepreneurship.
Branding – Positions Assam as a leader in organic tea and spice production.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Yield Gap | Organic yields may initially be lower than conventional farming. |
| Certification Costs | Expensive and time-consuming for small farmers. |
| Market Access | Need for stable domestic and export buyers. |
| Pest Management | Limited availability of effective organic pest-control methods. |
| Farmer Awareness | Requires large-scale training and handholding. |
C. Govt Initiatives
MOVCDNER – Financial assistance for inputs, certification, and marketing.
Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY) – Promotes organic farming through cluster approach.
State Organic Policy 2023 – Framework for certification, branding, and export facilitation.
Organic Tea Promotion Scheme – Incentives for transitioning tea gardens.
D. Way Ahead
Cluster-Based Implementation – Form organic farmer producer organisations (FPOs).
Integrated Pest Management (IPM) – Develop NE-specific organic solutions.
Processing Infrastructure – Establish organic processing and packaging hubs.
Brand ‘Organic Assam’ – Global marketing with GI tagging for select crops.
Public–Private Partnerships – Collaborations with organic food companies.
🧩 Conclusion
The Organic Assam Mission 2030 can transform the state into a green agriculture hub, ensuring environmental sustainability, better incomes for farmers, and a strong global presence in premium organic markets — provided the transition is supported by robust infrastructure, market access, and farmer training.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority (BRBMA)
Q1. With reference to Integrated River Basin Management (IRBM), consider the following statements:
- IRBM focuses on managing water, land, and related resources in a coordinated manner across an entire river basin.
- It requires cooperation between only the states located in the lower reaches of the river.
- The Brahmaputra River Basin in India is shared only between Assam and Arunachal Pradesh.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: A
Explanation: IRBM involves upstream and downstream coordination; Brahmaputra flows through Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and other NE states, not only Assam and Arunachal.
Q2. The Brahmaputra River is designated as which National Waterway in India?
A. NW-1
B. NW-2
C. NW-4
D. NW-16
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: NW-2 covers the Brahmaputra from Dhubri to Sadiya.
2. Northeast Frontier Railway Electrification
Q3. Which of the following are advantages of railway electrification over diesel traction?
- Lower greenhouse gas emissions.
- Greater hauling capacity and speed.
- Lower dependence on imported fuel.
- Reduced maintenance cost of locomotives.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2, 3 and 4
✅ Answer: D
Explanation: All listed benefits apply to electrified railways.
Q4. Which one of the following is the standard traction voltage used for mainline electrification in Indian Railways?
A. 3 kV DC
B. 15 kV AC
C. 25 kV AC
D. 50 kV AC
✅ Answer: C
Explanation: Indian Railways uses 25 kV AC for mainline routes.
3. Indo-Bangladesh Border Fencing with Smart Surveillance
Q5. Consider the following with reference to India’s borders:
- The Indo-Bangladesh border is India’s longest international boundary.
- The Comprehensive Integrated Border Management System (CIBMS) uses laser fences, infrared sensors, and drones.
- Assam shares a border with Bangladesh entirely through land routes.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: A
Explanation: Assam’s border with Bangladesh includes riverine stretches, especially in Dhubri sector.
Q6. Match the following Indo-Bangladesh border sectors in Assam with their key features:
| Sector | Feature |
| 1. Dhubri | A. Riverine stretch with floating BOPs |
| 2. Karimganj | B. Land-based border with tea plantations |
| 3. South Salmara-Mankachar | C. Vulnerable to erosion and infiltration |
Correct Match:
A. 1-A, 2-B, 3-C ✅
4. Organic Assam Mission 2030
Q7. Which of the following are part of India’s organic farming promotion schemes?
- Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana (PKVY)
- Mission Organic Value Chain Development for North Eastern Region (MOVCDNER)
- National Project on Organic Farming (NPOF)
Select the correct answer using the code below:
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 schemes promote organic farming through different approaches.
Q8. The Participatory Guarantee System (PGS) in India is:
A. A centralised export certification system managed by APEDA.
B. A decentralised, peer-review-based organic certification mechanism.
C. A blockchain-based agricultural transaction monitoring system.
D. A crop insurance programme for organic farmers.
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: PGS is a decentralised organic certification method under the PGS-India programme.
APSC Mains Practice Question
GS Paper 3 – Environment | Disaster Management | Water Resources
(Also relevant to GS Paper 2 – Governance & GS Paper 5 – Assam Specific)
Q. Discuss the significance of establishing the Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority for Assam. Highlight the challenges it may face and suggest measures for effective functioning.
Introduction
The Brahmaputra River, one of the world’s largest braided river systems, sustains millions in Assam but also causes devastating floods and erosion annually. In 2025, the Assam Government proposed the creation of the Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority (BRBMA) to implement an integrated, multi-sectoral strategy for managing water resources, controlling floods, and preserving biodiversity in the basin.
Significance for Assam
- Integrated Flood & Erosion Control
- Moves beyond embankment-based flood control to basin-wide planning.
- Biodiversity Conservation
- Protects unique aquatic life such as the Gangetic dolphin, riverine birds, and wetlands like Majuli.
- Economic Potential
- Improves navigation (NW-2) and boosts river-based trade with Bangladesh.
- Inter-State & International Coordination
- Facilitates cooperation with Arunachal Pradesh, Meghalaya, Bhutan, and Bangladesh on water sharing.
- Climate Resilience
- Prepares adaptive strategies for glacial melt and extreme rainfall due to climate change.
Challenges
| Challenge | Details |
| River Morphology Changes | High silt load causes frequent course shifts, affecting infrastructure. |
| Institutional Overlap | Existing agencies like WRD, IWAI, and disaster management operate in silos. |
| Funding Constraints | Large-scale dredging, embankments, and monitoring require sustained investment. |
| Upstream Data Sharing | Need for cooperation with China and Bhutan for hydrological data. |
| Community Displacement | Flood management projects may lead to relocation issues. |
Government & Policy Context
- National Flood Control Programme (1954) – Early flood control schemes.
- Assam State Water Policy 2022 – Emphasises integrated river basin management.
- NITI Aayog’s Brahmaputra Study – Recommends multi-sectoral planning for the basin.
- India-Bangladesh Inland Water Transit Protocol – Enhances navigation cooperation.
Way Forward
- Real-Time Monitoring – Install satellite-linked hydrological sensors along the basin.
- Sustainable Engineering – Promote bioengineering solutions like vetiver grass plantations.
- Community Participation – Include local knowledge in flood preparedness and embankment maintenance.
- Cross-Border Cooperation – Strengthen hydro-data sharing with upstream countries.
- Dedicated Funding Mechanism – Establish a Brahmaputra Management Fund for long-term projects.
Conclusion
The proposed Brahmaputra River Basin Management Authority represents a paradigm shift from reactive flood control to proactive, integrated river basin governance. With adequate resources, stakeholder collaboration, and a science-driven approach, it can turn the Brahmaputra from a perennial source of disaster into a driver of ecological balance and sustainable development in Assam.
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