APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (13/08/2025)
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 (13-08-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
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🛰️ ISRO to Set Up Space Technology Incubation Centre in Assam
📘 GS Paper 3: Science & Technology | Innovation | Space
📘 GS Paper 2: Government Policies & Interventions | Centre–State Collaboration
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Science & Technology Development in Assam
🔹 Introduction
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has announced plans to establish a Space Technology Incubation Centre (S-TIC) in Assam to foster innovation, research, and startups in the field of space technology. This is part of ISRO’s mission to expand space research capacities in North-East India and encourage local talent to develop applications relevant to agriculture, disaster management, and communication.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Location | To be hosted in collaboration with a leading Assam-based university/institute. |
| Objective | Promote R&D in space tech for regional needs – flood mapping, agriculture monitoring, navigation. |
| Beneficiaries | Students, startups, research scholars from NE states. |
| Funding | ISRO + State Government + possible CSR support. |
| Technology Domains | Satellite payload design, geospatial applications, remote sensing tools, and AI-based space solutions. |
| Integration | Linked with national missions like Gaganyaan, Chandrayaan, and Cartosat series. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
S-TICs: Already functional in NITs at Agartala, Bhopal, Jalandhar, etc. to decentralise innovation.
NRSC (National Remote Sensing Centre): ISRO centre for satellite data utilisation.
Cartosat Series: Indian earth observation satellites for mapping and GIS.
Gaganyaan Mission: India’s first human spaceflight programme.
Bhuvan Portal: ISRO’s geospatial data platform.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Disaster Management – Space-based flood and erosion mapping can improve response in Brahmaputra basin.
Agricultural Productivity – Use of satellite imagery for crop health monitoring and precision farming.
Capacity Building – Encourages skill development in high-tech domains among NE youth.
Startup Ecosystem – Opens opportunities for space-tech entrepreneurship.
Strategic Presence – Enhances India’s ability to integrate NE in space missions and national security.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Infrastructure Readiness | Need for advanced labs, testing facilities, and skilled mentors. |
| Talent Retention | Brain drain risk if jobs not created locally. |
| Funding Sustainability | Long-term support needed for research projects. |
| Industry Linkages | NE has fewer aerospace/space-tech companies for collaboration. |
C. Govt & ISRO Initiatives
ISRO’s Regional Academic Centres for Space (RAC-S) – Similar centres in other states.
India’s Space Policy 2023 – Encourages private participation in space sector.
PM Gati Shakti – Geospatial tech integration for infrastructure planning.
Digital India Bhashini – Language tech integration in satellite-based communication.
D. Way Ahead
Public–Private–Academic Partnerships – Collaborate with global and Indian space companies.
Skill Development Programmes – Satellite design and data analytics training in NE universities.
Research Grants – Encourage innovative applications for local problems.
International Collaboration – Joint projects with agencies like NASA, ESA, and JAXA focusing on NE region challenges.
🧩 Conclusion
The establishment of a Space Technology Incubation Centre in Assam marks a strategic leap for North-East India’s integration into India’s high-tech and space ecosystem. If nurtured well, it can transform Assam into a hub for innovation-driven development, disaster resilience, and youth entrepreneurship in the space domain.
🌾 Assam Signs MoU with Israel for Advanced Agricultural Practices
📘 GS Paper 3: Agriculture | Technology in Farming | International Cooperation
📘 GS Paper 2: Bilateral Relations | Government Policies & Interventions
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Agriculture & Rural Economy in Assam
🔹 Introduction
The Assam Government has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Israel to implement advanced agricultural technologies in irrigation, crop diversification, and post-harvest management. This partnership is part of India–Israel agricultural cooperation, focusing on water efficiency, precision farming, and horticulture — crucial for Assam’s flood-prone yet agriculturally rich landscape.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| MoU Partners | Assam Agriculture Department & Israel’s Agency for International Development Cooperation (MASHAV). |
| Focus Areas | Micro-irrigation, protected cultivation (greenhouses), horticulture, high-value crops. |
| Pilot Projects | Model farms in Kamrup, Jorhat, and Cachar districts. |
| Technology Transfer | Drip irrigation, fertigation, soil moisture sensors. |
| Farmer Training | Exposure visits and workshops with Israeli experts. |
| Long-Term Goal | Increase productivity, reduce water wastage, and create export-ready produce. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
MASHAV: Israel’s development cooperation agency under its Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Fertigation: Application of fertilisers through irrigation systems.
Centre of Excellence (CoE): Indo-Israel model farms already operational in states like Haryana and Karnataka.
Precision Agriculture: Farming based on data from sensors, satellites, and automation.
Israel’s Agriculture Model: Known for high yields in arid and water-scarce conditions.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Water Use Efficiency – Drip irrigation crucial for waterlogged and drought-prone pockets.
Crop Diversification – Encourages shift from low-value to high-value crops like vegetables, spices, and flowers.
Post-Harvest Management – Reduces losses through better storage and cold chain facilities.
Employment Generation – Value addition and agri-processing units in rural areas.
Export Potential – Quality produce for domestic and international markets.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Cost of Technology | Small farmers may find drip systems and greenhouses expensive. |
| Skill Gap | Training needed for efficient use of new tech. |
| Climate Variability | Floods and erratic rainfall may affect technology adoption. |
| Market Linkages | Need assured buyers for high-value crops. |
C. Govt Initiatives
PM Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) – Supports micro-irrigation adoption.
Mission for Integrated Development of Horticulture (MIDH) – Promotes protected cultivation.
MOVCDNER – Supports organic horticulture in NE states.
APEDA – Facilitates export of agri-produce.
D. Way Ahead
Cluster-Based Approach – Develop concentrated high-tech farming zones.
Credit Support – Low-interest loans/subsidies for technology adoption.
Integration with FPOs – Strengthen collective marketing.
Local R&D – Adapt Israeli tech to Assam’s climatic and soil conditions.
🧩 Conclusion
The MoU between Assam and Israel signifies a transformative step towards modern, efficient, and export-oriented agriculture. By blending Israel’s expertise in precision farming with Assam’s fertile landscape, the partnership can create a resilient and profitable agricultural sector, provided technology access and market linkages are ensured.
🚢 India–Bangladesh Inland Water Connectivity Boost via Assam
📘 GS Paper 2: International Relations | India & Neighbourhood
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure | Inland Waterways | Trade
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Transport & Connectivity in Assam
🔹 Introduction
India and Bangladesh have agreed to expand and modernise inland water connectivity through Assam, aiming to enhance cross-border trade, tourism, and cultural exchange. The agreement strengthens the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT) and leverages Assam’s strategic location along the Brahmaputra–Barak river systems.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Primary Waterways | National Waterway-2 (Brahmaputra) & National Waterway-16 (Barak). |
| New Routes | Extension of Dhubri–Chilmari route; Silchar–Karimganj–Zakiganj corridor. |
| Infrastructure Upgrades | Modern terminals, dredging for navigability, and installation of navigational aids. |
| Cargo Potential | Tea, coal, bamboo, agricultural produce, and consumer goods. |
| Strategic Advantage | Reduces road congestion and lowers transport costs. |
| Cultural Linkages | Facilitates river cruise tourism between Assam and Bangladesh. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
National Waterway-2 (NW-2): Brahmaputra from Dhubri to Sadiya.
National Waterway-16 (NW-16): Barak River from Lakhipur to Bhanga.
PIWTT: Bilateral framework between India and Bangladesh for inland water trade and transit, first signed in 1972.
Kaladan Multimodal Project: Similar connectivity initiative with Myanmar.
IWAI (Inland Waterways Authority of India): Nodal body for development and regulation of inland waterways.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Economic Boost – Improves export potential for tea, horticulture, and handicrafts.
Regional Integration – Links NE India with Bay of Bengal via Bangladesh ports.
Sustainable Transport – Inland waterways are energy-efficient and less polluting than road transport.
Tourism Growth – River cruises and heritage tourism can flourish.
Strategic Leverage – Enhances India’s connectivity with ASEAN through Bangladesh.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Siltation | Brahmaputra’s high sediment load affects navigability. |
| Seasonal Fluctuations | Monsoon floods and winter low-water periods hinder operations. |
| Security Concerns | Smuggling and illegal crossings possible along river routes. |
| Coordination Issues | Need alignment between multiple agencies in both countries. |
C. Govt Initiatives
Jal Marg Vikas Project – Modernises inland water infrastructure.
Sagarmala Programme – Integrates ports with inland waterways.
India–Bangladesh Coordinated Patrols – Enhances security along riverine borders.
Assam Inland Water Transport Project (AIWTP) – World Bank-assisted project to modernise ferries and terminals.
D. Way Ahead
River Training Works – Regular dredging and channel marking.
Smart Ports – Use digital systems for cargo tracking and customs clearance.
PPP Model – Involve private operators for cruise and cargo services.
Climate Adaptation – Infrastructure resilient to floods and storms.
🧩 Conclusion
The expansion of inland water connectivity between India and Bangladesh through Assam represents a strategic convergence of trade, diplomacy, and sustainable transport. If backed by robust infrastructure, navigational safety, and cross-border cooperation, it can transform Assam into a hub of river-based commerce and tourism in the region.
🏞️ Kaziranga to Get India’s First Climate-Resilient Safari Zone
📘 GS Paper 3: Environment | Biodiversity Conservation | Climate Change Adaptation
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Wildlife & Biodiversity in Assam
🔹 Introduction
The Assam Government has announced the establishment of India’s first climate-resilient safari zone in Kaziranga National Park, aiming to safeguard tourism and biodiversity against the impacts of climate change. This initiative integrates eco-tourism with climate adaptation measures, ensuring year-round visitor access while protecting the park’s ecology.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Buffer zone of Kaziranga National Park. |
| Objective | Adapt tourism and park management to climate variability (floods, droughts, heat stress). |
| Features | Elevated safari tracks, climate-proof shelters, solar-powered facilities, and wildlife corridors. |
| Biodiversity Protection | Protects flagship species like one-horned rhinoceros, swamp deer, and migratory birds. |
| Tourism Impact | Ensures continuity of eco-tourism even during seasonal floods. |
| Funding | State Govt + Central eco-tourism schemes + CSR funding. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
Kaziranga National Park: UNESCO World Heritage Site, located in Assam, known for highest density of one-horned rhinoceroses.
Eco-Sensitive Zone (ESZ): Notified area around protected areas to regulate developmental activities.
Climate-Resilient Infrastructure: Infrastructure designed to withstand climate extremes.
Project Tiger & Project Elephant: Centrally sponsored conservation schemes active in Kaziranga landscape.
Ramsar Site: Nearby Deepor Beel is a Ramsar wetland.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam
Conservation Leadership – First in India to blend climate adaptation with wildlife tourism.
Tourism Revenue – Protects livelihood of communities dependent on tourism.
Disaster Resilience – Infrastructure withstands Brahmaputra flood impacts.
Wildlife Safety – Ensures safe corridors during floods and heat waves.
Branding – Positions Kaziranga as a global model for climate-resilient eco-tourism.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Ecological Disturbance | Tourism development must avoid habitat fragmentation. |
| Funding Sustainability | Long-term maintenance of climate-resilient infrastructure. |
| Community Involvement | Need for inclusive benefit-sharing with locals. |
| Monitoring Impact | Regular ecological impact assessments required. |
C. Govt Initiatives
National Mission on Himalayan Studies (NMHS) – Supports climate adaptation in biodiversity hotspots.
Integrated Development of Wildlife Habitats (IDWH) – Funds for eco-tourism infrastructure.
State Eco-Tourism Policy – Assam’s framework for sustainable tourism.
Green Skill Development Programme – Training for local youth as eco-guides.
D. Way Ahead
Nature-Based Solutions – Use of bamboo, grasslands, and wetlands in flood management.
Digital Tourism Management – Use of booking and monitoring apps to manage tourist flow.
Capacity Building – Training forest staff in climate adaptation techniques.
Global Partnerships – Collaborations with WWF, IUCN, and UNDP for funding and technical support.
🧩 Conclusion
Kaziranga’s climate-resilient safari zone is a pioneering step in aligning wildlife tourism with climate change adaptation. By balancing infrastructure development with ecological sensitivity, Assam can ensure sustainable livelihoods, biodiversity protection, and a resilient eco-tourism model for the future.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
1. ISRO’s Space Technology Incubation Centre in Assam
Q1. With reference to ISRO’s Space Technology Incubation Centres (S-TICs), consider the following statements:
- They are set up only in Indian Institutes of Technology (IITs).
- They aim to decentralise innovation and R&D in space technology across different regions of India.
- They focus on application-oriented projects relevant to local needs.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: S-TICs are set up in various institutions (including NITs) and focus on localised space technology applications, not restricted to IITs.
Q2. “Bhuvan” is sometimes seen in the news in the context of:
A. India’s geospatial data portal developed by ISRO
B. A satellite communication mission of DRDO
C. An earth observation satellite jointly launched by ISRO and NASA
D. A GIS-based platform under the Smart Cities Mission
✅ Answer: A
Explanation: Bhuvan is ISRO’s geoportal for mapping and satellite data visualisation.
2. Assam–Israel Agricultural MoU
Q3. In the context of Indo–Israel agricultural cooperation, which of the following technologies are commonly promoted?
- Drip irrigation
- Protected cultivation
- Fertigation
- Remote sensing for crop monitoring
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1, 2 and 3 only
B. 1, 3 and 4 only
C. 1, 2, 3 and 4
D. 2, 3 and 4 only
✅ Answer: C
Explanation: All listed methods are part of Indo–Israel collaboration in agriculture.
Q4. Which of the following statements about the “Participatory Guarantee System (PGS-India)” is correct?
A. It is a government insurance scheme for organic farmers.
B. It is a decentralised, peer-review-based organic certification process.
C. It is a satellite-based farm monitoring programme.
D. It is a crop diversification scheme under the Ministry of Agriculture.
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: PGS-India is a low-cost, local certification system based on peer review.
3. India–Bangladesh Inland Water Connectivity via Assam
Q5. Consider the following pairs of National Waterways and the rivers they are associated with:
| National Waterway | River |
| 1. NW-1 | Ganga |
| 2. NW-2 | Brahmaputra |
| 3. NW-16 | Barak |
Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?
A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: D
Explanation: All three are correctly matched as per the National Waterways Act, 2016.
Q6. The “Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT)” is an agreement between India and:
A. Nepal
B. Myanmar
C. Bangladesh
D. Sri Lanka
✅ Answer: C
Explanation: PIWTT was first signed in 1972 between India and Bangladesh for inland water trade and transit.
4. Kaziranga Climate-Resilient Safari Zone
Q7. Which of the following statements is/are correct regarding Kaziranga National Park?
- It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
- It is located along the floodplains of the Brahmaputra River.
- It is the only home of the Asiatic lion in India.
Select the correct answer using the code below:
A. 1 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: Asiatic lions are found in Gir National Park, Gujarat — not in Kaziranga.
Q8. The term “Eco-Sensitive Zone” (ESZ) is often used in environmental governance. Which of the following statements about ESZs is correct?
A. They are designated only for wetlands under the Ramsar Convention.
B. They are notified areas around protected areas to regulate certain human activities.
C. They are exclusive zones for renewable energy projects in forest areas.
D. They are demarcated coastal regions under the CRZ Rules.
✅ Answer: B
Explanation: ESZs are buffer zones around protected areas where development is regulated to minimise impact on wildlife.
APSC Mains Practice Question
GS Paper 2 – International Relations | GS Paper 3 – Infrastructure & Transport
(Also relevant to GS Paper 5 – Assam Specific)
Q. Examine the significance of enhancing India–Bangladesh inland water connectivity through Assam. Discuss the opportunities it presents and the challenges that need to be addressed for its optimal utilisation.
Introduction
The inland water connectivity between India and Bangladesh has gained renewed momentum through the expansion of routes under the Protocol on Inland Water Transit and Trade (PIWTT). Assam, with its strategic position along the Brahmaputra (NW-2) and Barak (NW-16) rivers, stands to become a pivotal hub in connecting the North-East with Bangladesh and the Bay of Bengal. This development aligns with India’s Act East Policy and sustainable transport goals.
Significance / Opportunities for Assam
- Trade Efficiency
- Shortens cargo routes to sea ports, reducing transit costs and time.
- Enhances export potential for tea, horticulture, and bamboo.
- Regional Integration
- Connects North-East India to South Asia and ASEAN markets via Bangladesh ports.
- Sustainable Transport
- Inland waterways consume less fuel and cause lower carbon emissions than road or rail.
- Tourism Potential
- Enables river cruises linking cultural and historical sites across the two nations.
- Employment Generation
- Boosts local economies through logistics, hospitality, and allied services.
Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Siltation & Navigability | Brahmaputra’s high sediment load reduces depth for vessels. |
| Seasonal Variability | Flooding in monsoons and shallow waters in winters disrupt navigation. |
| Infrastructure Deficit | Limited modern terminals, warehouses, and navigational aids. |
| Security Concerns | Smuggling and illegal crossings along river routes. |
| Inter-Agency Coordination | Multiple ministries and cross-border jurisdictions involved. |
Government Initiatives
- Jal Marg Vikas Project – Infrastructure development for inland waterways.
- Sagarmala Programme – Integration of inland waterways with port-led development.
- Assam Inland Water Transport Project (AIWTP) – World Bank-assisted modernisation of ferries and terminals.
- India–Bangladesh Coordinated Patrols – Joint riverine security measures.
Way Forward
- Regular Dredging & River Training – Maintain navigable depths throughout the year.
- Modern Infrastructure – Build climate-resilient terminals, container depots, and digital cargo management systems.
- Public–Private Partnerships – Attract private investment in cruise tourism and cargo services.
- Integrated Transport Corridors – Seamless connectivity with road and rail networks.
- Enhanced Bilateral Mechanisms – Institutionalised dialogue for resolving operational and security issues.
Conclusion
Strengthening India–Bangladesh inland water connectivity via Assam is not merely a transport project but a strategic economic and diplomatic initiative. If infrastructure bottlenecks and operational challenges are addressed through sustained investment and cross-border cooperation, Assam can emerge as the gateway to South-East Asia, driving both economic growth and regional integration.
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