APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (18/08/2025)
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 (18-08-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.
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🚉 Assam Gets Nod for Northeast’s First Bullet Train Feasibility Study
📘 GS Paper 3: Infrastructure | Science & Technology | Economy
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Transport & Communication | Regional Development
🔹 Introduction
The Government of India has approved a feasibility study for introducing a bullet train corridor in Assam, marking the first such project in the Northeast. The proposed corridor will link Guwahati with key regional hubs, aiming to boost economic activity, enhance connectivity, and integrate the Northeast with India’s high-speed rail vision.
🔑 Key Points
| Feature | Details |
| Proposed Corridor | Guwahati to Silchar/Dibrugarh (study stage). |
| Implementing Agency | National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL). |
| Objective | Assess economic, technical, and environmental feasibility. |
| Strategic Value | Connects Assam with rest of India’s high-speed rail network in future phases. |
| Timeline | Study to be completed by 2026 before DPR preparation. |
| Funding Possibility | Central Government with JICA/ADB soft loans (similar to Mumbai–Ahmedabad HSR). |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
- Mumbai–Ahmedabad Bullet Train: India’s first HSR project with Japanese collaboration (Shinkansen technology).
- HSR Speed: 320 km/h standard, compared to Vande Bharat’s ~160 km/h.
- NHSRCL: Implementing agency for high-speed rail projects in India.
- Strategic Rail Bridges in Assam: Bogibeel Bridge, Saraighat Bridge, Dhola–Sadiya Bridge (road).
- NE Infrastructure Schemes: Bharatmala Pariyojana, UDAN (regional air connectivity), SARDP-NE.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance for Assam & Northeast
- Economic Boost – Faster transport for trade, tea exports, tourism, and IT services.
- Regional Equity – Brings the Northeast into India’s high-speed infrastructure map.
- Time-Saving – Reduces travel time drastically (e.g., Guwahati–Dibrugarh from 8 hours to ~2 hours).
- Strategic Mobility – Enhances rapid deployment capacity to border areas of Arunachal Pradesh.
- Environmental Benefit – Shift from road to rail reduces emissions per passenger km.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| High Cost | Bullet train projects require massive investment (₹1–1.5 crore per km). |
| Geological Complexity | Seismic zones, floodplains, and soil instability along Brahmaputra. |
| Land Acquisition | Dense settlement patterns may delay project. |
| Ridership Viability | Doubts about whether passenger numbers will justify investment. |
| Coordination Issues | Multi-agency involvement between Centre, State, and international lenders. |
C. Govt Initiatives
- Act East Policy – Enhancing connectivity with ASEAN via Northeast.
- PM Gati Shakti Master Plan – Integrating road, rail, and waterways for seamless logistics.
- National Rail Plan (2030) – Envisions expansion of HSR and freight corridors.
- Jal Jeevan Mission + Smart Cities in Assam – Complementary infrastructure strengthening urban centres.
D. Way Ahead
- Phased Implementation – Begin with Guwahati–Dibrugarh as a pilot before extending to Silchar/Imphal.
- Public–Private Partnerships – Encourage Japanese/European technology partners.
- Climate-Resilient Design – Elevated tracks to withstand Brahmaputra floods.
- Integrated Development – Align bullet train stations with smart cities and tourism hubs.
🧩 Conclusion
The proposed Bullet Train Corridor in Assam symbolizes a bold step to transform connectivity in the Northeast. If backed by sound feasibility, sustainable financing, and resilient design, it can integrate Assam into India’s high-speed future while catalyzing economic and strategic gains.
🌾 Assam Declares Drought in 12 Districts Amid Rainfall Deficit
📘 GS Paper 1: Geography (Climatology | Natural Hazards)
📘 GS Paper 3: Disaster Management | Agriculture | Economy
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Agriculture in Assam | Disaster & Climate Issues
🔹 Introduction
The Government of Assam has officially declared a drought situation in 12 districts following a rainfall deficit of over 35% during the peak monsoon months of June–August 2025. This has severely impacted paddy cultivation, drinking water supply, and rural livelihoods. The declaration enables immediate relief measures, including crop compensation and water management interventions.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Districts Affected | Darrang, Nagaon, Golaghat, Sonitpur, Barpeta, Kamrup (R), Lakhimpur, Dhemaji, Biswanath, Udalguri, Karbi Anglong, Morigaon. |
| Rainfall Deficit | Over 35% below normal IMD threshold for drought classification. |
| Impact on Agriculture | Damage to Ahu and Sali paddy crops; reduced sowing area. |
| Livelihood Losses | Farmers face income reduction, migration risks. |
| Water Stress | Drinking water scarcity in rural belts; falling groundwater tables. |
| Govt Relief Package | Ex-gratia to farmers, free seeds for Rabi season, and MGNREGS drought relief works. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
- Definition of Drought (IMD):
- Meteorological drought: rainfall deficiency > 25% of long-period average.
- Agricultural drought: crop failure due to soil moisture stress.
- Hydrological drought: low water in reservoirs, rivers, and groundwater.
- Major Crops in Assam:
- Ahu (autumn rice), Sali (winter rice – main crop), Boro (summer rice).
- Disaster Relief Norms: State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) + National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
- Important Assam Schemes:
- Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) – crop insurance.
- Assam Irrigation Policy 2020 – expand minor irrigation coverage.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Issue
- Food Security Threat – Assam contributes significantly to rice production in NE; drought reduces output.
- Rural Economy Impact – Over 70% of Assam’s workforce is dependent on agriculture.
- Health & Migration – Water scarcity may trigger migration, health issues.
- Ecological Stress – Wetlands and biodiversity habitats face drying.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Over-dependence on Monsoon | Irrigation coverage in Assam is only ~27%, compared to national avg. ~48%. |
| Climate Variability | Erratic monsoon linked to El Niño and climate change. |
| Institutional Delays | Relief distribution often reaches farmers late. |
| Groundwater Exploitation | Over-extraction in drought-hit areas worsens long-term sustainability. |
C. Govt Initiatives
- State Action Plan on Climate Change (SAPCC – Assam) – includes water conservation strategies.
- PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana – improving irrigation efficiency.
- National Mission on Sustainable Agriculture (NMSA) – climate-smart farming techniques.
- Flood & Drought Early Warning Systems – strengthened under IMD and Assam State Disaster Management Authority.
D. Way Ahead
- Diversified Cropping – Encourage drought-resistant varieties and pulses.
- Micro-Irrigation – Wider adoption of drip and sprinkler systems.
- Community Water Harvesting – Check dams, ponds, and recharge structures.
- Technology Integration – Use satellite-based rainfall data and crop monitoring.
- Resilient Livelihoods – Alternative income sources like fisheries and livestock.
🧩 Conclusion
The declaration of drought in 12 Assam districts underscores the vulnerability of monsoon-dependent agriculture in the state. Building long-term resilience through irrigation, diversified cropping, and climate-smart practices is essential to protect both livelihoods and food security in Assam.
🛡️ AFSPA Extended in Parts of Assam for Six More Months
📘 GS Paper 2: Governance | Security Issues | Federalism
📘 GS Paper 3: Internal Security | Law & Order
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Insurgency & Peace Process in Assam
🔹 Introduction
The Government of Assam, in consultation with the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, has extended the operation of the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA) in parts of the state for another six months. While most districts have been freed from its ambit in recent years, some pockets with insurgent activity continue to remain under AFSPA, sparking debates over security vs. human rights in Assam’s path towards peace.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Act in Force Since | 1990 in Assam (earlier in Nagaland & Manipur). |
| Current Status (2025) | AFSPA withdrawn from most districts, but extended in some areas bordering Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Manipur. |
| Reason for Extension | Residual insurgency, extortion networks, and arms trafficking. |
| Peace Process | Multiple groups (ULFA(I), NDFB factions, Karbi groups) engaged in talks; partial ceasefires. |
| Govt Stand | Extension “necessary for security” while balancing peace initiatives. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
- AFSPA 1958: Grants armed forces powers to arrest without warrant, search premises, and use force in “disturbed areas.”
- Authority to Declare Disturbed Area: Governor of the state or Central Government.
- Supreme Court Guidelines: In Naga People’s Movement for Human Rights v. Union of India (1997), Court upheld AFSPA but mandated safeguards.
- Recent Withdrawals: Large parts of Assam, Manipur, Nagaland saw AFSPA withdrawn in 2022–23.
- Assam Peace Accords: Bodo Accord (2020), Karbi Accord (2021), Dimasa Accord (2022).
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of AFSPA in Assam
- Security Stabilisation – Helped tackle ULFA, NDFB, and other insurgent outfits.
- Peace Process Catalyst – Provided conditions for dialogue by containing violence.
- Border Security – Assam’s porous borders with Nagaland, Arunachal, and Bangladesh make it vulnerable.
- Economic Development – Declining insurgency has enabled investment and infrastructure growth.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| Human Rights Concerns | Allegations of extrajudicial killings and abuse. |
| Alienation of Youth | Prolonged enforcement creates trust deficit with civilians. |
| Selective Application | Different districts under different regimes complicates governance. |
| Insurgent Splinters | Small militant groups still active, threatening peace stability. |
C. Govt Initiatives
- Gradual Withdrawal Strategy – Phased reduction in AFSPA districts.
- Peace Accords – With Bodo, Karbi, Dimasa groups, bringing thousands of cadres to mainstream.
- Rehabilitation Schemes – Vocational training and economic packages for surrendered militants.
- Enhanced Policing – Strengthening Assam Police’s counter-insurgency capacity.
D. Way Ahead
- Time-Bound AFSPA Reviews – Regular assessment of disturbed area status.
- Community Policing – Involving local youth to bridge trust gap.
- Development Push – Prioritise jobs, education, and connectivity in insurgency-prone areas.
- Legal Oversight – Parliamentary/State committees to monitor AFSPA’s application.
- Final Peace with ULFA(I) – Negotiated settlement could allow complete withdrawal.
🧩 Conclusion
The extension of AFSPA in parts of Assam highlights the delicate balance between maintaining security and advancing peace. A strategy combining security vigilance with inclusive development and dialogue is essential to achieve lasting peace and enable the eventual repeal of AFSPA across Assam.
🌍 India and Bangladesh to Revive Teesta Water-Sharing Talks
📘 GS Paper 2: International Relations | India & Neighbourhood
📘 GS Paper 1: Geography – Rivers & Resources
📘 GS Paper 5 (Assam): Assam–Bangladesh Relations | Water Issues
🔹 Introduction
India and Bangladesh have agreed to revive long-stalled negotiations on the Teesta water-sharing agreement, a contentious transboundary river issue. The talks, expected to resume later in 2025, aim to ensure equitable distribution of Teesta waters for irrigation and livelihood security in Bangladesh while addressing concerns of West Bengal and India’s Northeast.
🔑 Key Points
| Aspect | Details |
| Teesta River | Originates in Sikkim, flows through West Bengal into Bangladesh before merging with the Brahmaputra (Jamuna). |
| Proposed Agreement | Draft pact (2011) envisaged 42.5% share for India, 37.5% for Bangladesh. |
| Current Status | No treaty signed yet due to opposition from West Bengal. |
| Importance for Bangladesh | Teesta basin supports ~8.5% of its population; crucial for irrigation in Rangpur region. |
| Significance for Assam/NE | Flow regulation affects downstream hydrology and flood patterns. |
| Diplomatic Context | Part of broader India–Bangladesh cooperation including connectivity, trade, and security. |
🧠 Prelims Pointers
- India–Bangladesh River Treaties:
- Ganga Water Treaty (1996, valid till 2026).
- International Law: UN Convention on Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses (1997).
- Major India–Bangladesh Borders Rivers: Teesta, Ganga, Brahmaputra, Feni, Kushiyara.
- Institutions: Joint Rivers Commission (JRC), established in 1972.
📝 Mains Pointers
A. Importance of Reviving Talks
- Strengthening Ties – Water-sharing is a test case for India–Bangladesh friendship.
- Bangladesh’s Food Security – Essential for dry-season irrigation in Rangpur region.
- Assam’s Interest – Impacts Brahmaputra basin ecology, fisheries, and flood management.
- Regional Stability – Reduces space for anti-India propaganda in Bangladesh.
B. Challenges
| Challenge | Explanation |
| West Bengal’s Opposition | Concerns over irrigation needs in North Bengal. |
| Seasonal Variability | Climate change reduces lean season flows. |
| Centre–State Coordination | Federal complexities in finalising treaty. |
| Bangladesh’s Dependence | Heavy reliance on Teesta due to inadequate alternative water sources. |
C. Govt Initiatives
- Neighbourhood First Policy – Prioritising Bangladesh in foreign policy.
- Connectivity Projects – Akhaura–Agartala rail link, inland waterways via Assam.
- Joint Studies – Technical committees reviewing hydrological data.
- Diplomatic Engagements – PM-level talks, JRC revival.
D. Way Ahead
- Data Transparency – Real-time water data sharing between India & Bangladesh.
- Alternative Solutions – Joint irrigation projects, storage reservoirs.
- Centre–State Consensus – Greater involvement of West Bengal in negotiations.
- Integrated Basin Approach – Linking Teesta talks with overall Brahmaputra basin management.
🧩 Conclusion
The revival of Teesta water-sharing talks is a window of opportunity to resolve a long-pending issue in India–Bangladesh relations. A balanced approach that respects Bangladesh’s irrigation needs, West Bengal’s concerns, and Assam’s ecological interests will strengthen bilateral trust and promote sustainable transboundary water governance.
APSC Prelims Practice Questions
Topic 1: Northeast’s First Bullet Train Feasibility Study
Q1. With reference to High-Speed Rail (HSR) in India, consider the following statements:
- The Mumbai–Ahmedabad project uses Japanese Shinkansen technology.
- The National High-Speed Rail Corporation Limited (NHSRCL) is the implementing agency for all HSR projects in India.
- The maximum operating speed of Vande Bharat trains is the same as that of bullet trains.
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: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 correct – Shinkansen tech used with Japanese funding.
- Statement 2 correct – NHSRCL is the nodal agency.
- Statement 3 incorrect – Vande Bharat runs ~160 km/h, Bullet trains ~320 km/h.
Q2. Assertion–Reason Type
Assertion (A): The feasibility study for Assam’s bullet train project includes climate-resilient elevated tracks.
Reason (R): The Brahmaputra valley is prone to floods and seismic activity.
(a) Both A and R are true, and R is the correct explanation of A.
(b) Both A and R are true, but R is not the correct explanation of A.
(c) A is true, but R is false.
(d) A is false, but R is true.
Answer: (a)
Topic 2: Assam Declares Drought in 12 Districts
Q3. Consider the following types of drought:
- Meteorological drought
- Agricultural drought
- Hydrological drought
Which of the above are recognised by the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD)?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 1, 2 and 3
(d) 2 and 3 only
Answer: (c)
Explanation: IMD recognises all three categories for monitoring and classification.
Q4. Which of the following rice varieties is/are traditionally grown in Assam?
- Ahu rice
- Sali rice
- Boro rice
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: Assam grows three seasonal rice crops – Ahu (autumn), Sali (winter, main crop), and Boro (summer).
Topic 3: AFSPA Extended in Parts of Assam
Q5. With reference to the Armed Forces (Special Powers) Act, 1958 (AFSPA), consider the following statements:
- AFSPA can be imposed only by the Governor of a state.
- It grants armed forces personnel immunity from prosecution without prior sanction of the government.
- The Act is applicable only to the Northeastern states.
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 2 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (b)
Explanation:
- Statement 1 incorrect – Both Centre and Governor can declare “disturbed areas.”
- Statement 2 correct – Prior sanction needed before prosecution.
- Statement 3 incorrect – Earlier applied in Punjab and J&K as well.
Q6. Match the following peace accords with the insurgent groups in Assam:
| Accord (Year) | Group |
| 1. 2020 Bodo Accord | A. Karbi Groups |
| 2. 2021 Karbi Accord | B. NDFB factions |
| 3. 2022 Dimasa Accord | C. Dimasa National Liberation Army |
Select the correct match:
(a) 1–B, 2–A, 3–C
(b) 1–A, 2–B, 3–C
(c) 1–C, 2–A, 3–B
(d) 1–B, 2–C, 3–A
Answer: (a)
Topic 4: Revival of Teesta Water-Sharing Talks
Q7. The Teesta River is a tributary of which of the following rivers?
(a) Ganga
(b) Brahmaputra
(c) Subansiri
(d) Meghna
Answer: (b)
Explanation: Teesta flows through Sikkim and West Bengal into Bangladesh, where it joins the Brahmaputra (locally Jamuna).
Q8. Consider the following India–Bangladesh water treaties:
- Ganga Water Treaty, 1996
- Feni River Water Agreement, 2019
- Teesta Water Treaty, 2011
Which of the above have been formally signed and are operational?
(a) 1 and 2 only
(b) 1 and 3 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (a)
Explanation:
Teesta Treaty (2011 draft) has not been signed.
Ganga Treaty signed (1996, valid till 2026).
Feni Agreement signed (2019, allows water withdrawal for Tripura).
APSC Mains Practice Question
Question:
“India–Bangladesh relations have matured over the past decade, but unresolved water-sharing issues like the Teesta river continue to challenge bilateral trust. Discuss the significance of the Teesta issue for both countries and suggest measures for a sustainable resolution.”
Introduction
India and Bangladesh share 54 transboundary rivers, making water cooperation a cornerstone of bilateral relations. While the 1996 Ganga Water Treaty was a landmark success, the Teesta water-sharing pact has remained stalled since 2011 due to federal and domestic political challenges. Its resolution is crucial for regional stability, food security, and trust-building in South Asia.
Significance of the Teesta Issue
For Bangladesh
Food Security: Teesta basin irrigates ~14% of its cropped area, especially Rangpur.
Livelihoods: Supports millions of farmers during lean seasons.
Political Sensitivity: Seen as a test of India’s sincerity in “Neighbourhood First.”
For India (including Assam and West Bengal)
Federal Dimensions: West Bengal fears reduced water for North Bengal’s agriculture.
Assam’s Hydrology: Teesta flows into the Brahmaputra, influencing flood and wetland ecosystems.
Strategic Ties: Successful agreement would strengthen India’s Act East policy via stable Bangladesh ties.
Challenges in Resolution
| Challenge | Impact |
| West Bengal’s Opposition | State concerns over irrigation needs create Centre–State deadlock. |
| Seasonal Flow Variability | Climate change and glacial retreat reduce lean season flows. |
| Bangladesh’s Heavy Dependence | Over-reliance on Teesta due to lack of alternative water sources. |
| Political Cycles | Issue resurfaces during elections, delaying continuity. |
Government Efforts
Joint Rivers Commission (1972–present) – institutional platform for cooperation.
Data-Sharing Mechanisms – seasonal hydrological data exchange during floods.
Neighbourhood First Policy – prioritises Bangladesh through trade, energy, and connectivity projects.
Connectivity Projects – revival of inland waterways (Protocol routes via Assam).
Way Forward
Consensus with States – Greater involvement of West Bengal in negotiations to ensure federal harmony.
Technical Solutions – Joint development of reservoirs, storage dams, and irrigation projects to optimise flow.
Integrated Basin Approach – Manage Teesta as part of the Brahmaputra basin rather than in isolation.
Real-Time Data Sharing – Enhance transparency through satellite and hydrological monitoring.
Alternative Cooperation – Expand energy trade, connectivity, and flood control to reduce political weight on Teesta alone.
Conclusion The Teesta water-sharing issue goes beyond hydrology — it is a litmus test of India–Bangladesh trust. For Assam and the Northeast, it also carries ecological and strategic implications. A balanced, basin-wide, and cooperative framework that respects Bangladesh’s needs, addresses West Bengal’s concerns, and safeguards Assam’s ecology is vital for strengthening bilateral relations and ensuring regional water security.
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