APSC Current Affairs: Assam Tribune Notes with MCQs and Answer Writing (06/10/2025)

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 (06-10-2025). These issues are key for both APSC Prelims and Mains preparation, offering insights into the APSC CCE Syllabus.

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Topic 1: Hagrama Mohilary sworn in as Chief Executive Member (CEM) of Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC)

📘 GS Paper II – Polity | Governance | Sixth Schedule

📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific Governance & Ethnic Issues

🔹 Introduction

On October 5, 2025, veteran Bodo leader Hagrama Mohilary was sworn in as the Chief Executive Member (CEM) of the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC) for his fourth tenure. This political development reaffirms the democratic and administrative framework under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution, which grants limited autonomy to tribal-majority areas in Assam.

 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Event	Swearing-in ceremony of Hagrama Mohilary as BTC CEM in Kokrajhar
Deputy CEM	Rihon Daimary (former minister)
Party in Power	Bodoland People’s Front (BPF) – won majority in 2025 BTC elections
BTC Formation	2003, under the Sixth Schedule following the Bodo Peace Accord
BTC Jurisdiction	Kokrajhar, Baksa, Udalguri, Chirang districts – Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR)
Special Invitees	CM Himanta Biswa Sarma, Governor Lakshman Prasad Acharya
Central Support	PM Modi assured continued focus on peace and development in BTR

 Prelims Pointers

• BTC (Bodoland Territorial Council): Formed under the Sixth Schedule, Article 244(2).
• BTR Formation: 2020, after the Third Bodo Accord.
• First CEM: Hagrama Mohilary (2003).
• Seat Composition: 46 members (40 elected, 6 nominated).
• Significance of Sixth Schedule: Grants legislative, executive, and judicial autonomy to tribal councils.
• Headquarters: Kokrajhar.

 Mains Pointers

A. Importance of BTC for Assam

• Promotes self-governance for Bodo-majority areas.
• Ensures representation and inclusion of diverse ethnic communities.
• Facilitates peacebuilding and post-conflict reconciliation.
• Enables localised planning and control over resources like land, forests, and primary education.

B. Key Challenges

• Inter-ethnic tensions among Bodos, Adivasis, Koch-Rajbongshis, etc.
• Limited fiscal autonomy; dependence on state/central funds.
• Weak administrative capacity at grassroots level.
• Delay in implementation of the 2020 Bodo Accord commitments.

C. Government Initiatives

• Bodo Peace Accord (2020): Expanded BTC area, ₹1,500 crore economic package.
• NESIDS & PM-DevINE: Infrastructure funding for BTR.
• Peace & Skill Missions: Programs to reintegrate former militants into civilian life.
• Educational Initiatives: Bodo language inclusion in NEP-2020 framework.

D. Way Forward

1. Full devolution of powers under the Sixth Schedule.
2. Inclusive governance – ensuring representation of all communities.
3. Economic diversification beyond agriculture to industry, tourism, and services.
4. Monitoring cell to track Bodo Accord implementation.
5. Cultural integration programs promoting inter-community trust.

 Conclusion

The return of Hagrama Mohilary as BTC CEM underscores the maturity of democratic processes in Assam’s tribal regions. The success of the BTC will depend on its ability to deliver inclusive development, sustain peace, and act as a model of decentralized governance within India’s federal framework.

Topic 2 : SIT Report Controversy in Zubeen Garg Case – Governance, Law & Public Trust

📘 GS Paper II – Governance | Accountability | Role of Judiciary & Investigation Agencies
📘 GS Paper IV – Ethics | Public Integrity | Trust in Institutions
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific: Law, Society & Administration

🔹 Introduction

The death of cultural icon Zubeen Garg in Singapore (September 2025) continues to spark widespread public emotion across Assam. After the State Government’s Special Investigation Team (SIT) submitted its preliminary report, civil society groups, artists, and political parties raised questions over the report’s findings, transparency, and procedural adequacy. The incident highlights the need for accountable investigation mechanisms and sensitivity in handling celebrity deaths that bear social significance.

 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Event	SIT report on Zubeen Garg’s death tabled; questions raised by opposition, NGOs, and fans
Lead Investigating Body	Assam Police SIT, constituted by Cabinet after public demand
Allegation	Report seen as “inconclusive” and “hurriedly compiled”; inconsistencies in medical and forensic data
Political Angle	Opposition parties demanded an independent CBI probe citing cross-border aspects (death in Singapore)
Family’s Stance	Requested transparency and access to forensic evidence
Public Reaction	Candlelight marches and petitions urging truth and accountability
Govt Response	CM announced re-evaluation of SIT findings; may seek central forensic assistance

 Prelims Pointers

• SIT (Special Investigation Team): Constituted under CrPC provisions by State/Central Governments for sensitive or high-profile cases.
• CBI Jurisdiction: Requires consent under the Delhi Special Police Establishment Act, 1946; Assam has granted general consent since 2023.
• FSL (Forensic Science Laboratory): Plays key role in cause-of-death determination.
• Right to Fair Investigation: Recognized under Article 21 of the Constitution.
• Relevant Supreme Court Judgments:
  • Maneka Gandhi v. Union of India (1978) – Expanded scope of Article 21.
  • Lalita Kumari v. Govt. of UP (2014) – Mandatory FIR registration in cognizable offences.

 Mains Pointers

A. Significance of the Case

1. Public Accountability: Tests credibility of state institutions in high-profile investigations.
2. Socio-Cultural Sensitivity: Zubeen Garg’s stature as a pan-Assamese cultural symbol makes transparency crucial.
3. Legal Integrity: Ensures due process and protection of evidence integrity in international contexts (Singapore).

B. Challenges Identified

• Jurisdictional Limitations: Coordination issues with foreign authorities (Singapore Police & Interpol).
• Perceived Bias: SIT composed of state officers; questions on neutrality.
• Information Gaps: Lack of timely public disclosure → misinformation and rumors.
• Political Overtones: Rival parties using the case to mobilize public sentiment.
• Digital Disinformation: Circulation of unverified “autopsy reports” and fake statements.

C. Institutional & Governance Frameworks

• Criminal Procedure Code (CrPC) – governs formation of SITs and procedures of investigation.
• Right to Information Act, 2005 – allows citizens to seek details of public investigations (with limitations).
• Media Ethics Guidelines (Press Council of India, 2019) – mandate sensitive reporting in cases of death.
• Assam Police’s Forensic Upgrade Plan (2024): Strengthened FSL and digital forensics wing.

D. Way Forward

1. Independent Oversight: Judicial or retired IPS officer-led monitoring committee for SIT investigations.
2. Forensic Transparency: Summarised reports made public after due process.
3. Cross-Border Cooperation: Bilateral MoUs for forensic collaboration (India–Singapore).
4. Media & Public Communication: Periodic press briefings to prevent rumor propagation.
5. Legal Reform: Institutionalising State-level Investigation Review Boards for high-profile cases.

 Conclusion

The questions surrounding the SIT’s report on Zubeen Garg’s death represent a test of Assam’s commitment to transparent governance and procedural justice. While grief has galvanized public opinion, it is equally vital that investigation processes remain professional, unbiased, and verifiable. Strengthening institutional mechanisms will not only ensure justice in this case but also enhance citizens’ faith in the rule of law in Assam.

Topic : 3 Kaziranga National Park Reopens – Tourism, Conservation & Community Livelihood

📘 GS Paper III – Environment | Biodiversity & Conservation | Eco-Tourism
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific Geography & Ecology

🔹 Introduction

On October 5, 2025, the Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve (KNPTR) reopened its Bagori Range for jeep safaris, marking the beginning of the new tourism season. The reopening follows months of flood recovery work, anti-poaching drives, and infrastructure restoration. Kaziranga’s reopening is not only an ecological event but also a significant socio-economic boost for local communities dependent on tourism and conservation-linked livelihoods.

 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Event	Bagori Range of Kaziranga reopened to tourists (Oct 5, 2025)
Official Inauguration	Conducted by Assam Forest Minister Chandra Mohan Patowary
Rehabilitation Work	Roads and watchtowers repaired post-monsoon floods
Visitor Safety Measures	Strict rules on vehicle entry, noise, and littering; online ticketing system
Tourism Benefit	Boost to small businesses – jeep drivers, guides, homestays, and artisans
Wildlife Updates	Increase in rhino, elephant, and swamp deer sightings; positive trend in 2025 census
Upcoming Developments	New eco-lodges planned in Kohora and Bagori ranges under PPP model

 Prelims Pointers

• Kaziranga National Park:
  • Established: 1908 (as reserve forest), declared National Park in 1974.
  • Location: Nagaon, Golaghat, Sonitpur, Biswanath districts of Assam.
  • UNESCO World Heritage Site (since 1985).
  • Known for: Two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros population.
• Important Species: Indian rhinoceros, wild water buffalo, elephant, swamp deer, tiger (Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong landscape).
• Key River: Brahmaputra; frequent floods sustain grassland ecology.
• Tiger Reserve Notification: 2006 (core area ~859 sq km).
• Eco-tourism Initiatives: Homestays under Kaziranga Conservation & Livelihood Project (KCLP).

Mains Pointers

A. Importance of Kaziranga’s Reopening

• Economic Revival: Tourism season supports over 10,000 livelihoods (guides, hotel staff, craftspeople).
• Conservation Awareness: Visitor engagement enhances public support for wildlife protection.
• Cultural Integration: Promotes ethnic art (Mising, Karbi, Assamese) through tourism markets.
• Symbol of Resilience: Reopening after annual floods symbolizes coexistence of nature and people.

B. Challenges Faced

• Floods & Erosion: Annual Brahmaputra floods damage roads and animal corridors.
• Poaching Threats: Rhino horn trade persists despite improved monitoring.
• Tourism Pressure: Excessive vehicle entry affects fragile grassland habitat.
• Human–Wildlife Conflict: Crop raiding and livestock depredation in fringe villages.
• Infrastructure Gap: Poor connectivity to Western ranges (Bagori, Burapahar).

C. Government Initiatives

• Anti-Poaching Measures: Smart patrolling (e-surveillance towers, drones, CCTVs).
• Kaziranga Landscape Management Plan (2022–32): Integrates wetlands, corridors, and Karbi Anglong hills.
• Flood Mitigation: Raised platforms for animals; rescue centers in Kaziranga & Biswanath.
• Eco-Tourism Policy: Sustainable tourism framework (community-led lodges).
• Project Rhino (Assam): Coordinated anti-poaching and habitat management effort.

D. Way Forward

1. Sustainable Tourism Practices: Limit safari permits, promote guided walking trails.
2. Community Co-benefits: Revenue-sharing model for fringe villages.
3. Corridor Protection: Expedite notification of Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong–Nameri–Orang elephant corridors.
4. Flood Resilience: Combine embankment management with wetland restoration.
5. Scientific Monitoring: Use of drones, AI-based species mapping, and GPS tracking.

 Conclusion

The reopening of Kaziranga’s Bagori Range is more than a tourism event—it’s a reaffirmation of Assam’s commitment to ecological balance and inclusive development. Strengthening sustainable tourism, empowering local communities, and maintaining vigilant conservation are key to preserving the natural heritage that defines Assam’s identity.

Topic 4 : SLRC Scrutiny for Class IV Recruitment in Assam – Governance, Employment & Transparency

📘 GS Paper II – Governance | Government Policies & Public Administration
📘 GS Paper IV – Ethics | Public Service | Accountability
📘 GS Paper V – Assam-specific Administration & Employment Reforms

🔹 Introduction

The State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC) in Assam has begun a detailed scrutiny and verification process for Class IV job appointments to ensure transparency, fairness, and merit-based recruitment. This follows complaints and irregularities flagged during previous recruitment rounds, making it a crucial step toward restoring public confidence in government hiring processes and strengthening good governance in the state.

 Key Points

Aspect	Details
Recruiting Body	Assam State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC) for Grade III & IV posts
New Development	Fresh scrutiny and physical verification of selected candidates (Oct 2025)
Reason	Allegations of document forgery and malpractice in verification phase
Scope	Review of ~18,000 appointments under 2022–24 cycles
Verification Parameters	Age, education, caste, disability certificates, and domicile documents
Oversight Mechanism	Chief Secretary-led panel with vigilance and administrative representatives
Public Measures	Grievance redressal portal reopened for candidates to file complaints
Objective	Ensure merit, prevent corruption, and uphold equal opportunity in recruitment

 Prelims Pointers

• SLRC Formation Year: 2021 (under Assam Public Service Reforms initiative).
• Mandate: Conduct centralized recruitment for Grade III & IV posts under state departments.
• Policy Basis: Assam Direct Recruitment Rules, 2022.
• Class IV Jobs: Include Grade IV staff in education, health, PWD, and secretariat services.
• Chief Minister’s Employment Mission (2022): Target of 1 lakh government jobs within 2 years.
• Legal Safeguards:
  • Article 16 – Equality of opportunity in public employment.
  • Prevention of Corruption Act, 1988 – for misconduct in recruitment.

Mains Pointers

A. Importance of SLRC Scrutiny Exercise

• Ensures merit-based recruitment in a system historically marred by nepotism.
• Builds institutional credibility of the recruitment commission.
• Encourages citizen trust in state service delivery mechanisms.
• Prevents litigation and unrest that often follow disputed results.
• Promotes ethical governance and administrative professionalism.

B. Challenges in State Recruitment Processes

• Forgery & Fraud: Fake educational or caste certificates.
• Political Interference: Pressure during shortlisting or result publication.
• Technological Gaps: Lack of biometric or digital verification.
• Delayed Appointments: Verification backlogs slow down hiring cycles.
• Public Cynicism: Distrust due to earlier scams and irregularities.

C. Government Initiatives

• Digital Verification System: Integration with DigiLocker and Aadhaar databases.
• Employment Reforms (2022–25): Rationalised recruitment and single-window application system.
• Transparency Measures: Live portal updates, answer key publication, and grievance tracking.
• Vigilance Cell: Monitoring of SLRC activities by independent officers.
• Skill Matching Initiative: Linkage of SLRC with the Assam Skill Development Mission (ASDM) for training and employability.

D. Way Forward

1. Institutional Strengthening: Grant SLRC statutory status for autonomy.
2. End-to-End Digitalization: Use blockchain or tamper-proof record verification.
3. Periodic Audits: Annual review by State Vigilance Commission.
4. Grievance Redressal Framework: Time-bound appeal and complaint resolution.
5. Ethical Recruitment Training: Orientation for SLRC officials and verifiers.
6. Public Awareness: Educate aspirants about fraud prevention and document integrity.

 Conclusion

The SLRC scrutiny for Class IV jobs reflects Assam’s ongoing effort to institutionalize transparency and fairness in public employment. Strengthening the recruitment process is vital not only for efficient administration but also for upholding public trust and the ethical foundation of governance. If implemented earnestly, this initiative can serve as a benchmark for reform-oriented public service systems in India’s states.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

Topic 1 – Hagrama Mohilary sworn in as BTC CEM

Q1. With reference to the Bodoland Territorial Council (BTC), consider the following statements:

1. BTC was created under the Fifth Schedule of the Constitution.
2. It exercises legislative and executive powers over subjects such as land, forest, and agriculture.
3. The Bodoland Territorial Region (BTR) comprises four districts – Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

A. 1 only
B. 2 and 3 only
C. 1 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: B
🔎 Explanation: BTC functions under the Sixth Schedule, not Fifth. It has autonomy over 40+ transferred subjects and covers the four BTR districts.

Q2. Consider the following pairs:

Peace Accord	Year	Key Outcome
(a) First Bodo Accord	1993	Formation of BAC (Bodoland Autonomous Council)
(b) Second Bodo Accord	2003	Creation of BTC under Sixth Schedule
(c) Third Bodo Accord	2020	Expansion of BTR & ₹1,500 crore development package

Which of the pairs given above are correctly matched?

A. (a) and (b) only
B. (b) and (c) only
C. (a), (b) and (c)
D. (a) only

✅ Answer: C
🔎 Explanation: All three accords are correctly matched — showing the evolution of Bodo autonomy within Assam.

Topic 2 – SIT report on Zubeen Garg’s death case

Q3. Under which constitutional provision is the Right to Fair and Impartial Investigation interpreted as part of the Right to Life?

A. Article 19(1)(a)
B. Article 20(3)
C. Article 21
D. Article 32

✅ Answer: C
🔎 Explanation: Article 21 includes fair investigation as part of due process of law (Maneka Gandhi vs. Union of India, 1978).

Q4. In the context of criminal investigations, consider the following:

1. A Special Investigation Team (SIT) can be constituted by the State Government under CrPC provisions.
2. The Central Bureau of Investigation (CBI) requires the consent of the concerned state to investigate cases within its jurisdiction.
3. The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has no power to recommend investigation by CBI.

Which of the statements given above 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: (1) and (2) are correct; (3) is incorrect as NHRC can recommend a CBI probe in exceptional human rights violation cases.

🦏 Topic 3 – Kaziranga National Park reopening (Bagori Range Jeep Safari)

Q5. Which of the following statements regarding Kaziranga National Park (KNP) is/are correct?

1. It is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a designated Tiger Reserve.
2. It lies entirely within the Sonitpur district.
3. Annual floods in the Brahmaputra support the park’s wetland ecosystem.

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 1 and 2 only
C. 2 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: Kaziranga spreads across multiple districts — Nagaon, Golaghat, Biswanath, and Sonitpur; not confined to one district.

Q6. Match the following national parks with their key species:

National Park	Known for
a) Kaziranga	1. Hoolock Gibbon
b) Manas	2. Golden Langur
c) Dibru-Saikhowa	3. Feral Horse

Select the correct pair using the code below:

• A. a–1, b–2, c–3
• B. a–2, b–1, c–3
• C. a–3, b–1, c–2
• D. a–2, b–3, c–1

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation:

• Kaziranga → famous for one-horned rhino (contextually linked with floodplain ecology).
• Manas → golden langur.
• Dibru–Saikhowa → feral horses.

🧾 Topic 4 – SLRC scrutiny for Class IV recruitment

Q7. Which of the following constitutional provisions relate to equality and fairness in public employment?

1. Article 14
2. Article 16
3. Article 19(1)(g)

A. 1 and 2 only
B. 1 and 3 only
C. 2 and 3 only
D. 1, 2 and 3

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: Articles 14 and 16 guarantee equality before law and equal opportunity in public employment.

Q8. Consider the following statements about the State Level Recruitment Commission (SLRC), Assam:

1. It was established in 2021 to conduct centralized recruitment for Grade III and IV posts.
2. It functions directly under the Assam Public Service Commission (APSC).
3. It aims to streamline recruitment under the Assam Direct Recruitment Rules, 2022.

Which of the above statements are correct?

A. 1 and 3 only
B. 2 only
C. 1, 2 and 3
D. 1 only

✅ Answer: A
🔎 Explanation: SLRC is independent of APSC, operating under the Personnel Department; statements 1 and 3 are correct.).

APSC Mains Practice Question

Q. The reopening of Kaziranga National Park after annual floods reflects the delicate balance between conservation and community livelihood. Discuss how sustainable eco-tourism can support biodiversity preservation and economic resilience in Assam.
(GS Paper III – Environment | GS Paper V – Assam-specific)

🔹 Introduction

Kaziranga National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceroses, is both an ecological treasure and a livelihood source for thousands in Assam. The reopening of the Bagori Range in October 2025 after flood rehabilitation exemplifies how nature, conservation, and tourism coexist in a dynamic floodplain ecosystem shaped by the Brahmaputra.

🔹 Body

1️⃣ Significance of Kaziranga’s Reopening

• Ecological Renewal: Annual monsoon floods replenish wetlands and grasslands crucial for rhinos, elephants, and swamp deer.
• Economic Recovery: Tourism sustains over 10,000 local livelihoods — from jeep drivers to homestay operators and craft sellers.
• Cultural Identity: Serves as a global symbol of Assam’s natural heritage and eco-consciousness.
• Conservation Awareness: Visitor education fosters empathy and citizen support for wildlife protection.

2️⃣ Challenges in Balancing Tourism & Conservation

Challenge	Description
Overcrowding	Excessive vehicle safaris disturb animal movement and breeding.
Pollution	Plastic waste and noise pollution threaten fragile habitats.
Human–Wildlife Conflict	Fringe villages face crop loss and safety issues due to animal movement.
Flood Damage	Recurrent floods erode soil, destroy roads and tourism infrastructure.
Poaching Risk	Despite progress, rhino horn trade networks remain active.

3️⃣ Government & Institutional Measures

• Kaziranga Landscape Management Plan (2022–2032) – integrated habitat and corridor management.
• Smart Patrolling (STPF): Drone, GPS and e-surveillance towers for anti-poaching.
• Community-based Eco-tourism Projects: Homestays in Kohora and Bagori managed by local SHGs.
• Project Rhino (Assam): Unified anti-poaching and habitat restoration programme.
• Kaziranga–Karbi Anglong Landscape Corridors: Ensuring animal migration routes remain open during floods.

4️⃣ Path to Sustainable Eco-Tourism

1. Carrying Capacity Regulation: Limit safari permits; encourage off-peak tourism.
2. Revenue Sharing: 20–30% of tourism proceeds to be allocated for village welfare funds.
3. Eco-certification: Mandate green standards for hotels, lodges, and vehicles.
4. Alternative Experiences: Promote guided walking trails, birdwatching, and community festivals.
5. Disaster Preparedness: Build flood-resilient infrastructure using elevated walkways and bamboo architecture.
6. Technology Integration: Use AI and drones for crowd management and wildlife monitoring.

🔹 Conclusion

Kaziranga’s reopening after annual floods is a story of resilience and renewal. It highlights Assam’s capacity to harmonize ecological preservation with human welfare. Sustainable eco-tourism — rooted in community participation, scientific management, and environmental ethics — can transform Kaziranga into a model of inclusive conservation and a cornerstone of Assam’s green economy vision.

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