Assam Tribune Notes for APSC CCE and Assam Competitive Examinations (21/09/2024)

GS Paper 2 (Polity & Governance, Social Justice)

• Waqf Bill Amendments and the Debate:
  • The proposed amendments to the Waqf law have sparked a debate between the ruling NDA and the Opposition.
  • Three Muslim organizations, including the RSS-linked Muslim Rashtriya Manch, expressed their support for the amendments during a parliamentary panel meeting.
  • Opposition members have raised concerns about several key provisions in the bill:
    • The provision allowing for the deletion of Waqf by user.
    • The proposal to make the District Collector the deciding authority on whether a property belongs to Waqf or the government.
    • The abolition of Waqf tribunals.
    • The inclusion of non-Muslims in Waqf councils.
  • The All India Sufi Sajjadanashin Council, representing the Ajmer Sharif Dargah, has also put forth a demand for a separate dargah board, similar to the ones proposed for Aghakhani and Bohra Waqfs under the bill.
  • The parliamentary committee is set to conduct field visits to gather more inputs from stakeholders in various cities.
• ‘One Nation, One Election’ Gains Momentum:
  • The Union Cabinet’s approval of the concept of simultaneous polls has reignited the debate on this electoral reform.
  • Proponents argue that it will save costs, reduce the burden on administrative machinery, and ensure a more conducive environment for development by minimizing disruptions caused by frequent elections.
  • The Opposition remains skeptical, raising concerns about its feasibility, potential impact on regional parties, and the need for constitutional amendments.
  • The government’s move is seen as a significant step towards streamlining the electoral process and promoting good governance.
• TMC Takes Action Against Accused Councillor:
  • The arrest and subsequent expulsion of a Trinamool Congress (TMC) councillor accused of masterminding the abduction of a businessman for ransom highlights the party’s commitment to combating corruption and maintaining ethical conduct within its ranks.
  • The incident also underscores the challenges posed by criminal elements within political parties and the need for stringent measures to ensure accountability and transparency.

GS Paper 3 (Economy, Science & Technology)

• Indian Stock Market’s Bull Run:
  • The Sensex, Nifty, and Nifty Bank closing at all-time highs is a testament to the positive sentiment prevailing in the Indian stock market.
  • This surge is attributed to a combination of factors, including:
    • Positive global cues, particularly the US Federal Reserve’s decision to maintain its benchmark interest rate.
    • Strong performance of key sectors like banking, IT, and pharmaceuticals.
    • Increased participation from domestic and foreign institutional investors.
  • The market’s performance reflects optimism about India’s economic growth and its resilience in the face of global challenges.
• Digital Payments Revolution:
  • The remarkable growth in digital payment transactions, with a 44% CAGR from FY 2017-18 to FY 2023-24, signifies a paradigm shift in India’s financial landscape.
  • This transformation is driven by:
    • Widespread adoption of smartphones and affordable internet access.
    • Government initiatives like demonetization, Jan Dhan Yojana, and Aadhaar.
    • The convenience, speed, and security offered by digital payment platforms like UPI.
    • The COVID-19 pandemic, which accelerated the shift towards contactless payments.
  • The expansion of UPI to multiple countries further solidifies India’s position as a leader in digital payment innovation.
• ‘Make in India’ iPhone 16’s Successful Launch:
  • The strong demand and long queues for the locally manufactured iPhone 16 series highlight the success of the ‘Make in India’ initiative in attracting global tech giants and boosting domestic manufacturing.
  • This also signifies a growing preference for premium smartphones among Indian consumers.
• SEBI’s Proactive Stance on Corporate Bonds:
  • SEBI’s decision to allow mutual funds to trade in Credit Default Swaps (CDS) is aimed at enhancing liquidity and risk management in the corporate bond market.
  • This move provides mutual funds with more flexibility in managing their debt portfolios and is expected to attract greater participation in the corporate bond market.
• Physics Wallah’s Remarkable Growth:
  • Physics Wallah’s successful Series B funding round and its impressive valuation underscore the rapid growth of the Edtech sector in India.
  • The company’s focus on providing affordable and accessible education aligns with the government’s vision of democratizing education.
• BharatPe Fraud Case Investigation Continues:
  • The arrest of Deepak Gupta, a relative of BharatPe co-founder Ashneer Grover, in connection with the fraud case indicates the ongoing efforts to uncover financial irregularities and hold those responsible accountable.
• Patel Engineering’s Contribution to Infrastructure:
  • Patel Engineering’s securing of a hydropower project in Sikkim showcases the company’s capabilities in infrastructure development and its role in supporting India’s renewable energy initiatives.

GS Paper 4 (Ethics, Integrity & Aptitude)

• Ethical Dimensions of the Junior Doctors’ Protest:
  • The protest raises important ethical questions about:
    • The duty of healthcare professionals to provide care even in challenging circumstances.
    • The responsibility of the government to ensure the safety and security of its citizens, including healthcare workers.
    • The right to protest and the ethical considerations involved in balancing professional obligations with the pursuit of justice.
• Ethical Concerns in the Tirupati Laddu Controversy:
  • The use of adulterated ghee in the preparation of laddus at a revered religious institution raises ethical concerns about:
    • Maintaining the sanctity and purity of religious offerings.
    • Ensuring transparency and accountability in temple management.
    • Protecting the health and well-being of devotees.

GS Paper 5 (Assam and Northeast-Specific Topics)

• Orunodoi 3.0 Launch and Implementation:
  • The Assam government launched the third phase of its flagship financial assistance scheme, Orunodoi 3.0.
  • The scheme aims to provide monthly financial aid to eligible families, with a particular focus on empowering women.
  • The launch events were held across various districts, with ministers and officials highlighting the scheme’s benefits and inclusion criteria.
  • The scheme’s implementation and its impact on poverty alleviation and women’s empowerment in Assam are crucial aspects for GS Paper 5.
• Promoting Science and Technology in Assam:
  • The ‘Space on Wheels’ program, jointly organized by ISRO, Vignan Bharti, and other organizations, aims to foster scientific temperament among students in Assam.
  • The program’s focus on motivating students to pursue careers in space science and technology aligns with Assam’s development goals in the field of education and research.
• Drug Menace and Crime Against Women:
  • The arrest of a former militant leader with heroin in Karbi Anglong highlights the persistent issue of drug trafficking in the region.
  • The reported abduction and molestation of minor girls in Cachar underscores the challenges in ensuring women’s safety and security in Assam.
  • These incidents emphasize the need for effective law enforcement and social awareness campaigns to address these critical issues.
• Environmental Concerns and Initiatives:
  • The PCBA Chairman’s address at the International Summit on Renewable Energy in Kuala Lumpur emphasized the rich biodiversity of Assam and the challenges posed by climate change.
  • The focus on reducing anthropogenic footprints and promoting sustainable practices aligns with Assam’s efforts to balance development with environmental conservation.
• Sports and Culture:
  • The upcoming Yonex Sunrise All India Sub-Junior Ranking Badminton Tournament in Dibrugarh showcases Assam’s growing prominence in the sports arena.
  • The Assam Olympic Association’s AGM and the call for free and fair elections highlight the importance of transparent governance in sports administration.
• Other Significant Developments:
  • The Gauhati High Court’s bail grant to the Bongaigaon DTO accused in a vehicle registration scam, the upgrade of the AMCH morgue, and the protests against smart meters in Demow are also noteworthy developments with implications for governance, infrastructure, and public sentiment in Assam.

APSC Prelims Practice Questions

1. Consider the following statements regarding the recent junior doctors’ protest in Kolkata:

1. Statement 1: The protest was triggered by the rape and murder of a colleague at RG Kar hospital.

2. Statement 2: The protest led to the removal of several high-ranking officials.

3. Statement 3: The doctors have completely resumed their duties, ending the agitation.

Which of the above statements is/are correct?

(a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

2. Which of the following statements accurately reflects the Tirupati laddu controversy?

(a) The controversy revolves around the alleged use of animal fat in the preparation of laddus.

(b) The TTD has denied any wrongdoing and blamed the previous government for the issue.

(c) Union Minister Nadda has ordered a CBI inquiry into the matter.

(d) The controversy has led to widespread protests by devotees.

3. Sharad Pawar’s faction has approached the Supreme Court seeking:

(a) Re-instatement of Sharad Pawar as the President of NCP

(b) Disqualification of Ajit Pawar from the Maharashtra Assembly

(c) Allotment of new poll symbols to both NCP factions

(d) Dismissal of the Election Commission’s order recognizing Ajit Pawar’s group

3. The recent surge in digital payment transactions in India can be attributed to:

(a) Increased smartphone penetration and internet connectivity

(b) Government initiatives promoting digital transactions

(c) The convenience and security of digital payments

(d) All of the above

4. Which of the following statements is correct regarding SEBI’s recent decision on Credit Default Swaps (CDS)?

(a) Mutual funds are now allowed to both buy and sell CDS.

(b) Mutual funds can sell CDS without any restrictions.

(c) The decision aims to reduce liquidity in the corporate bond market

(d) CDS can only be bought from sellers with a below-investment-grade rating

Answers: 1. (a), 2. (a), 3. (c), 4. (d), 5. (a)

APSC Mains Practice Question

Question: The launch of Orunodoi 3.0 underscores the Assam government’s commitment to social welfare and women’s empowerment. Critically examine the scheme’s potential to address poverty and uplift marginalized communities in the state, while also highlighting the challenges and suggesting measures for its effective implementation.

Model Answer:

Orunodoi 3.0, the latest iteration of Assam’s flagship financial assistance scheme, represents a significant stride towards social welfare and women’s empowerment. By providing direct financial support to eligible families, particularly those headed by women, the scheme aims to alleviate poverty, enhance financial inclusion, and uplift marginalized communities.

Potential to Address Poverty and Upliftment:

1. Direct Income Support: The monthly financial aid provided under Orunodoi 3.0 can act as a safety net for economically vulnerable families, enabling them to meet basic needs and improve their standard of living.
2. Women’s Empowerment: By targeting women beneficiaries, the scheme recognizes their crucial role in household management and decision-making. This can lead to greater financial autonomy and empowerment for women, enabling them to participate more actively in the economic and social spheres.
3. Boosting Consumption and Local Economy: The increased disposable income resulting from the scheme can stimulate consumption, thereby benefiting local businesses and contributing to the overall economic growth of the state.
4. Targeted Inclusion: The scheme’s focus on including marginalized groups like widows, unmarried women, divorcees, and persons with disabilities ensures that the benefits reach those who need them the most.

Challenges and Implementation Measures:

1. Identification and Selection of Beneficiaries: Ensuring accurate identification and selection of eligible beneficiaries is crucial to prevent leakages and ensure that the benefits reach the intended recipients. Robust mechanisms for verification and grievance redressal need to be in place.
2. Financial Sustainability: The long-term financial sustainability of the scheme needs to be ensured through efficient resource allocation and mobilization. Exploring innovative financing mechanisms and leveraging public-private partnerships can be considered.
3. Awareness and Outreach: Creating awareness about the scheme’s benefits and eligibility criteria, particularly in remote and rural areas, is essential to ensure maximum reach and participation.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of the scheme’s implementation and impact are crucial to identify bottlenecks, address challenges, and make necessary course corrections.
5. Complementary Interventions: While Orunodoi 3.0 provides direct financial assistance, it needs to be complemented by other interventions like skill development programs, livelihood support, and access to healthcare and education to ensure holistic empowerment and sustainable development.

Conclusion: Orunodoi 3.0 holds immense potential to address poverty and uplift marginalized communities in Assam. By empowering women and providing financial security to vulnerable families, the scheme can contribute significantly to the state’s socio-economic development. However, its success hinges on effective implementation, robust monitoring, and complementary interventions to ensure that the benefits reach the intended recipients and lead to lasting positive change.

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