tourism in north east india upsc

North Eastern India Tourism

This article will expose some of the most popular tourist destinations in the seven sister states of Northeast India and Sikkim, which is also part of Northeast India.

Some of the most interesting tourist attractions of Tripura are listed below:

• Ujjayanta Palace
• Rudrasagar Lake
• Tripura Sundari Temple

Some of the fascinating tourist spots of Sikkim are listed below:

• Changu Lake

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Nagaland are given below:

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Mizoram are given below:

• Vantawng Falls

Some of the most interesting tourist attractions of Meghalaya are listed below:

• Cherrapunji
• Shillong – the capital of Meghalaya. It is known as the “Scotland of the East.”
• Mawphlang Sacred Grove

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Manipur are given below:

• Khwairamband Bazar/IMA Market
• Loktak Lake

Some of the must-visit tourist attractions of Assam are given below:

• Brahmaputra River – One of the major rivers of India. It flows through China, India, and Bangladesh.
• Kamakhya Temple
• Kaziranga National Park – This is a World Heritage site. It has the highest density of tigers. It hosts two-thirds of the world’s one-horned rhinoceros.

Arunachal Pradesh

Some of the most fascinating tourist attractions of Arunachal Pradesh are given below:

• Tawang – The mighty Brahmaputra river emerges from the foothills of Pasighat under the name Siang or Dihang. Pasighat is the oldest town in Arunachal Pradesh founded in 1911 A.D. by the British Raj.

Related Links

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Which state is best for tourism in north east india, is north east india safe for tourism, which is the best season to visit north east india, which state is beautiful in the north east, is the northeast worth visiting.

• Share Share

Register with BYJU'S & Download Free PDFs

Register with byju's & watch live videos.

• International
• Today’s Paper
• Premium Stories
• Express Shorts
• Health & Wellness
• Board Exam Results

8 states in Northeast selected for tourism development

These include one from manipur and two from each of the other northeast states..

In a major push to tourism in the Northeast, 15 destinations out of the 50 selected across the country for destination management come from eight states in the region.

These include one from Manipur and two from each of the other Northeast states. On the sidelines of the 11th International Tourism Mart (ITM) in Shillong on Wednesday, Union Tourism Secretary V Vidyavathi said these areas will receive focussed attention on overall tourism experience.

While Nacho and Mechuka were selected from Arunchal Pradesh, Jorhat and Kokrajhar were chosen from Assam, Moirang (Bishnupur) from Manipur, Shillong and Sohra from Meghalaya, Aizawl and Champhai from Mizoram, Niuland and Chumukedima from Nagaland, Gangtok and Gyalshing from Sikkim, and Agartala and Unakoti from Tripura.

The Ministry of Tourism in 2022-23 revamped the Swadesh Darshan scheme as Swadesh Darshan 2.0 (SD2.0) with the objective to develop sustainable and responsible tourism destinations following a destination-centric approach in consultation with state governments and UTs.

Realising that religious and spiritual tourism is a major motivation for people to travel, the ministry under the PRASHAD Scheme has sanctioned eight projects for Rs 256.45 crore for the integrated development of identified pilgrimage destinations in these states, officials said.

The Centre had sanctioned 16 tourism related projects in Northeast states under the Swadesh Darshan Scheme between 2015 and 2022, costing over Rs1,300 crore as part of the specialised north-east circuit and wildlife circuit.

Many of the projects sanctioned under SD 1.0 and PRASHAD Schemes have already been completed and dedicated to the public for use.

The Centre has also sanctioned developing 22 viewpoints at a cost of Rs 44.44 crore to provide world-class infrastructure and related services for highway networks, commercial spaces, logistic parks and traveller facilities such as wayside amenities in the Northeast.

Vidyavathi said the development of the region’s tourism should also take into account the sensitive ecosystem. “It should involve the communities, and when we promote rural tourism, we should also respect the privacy and daily life of the residents of those villages,” she added.

The three-day mega tourism conclave kicked off in Meghalaya’s capital on Tuesday with Chief Minister Conrad K Sangma describing the economic growth being witnessed in the Northeast in the last few years as “unprecedented”.

This edition of the ITM was inaugurated by Union Minister of State for Tourism Shripad Naik in the presence of Chief Minister Sangma, Meghalaya Tourism Minister Paul Lyngdoh and other senior ministers and officials from all the eight states.

The annual event seeks to highlight the tourism potential of India’s Northeast region and its rich biodiversity.

At the ITM, the ministry announced it sanctioned Rs 29.32 crore to develop four key iconic religious tourism sites in Meghalaya under the PRASHAD scheme — Nartiang Shakti Peeth, Nongsawlia Presbyterian Church, Aitnar Pool and Charantala Kali Temple.

The earlier editions of the ITM were held in Guwahati , Tawang, Shillong, Gangtok, Agartala, Imphal, Kohima and Aizawl. Shillong is hosting this event for the second time since its inception in 2011.

* The writer is attending ITM at the invitation of the Ministry of Tourism.

Engineering in local language sees uptick in students in UP, Subscriber Only

How Bengaluru’s lakes disappeared Subscriber Only

After wars, deaths, political turmoil, the era of Indira Gandhi Subscriber Only

UPSC Key | Ethylene oxide, SIPRI Report, organ transplants Subscriber Only

I met nobody in rural India who saw Modi as Subscriber Only

Faced with coastal Karnataka ‘saffron wall’, Cong counts on welfare Subscriber Only

India’s trade with Israel & Iran, and impact of regional Subscriber Only

Ezhavas to Nairs, Muslims to Christians in Kerala's power play Subscriber Only

Many cracks on Maharashtra's political ground, yet one question

Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More

17-year-old D Gukesh, winner of the Candidates chess tournament, received a grand welcome at Chennai airport with a guard of honour from 80 students. Accompanied by his father and coach, he was greeted by officials from AICF and SDAT. His mother, relieved at his return, shared how he rediscovered himself through tennis and socializing.

• SRH vs RCB Live Score, IPL 2024: Pat Cummins bags Dinesh Karthik, RCB cross 200 in the last over 8 mins ago
• Mumbai News Live Updates: Shiv Sena UBT chief Uddhav Thackeray releases the party's manifesto for the Lok Sabha polls 27 mins ago
• Delhi News Live Updates: MCD polls postponed, LG says not appropriate to appoint presiding officer in CM's absence 1 hour ago
• Lok Sabha Elections Live Updates: Mallikarjun Kharge writes to PM Modi, seeks time to explain Congress's 'Nyay Patra' 2 hours ago

Best of Express

Buzzing Now

Apr 25: Latest News

• 01 Worker cleaning sewer line dies, 2 brothers jump in to save him; 1 loses life, other critical
• 02 Maharashtra poll ballotin: Gadkari faints at poll rally
• 03 Share trading fraud: ‘Woman’ on dating portal swindles consultant of Rs 20 L
• 04 TikTok CEO expects to defeat US restrictions: ‘We aren’t going anywhere’
• 05 Umran Malik not groomed, Mayank Yadav not considered, will selectors consider Arshdeep Singh or Khaleel Ahmed for T20 World Cup?
• Elections 2024
• Political Pulse
• Entertainment
• Movie Review
• Newsletters
• Gold Rate Today
• Silver Rate Today
• Petrol Rate Today
• Diesel Rate Today
• Web Stories

• Skip to main content

North Eastern Council Government of India

• Citizen’s Charter

Search form

nec project sectors

• Agriculture and Allied
• Evaluation and Monitoring
• Human Resource Development and Employment
• Information, Public Relations and Culture
• Irrigation, Flood Control and Water Shed Management
• Medical and Health
• Power and Renewable Resources of Energy
• Science and Technology
• Transport and Communication

“All the states of the North East region are blessed with natural scenic beauty, distinct historical cultural and ethnic heritage. All this offers tremendous scope for tourism in the region. There is also a great scope for mountaineering, trekking and adventure tourism in the region. If developed and promoted well, this can emerge as the biggest employer in the region. It can also add to the growth and income of the region.” - Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi while addressing the 65th Plenary of the NEC on 27.05.2016

Tourist Attractions & Circuits In North East India

The eight states of North East India are blessed with scenic natural beauty, salubrious weather, rich biodiversity, rare wild life, historical sites, distinct cultural and ethnic heritage and warm and welcoming people. The region offers unforgettable visits for tourists interested in wild life, religious, cultural and ethnic tourism, river cruises, golf and a host of others. There is also great scope for mountaineering, trekking and adventure tourism in the region.

Northeast of India is home to many wildlife sanctuaries like Kaziranga National Park famous for the one horned rhinoceros, Manas National Park, Nameri, Orang, Dibru Saikhowa in Assam, Namdhapha in Arunachal Pradesh, Balpakram in Meghalaya, Keibul Namjao in Manipur, Intanki in Nagaland, Khangchendzonga in Sikkim. The mighty Brahmaputra flows through the length of Assam where tourists can enjoy memorable river cruises and the flowing rivers of Arunachal Pradesh which feed the Brahmaputra offering incredible white water rafting experiences.

Some of the state-wise must visit places and circuits are provided below:

Arunachal Pradesh(Must Visit Places)

• Tawang – Tawang situated at an elevation of 3048 mt. in northwestern part of Arunachal Pradesh, it is home to the Tawang Monastery which is the second largest and oldest in Asia. The monastery is three stories high and is enclosed by a 282 mt. long compound wall. There are many other places of interest like Sela Pass, Jang Waterfalls, PTSO Lake etc.
• Ziro – A picturesque town in Lower Subansiri district, it is home to the Apatani tribe. Famous for gentle pine clad hills and rice fields it also hosts the popular Ziro Music Festival in September every year. Ziro is also included as in India's Tentative List for UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
• Mechuka – also known as Menchukha, is a small picturesque town nestled at 1829 mt. in West Siang District. Menchukha is situated in a forested valley, surrounded by pine trees and thornbushes with the river Yargyapchu flowing through the valley.
• Pasighat – Is the oldest town of Arunachal Pradesh founded in 1911 A.D. by the British. The Brahmaputra emerges from the foothills of Pasighat under the name of Dihang or Siang.

Tourist Circuits

Arunachal Pradesh Tourism has identified 12 tourist circuits which are distinctive in character with different ethnic culture, topography and vegetation. The tourist circuits are:

• Tezpur – Bhalukpong – Bomdila - Tawang
• Itanagar – Ziro – Daporijo – Aalo – Pasighat
• Pasighat – Jengging – Yingkiong – Tuting
• Tinsukia – Tezu – Hayuliang
• Margherita – Miao – Namdhapha – Vijoynagar
• Roing – Mayudia – Anini
• Tezpur – Seijosa – Bhalukpong
• Ziro – Palin – Nyapin – Sangram – Koloriang
• Doimukh – Sagalee – Pake Kessang – Seppa
• Aalo – Mechuka
• Daporijo – Taliha – Siyum – Nacho
• Jairampur - Manmao- Nampong – Pangsau Pass

Assam (Must Visit Places)

The park is home to large breeding populations of elephants, wild water buffalo and swamp deer.

it is the main temple in a complex of individual temples dedicated to the ten Mahavidyas. It is an important pilgrimage destination for Hindus.

About 2900 km/s long, it flows for about 916 km/s in India. It is an important river for irrigation and transportation and offers excellent river cruises.

Assam Tourism has identified six circuits based on different themes:

• Guwahati – Kaziranga – Nameri – Dirang – Tawang – Bomdial – Texpur – Guwahati (8 nights/9 days);
• Guwahati – Cherrapunji – Shillong – Mawlynnong – Guwahati (5 nights/6 days);
• Jorhat – Kaziranga National Park – Majuli – Sivasagar – Jorhat (4 nights/5 days);
• Dibru-Saikhowa National Park – Dehing Patkai – Dibrugarh (4 nights/5 days);
• Guwahati – Hajo – Sualkuchi – Borduwa – Sivasagar – Majuli – Jorhat (5 nights/6 days);
• Guwahati – Hajo – Sualkuchi – Manas – Dhubri – Guwahati (6 nights/7 days).

Manipur(Must Visit Places)

live in the backdrop of the shimmering blue water of the Lake, labyrinthine boat routes and colourful water plants.

The tourist circuits being promted:

• Guwahati – Kaziranga – Kohima – Imphal – Moreh - Guwahati
• Kolkata – Imphal – Moreh – Kolkata

Meghalaya(Must Visit Places)

Cherrapunji still holds the all-time record for the most rainfall in a calendar month and in a year.

The tourist circuits based on different themes:

• Guwahati – Kaziranga – Shillong – Cherrapunji
• Guwahati – Tura – Balpakram – Manas – Guwahati

Mizoram(Must Visit Places)

• Kolkata – Aizawl – Thenzawl – Reiek
• Kolkata – Aizawl – Champhai/Zokhawthar – Rih Dil

Nagaland(Must Visit Places)

The tourist circuits being promoted:

• Dimapur – Kohima – Wokha – Zunheboto – Mokukchung
• Dimapur – Kohima – Khonoma - Pfutsero

Sikkim(Must Visit Places)

The tourist circuits based on different themes: Sikkim Tourism offers various circuits based on interests like Pilgrimage Tourism, Heritage Tourism, Culture, Village Tourism, Buddhist Circuits, Trekking etc.

Tripura(Must Visit Places)

It was the home of the ruling Manikya dynasty until the Tripura`s accession to India in October 1949. Ujjayanta Palace is now a state museum and it showcases the lifestyle, arts, culture, tradition and utility crafts of communities residing in N. The name 'Ujjayanta Palace' was given by Rabindranath Tagore, the first Asian Nobel Prize winner.

It is said that 'right foot' of Mata Sati fell at Matabari on the southwestern outskirts of Udaipur town in South Tripura district. This temple is one of the 51 holiest ‘Shaktipeeths’ (Shrine of the goddess of power ) in India as per Hindu mythology.

• Unakoti – About 178 km from Agartala, it dates back to 7th – 9th centuries if not earlier. The marvellous rock carvings, murals with their primitive beauty and waterfalls are great attractions. Unakoti means one less than a crore and t is said that these many rock cut carvings are available here. As per Hindu mythology, when Lord Shiva was going to Kashi along with one crore gods and goddesses he made a night halt at this location. He asked all the gods and goddesses to wake up before sun rise and proceed for Kashi. It is said that in the morning, except Shiva himself, no one else could get up so Lord Shiva set out for Kashi himself cursing the others to become stone images. As a result we have one less than a crore stone images and carvings at Unakoti. These carvings are located at a beautifully landscaped forest area with green vegetation all around which add to the beauty of the carvings. The images found at Unakoti are of two types, namely rock-carved figures and stone images.

The tourist circuits being promoted by Tripura Tourism are Religious Tourism, Ecotourism, Archaeological Tourism and Water Tourism.

To supplement the States in promotion of tourism in NER, the North Eastern Council, Ministry of DoNER had engaged Tata Consultancy Services to prepare and Integrated Tourism Master Plan for NER which had among others recommended a strategy for tourist circuit development and a total of 33 regional and international tourist circuits were identified to be developed in phases. In the first phase a total of 9 regional circuits are being developed:

Moreover, the North Eastern Council had recently participated in the World Travel Market (WTM) London 2016 held during November 7 – 9, 2016. A total of 10 circuits were developed and marketed in the WTM:

Important Links

• IIT, Guwahati
• NEHU, Shillong
• India.gov.in
• Advancing North East
• MDoNER Dashboard
• NEC Scholarship
• NITI Aayog Darpan

Web Info Manager

DIPR, NEC Secretariat, Nongrim Hills, Shillong-793003

Website Policies

• Copyright Policy
• Hyperlinking Policy
• Content Management
• Security Policies
• Privacy Policy
• Screen Reader
• Terms of Use
• Contingency Management Plan
• Website Monitoring Plan

• Last reviewed and updated on 17 Apr, 2024
• Total Visitors: 4857426

Copyright © 2024 North Eastern Council (NEC), All Rights Reserved.

This site is designed & hosted by NIC. Website content managed & updated by North Eastern Council, Government of India.

Academia.edu no longer supports Internet Explorer.

To browse Academia.edu and the wider internet faster and more securely, please take a few seconds to  upgrade your browser .

Enter the email address you signed up with and we'll email you a reset link.

• We're Hiring!
• Help Center

Rural Tourism of North East India: Prospects and Challenges

In this paper an attempt have been made to study how the rural tourism helps to generate sustainable livelihood in NorthEast India. The study is based onsecondary data. Development of rural tourism can be considered as a possible way to enhance economic empowerment and employment generation of rural communities through sustainable livelihood. Rural tourism is the showcase of rural life, art, culture and heritage, picturesquelandscape at rural locations or in villages. Rural tourism also the concept of homestay can provide direct benefits to the local communities or stakeholders, both economically and socially. It also enable interactions between tourists and local population for a mutually enriching experience. The government have taken various initiative and policies at central and state level to enhance tourism potential. Consequently there has been considerable growth of rural communities in North EastIndia through village tourism, natural tourism, cultural tourism etc. In this paper an attempt is made to study the potentiality of rural tourism and its various aspects in North East India for sustainable rural development.

Related Papers

Dr.Shiladitya Verma

Today, tourism is a major source of income for many countries and affects the economy of a country. Its importance was recognized in the Manila Declaration on World Tourism of 1980 as "an activity essential to the life of nations because of its direct effects on the social, cultural, educational, and economic sectors of national societies and on their international relations." Tourism brings in large amounts of income in a local economy in the form of payment for tourists by the necessities of goods and services. It also creates opportunities for employment in the tourism sector. In the developing countries with the growth of tourism, there is also a concern for the sustainable environment as people have become more and more cautious about exploiting their natural resources. As a result, there is now increasing agreement on the need to promote sustainable tourism development to minimize its environmental impact and to maximize socio-economic tourism destinations. The aim o...

Dr. Shikha Kapur

Atithi Devo Bhavah meaning 'The Guest is equivalent to God' is the adage used by the Indian Tourism to lure millions of Tourists from across the globe. India a land of diversities, is a haven for tourists from around the world. The Indian Tourism Industry has grown so phenomenally that it outperformed even the manufacturing, financial services and retail sectors. Today it is ranked at 38 th position in terms of foreign tourists' arrival and among top 3 medical tourism destinations in Asia. Nearly 70 per cent of the country's population lives in rural India. About 55-60 per cent of our population is farm-dependent implying more than half of the workforce produces just a seventh of the GDP and nearly two-third of India subsists on it. So there is a clear cut rural-urban divide and the rural India emerges as laggard in terms of development. Rural Tourism is an important type of tourism besides adventure tourism, cultural tourism, eco and sustainable tourism, pilgrimage tourism, wellness tourism and wildlife tourism. Rural tourism is gaining popularity both amongst tourists as well as the rural people. Rural Tourism takes place in countryside, in non-urban situation, offering opportunity to the stressed out tourists from urban areas/metros and foreign countries to be back in the lap of nature, to relax and rediscover their roots. The first hand experiences of simple rural life, steeped in traditional culture, unpolluted and natural environment revives the tourists! Rural tourism benefits the local rural communities economically through opportunities for rural enterprises, income generation and employment in their local areas without undertaking migration. Environmentally it conserves ecosystems and biodiversities and culturally it provides impetus to the development of rural arts and crafts, investment for infrastructure development while simultaneously preserving environment and heritage. The untapped potential of rural tourism has to be explored and used systematically for rural development and upliftment of the rural masses.

SSRN Electronic Journal

Mrs. Asfiya Banu

Third Concept

Prof. G.P. Dang

Rural tourism is emerging as a strategic tool for community and regional development. Gradually, rural tourism is taking the political centre stage as a means of social and economic empowerment. As a result, the Central and State Government have taken certain initiatives to promote rural tourism as a sustainable economic driver in the state. Sustainable rural tourism development is extensively encouraged, because it does not threaten the unification of the ecological and social systems on which local communities and societies depend. Present study has been conducted in the State of Uttarakhand, in which local people and entrepreneurs engaged in rural tourism were contacted. The data was collected through structured questionnaire and in-depth interviews. The main focus of the study is to identify rural tourism opportunities in the state and assessing the challenge hindering the sustainable rural development. The study also provides valuable findings to the decision makers that how rural tourism can contribute to sustainable development of rural areas in Uttarakhand. The findings indicate that Uttarakhand has huge potential for development of rural tourism and can contribute considerably to the sustainable development of economy of the State by employing its rural wealth and resources as tourism products, which will help in making the State a world famous rural tourist destination. In this regard, the Government of Uttarakhand should focus on planning to promote entrepreneurial skills among the local residents of rural areas by undertaking various capacity building programs that may train and prepare the local residents in respect to tourism business. This will help in utilizing the true potential of the local residents of the state to exploit the untapped potential of the State of Uttarakhand.

International Journal of Tourism and Travel

ridhi sharma

Potential of Rural Tourism in India-A Synoptic View India is a multi-destination country with a variety of tourist attractions and facilities. Traditionally known largely for its historical and cultural dimensions, tourism today is highlighted for its immense business opportunities. The recognition of rural tourism as an alternative to mainstream is a recent concept. The basic concept of rural tourism was envisaged with benefit accruing to local community through entrepreneurial opportunities, income generation, employment opportunities, investment for infrastructure development and preservation of the environment and heritage. In India, rural tourism in its true form is relatively new. The potential for rural tourism to be a major force in rural economic development is yet to be realized to the fullest extent. Therefore, with a view to underscore a clear potential of rural tourism in India, the present study has made an attempt to highlight the industrial potential for rural tourism and articulates a spectrum for conceptualizing rural tourism in India. The study mainly focuses on challenges and opportunities to rural tourism in India and future prospects for its sustainable development.

International Journal of Tourism and Travel, ISSN: 0974-2603

Dr. Shikha Kapur , Dr. Shikha Kapur

Atithi Devo Bhavah is the adage used by the India tourism to lure millions of Tourists from across the globe. Indian villages are unique socio-cultural spaces that vary from one after another but are intertwined on the ethos of this great tradition. Rural Tourism takes place in non-urban settings usually in countryside, offering an elixir to counter tension and " urbanization " syndrome to the weary, stressed out tourists from both within as well as foreign countries to help them relax and rediscover their roots. Since nearly 70% of the India's population is living in rural areas, it is expected to benefit the local rural communities economically through various opportunities for rural enterprises, income generation and employment. It helps in nurturing rural arts and crafts, rural infrastructure development while simultaneously preserving environment and cultural heritage.

ajer research

There are a myriad of definitions for Sustainable Tourism, including eco-tourism green travel environmentally and culturally responsible tourism, fair trade and ethical travel.Tourism is one of the world's largest industries. For developing countries it is also one of the biggest income generators. But the huge infrastructural and resource demands of tourism can have severe impacts upon local communities and the environment if it is not properly managed.Rural Tourism is growing in terms of number of visitors and the Government of India focuses on it as an engine of growth. We believe that any rural tourism development plan needs to focus on sustainable development and take into account the priorities and needs of local people. This paper emphasizes the need for sustainable forms of tourism by outlining the possible socioeconomic , cultural and environmental impacts of current forms of Rural Tourism. The paper first explores the meaning of terms such as Rural, Rurality and Rural Tourism. It focuses on the genesis and growth of Rural Tourism, Rural Tourism in India, impacts of Rural Tourism and the need for sustainable Rural Tourism.The Tourism Department, Government of Assam in North East India, recognizing the value of tourism as an economic development tool, wanted support in developing adventure tourism responsibly and sustainably. With tourism to India growing at 13.5% per year, state policymakers saw the opportunity to draw more visitors to Assam, but were concerned about preserving important cultural and natural resources.It is clear that rural areas are an integral part of the modern tourism experience. It is a fact that in reality many forms of rural tourism are unable to conform to the guidelines of sustainable development. However with timely, accurate research and dissemination of information, proper planning, implementation and monitoring of policies as well as working towards strengthening of institutions will contribute towards the processes of achieving the principles and values of sustainable tourism in rural areas.

Electronic International Interdisciplinary ISSN Research Journal (EIIRJ)

Nagaraju L G

This paper focus to probe the of rural tourism in India, how rural tourism can help rural society. It can have both positive and negativeimpacts on rural as well as urban communities. rural tourism means Any form of tourism that showcases the rural life, art, culture and heritage at rural locations, thereby benefiting the local community economically and socially as well as enabling interaction between the tourists and the locals for a more enriching tourism experience can be termed as rural tourism. Rural Tourism is essentially an activity which takes place in the countryside. It is multi-faceted and may entail farm/agricultural tourism, cultural tourism, nature tourism, adventure tourism, and eco-tourism. Tourism growth potential can be harnessed as a strategy for Rural Development. The development of a strong platform around the concept of Rural Tourism is definitely useful for a country like India, where almost 74% of the population resides in its 7 million villages. Across the world the trends of industrialization and development have had an urban centric approach. Alongside, the stresses of urban lifestyles have led to a “counter-urbanization” syndrome. This has led to growing interest in the rural areas. Promotion of village tourism as the primary tourism product to spread tourism and its socio-economic benefits to rural and its new geographic regions. Key geographic regions would be identified for development and promotion of Rural Tourism.

Dr. Nilanjan Ray

EPRA International Journal of Agriculture and Rural Economic Research

With its rich cultural heritage, historical monuments, and natural resources, India is a world-renowned tourist destination. India’s tourism industry has emerged as a major economic driver, generating significant foreign exchange earnings. Tourism is a major global industry, contributing 11% of global GDP. Rural tourism in India has enormous potential due to India’s vast rural diversity. Rural tourism in India is envisioned to create jobs and a vibrant local economy by reviving old art and crafts and preserving rural India culture. A counter-urbanization syndrome has developed as a result of the stress of city living. This has sparked a surge of interest in rural areas. Other causes, such as increased wellness awareness, greater interest in heritage and culture, enhanced accessibility, and environmental sensitivity, are all contributing to the trend toward rural tourism. Following COVID-19, tourist recovery usually begins at a local level. Before there is a strong demand for foreign...

RELATED TOPICS

•   We're Hiring!
•   Help Center
• Find new research papers in:
• Health Sciences
• Earth Sciences
• Cognitive Science
• Mathematics
• Computer Science
• Academia ©2024

• Skip to primary navigation
• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

UPSC Coaching, Study Materials, and Mock Exams

Enroll in ClearIAS UPSC Coaching Join Now Log In

Call us: +91-9605741000

North East India – Insurgency and Other Issues

Last updated on February 22, 2024 by Alex Andrews George

The Northeast region of India comprises eight states – Assam, Meghalaya, Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Tripura and Sikkim.

North East India is a region poorly connected to the Indian mainland by a small corridor – Silghuri Corridor (also known as Chicken Neck – with a narrow width of only 23 kilometers).

North Eastern India has been facing the problems of insurgency for nearly 5 decades, but things are now settling down and peace started to prevail.

Table of Contents

What is insurgency?

An insurgency is an armed rebellion against a constituted authority when those taking part in the rebellion are not recognized as belligerents. In the case of the Indian scenario, it can be seen as armed rebellion and violent protests against Indian Government or authority.

t is characterized by the use of irregular military tactics, guerrilla warfare, and asymmetric tactics by non-state actors or insurgent groups. Insurgencies are driven by a variety of political, social, economic, or ethnic grievances, and they typically seek to challenge or overthrow existing political systems.

Insurgency in North East India

Nagaland, Manipur, Assam, and Tripura had been witnessing conflict since the 1950-60 period, but since 1990, the intensity of conflicts started to decrease. Now the only state where a prominent insurgency exists is Manipur.

These insurgencies have been driven by a complex interplay of factors, including historical, social, economic, and political grievances. It’s important to note that the situation has evolved, and efforts have been made to address the root causes of conflicts.

But in this region, several armed factions operate. Some groups call for a separate state, others for regional autonomy while some extreme groups demand complete independence.

Reasons for conflict in North East India:

• Historical reasons – loosely administered under British India.
• Tensions between these states and the central government.
• Tensions between tribal people, who are natives of these states, and migrant peoples from other parts of India.
• Geographical reasons – not well connected with the present Indian mainland.
• Developmental reasons – Poorly developed due to lack of funds from centers/States.
• Environmental reasons.
• Military reasons –   AFSPA (Armed Forces Special Power Act) .
• Foreign Policy – Look for easy policy and market changes bought.
• External support – China and Myanmar.

Insurgent Groups in North East India

The following are the insurgent groups operating in Northeast India:

• Formed in 1979, ULFA initially sought Assamese independence. It has been involved in armed struggle, bombings, and attacks against security forces.
• Internal divisions have led to peace talks with one faction, while another faction, led by Paresh Baruah, continues armed resistance.
• NDFB, formed in the late 1980s, seeks an independent Bodoland for the Bodo people. The conflict has resulted in violence and displacement.
• Ceasefire agreements have been signed with factions of NDFB, and peace talks are ongoing.
• Various smaller groups, including the Karbi Longri N.C. Hills Liberation Front (KLNLF), have been involved in conflicts seeking autonomy or independence.
• Various groups in Manipur, including PLA and UNLF, have sought independence or greater autonomy. The conflict has involved attacks on security forces and political leaders.
• Ongoing talks, but some factions remain active.
• Multiple groups in Manipur, including KCP, have engaged in armed struggle for political and ethnic rights.
• Efforts have been made to address grievances and bring about peace.
• NSCN, formed in 1980, initially sought an independent Nagalim. The conflict has seen several rounds of talks.
• Ceasefire agreements and talks have been ongoing, with discussions on autonomy within the Indian Union.
• NLFT and ATTF have sought Tripura’s secession from India, leading to violence and displacement.
• Ceasefire agreements have been signed, and efforts are made for political integration.
• MNF, which sought Mizo independence, engaged in armed struggle in the 1960s and 1970s.
• Following the Mizoram Accord in 1986, there has been political integration, and MNF is now a political party.

Arunachal Pradesh:

• While Arunachal Pradesh has not witnessed major insurgencies compared to some other northeastern states, there have been sporadic incidents and concerns related to border disputes.

Recent Observations about North East India

Some of the recent observations about the Northeast are:

Insurgency & Ceasefire

• The basic ingredient of insurgency i.e. popular support is drying up in the region. Insurgency is active only in Manipur. There are around 50 insurgent groups in Manipur.
• Ceasefire and Suspension of Operations with militant groups allow them to indulge in extortion and kidnapping, which in turn help them maintain their clout over the people of the region.
• There exists a deep nexus between all the insurgent groups in the Northeast. The CPI (Maoist) is also in touch with the Northeast insurgents primarily to source weapons. Arms were given by the United Liberation Force of Asom (ULFA) to the CPI (Maoist) in West Bengal.
• The biggest challenge to the North East is extortion carried out by various insurgent groups. Extortion has become a meticulously organized activity in the region and is one of the major sources of funds for the militants.
• It is important to understand the culture and psyche of the people of the East while framing policy alternatives.
• The perceived threat to the political identity of the Assamese people from the illegal migrants from Bangladesh lies at the core of the Assam problem. The indigenous people of Assam feel that in the future the illegal migrants will become the majority population and they will lose political power.
• The ceasefire agreements and peace negotiations have resulted in reducing the violence levels and given the civil societies of the region space to talk.
• One of the ways to contain insurgency in the region is to delegate powers to ethnic minorities through the Autonomous District Councils so that they can fashion their development.
• The implementation of the Sixth Schedule in Assam has not benefited the tribal communities of the state. Following the 73rd and 74th amendments, the Central and state governments are providing huge amounts of financial resources to the Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRI) and municipalities. Since the scheduled areas do not fall under the purview of the PRI and municipalities, they do not receive any share of these funds and as a result, they lose out.

Development

• The security situation in the region has improved considerably in Assam and Meghalaya in particular facilitating a conducive atmosphere for investment and development. The Northeast Industrial Policy initiated by the Government of India further contributed to encouraging investment and industries in the region.
• However, the Northeast will not attract big industries because the region is a resource deficit, and does not have economies of scale to match. Moreover, the security situation in the whole of the region has not improved uniformly.
• The North East Council (NEC) and the Ministry for the Development of the North East Region (DoNER) have become fund disbursing agencies instead of strategic planning agencies. At present approximately Rs. 11,000 crore is lying idle with the Ministry of DoNER.

Look East Policy

• The North East remains inward-looking focussing primarily on internal conflicts. There is no discussion on the benefits that could accrue to the region from the Look East Policy.
• If the North East Region is opened up there is a fear of being swamped by cheap Chinese goods, which would spell disaster for the local manufacturing units.
• Apprehensions exist that the development of communication links could result in developing strong links between the people of the North east with the people of China, Myanmar, and ASEAN countries, which would undermine the unity and integrity of India.

Border issues

• The international borders in the Northeast are extremely porous. Thus, cross-border infiltration of militants and smuggling of arms are rampant in the region.
• China has differing claims in Arunachal Pradesh. Along the westernmost corner, the Chinese claim line lay 20 km south and in the easternmost extreme of Arunachal Pradesh, it lay 30 km south.
• International boundaries in the North East have not crystallized into lines separating sovereign countries on the ground.

Recommendations to solve North East India Problems

• A thorough background check of all insurgent groups should be carried out before the central government enters into any Ceasefire or Suspension of Operations Agreements with the insurgents.
• Political solutions to the Assam problem should be discussed openly as widely as possible to avoid backlash from the tribal and the minority population of the state.
• A system of work permits should be issued so that the illegal Bangladeshi migrants do not end up as Indian citizens.
• The Autonomous District Councils should be empowered.
• Governance should be improved in a step-by-step manner. Strict supervision by senior officials should be initiated to improve the delivery system of the government.
• The Ministry of the Development of the North East Region (DoNER) be merged with the North East Council (NEC) for better strategic planning and coordination of various developmental projects in the region.
• The focus of the Ministry of DoNER and NEC should be on investment in mega-projects which will make a big difference to the development of the region.
• Institutional capacities in the Northeast should be developed urgently.
• A pragmatic land use policy should be formulated to attract industries in the region. Micro, small, and medium enterprises should be encouraged.
• Local tourism should be promoted. Tourists residing in the eight North Eastern states should be encouraged to travel within the region.
• Niche tourism or high-end tourism should be encouraged. Medical and higher education tourism should be encouraged.
• The North East should become a single economic unit without disturbing the political boundaries of the states. No internal traffic barriers in the region. Exclusive five-year plan for the Northeast focusing on the development of infrastructure.
• Greater awareness about the Look East Policy and its benefits to the North East should be generated among the policymakers and the intelligentsia of the region.
• Ties with Myanmar should be deepened by exploiting Myanmar’s anxieties about China as well as existing deep civilization and spiritual ties.
• The North East region must be included in the India-ASEAN Vision for trade and cooperation. The Development Plan for the North East should factor in India-ASEAN strategic cooperation.
• Integrated and bottoms-up approaches are required for the integration of the Northeast in the Look East Policy. The North East should formulate plans as to how it can engage with the ASEAN. Better coordination of efforts by all the Northeastern states should be ensured.
• Visa offices in Bangladesh and Myanmar should be located in the North East.
• Centers/Departments for the studies of neighboring countries like Myanmar, Bangladesh, Tibet, Bhutan, and Nepal in Universities should be set up in universities to understand India’s neighbors better.

Read: Act East Policy

• Special economic zones along the India-Bangladesh border, especially in Meghalaya and Assam should be set up.
• States should focus more on the development and security of the border areas.
• Sentiments of the people of Arunachal Pradesh should be taken into consideration by the central government while discussing the frameworks for the resolution of the border dispute with China.
• Matching infrastructure and military capability should be built to ensure peace and enable negotiations from a position of strength.

Courtesy and Reference: IDSA and Wikipedia

Aim IAS, IPS, or IFS?

Prelims cum Mains (PCM) GS Course: Target UPSC CSE 2025 (Online)

₹95000 ₹59000

Prelims cum Mains (PCM) GS Course: Target UPSC CSE 2026 (Online)

₹115000 ₹69000

Prelims cum Mains (PCM) GS Course: Target UPSC CSE 2027 (Online)

₹125000 ₹79000

About Alex Andrews George

Alex Andrews George is a mentor, author, and social entrepreneur. Alex is the founder of ClearIAS and one of the expert Civil Service Exam Trainers in India.

He is the author of many best-seller books like 'Important Judgments that transformed India' and 'Important Acts that transformed India'.

A trusted mentor and pioneer in online training , Alex's guidance, strategies, study-materials, and mock-exams have helped many aspirants to become IAS, IPS, and IFS officers.

Reader Interactions

January 31, 2015 at 9:20 am

Sir How can North East be resources deficient ? Referring to ” development ” when der is sufficient energy resources in ne ?

October 24, 2016 at 8:47 pm

Hello there,

I have noticed that you wrote eight states but if you can count properly, you will find that you wrote seven which is the correct number but you have added Sikkim which is not a part of the North-East “Seven Sister States”. These “Seven Sister States” comprise of Meghalaya, Nagaland, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Assam and Tripura. Please do read more before you write an academic article as it can be misleading and thus provinding wrong information.

November 11, 2016 at 11:09 pm

hello khasi women, For your kind information we have eight States in Northeast India. Sikkim has been newly added. please do study well before pointing out others mistake.

October 14, 2017 at 11:41 am

Its true that we have seven sister states pre 2003 but after 2003 Sikkim is included in North-East and now considered as little brother of the seven sister. so, currently we have 8 States in North-East not seven.

August 11, 2020 at 9:52 pm

Main reason for insurgency is not adequate ly represented..racism..ignored by centre ..election system..northeast is not for making a good india map..and resource exploitation..northeast people have lots of potential..what can autonomous council do..just change election syaytem..appoint a person of norteast race type as pm..only then more fund..more infrastructure..make strict law for racism,adequate representation of diff sections of north east peiple….all insurgency will be gone..

August 23, 2020 at 1:43 am

In your introduction, you didn’t mention Meghalaya as one of the state in North east India. Why ???

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Don’t lose out without playing the right game!

Follow the ClearIAS Prelims cum Mains (PCM) Integrated Approach.

Join ClearIAS PCM Course Now

UPSC Online Preparation

• Union Public Service Commission (UPSC)
• Indian Administrative Service (IAS)
• Indian Police Service (IPS)
• IAS Exam Eligibility
• UPSC Free Study Materials
• UPSC Exam Guidance
• UPSC Prelims Test Series
• UPSC Syllabus
• UPSC Online
• UPSC Prelims
• UPSC Interview
• UPSC Toppers
• UPSC Previous Year Qns
• UPSC Age Calculator
• UPSC Calendar 2024
• About ClearIAS
• ClearIAS Programs
• ClearIAS Fee Structure
• IAS Coaching
• UPSC Coaching
• UPSC Online Coaching
• ClearIAS Blog
• Important Updates
• Announcements
• Book Review
• ClearIAS App
• Work with us
• Advertise with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Talk to Your Mentor

Featured on

and many more...

Tourism sector in the north eastern states-challenges and opportunities

Error message.

International Journal of Development Research

Changing lifestyles and economic growth led to rise in tourism sector. India is the ideal tourist destination due to diverse culture, language, art, music, clothing, festivals, religion, wild life and soon. North-East India is well blessed by Nature and it lays at the centre of one of the  world’s  richest bio-geographic areas. It is the treasure house of various economic resources. It has a rich cultural and ethnic heritage that can easily make it a tourist-spot. Tourism has the greatest potential for generating income and employment opportunities in North-East Indian states because NE India is not only characterized by the blending of flora and fauna it is also exceptionally rich in bio-diversity. Moreover the wildlife sanctuaries at various places of North-East India can attract the tourists all over the world. Further, tea tourism and golf tourism of NE India will attract the tourists. This paper makes an attempt to explore the potentiality from North-East Indian states which will maintain a bright prospect of economic development in terms of tourism industry in near future. In case of North Eastern Region, proper initiative of tourism development has so far not been undertaken despite the region has tremendous scope for tourism with its cultural heritage and scenic beauty. An integrated approach to promote tourism in the North Eastern Region as a whole is the need of the hour.

• UPSC IAS Exam Pattern
• UPSC IAS Prelims
• UPSC IAS Mains
• UPSC IAS Interview
• UPSC IAS Optionals
• UPSC Notification
• UPSC Eligibility Criteria
• UPSC Online
• UPSC Admit Card
• UPSC Results
• UPSC Cut-Off
• UPSC Calendar
• Documents Required for UPSC IAS Exam
• UPSC IAS Prelims Syllabus
• General Studies 1
• General Studies 2
• General Studies 3
• General Studies 4
• UPSC IAS Interview Syllabus
• UPSC IAS Optional Syllabus

Festivals in North-East – UPSC Art & Culture Notes

The North-East region of India is a treasure trove of diversity, with numerous tribes and sub-tribes, each with their unique customs and faiths. The festivals of North-East India highlight the rich cultural heritage of the region. These celebrations are deeply rooted in agriculture, Buddhism, and the marking of the New Year. They provide a unique opportunity for people from different tribes to come together, celebrate their traditions, and foster unity. 

• Hornbill Festival

The Hornbill Festival is one of the most prominent agricultural celebrations in Nagaland. This week-long festival, commencing on December 1st, is a congregation of all major Naga tribes at the Kisama Heritage Village. The festival, named after the magnificent Indian bird central to tribal folklore, was initiated by the state government in 2000. It aims to encourage inter-tribal interactions and showcase the cultural legacy of Nagaland. This event fosters cultural ties among tribes and nurtures a sense of identity among the younger generation. 

Saga Dawa is primarily observed by Buddhist communities in Sikkim. Celebrated on the full moon day in the Tibetan lunar month of Saga Dawa, usually falling between May and June, this festival holds great significance in Tibetan culture. Saga Dawa commemorates the birth, enlightenment, and death of Buddha. Devotees visit monasteries to offer incense sticks and circumambulate Gompas, chanting mantras, and reciting religious texts. During the month of Saga Dawa, Buddhists emphasize three principles: generosity (dana), morality (sila), and meditation (Bhavana).

• Losoong Festival

Losoong Festival marks the Sikkimese New Year, celebrated annually in December. Agriculture is the primary occupation in Sikkim, and the festival’s highlight is the celebration of the harvest season by farmers and various occupational groups. Initially associated with the Bhutia tribe, Losoong has transcended tribal boundaries and is now celebrated with equal enthusiasm by the Lepchas. The festival features the consumption of locally brewed wine called Chaang and vibrant cultural performances, including the Cham Dance and Black Hat Dance. Archery competitions and other traditional activities uphold the martial spirit of the Sikkimese community.

• Bihu Festival

Bihu, the most significant festival in Assam, is celebrated to welcome the Assamese New Year. While Assamese people observe Bihu three times a year, the Bohag Bihu holds the utmost importance. The three Bihus, Bohag or Rongali Bihu, Kati or Kongali Bihu, and Maagh or Bhogali Bihu, are associated with changing seasons and harvests. The Bohag Bihu, celebrated for several days starting on April 14th, features rituals like the ‘Gora Bihu,’ where cows and bulls, essential to Assamese livelihood, are bathed and fed. The festival also showcases Bihu dance performances and traditional Assamese dishes like Pitha.

• Cheiraoba Festival

The Cheiraoba Festival marks the Manipuri tribes’ New Year and is observed throughout Manipur in April (on the first day of Sajibu). The celebration is linked to the worship of the household deity, Sanamahi, and traditional customs include house cleaning, acquisition of new utensils, and new clothing for family members. An intriguing tradition associated with Cheiraoba is the selection of a ‘Chahitaba’ or a person responsible for the community’s sins and fortunes for the entire year. People also ascend nearby hills to seek higher achievements in their lives.

• Kharchi Puja

Kharchi Puja, mostly observed in Tripura, has transcended its royal origins to become a celebration for ordinary households. Held for ten days in July, this festival honors Lord Shiva, who commanded the worship of 14 other deities. Pilgrims from all over travel to the Puran Haveli in Old Agartala to pay homage to these deities. Cultural programs and fairs are organized for the public’s benefit, where local delicacies and arts and crafts are showcased.

• Kang Chingba

Kang Chingba, celebrated in Manipur, is akin to the famous ‘Jagannath Puri Rath Yatra. ‘ This eight-day annual festival features a Rath Yatra reenacting Lord Jagannath’s journey with his siblings Balabhadra and Subhadra. The Yatra begins at the Sri Govindajee temple in Imphal, where lavishly decorated idols are transported on colossal chariots known as ‘Kang.’ The deities are then taken to another temple where devotees partake in night-long dancing to commemorate their journey.

• Wangala Festival

In Meghalaya, the Garo Tribe primarily celebrates the Wangala festival, which marks the beginning of winter and pays homage to the post-harvest season. Held in Asanang near Tura in the Garo Hills, it falls in the second week of November. This festival is dedicated to ‘Misi Saljong,’ a local deity known for his generosity. The celebrations include rituals, music with drums and flutes, and distinctive costumes that symbolize tribal or clan colors.

• Sekrenyi Festival

Celebrated by the Angami tribe of Nagaland, Sekrenyi occurs in February, also known as ‘Phousanyi’ by the Angamis. This ten-day festival involves various tasks, such as cleaning wells, communal bathing, cock strangle ceremonies, singing, feasting, hunting, and gate-pulling ceremonies. The festival fosters unity and imparts messages of peace and harmony among communities.

• Ambubachi Mela

The Ambubachi Mela is held at the Kamakhya temple in Guwahati, Assam, in June. It is one of North-East India’s most significant festivals, earning the nickname “Mahakumbh of the East.” The festival is known for its unique association with fertility practices, as the Goddess Kamakhya is believed to undergo an annual menstrual cycle during this period. The temple is closed for three days, signifying impurity, and thousands of devotees throng the temple as the door reopens. The Mela is also notable for various Tantric rituals and practices that take place.

• Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival

The Lui-Ngai-Ni Festival is celebrated by various Naga tribes across Nagaland and some parts of Manipur following the harvest season. Held on February 15th, it symbolizes the beginning of the seed-sowing season and seeks to bring agricultural and non-agricultural communities together. The festival is characterized by cultural performances, blessings for the seeds, traditional dances, and displays of tribal or clan colors.

• Dree Festival

The Dree Festival is primarily observed by the Apatani tribe of Arunachal Pradesh. Celebrated on July 5th, the festival marks the end of the planting season and the beginning of the harvest season. People offer prayers and offerings to four principal Gods for a bountiful crop. The festival includes traditional dances and the unique practice of distributing cucumbers to symbolize a successful harvest. The celebration also features Arunachali cuisine and home-brewed wine.

• Chapchar Kut

The Chapchar Kut festival is celebrated in Mizoram in March after the conclusion of the challenging jhum operation. The festival marks the spring season and is associated with the bamboo-cutting ceremony. Traditional bamboo dance, Cheraw, is a highlight of the festival, along with various tribal dance performances and cultural activities.

• Mopin Festival

The Mopin Festival is an agricultural celebration held by the Galo tribe in Arunachal Pradesh. It is dedicated to the worship of the goddess Mopin and is celebrated to bring prosperity and wealth, ward off evil spirits, and ensure a good harvest. The festival features the indigenous folk dance, Popir, and the serving of Apong, a traditional rice wine made by Galo women.

• Trogya Festival

Torgya, also known as Tawang-Torgya, is an annual monastic celebration held at Tawang Monastery in Arunachal Pradesh. It is a three-day event celebrated by the Monpa tribe, featuring holy dances performed by elaborately costumed monks to ward off evil spirits and bring prosperity.

• Nongkrem Festival

The Nongkrem Festival is celebrated in the Khasi Hills, particularly in Smit, as the Khasi tribe’s annual Nongkrem Dance Ceremony. It is a five-day harvest thanksgiving festival featuring traditional dance performances by men and women in their finest attire.

• Moatsu Festival

The Ao tribe of Nagaland celebrates the Moatsu Festival in the first week of May, as the planting season concludes. The festival marks the joyous culmination of the agricultural season and features various ceremonies and activities centered around the harvest.

• Aoling Festival

The Aoling Festival is celebrated by the Konyak Naga people in Nagaland. This event marks the start of the spring season and a new year. The Konyak tribe, formerly known for headhunting, now come together to practice agriculture and celebrate their most important festival, known as Aoling.

The festivals of North-East India offer a vivid tapestry of cultures, traditions, and celebrations. Rooted in agriculture, spirituality, and the changing of seasons, these festivals provide a window into the unique customs and practices of the region’s diverse tribes and communities.

Table of Contents

FAQs on Festivals in North-East

1. what are some unique festivals celebrated in the north-east region of india.

The North-East region of India is known for its rich cultural diversity. Some unique festivals celebrated in this region include Bihu in Assam, Hornbill Festival in Nagaland, and Sangai Festival in Manipur. These festivals often showcase the vibrant traditions, dances, and music of the various ethnic communities in the North-East.

2. How is Bihu celebrated in Assam, and what are its cultural significance?

Bihu is one of the most important festivals in Assam and is celebrated with great enthusiasm. It marks the Assamese New Year and is associated with agricultural practices. The festival is divided into three parts – Rongali Bihu (celebrating the onset of the Assamese New Year and spring), Kongali Bihu (associated with agriculture and crop protection), and Bhogali Bihu (focused on feasting and community celebrations). The festivities include traditional dance forms like Bihu dance, feasts, and cultural events.

3. What is the Hornbill Festival, and why is it significant in Nagaland?

The Hornbill Festival is a major cultural extravaganza held in Nagaland. It is named after the Indian Hornbill, which is often considered the “God of the Naga people.” The festival aims to promote inter-tribal harmony and showcase the rich cultural heritage of Nagaland. Visitors can experience traditional Naga dance, music, crafts, and indigenous games during this festival. It usually takes place in the first week of December every year.

4. How does the Sangai Festival contribute to the promotion of tourism in Manipur?

The Sangai Festival is an annual cultural festival in Manipur, named after the state animal, the Sangai deer. This festival aims to promote tourism and showcase the diverse cultural heritage of Manipur. The events include traditional dance forms, indigenous sports, handloom and handicraft exhibitions, and folk music performances. The festival attracts tourists from across the country, providing them with a unique opportunity to experience Manipur’s beauty and culture.

5. Are there any common elements in the traditional music and dance forms of North-Eastern festivals?

Traditional music and dance play a crucial role in the festivals of North-East India. Common elements include the use of traditional instruments like drums, bamboo flutes, and string instruments. Traditional dances often depict stories from folklore, myths, and daily life. Vibrant costumes, intricate choreography, and rhythmic beats characterize these performances. The cultural expressions through music and dance during festivals contribute to the preservation and promotion of the rich heritage of the North-Eastern states.

In case you still have your doubts, contact us on 9811333901.  

For UPSC Prelims Resources,  Click here

For Daily Updates and Study Material:

Join our Telegram Channel –  Edukemy for IAS

• 1. Learn through Videos –  here
• 2. Be Exam Ready by Practicing Daily MCQs –  here
• 3. Daily Newsletter – Get all your Current Affairs Covered –  here
• 4. Mains Answer Writing Practice –  here

Visit our YouTube Channel –  here

• Folk Music – UPSC Art & Culture Notes
• Modern Indian Painting – UPSC Art & Culture Notes
• Modern Music – UPSC Art & Culture Notes

Classical Dance – UPSC Art & Culture Notes

Edukemy Team

Medieval science and technology – upsc art & culture notes, cultural institution in india – upsc art & culture notes, post mauryan sculpture – upsc art & culture, six school of indian philosophy – upsc art & culture..., carnatic music – upsc art & culture notes, secular festivals – upsc art & culture notes, gupta age architecture – upsc art & culture notes, jain pilgrimage sites in india – upsc art & culture, bhakti movement – upsc art & culture notes, leave a comment cancel reply.

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Our website uses cookies to improve your experience. By using our services, you agree to our use of cookies Got it

Keep me signed in until I sign out

Forgot your password?

A new password will be emailed to you.

Have received a new password? Login here

UPSC All India Mock Test – Edukemy Open Mock

• [email protected]
• https://t.me/iasgyanpdfs

• Daily News Analysis

SCHEMES FOR DEVELOPMENT OF NORTH-EAST

Copyright infringement is not intended

• The objective of the scheme is to supplement the efforts to ensure development/welfare activities in northeast India.
• The MDoNER Schemes provide gap-filling support to the eight North Eastern States as per their felt needs, by taking up projects – e.g., for developing infrastructure to mitigate connectivity and social sector deficits and enhancing livelihood and employment opportunities in the region.
• Enable better planning for implementing the schemes in terms of project selection.
• Front loading of sanction of the projects.
• Project implementation during the scheme period.

Recently the Union Cabinet has approved Prime Minister’s Development Initiative for North East Region (PM-DevINE) for the remaining 4 years of the 15th Finance Commission (2022-23 to 2025-26).

• PM-DevINE was announced in the Union Budget 2022-23, to address development gaps in the North Eastern Region (NER).
• It will be implemented through North Eastern Council or Central Ministries/ agencies.
• The Scheme will have an outlay of Rs.6, 600 crores for the four years from 2022-23 to 2025-26.
• It will create infrastructure, support industries, social development projects and create livelihood activities for youth and women, thus leading to employment generation and socio-economic development in the North-East region.
• To Fund infrastructure and create new economic opportunities.
• Support social development projects based on local needs.
• Provide livelihood activities for youth and women.
• Fill the development gaps in different sectors.
• To ensure that there is no duplication of project support under PM-DevINE with any of the other schemes of MDoNER or those of any other Ministry/Department.

Challenges in North-East India :

• Inaccessible Hilly terrain and underdeveloped transport.
• Low participation of the Private sector due to geographical and political reasons.
• Large scale Migration from Bangladesh resulted in socioeconomic and socio-Political problems
• Poor financial condition and lack of development increased their dependence on central devolution.
• The poor state of basic infrastructural facilities like roadways, railways, educational institutions, health facilities etc;

Steps were taken by the Government :

• It deals with matters related to the socio-economic development of the Northeast region.
• It promotes coordination between Central Ministries/ Departments and the State Governments.
• NITI Forum for North East to promote inclusive and sustainable economic growth and to recommend appropriate interventions for the development of the Northeast.
• North East Special Infrastructure Development Scheme to create infrastructure to ensure water supply, power connectivity, education and health.
• North-East Industrial Development Scheme (NEIDS) to promote MSME Sector.
• North East Gas Grid (NEGG) project is underway and will improve the economy.
• Act East Policy to connect the Northeast with the East Asian countries to promote development.
• Government Increased Infrastructure Investment in the region through various schemes.
• Increase air connectivity to the Northeast Region.

https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1888880

• About APTI PLUS
• Our Results
• Couselling at your college
• Daily Current Affairs
• IAS Gazette Magazine
• Daily Editorial
• Prelims Xpress

Help Centre

• Feedback/Suggestions
• Free Couselling Form
• Payment Methods

Legal Stuff

• Privacy Policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Refund Policy
• Forgot Password?

Not a member yet? Sign-up Now!

Already a member? Sign-in Here!

Civilsdaily

No. 1 UPSC IAS Platform for preparation

[Sansad TV] Perspective: North East Infra in Focus

UPSC 2022 countdown has begun! Get your personal guidance plan now! (Click here)

• Several initiatives have been undertaken by the Centre Government to develop North Eastern Region holistically for improving basic infrastructure and providing connectivity in the region.
• In this article, we shall discuss and analyse all these challenges and initiatives taken for Infrastructure Development in the NE region of our country.

North-East India: A Backgrounder

• The Northeast region of India comprises eight states- Assam, Nagaland, Manipur, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Tripura and Sikkim.
• According to 2011 census this 3.78% of country’s population resides in this region.
• It also comprises approx. 7.98% of country’s area including 5,483 Km of India’s international borders.
• These eight states also constitute 3.37% of country’s total agriculture land holding and 34.5% of the total bamboo bearing area in the country.

Various associated issues

[a] security.

(i) Leftist insurgency

• The Maoist rebellion in Northeast India is at present in its ‘latent phase’. It basically involves arms dumps and identification of local militant elements.
• However, these days, militancy and extortion has become an organised activity in the region and is one of the major sources of funds for the militants.

(ii) Drug smuggling

• Golden Triangle comprises of the regions of Thailand, Laos, and Myanmar it has been one of the largest opium-producing areas of the world since the 1950s.
• Drugs produced there enters into India through Mizoram, Manipur, and Nagaland from Bhamo, Lashio, and Mandalay in Myanmar.
• Moreh (Manipur), Champai (Mizoram), Dimapur (Nagaland), and Guwahati (Assam) have become the nucleus of drug trafficking industry in India’s northeast.

[B] Developmental issue: Connectivity with mainland

• The NER is connected to mainland India only through a narrow stretch of land (about 22 km wide) in West Bengal called the ‘Siliguri Corridor’, sometimes known as the “ Chicken’s Neck ”.
• Except for this narrow Siliguri Corridor, the entire northeastern part of the country is bound by international borders.

[C] Sovereignty threats

• Neighbouring countries like China and Myanmar are accused of promoting insurgency in the region.
• China’s claim on Arunachal Pradesh and its water diversion plans on the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet are creating a public perception in the northeast that China is a threat to India.
• This has created positive influences on the minds of the insurgents .

[D] Sub-national aspirations

• The region is populated by a number of different communities, with diverse cultures, languages and customs.
• It is also marked by difficult terrain, backward areas, and limited connectivity. This area was known for the active presence of a number of militant groups.

Key issues:

1. Demands for autonomy: This demand arose in Tripura and Manipur which compromised the state of Assam. This majorly arose when the non-Assamese political leaders felt that the Assamese was forcibly imposed upon them.

2. Secessionist Movement: The Mizo hills area in Mizoram never felt that they were under the British therefore after independence they did not consider themselves as part of India. Several campaigns started to be independent states.

3. Movements against outsiders: This issue has taken place in several states of the Northeast. The Assam movement was such a movement against outsiders because they suspected that there were huge numbers of illegal migrants from Bangladesh.

Root causes of turmoil in NE

• Colonial past: The connection between the NER and the rest of India is relatively recent, dating back to 1826 with the signing the Treaty of Yandaboo.
• No historical ties: It was when Burma ceded Assam, Manipur, Jaintia hills, Tripura and Cachar to the British at the end of the First Anglo-Burmese War.
• Heavy militarization and AFSPA: Even under the British, the region was mostly seen as providing a ‘buffer zone’ from Burma and China. This perspective continued after independence leading to heavy militarization.
• Abrupt integration: The integration of NER into the rest of the country was ‘abrupt’, with no prior history. The states were integrated and demarcated into ad hoc units for administrative convenience.
• Political disconnect: The participation of the northeastern state governments in any development activity is nearly non-existent. Politics for them has merely left to Tribal Affairs.
• Local aspirations: The region’s own politics or the political aspirations of fragmented tribes were marginalised within the larger political discourse.
• Others: Inflation is another fuel to the turmoil. Distribution is mostly road-based and disruptions in movement, particularly during the six-month-long rainy season, causes sporadic fuel scarcity in the hill States.

Opportunities in the NER

[A] Tourism

• NE Region of India has immense resource potential to develop tourism.
• Assam is the leading state in terms of overall inflow of tourists’ in the region while Sikkim proves to be preferred destination of foreign tourists.
• The region offers enchanting visits for tourists interested in wild life, religious, cultural and ethnic tourism, river cruises, golf and a host of others.

[B] Emerging market

• The North East is a fast-growing market with untapped opportunities for investment, trade and tourism.
• It has the potential to become a nodal point of India’s growth story.
• It is abundantly endowed with natural resources, mineral and forest wealth, diverse flora and fauna and fertile land for cultivation of exotic fruits and vegetables.

[C] Agricultural Potential

• Traditionally, the North East is known for tea, but it could also offer plantation and export opportunities for a wide range of crops including oil palm.
• Similarly, the region has about 50 species of bamboo, 14 varieties of bananas and 17 varieties of citrus fruits.
• North-Eastern states also have a huge production of fruits such as pineapples and oranges.

[D] Rich mineral resources

• The Northeast region of India has an abundant mineral comprising chiefly of lime- stone, coal, natural oil and gas, uranium, feldspar, and others.
• The total hydrocarbon deposits (oil and gas) accounts for 20% of the total India.

[E] Gateway to the East

• The NE region is a vantage entry point to south-eastern Asian markets.
• Given its location, the Northeast assumes the role of bridging the space between mainland India and other Southeast Asian nations.
• Taking this idea forward, the government decided to focus more on improving its relation with ASEAN and the East Asian countries.
• It was also aimed at eliminating the insurgency problem in the NE once and for all by way of opening up the region to Southeast Asia.

Connectivity in the region

• Under Bharatmala Pariyojana (BMP) roads stretches aggregating to about 5301 km in NER have been approved for improvement.
• Out of this, 3246 km road length has been approved for development of Economic Corridors in the North East.
• Under Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana, road length of 20,708 km has been already constructed.
• Other major development include construction of bridges of over the Brahmaputra to narrow down distances.

(B) Railway

• There are plans to provide a railway link for the NE states through 20 major railway projects, encompassing 13 new lines with a length of nearly 2,624 kms.
• The Murkongselek (Assam) and Pasighat rail project is already under implementation.
• The most important of them is 378-km Bhalukpong (West Kameng, Arunachal)-Tenga (Arunachal)-Tawang (Arunachal) rail connectivity that will reach a height of 10,000 ft to the Tibet border.

(C) Air connectivity

• The Pakyong Airport in Sikkim is the first greenfield airport in Northeast India. It is situated around 30 kilometers from Gangtok.
• The launch of the UDAN regional air connectivity scheme (2016) saw a number of new air links in the region.
• The most important of them is Pasighat (2018), the first-ever commercial air link to Arunachal.

(D) Digital connectivity

• Telecom Commission has approved a comprehensive strategy to implement BharatNet in North East Region (NER).
• Under this strategy, 4240 Gram Panchayats (GPs) in the North-East are to be connected by broadband and by satellite connectivity.

Way forward

(i) Infrastructure and connectivity

• These are two basic requirements essential for economic development of a region.
• The need for infrastructure becomes more acute for hilly and mountainous areas that are on one hand difficult to traverse and on the other hand tend to be sparsely populated.
• Thus, there is a need for heavy investments in infrastructure development.

(ii) Timely completion of projects

• Most North Eastern States are resource-starved and it is vital that funds are properly accounted for.  
• In addition, projects that are retained and put on priority lists raise the expectations of the people.
• This further contributes towards deficits in confidence of the people upon the Central Government.

(iii) Single nodal agency

• Another challenge is that there are multiple bodies and agencies like the NEC, DoNER and the recently created North East Forum.
• There is a need for clarity on the roles between these bodies and budgets need to be allocated to the States.
• Flexibility should be allowed for the State governments for utilization of these allocations.

(iv) Tourism

• Tourism is one of the alternatives that can play a pivotal role in the socio-economic development of the NER.
• The challenge lies in making the region accessible to the tourists from mainland India and other countries.
• Sense of integration can be imbibed through various projects such as Dekho Apna Desh etc. among the NE youth.
• It is evident fact that, for a long time, the North East was a neglected and forgotten part of the country.
• The region has great potential to develop not just as a self, sustaining economic unit of India but also contribute to the success story of the country.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY

Join us across social media platforms..

Your better version awaits you!

Call us @ 08069405205

Search Here

• An Introduction to the CSE Exam
• Personality Test
• Annual Calendar by UPSC-2024
• Common Myths about the Exam
• About Insights IAS
• Our Mission, Vision & Values
• Director's Desk
• Meet Our Team
• Our Branches
• Careers at Insights IAS
• Daily Current Affairs+PIB Summary
• Insights into Editorials
• Insta Revision Modules for Prelims
• Current Affairs Quiz
• Static Quiz
• Current Affairs RTM
• Insta-DART(CSAT)
• Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Prelims 2024
• Secure (Mains Answer writing)
• Secure Synopsis
• Ethics Case Studies
• Insta Ethics
• Weekly Essay Challenge
• Insta Revision Modules-Mains
• Insta 75 Days Revision Tests for Mains
• Secure (Archive)
• Anthropology
• Law Optional
• Kannada Literature
• Public Administration
• English Literature
• Medical Science
• Mathematics
• Commerce & Accountancy
• Monthly Magazine: CURRENT AFFAIRS 30
• Content for Mains Enrichment (CME)
• InstaMaps: Important Places in News
• Weekly CA Magazine
• The PRIME Magazine
• Insta Revision Modules-Prelims
• Insta-DART(CSAT) Quiz
• Insta 75 days Revision Tests for Prelims 2022
• Insights SECURE(Mains Answer Writing)
• Interview Transcripts
• Previous Years' Question Papers-Prelims
• Answer Keys for Prelims PYQs
• Solve Prelims PYQs
• Previous Years' Question Papers-Mains
• UPSC CSE Syllabus
• Toppers from Insights IAS
• Testimonials
• Felicitation
• UPSC Results
• Indian Heritage & Culture
• Ancient Indian History
• Medieval Indian History
• Modern Indian History
• World History
• World Geography
• Indian Geography
• Indian Society
• Social Justice
• International Relations
• Agriculture
• Environment & Ecology
• Disaster Management
• Science & Technology
• Security Issues
• Ethics, Integrity and Aptitude

• Indian Heritage & Culture
• Enivornment & Ecology

[Mission 2024] Insights SECURE SYNOPSIS: 23 April 2024

NOTE : Please remember that following ‘answers’ are NOT ‘model answers’. They are NOT synopsis too if we go by definition of the term. What we are providing is content that both meets demand of the question and at the same

General Studies – 1

Topic: urbanization, their problems and their remedies

1. The increased dumping of waste in landfills poses several issues that need to be addressed promptly. Examine. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Moderate

Reference: Hindustan Times ,  Insights on India

Why the question: A thick cloud of smoke continued to billow out of the Ghazipur landfill site, enveloping the surrounding areas in east Delhi, after a portion of the country’s largest garbage dumpsite — which holds at least 8.4 million tonnes of waste — caught fire on Sunday evening. Key Demand of the question: To write issues with respect increased dumping of wastes in landfills, threats from it and remedies for better waste management. Directive word:  Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Give a statistic about increasing municipal solid waste with the increasing rate of urbanisation. Body: First, write the problems associated with rapid urbanisation and waste management in India at landfills: Leaching of chemicals, spread of diseases, release of poisonous and toxic gages, fires, serious health and environmental hazards to the people etc. Next, suggest strategies to deal with solid waste so that it may prove a resource instead of waste. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

Introduction

A landfill site is  a site for the disposal of waste materials  and is the  oldest and most common  form of waste disposal. The landfill sites in India are  not scientifically planned . The efficiency of waste processing is  only 30-40% , while India’s municipalities are collecting over 95% of the waste generated in cities.

A thick cloud of smoke continued to billow out of the Ghazipur landfill site, enveloping the surrounding areas in east Delhi, after a portion of the country’s largest garbage dumpsite — which holds at least 8.4 million tonnes of waste — caught fire on Sunday evening.

Challenges posed by landfills in India

• The wastes are not segregated  due to which the landfill sites receive mixed wastes which  include organic waste/ignitable material/plastics . (Higher temperature + flammable material = a chance for the landfill to catch fire.)
• In India, more than 90% of the MSW generated finds its way to landfill sites, often in the most unhygienic manner possible. The landfilling process of the municipalities is the most unorganized one.
• The landfills are meant for reducing the exposure between humans and the environment from toxic waste but it takes a toll on humans as we are exposed to the problems associated with the waste directly i.e from the soil and groundwater pollution. There are concerns regarding the flow of toxins in the food chain of birds and animals, fires and explosions, vegetation damage, unpleasant odor, landfill settlement, groundwater pollution, air pollution and global warming.
• The disposal of these toxic chemicals leads to the exposure of rag pickers to these chemicals. The rag picker’s only means of income is by collecting waste but they are not aware of the fact that this waste will be toxic for them, their health as well as their surrounding.
• The anaerobic decomposition (breakdown of organic waste in the absence of oxygen) generates  methane gas and heat . As soon as the methane gas comes in contact with oxygen, the combustible materials at the dumping site catch fire easily.
• The health problems related to various emissions from landfills include high PM10 exposure, breathing problems, bacterial infections, asthma, elevated cardiovascular risk, and other infections.
• In India scenario, open dumps are highly prevailing which causes the breeding of mosquitoes, flies, rats, cockroaches, and other pests. Some diseases are very common in the population living near the landfill site such as plague, histoplasmosis, murine typhus, malaria, dengue, West Nile fever, etc. as they are caused by the pests breeding in the landfills.

Way forward

• proper disciplinary action should be taken against officials who are responsible for management of municipal waste in the area. This will set a good precedent for future.
• State governments should  provide adequate funds to local bodies so that they can take requisite measures to tackle the creation of giant landfills.
• States must also  learn from good practices of each other  to tackle the menace of landfills. For instance, the Delhi Government has agreed to study a system installed in Mumbai to capture methane from the rotting waste and replicate it in the national capital to prevent fires at the landfill site.
• India also has to develop skilled and trained professionals  to operate and maintain the entire waste management chain. Right from the collection, operation and maintenance of waste-handling plants.
• There should be proper implementation of Solid Waste Management  and  Plastic Waste Management Rules  so that less waste flows into landfills.
• The idea of a circular economy  should be promoted in masses. Further, the government should do greater procurement of recycled goods for itself in order to incentivise the private sector.

The menace of landfills is a result of decades of poor solid waste management practices adopted by the Governments and the masses. The rising number of landfill fires is a testimony to the huge magnitude of damage that a big landfill site can cause to the citizens. It is therefore imperative to take proactive measures towards their reduction and help in achievement of  SDG 15  (Life on Land).

General Studies – 2

Topic: Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

2. The Iran-Israel turmoil has raised concerns about the security of the large Indian diaspora residing in the Gulf region as well as India interests. Indian authorities must take proactive measures, including enhanced security protocols and diplomatic efforts, to ensure the safety of Indian nationals. Discuss. (250 words)

Difficulty level: Tough

Reference: Indian Express

Why the question: The article discusses what Iran-Israel conflict means for Middle East and India Key Demand of the question: To write issues for India with respect conflict Iran-Israel and steps that are needed in this regard. Directive word:  Discuss – This is an all-encompassing directive – you must debate on paper by going through the details of the issues concerned by examining each one of them. You must give reasons for both for and against arguments. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by giving context. Body: First, write the problems associated with the conflict – security of the large Indian diaspora in the Gulf region, with added risks of piracy and hostage-taking, India’s economic and strategic interests etc. Next, suggest strategies to deal with the above. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

The situation in the Middle East remained tense. The ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict has raged for over six months in Gaza and the West Bank. This is  for the first time  Iran has  openly and directly attacked  Israel. Before this, Israel had always alleged that Iran attacked through its  proxy terrorist organizations Hamas, Hezbollah and Houthi rebels. The Iranian government also declared a  prohibition on all vessels associated with the Zionist regime  from  navigating in the Oman Sea and the Persian Gulf.  There is fresh concern about a potential Israeli attack on Iranian nuclear sites or high-value targets.

Current situation

• Iran’s promised retaliation to the Israeli airstrike on the Iranian consulate in Damascus came in the early hours of Sunday morning.
• Swarms of attack drones and cruise and ballistic missiles were deployed in an unprecedented direct attack from Iran.
• Most of the drones and missiles were neutralised by Israel and its allies.
• However, a few ballistic missiles penetrated Israel’s formidable Iron Dome and struck the Nevatim and Ramon airbase in the southern Negev desert and a radar station in the north.
• Damage to infrastructure was minimal and no deaths were reported.

Challenges posed to India due to Iran – Israel Conflict

• India has strategic ties with both Iran and Israel and for decades, it has been able to balance between the two sides. But if the conflict widens, it would be  difficult for it to maintain an ambivalent position.
• The emerging Iran Israel Conflict will test the Indian resilience in multiple domains be it political, diplomatic, economic or security. 
• The escalation of the Iran-Israel conflict poses a grave risk to the lives and livelihoods of the large Indian diaspora in West Asia.
• Approximately 18,000 Indians reside in Israel, while 5,000-10,000 live in Iran. Additionally, around 90 lakh Indians are spread across the Gulf and other West Asian countries.
• Ensuring their safety becomes paramount, especially given the geopolitical tensions in the region.
• The ongoing turmoil increases the risk of piracy and hostage situations. Indian nationals working in maritime sectors or traveling through sensitive areas face heightened danger.
• India has significant economic interests in the Gulf region, including trade, energy, and investments. Any disruption due to conflict could adversely affect India’s economy.
• The Gulf region is strategically vital for India’s energy security and regional stability. Ensuring the safety of Indian nationals contributes to maintaining friendly relations with these nations.
• Strengthen security measures at Indian embassies, consulates, and missions in the Gulf.
• Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to enhance surveillance, intelligence sharing, and crisis response.
• Engage in high-level diplomatic dialogues with Gulf nations to emphasize the safety of Indian nationals.
• Seek assurances from host countries regarding their protection.
• Establish crisis communication channels to swiftly address emergencies.
• Develop robust evacuation plans for Indian nationals in case of escalating conflict.
• Regularly update and rehearse evacuation procedures.
• Coordinate with airlines, shipping companies, and other transport providers.
• Educate Indian expatriates about potential risks, safety protocols, and emergency contacts.
• Encourage registration with Indian missions for timely communication during crises.
• Collaborate with other countries to ensure the safety of their nationals as well.
• Jointly address security challenges arising from the conflict.
• The instability in the Middle East affects the Global South and global governance.
• India, as a responsible global actor, must actively engage in conflict resolution efforts.
• Advocate for peaceful dialogue, de-escalation, and adherence to international norms.

India wants there should be  “immediate de-escalation”  and  “step back from violence”  and  “return to the path of diplomacy”  is, therefore, crucial to its national interest. India’s authorities must adopt a proactive approach, combining security protocols, diplomatic efforts, and contingency planning to safeguard the welfare of Indian nationals in the Gulf region during these turbulent times

General Studies – 3

Topic: inclusive growth and issues arising from it.

3. A well-designed Universal Basic Income (UBI) can be a powerful tool in promoting inclusive economic growth and social well-being. Critically analyse. (250 words)

Reference: Live Mint

Why the question: The article discusses the concept of implementation of a Universal Basic Income (UBI) in the country. Key Demand of the question: To discuss the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a social welfare policy and assess its potential implications for poverty reduction and economic development in India. Directive word:  Critically analyze – When asked to analyse, you must examine methodically the structure or nature of the topic by separating it into component parts and present them in a summary. When ‘critically’ is suffixed or prefixed to a directive, one needs to look at the good and bad of the topic and give a balanced judgment on the topic. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin giving context and defining the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) Body: First, write about Universal Basic Income (UBI) and its key features. Discuss the rationale behind implementing UBI, including its potential to alleviate poverty and provide a safety net to citizens. Next, write about the challenges of UBI implementation in India and potential implications of UBI on economic growth and development, including its impact on the labor market and government finances. Conclusion: Conclude by presenting a balanced view on the feasibility and desirability of implementing UBI in India.

Universal basic income is a form of social security in which  all citizens or residents  of a country regularly receive an  unconditional sum of money , either from a government or some other public institution, in addition to any income received from elsewhere. The payment is enough to cover the cost of living. The goal is to provide financial security.

Rationale behind UBI :

• The average Indian family’s monthly income in 1938 was Rs 25.
• Today, the average Indian family’s monthly income is roughly Rs 50,000, a 2,000 times increase since 1938.
• The poorest 10% of Indian families earn a mere Rs 5,000 a month.
• 25 million Indian families earn just a tenth of what the average Indian family earns.
• And, 50 million households earn just a fifth of the average Indian family.
• While the Indian economy continues to grow, the much touted trickle down impact of economic development seems elusive to the poorer sections of our society.
• There is a real risk of the bottom quarter of Indian families being left behind completely.
• The plan to ensure a basic minimum standard of living for every Indian family that was envisaged by Nehru and Bose in 1938 is applicable even today.

The  pros  of UBI include:

• Fights Poverty and vulnerability : Poverty and vulnerability will be reduced in one fell swoop. It increases equality among citizens as envisaged in our DPSP.
• new social contract:  A social contract that will empower citizens with the freedom of choice. UBI treats beneficiaries as agents and entrusts citizens with the responsibility of using welfare spending as they see best; this may not be the case with in-kind transfers. Nobel laureate  Amartya Sen  had also propounded that  choice  should be given to people, which will lead to development.
• Example:  The India Human Development Survey found that in 2011-12 about half of the officially poor did not have the BPL card, while about one-third of the non-poor had it.
• Fighting technological unemployment:  With IR4.0 on the rise, there is an increase in the automation leading to loss of many white and blue collared jobs. UBI can act as a sort of security net for the millions of people who will be left jobless by the tech revolution.
• Supporting unpaid care workers:  Those with ill or differently abled relatives are often forced to quit their jobs and look after them full-time. UBI would allow care-workers to support themselves, encouraging care work and taking pressure off public services that provide care to the sick and elderly.
• Expanding the middle class:  The economic growth of high-income countries is making the rich richer, but having very little effect on the working classes. The research  of economists Emmanuel Saez and Thomas Piketty  showed that “the bottom half of earners went from making 20 percent of overall income in 1979 to just 13 percent in 2014. The top 1 percent, on the other hand, have gone from making 11 percent to 20 percent. The pie has gotten vastly bigger, and the richest families have reaped bigger and bigger pieces from it.” UBI would help balance this inequality and expand the ever-shrinking middle class.
• Insurance against shocks : This income floor will provide a safety net against health, income and other shocks.
• Improvement in financial inclusion Payment:  transfers will encourage greater usage of bank accounts, leading to higher profits for banking correspondents (BC) and an endogenous improvement in financial inclusion. Credit – increased income will release the constraints on access to credit for those with low income levels.
• Psychological benefits:  A guaranteed income will reduce the pressures of finding a basic living on a daily basis.
• Ending abuse:  Those who suffer domestic abuse, mainly women, become trapped in violent situations because they don’t have the means to leave them. UBI would make leaving an abusive partner easy, and would unleash the potential of countless people trapped by domestic violence.
• Administrative efficiency : A UBI in place of a plethora of separate government schemes will reduce the administrative burden on the state.

The  cons  of UBI:

• Conspicuous spending : Households, especially male members, may spend this additional income on wasteful activities.
• Disincentive to work : A minimum guaranteed income might make people lazy and opt out of the labour market.
• Gender disparity  induced by cash Gender norms may regulate the sharing of UBI within a household – men are likely to exercise control over spending of the UBI. This may not always be the case with other in-kind transfer
• Implementation : Given the current status of financial access among the poor, a UBI may put too much stress on the banking system.
• Poor fiscal capacity:  India doesn’t have the fiscal capacity to implement Universal Basic Income. Economic Survey calculations showed that a  75% universality rate with an annual Universal Basic Income of Rs 7,620 per year at 2016-17 prices will cost about 5% of the GDP.  Economist Pranab Bardhan showed that inflation – indexed Universal Basic Income of Rs 10,000 at 2014-15 prices—about three-quarters of that year’s poverty line—will cost about 10% of the GDP .
• Distort labour Market:  Universal Basic Income can create distortions in the labour market. A steady, permanent and guaranteed income without any work is likely to affect labour mobility and participation. It can cause a rise in the wages too.
• Political economy of universality:  ideas for self-exclusion Opposition may arise from the provision of the transfer to rich individuals as it might seem to trump the idea of equity and state welfare for the poor.
• Exposure to market risks (cash vs. food):  Unlike food subsidies that are not subject to fluctuating market prices, a cash transfer’s purchasing power may severely be curtailed by market fluctuations.

Economic Survey 2016-17 views:

• Universal Basic Income should replace the welfare scheme. The Economic survey wants UBI to replace and NOT supplement the existing social welfare, anti-poverty schemes like MGNREGA, PMJSY etc
• Economic Survey has suggested  replacing all current cash transfers  with universal basic income.
• Survey in a bold step ensured that  universal basic income will not be distributive  in nature. The burden to distribute the income will not be shared by the rich.
• The Survey points out that the two prerequisites for a successful UBI are:  functional JAM  (Jan Dhan, Aadhar and Mobile) system as it ensures that the cash transfer goes directly into the account of a beneficiary and  Centre-State negotiations  on cost sharing for the programme.

Conclusion:

UBI holds a  lot of potential as a welfare scheme , however in its present form needs to be re-evaluated. There is a need for a 10-fold increase in resource mobilisation combined with increasing the tax base for funding. However, the alternatives to UBI can be explored like direct benefits transfers, conditional cash transfers and other income support schemes which also hold the potential to yield the above mentioned benefits.

Topic: Disaster and disaster management.

4. India is highly vulnerable to earthquakes due to its location in a seismically active region. Suggest measures to develop earthquake resilience in India. (250 words)

Reference: The Hindu

Why the question: India’s high population density exacerbates the impact of earthquakes, with millions of people living in seismically active zones. Informal settlements and poorly constructed buildings are common, increasing the risk of casualties and infrastructure damage during earthquakes. Key Demand of the question: To write about vulnerability of India to earthquakes and steps needed to build resilience. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin giving context. Body: First, write about vulnerability of India to earthquakes – location on active fault lines, dense population, and inadequate infrastructure etc. Next, write about the measures that are needed to develop resilience – strengthening building codes, enhancing public awareness and preparedness, deploying early warning systems, improving disaster response and recovery, and fostering regional cooperation. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

An earthquake  is the shaking of the surface (occurs without warning) of the Earth resulting from a sudden release of energy in the Earth’s lithosphere that creates seismic waves. It is tectonic in origin and results from the release of accumulated stress of the moving lithospheric or crustal plates.

India’s high population density exacerbates the impact of earthquakes, with millions of people living in seismically active zones. Informal settlements and poorly constructed buildings are common, increasing the risk of casualties and infrastructure damage during earthquakes.

The Earthquake Risk in India:

• India has been divided into  four zones – II, III, IV and V – according to the seismic zoning map of India prepared by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS). Zone V is seismically the most active region, while Zone II is the least.
• Around 11% of the country falls in Zone V , 18% in Zone IV, 30% in Zone III and the remaining in Zone II.

Reasons for the Earthquake proneness in India:

• The Indian plate is driving into Eurasia at a rate of approximately 47 mm/year.
• Himalayan belt: Collision between Indo-Australian plate with Eurasian plate causes  lots of strain in underlying rocks’ energy , which is released in the form of earthquakes.
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands:  Seafloor displacement and underwater volcanoes disturb the equilibrium of earth’s surface.
• Deccan Plateau:  The emergence of a fault line and energy build-up along the fault line of the river Bhima (Krishna) near Latur and Osmanabad (Maharashtra).
• Increasing population and unscientific land use for construction make India a high-risk land for earthquakes.

Risks of high magnitude Earthquakes

• Primary damage:  Damage occurs to human settlement, buildings, structures and infrastructure, especially bridges, elevated roads, railways, water towers, pipelines, electrical generating facilities.
• Aftershocks of an earthquake can cause much greater damage to already weakened structures.
• Secondary effects  include fires, dam failure and landslides which may block water ways and also cause flooding, landslides, Tsunami, chemical spills, breakdown of communication facilities, human loss.
• There is also a huge loss to the public health system, transport and water supply in the affected areas.
• Tertiary impact of earthquake includes Post Trauma Stress Disorder (PTSD), long term psychological issues, loss of livelihood, disruption of social capital due to relocation related issues, etc.

India’s current policy on earthquake preparedness

• Operates primarily at the scale of structural details
• National Building Codes: Includes specifying dimensions of the structural members – columns, beams, etc.
• National Retrofitting Programme 2014: Under the programme, the RBI directed banks to deny loans for buildings that do not meet the earthquake-resistant design.

Earthquake preparedness measures needed

• Earthquake monitoring centres  (seismological centres) for regular monitoring and fast dissemination of information among the people in the vulnerable areas should be established. Currently, Centre for Seismology (CS) is the nodal agency of Government of India responsible for monitoring seismic activity in and around the country.
• A vulnerability map of the country along with dissemination of vulnerability risk information among the people can be done to minimize the adverse impacts.
• Planning:  The Bureau of Indian Standards has published building codes and guidelines for safe construction of buildings against earthquakes. Before the buildings are constructed the building plans have to be checked by the Municipality, according to the laid down by-laws.
• Important buildings such as hospitals, schools and fire stations need to be upgraded by retrofitting techniques.
• Community preparedness and public education on causes and characteristics of an earthquake and preparedness measures is important. It can be created through sensitization and training programme for community, by preparation of disaster management plans by schools, malls, hospitals etc. and carrying out mock drills, by preparing documentation on lessons from previous earthquaes and widely disseminating it.
• Engineered structures:  The soil type should be analysed before construction. Building structures on soft soil should be avoided. Similar problem persists in the buildings constructed on the river banks which have alluvial soil.
• Encouraging use of Indigenous methods  – Indigenous earthquake-resistant houses like the bhongas in the Kutch Region of Gujarat, dhajji diwari buildings in Jammu & Kashmir, brick-nogged wood frame constructions in Himachal Pradesh and ekra constructions made of bamboo in Assam are helpful in this regard.
• In the realm of policy and not just legal enforcement.
• At the scale of building details as well as that of cities.
• To create a system of tax-based or development rights-based incentives for retrofitting one’s building up to seismic codes.
• To ensure better enforcement of seismic codes through a similar model.
• Generate earthquake vulnerability maps with the percentage of vulnerable structures in the area, the availability of evacuation routes, the location of nearest relief services, etc.

It is not possible to prevent the occurrence of an earthquake; hence, the next best option is to lay emphasis on disaster preparedness and mitigation rather than curative measures. A policy on earthquake preparedness will require a  visionary, radical and transformative approach.  It would be unwise to wait for another earthquake to learn how to be better prepared for one. Hence, a robust early warning system, decentralised response mechanism is the best way forward.

Value addition

Best practices (Japan and San Francisco):

• Japan  has invested heavily in technological measures (skyscrapers with counterweights, small houses on flexible foundations, public infrastructure with automated triggers) by cultivating an industry around earthquake mitigation and fostering expertise.
• San Francisco is the world’s most famous earthquake-prone city which implemented policy changes similar to Japan.
• The Gujarat government: Immediately adopted (after the 2001 Bhuj earthquake) new  town planning schemes that widened roads  and created routes for evacuation and relief work.
• Programmes like the ongoing Urban 20 meetings : An excellent opportunity for international knowledge exchange on earthquake preparedness.

Topic: Linkages between development and spread of extremism.

5. What are the causes for insurgency in the parts north-eastern India? Examine the reasons that sustain insurgency in north east India despite many efforts at eliminating it. (250 words)

Reference: Insights on India

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 3 and mentioned as part of Mission-2024 Secure timetable. Key Demand of the question: To write about causes for insurgency in N.E India and its sustenance despite various measures. Directive word:  Examine – When asked to ‘Examine’, we must investigate the topic (content words) in detail, inspect it, investigate it and establish the key facts and issues related to the topic in question. While doing so we should explain why these facts and issues are important and their implications. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by giving context of the insurgencies in North east India. Body: First, draw a small map of the north-east showing major insurgent conflicts in the region. Next, mention the causes of the insurgency under various heads such as economic, political, social, cultural/ethnic reasons.  Write briefly about its impact highlighting the issues associated with AFSPA, Naxalism and International borders. Next, write about the various measures taken to tackle insurgency and their limitations. Write about the factors for sustenance of insurgency. Conclusion: Conclude by writing a way forward.

There are over a hundred of ethnic groups in the Northeast each having a strong sense of identity and their uniqueness. They want to retain this uniqueness in their political and social and orientations as well. Insurgency is essentially a violent rebellion against the political organisation when the ethnic communities feel that their interests have been neglected and they are not properly represented.

The large prevalence of insurgency has negatively impacted the prevalence of Peace in the Northeast. This not only affects the socio-economic development of the region but has a negative effect on the country as well.

Causes of insurgency in north-east

• Nationality : Involving concept of a distinct ‘homeland’ as a separate nation and pursuit of the realisation of that goal by its votaries.
• Ethnic reasons : Involving assertion of numerically smaller and less dominant tribal groups against the political and cultural hold of the dominant tribal group. In Assam, this also takes the form of tension between local and migrant communities.
• Sub-regional reasons:  Involving movements which ask for recognition of sub-regional aspirations and often come in direct conflict with the State Governments or even the autonomous Councils.
• Developmental issues:  Poverty, unemployment, lack of connectivity, inadequate health care and educational facilities, feelings of neglect and non-participation in governing their own affairs have contributed to the insurgency in the region.
• Governance deficit: Informal economy and governance and shortage of resources.
• Porous international borders with difficult topography
• Sense of alienation from mainstream due to overwhelming presence of security forces and associated issues of Human Rights.

Reasons that sustain insurgency in north-east

• Sense of Isolation, Deprivation and Exploitation:  Distance from New Delhi and meagre representation in the Lok Sabha has further reduced the vox populi being heard in the corridors of powers, leading to  more disillusionment in the dialogue process , thereby making call of the gun more attractive.
• Demographic Changes:  The influx of refugees from former East Pakistan (now Bangladesh) into Assam led to a dramatic change in the demographic landscape of the region.
• Lack of Economic Development:  GoI’s economic policies have also fuelled resentment and insecurity amongst the people. Due to various factors, the development of NEI has lagged behind thereby resulting in lack of employment opportunities. Thus, the youth are easily lured by various insurgent groups in order to earn easy money.
• Internal Displacement:  Internal displacement is also an ongoing problem. From the 1990s to the start of 2011, over 800,000 people were forced to flee their homes in episodes of  inter-ethnic violence in western Assam, along the border between Assam and Meghalaya, and in Tripura.
• External Support:  There is  ‘increasing evidence’ of China’s revival of its ‘covert offensive’ in the region. Pakistan’s Special Services Group (SSG) also trained the Naga guerrillas in the 1960s through their bases in East Pakistan (now Bangladesh).

 Conclusion and way forward

• Multi-stakeholder approach: A wider representation not just of civil society, scholars and others, but also of professionals is required at any forum addressing the concerns in the North-East.
• Understanding emotional and psychological aspects of the problems of the different states of the North-East: Any meaningful policy for the North-East should address the specifics of each state and region.
• Economic development:  Opening up of economy of this region may be expedited making way for new investments, acquiring of productive assets, reaching potential in tourism etc.
• Tackling illegal immigration from neighbouring countries: Identity cards and work permits for those who come for work should be made mandatory.
• Stress on Dialogue as an ongoing process to reach concrete solutions by involving all the stakeholders and not a single group.

  Value addition

Government measures

• Constitutional protection in Sixth Schedule which protected not only the tribal laws, customs and land rights; but also gave sufficient autonomy to the tribes to administer themselves with minimum outside interference.
• Protected Area Permit: Due to security reasons, certain areas have been declared as Protected Area/Restricted Areas where no foreigner can enter or stay without obtaining permit from the competent authorities .
• Act east policy  to enhance economic cooperation with South East Asian countries will benefit North East.
• Kaladan Multimodal project to provide connectivity of North East with rest of India through Mizoram.
• Trilateral highway (moreh (manipur) -mandalay – thailand) will facilitate north east trade with South east Asia.
• North-East Road Sector Development Scheme (NERSDS) is a region-based road development programme in India.

General Studies – 4

Topic: Human Values – lessons from the lives and teachings of great leaders, reformers and administrators;

6.  What does this quote means to you? (150 words)

“In ethics, prudence is not enough; we need virtue.”  – Aristotle

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote. Body: Write about the difference between prudence and virtue – Prudence and virtue are two concepts that are closely related to ethics, but they have different meanings and implications. Write about the need of being virtuous in ethics. Cite major virtues and examples to substantiate. Conclusion: Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.

Virtue ethics  is a broad term for theories that emphasize the role of character and virtue in moral philosophy rather than either doing one’s duty or acting in order to bring about good consequences.

Most  virtue ethics theories take their inspiration from Aristotle  who declared that a virtuous person is someone who has ideal character traits. These traits derive from natural internal tendencies, but need to be nurtured; however, once established, they will become stable. For example,  a virtuous person is someone who is kind across many situations over a lifetime because that is her character and not because she wants to maximize utility or gain favors or simply do her duty. Unlike deontological and consequentialist theories, theories of virtue ethics do not aim primarily to identify universal principles that can be applied in any moral situation.

A virtuous actor chooses virtuous action knowingly and for its own sake.  It is  not enough to act kindly by accident, unthinkingly, or because everyone else is doing so; you must act kindly because you recognize that this is the right way to behave.  Note here that although habituation is a tool for character development it is not equivalent to virtue; virtue requires conscious choice and affirmation.

Virtue “lies in a mean” because the right response to each situation is neither too much nor too little.  Virtue is the appropriate response to different situations and different agents. The virtues are associated with feelings. For example: courage is associated with fear, modesty is associated with the feeling of shame, and friendliness associated with feelings about social conduct.  The virtue lies in a mean because it involves displaying the mean amount of emotion, where mean stands for appropriate.  (This does not imply that the right amount is a modest amount. Sometimes quite a lot may be the appropriate amount of emotion to display, as in the case of righteous indignation). The mean amount is neither too much nor too little and is sensitive to the requirements of the person and the situation.

Finally,  virtue is determined by the right reason. V irtue requires the right desire and the right reason. To act from the wrong reason is to act viciously. On the other hand, the agent can try to act from the right reason but fail because he or she has the wrong desire.  The virtuous agent acts effortlessly, perceives the right reason, has the harmonious right desire, and has an inner state of virtue that flows smoothly into action.  The virtuous agent can act as an exemplar of virtue to others.

It is important to recognize that this is a perfunctory account of ideas that are developed in great detail in Aristotle. They are related briefly here as they have been central to virtue ethics’ claim to put forward a unique and rival account to other normative theories. Modern virtue ethicists have developed their theories around a central role for character and virtue and claim that this gives them a unique understanding of morality.

7.  What does this quote means to you? (150 words)

“It is wrong and immoral to seek to escape the consequences of one’s acts.”  – Mahatma Gandhi

Difficulty level: Easy

Why the question: The question is part of the static syllabus of General studies paper – 4. Structure of the answer: Introduction:  Begin by explaining the literal meaning of the quote. Body: Write about the importance taking responsibility for one’s actions and importance of being accountable. Accountability is crucial in personal, professional, and social contexts. It refers to the obligation of individuals, organizations, and institutions to take responsibility for their actions, decisions, and outcomes. Cite examples to substantiate. Conclusion: Summarise by highlighting the importance of the quote in the present day.

“He that soweth vice does not reap virtue”.

The core of Gandhian philosophy is that Only right means leads to right destinations and ends do not justify the means as Machiavelli advocated.

It simply means that ends do not justify the means and you ll reap what you sow. Ultimately the unethical acts of humans will come to haunt them. The quote means to say that there will be accountability for the acts that we do.

As adults, we must take responsibility for what we say and do not say, what we do and do not do. It is for each of these choices that we are accountable.

When a  person takes it to be their moral obligation to be responsible for their actions, it is known as accountability.  When a person is accountable for his actions, they understand that their actions have a direct effect on greater things and take it up as a responsibility to see that action achieving the greater good. They look beyond personal goals and their intentions are clearer. For example, an office worker may work for a longer time than what they are paid for because they consider their work as personal responsibility and they are accountable for it. Delaying the work will only lead to the institution losing money.

It is wrong and immoral to seek to escape the consequences of one’s acts. It is good for a person who overeats to have an ache and a fast.  It is bad for him to indulge his appetite and then escape the consequence by taking tonics or other medicine.  It is still worse for a person to indulge in his animal passions and escape the consequences of his acts. Nature is relentless and will have full revenge for any such violation of her laws. Moral results can only be produced by moral restraints. All other restraints defeat the very purpose for which they are intended

Gandhiji said that if we sow the seeds of babool, one cannot expect or reap rose flowers. Only right means leads to right destination and unethical means will land us in bigger trouble and we will ultimately suffer the consequences.

Click here to Download the SECURE Questions in PDF Format

Join our Official Telegram Channel  HERE

Please subscribe to Our podcast channel HERE

Subscribe to our  YouTube Channel HERE

Follow our Twitter Account   HERE

Follow our Instagram ID HERE

Follow us on LinkedIn : HERE      

• Our Mission, Vision & Values
• Director’s Desk
• Commerce & Accountancy
• Previous Years’ Question Papers-Prelims
• Previous Years’ Question Papers-Mains
• Environment & Ecology
• Science & Technology