Model Answer

Introduction

Flash droughts are rapid and intense dry spells that emerge with little warning, resulting in severe consequences for agriculture, water resources, and the environment. With climate change amplifying the frequency of these events, it is essential to implement measures to mitigate their impact.

1. Early-Warning Systems
The unpredictability of flash droughts makes early detection crucial. Establishing systems to monitor changes in soil moisture and evapotranspiration can help forecast the onset of droughts. This would provide stakeholders, especially farmers, with valuable lead time to take precautionary actions. For example, monitoring these parameters could serve as an early indicator for regions facing imminent drought conditionsmproved Forecasting
Better integration of short-term weather predictions with long-term climatic models is necessary to predict flash droughts more accurately. Enhanced meteorological and climatic forecasting can bridge the gap, helping local governments, agricultural zones, and water management agencies prepare in advance .

2. Segment and Conservation

Developing local water storage infrastructure, promoting the use of drought-resistant crops, and implementing strict water-use policies are essential to mitigate the adverse effects of flash droughts. These measures will ensure that water resources are conserved efficiently and can be accessed during dry periods .

3. Research tion
Investing in research to understand the underlying causes and solutions for flash droughts is critical. The United States Drought Monitor, for example, tracks and labels drought areas by intensity, improving forecasting accuracy and helping with proactive decision-making .

4. Awareness and Prep
Raising awareness among communities, especially in agriculture, is crucial. Educating farmers about potential signs of flash droughts—such as unusual heat patterns and low rainfall—can help them take early action to safeguard crops and mitigate yield losses .

Conclusion

Addressing fla a multi-pronged approach that includes better forecasting, early warning systems, efficient water management, and continuous research. Combining these efforts with global climate change mitigation strategies will ensure resilience against this growing climate threat.

Model Answer

Introduction

India is highly vulnerable to flood-related hazards due to several natural and human-induced factors. Over 40 million hectares (mha) of India’s total 329 mha geographical area are flood-prone. On average, floods affect 75 lakh hectares annually, resulting in the loss of 1600 lives and damages worth Rs. 1805 crores. Below are the key factors contributing to India’s flood vulnerability:

1. Monsoon Rainfall

India receives 70%-90% of its annual rainfall during the monsoon season, leading to excessive rainfall and flooding in many regions. This intense rainfall often overwhelms existing drainage systems and causes river systems to overflow.

2. Himalayan River Systems

The Ganges, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries frequently experience extensive flooding due to factors like heavy sediment load, glacial melt, and monsoon rainfall. These rivers carry a massive volume of water during the rainy season, leading to floods in the lowland areas.

3. Long Coastline

With a 7500 km coastline, India is highly susceptible to tropical cyclones originating from the North Indian Ocean. The Chennai floods in December 2023, triggered by Cyclone Michaung, highlight the vulnerability of coastal cities to storm surges and heavy rains.

4. Climate Change

Climate change has caused increased frequency and intensity of rainfall, exacerbating the risk of floods. In regions like the Himalayas, there is a noticeable increase in the intensity of rainfall within shorter periods, which leads to flash floods.

Causes of Flood-Related Disasters in India

1. Unregulated Development

Poor adherence to building and environmental regulations, particularly in hilly terrains, has contributed to flood disasters. For instance, unregulated construction on the Song riverbed led to the Dehradun floods in 2022.

2. Unplanned Urbanization

Unplanned construction on floodplains and wetlands has reduced the natural absorption capacity of the land, aggravating flood risks. The 2023 Delhi floods were a direct consequence of encroachment on the Yamuna floodplains.

3. Deforestation

Deforestation for mining, roads, and tourism increases soil erosion and runoff, contributing to flooding. The floods in Karnataka and Kerala in 2019 were partly caused by deforestation in the Western Ghats.

4. Dam Construction

The construction of hydropower projects in the Himalayan region has intensified floods. The Uttarakhand floods in 2013 and the Sikkim floods in 2023 were aggravated by dam-related issues, including the release of excess water and poor planning.

Conclusion

Addressing India’s vulnerability to floods requires a multifaceted approach, including better urban planning, reforestation, improved drainage infrastructure, and effective river management. Steps to mitigate climate change effects are also crucial in reducing future flood risks.

Model Answer

Positive Role of Media

1. Information Dissemination: The media ensures timely and accurate information reaches the public, helping them make informed decisions and stay safe. For example, during the Kerala floods in 2018, nearly all news channels in the state provided continuous 24/7 coverage, ensuring widespread dissemination of vital information.
2. Raising Awareness: Through news reports, documentaries, and educational programs, the media raises awareness about disaster risks and safety measures. An example is the Sukoon program by Doordarshan Kashmir Channel, which focused on COVID-19 awareness in the region.
3. Bridging the Gap: Media acts as a vital communication bridge between authorities and affected communities. Radio Kashmir Srinagar, during the 2014 floods, helped reunite people by broadcasting updates and messages from the authorities.
4. Community Engagement: The media engages communities by supporting relief efforts, including fundraising initiatives. For instance, Sakal Media Group’s “Social For Action” platform facilitated crowdfunding for disaster relief.
5. Holding Authorities Accountable: Media plays the role of a watchdog, ensuring that authorities are accountable for their disaster response and recovery efforts, thus promoting transparency and effectiveness.

Negative Role of Media

1. Sensationalism: Sometimes, media sensationalizes disasters, creating unnecessary panic. During the COVID-19 pandemic, misinformation spread through media channels worsened the crisis.
2. Invasion of Privacy: Excessive media coverage may invade the privacy of victims, adding to their emotional distress.
3. Biased Coverage: Media often focuses on urban disasters, like floods in Delhi and Bengaluru, while neglecting those in remote areas, such as the Northeast, leading to unequal attention.

In conclusion, while media plays an essential role in disaster management in India, ethical practices and coordination with disaster management agencies are crucial for enhancing its effectiveness.

Model Answer

Definition of Community-Based Disaster Preparedness (CBDP)

Community-based disaster preparedness (CBDP) refers to an approach where communities actively build their own capacity to assess and manage risks associated with both natural and human-induced hazards. It involves developing strategies, gathering resources, and implementing measures to prevent or mitigate the impact of potential disasters. Additionally, CBDP focuses on response, rehabilitation, and reconstruction efforts after a disaster strikes. Examples of CBDP initiatives include the Chetna Initiative in Bihar, Odisha’s community outreach system, and Puducherry’s Aapda Mitra scheme.

Process and Strategies in CBDP for Building Resilience

Pre-Disaster Phase

1. Community Orientation: The community must be educated on the nature of potential disasters, their vulnerabilities, and the impact they could face. This helps in raising awareness and fostering proactive preparedness.
2. Stock-Taking of Resources: The community should assess available resources, such as schools, health centers, and cyclone shelters, which can be critical during a disaster. This allows for better decision-making when disaster strikes.
3. Risk and Vulnerability Assessment: Identifying elements at risk (e.g., infrastructure, economic assets) and vulnerable populations (e.g., children, elderly, disabled) helps in planning appropriate preparedness measures.
4. Formulation of Preparedness Plans: A comprehensive disaster preparedness plan should clarify community roles before, during, and after a disaster. It should also specify resources, responsibilities, and coordination among local authorities, departments, and NGOs.

During the Disaster

1. Search, Rescue, and Evacuation: Identifying disaster victims, providing first aid, evacuating to safe places, and distributing relief are key actions in this phase.
2. Sheltering People and Livestock: Pre-planned shelters must be equipped with essential facilities like water, sanitation, food, and medical services.
3. Debris Clearance and Dead Body Identification: Clearing debris and disposing of casualties—both human and animal—are essential for restoring normalcy.

Post-Disaster Phase

1. Detailed Damage Assessment: This helps determine the scale of damage to lives, infrastructure, crops, and other assets.
2. Rehabilitation Plan: A comprehensive rehabilitation plan should focus on restoring livelihoods and rebuilding infrastructure.
3. Social Rehabilitation: Strengthening health centers, schools, and other community facilities is crucial for social recovery.
4. Monitoring and Evaluation: Building monitoring and evaluation mechanisms ensures proper utilization of resources and successful implementation of disaster management efforts.

Collaborative Effort

While local communities are instrumental in reducing vulnerabilities, the involvement of government, civil society, and other stakeholders is crucial for comprehensive disaster management.

Model Answer

India’s Vulnerability to Natural Disasters: A Detailed Discussion

India’s diverse geo-climatic conditions make it one of the most disaster-prone countries in the world. According to the National Institute of Disaster Management (NIDM), 27 out of India’s 36 states and union territories are susceptible to natural disasters. The country’s vulnerability is heightened by various factors, including its geographical location, climatic conditions, and socio-economic factors.

Earthquakes

India is situated on the Alpine-Himalayan Belt, where the Indian Plate meets the Eurasian Plate, making it highly prone to earthquakes. Fourteen states in India, including regions like the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Gujarat, and parts of the North-East, are at high seismic risk. For example, the 2001 Gujarat earthquake caused significant destruction, resulting in numerous casualties and extensive damage to infrastructure. According to NIDM, 58.6% of the country’s land is at risk from earthquakes of moderate to very high intensity.

Floods

Flooding is another major disaster, affecting approximately 12% of India’s land area (40 million hectares). This is largely due to heavy monsoon rainfall, which contributes to floods every year, particularly between June and September. States like Kerala, Assam, and Bihar frequently experience severe floods. The 2018 Kerala floods, for example, caused widespread devastation, with the loss of lives and infrastructure.

Cyclones and Tsunamis

India’s long coastline of 7,516 km is vulnerable to cyclones and tsunamis, especially along its eastern coast. Around 71% of the coastline, including states like Odisha, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh, is prone to these natural disasters. The eastern coast experiences nearly 10% of the world’s tropical cyclones. The 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami and the 1999 Odisha cyclone are notable examples of the devastation caused by such events.

Droughts and Heatwaves

Around 68% of India is prone to drought, with chronic drought conditions affecting areas like Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra. In addition, heatwaves are increasingly common, especially in northern and central India, with states like Punjab, Uttar Pradesh, and Rajasthan experiencing extreme temperatures during summer months.

Landslides

Landslides are frequent in regions like the Western Ghats, the Himalayas, and the Andaman Islands due to high rainfall and seismic activity. For instance, the 2013 Uttarakhand floods and landslides caused widespread destruction and loss of life.

Conclusion

India’s unique geo-climatic conditions expose it to a wide range of natural disasters, from earthquakes and cyclones to floods, droughts, and heatwaves. The government has recognized this vulnerability by establishing the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) to address these challenges and prepare for disaster resilience.