“The emergence of cities as IT hubs has led to new job opportunities, but it has also brought out new challenges.” Provide instances that support this claim. (250 words) [UPSC 2017]
Model Answer Introduction Floods have historically been a significant challenge in India, leading to devastating impacts on communities and infrastructure. However, they also present an opportunity to harness water resources for sustainable irrigation and all-weather inland navigation, which can enhRead more
Model Answer
Introduction
Floods have historically been a significant challenge in India, leading to devastating impacts on communities and infrastructure. However, they also present an opportunity to harness water resources for sustainable irrigation and all-weather inland navigation, which can enhance agricultural productivity and economic connectivity.
Flood-Prone Areas and Sustainable Solutions
Irrigation
Floodwaters can be effectively utilized for irrigation through various strategies:
- Inter-Basin Water Transfer: This method involves transferring surplus water from flood-prone areas to drought-affected regions. Notable projects include the Beas-Sutlej Link and the Ken-Betwa Link, aimed at enhancing water availability in arid zones.
- Barrages and Dams: Constructing barrages and dams allows for the storage of excess monsoon water, which can be released gradually for irrigation or power generation. The Damodar Valley Corporation, established in 1948, is a prime example of this approach, controlling floods while generating hydroelectric power.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Capturing and storing rainwater is an effective method to combat water scarcity. Techniques such as rooftop harvesting can be implemented, similar to practices in countries like China and Brazil, to ensure a sustainable water supply for irrigation.
Inland Navigation
Floods also create opportunities for enhancing inland navigation:
- Seasonal River Navigability: During the monsoon, rivers become navigable, facilitating transport. Developing infrastructure such as ports and terminals can improve regional connectivity and reduce transportation costs, leading to economic growth.
Sustainability Considerations
To ensure that these initiatives are sustainable, it is crucial to prioritize environmental considerations. Water diversion projects must minimize ecological disruption, and infrastructure should be designed to maintain natural water flows and support local communities.
Conclusion
Transforming floods into a resource for irrigation and inland navigation presents a dual opportunity for sustainable development in India. By investing in infrastructure and adopting environmentally friendly practices, we can mitigate the adverse effects of floods while enhancing agricultural productivity and regional connectivity.
See less
The growth of cities as Information Technology (I.T.) hubs has indeed spurred economic development and created numerous employment opportunities. However, it has also introduced a range of new challenges. Here’s a detailed examination: Opportunities Created: Employment Generation: Example: Cities liRead more
The growth of cities as Information Technology (I.T.) hubs has indeed spurred economic development and created numerous employment opportunities. However, it has also introduced a range of new challenges. Here’s a detailed examination:
Opportunities Created:
Problems Created:
In summary, while the emergence of I.T. hubs in cities has opened up significant employment opportunities and economic benefits, it has also brought about issues such as urban congestion, housing shortages, income inequality, and environmental degradation. Addressing these challenges requires balanced urban planning and sustainable development strategies to ensure that the growth of I.T. hubs contributes positively to the overall quality of urban life.
See less