Drought has been recognized as a disaster in view of its spatial expanse, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effects on vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA), discuss the mechanisms for preparedness to deal with likely El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India. (UPSC 2014, 13 Marks, )
View AnswerDrought, an insidious natural phenomenon, has emerged as a catastrophic disaster due to its widespread geographical impact, extended duration, gradual onset, and profound repercussions on susceptible populations.
El Nino and La Nina are climate phenomena associated with the periodic warming (El Nino) and cooling (La Nina) of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean.
The Indian subcontinent has experienced an increase in the frequency of earthquakes in recent years. However, India's preparedness for mitigating the impact of these earthquakes has significant gaps.
John Tuzo Wilson developed the Plate Tectonics Theory, focusing on the movement of Earth's lithospheric plates. He explained how earthquakes occur at plate boundaries.
On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on fourteen countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010), describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (UPSC 2017, 15 Marks, )
View AnswerDisaster preparedness refers to the measures and actions taken in advance to minimize the impact of potential disasters, enhance resilience, and facilitate effective response and recovery.
Dennis S. Mileti, Author of Disasters by Design (1999), highlighted the need for disaster preparedness to align with sustainable development principles. He emphasized social vulnerabilities and the need for systemic preparedness.
Hazard zonation mapping involves the identification and delineation of areas prone to specific natural hazards based on geological, geomorphological, and climatic factors.
This process involves identifying and mapping areas prone to landslides, allowing for targeted mitigation efforts.
India has a vast coastline of 7,516 kilometres, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. This extensive coastline offers significant potential for various mineral resources and natural hazards.