Sansad TV Vishesh: Monsoon | Current Affairs & Hindu Analysis: Daily, Weekly & Monthly - UPSC PDF Download

Monsoon

• The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts above-normal rainfall for India in the upcoming monsoon season, with a 106% likelihood of exceeding the average between June and September 2024.

What is Monsoon?

• The term "monsoon" originates from the Arabic word "mausin," meaning 'season.'
• Monsoons occur in the tropical zone between 20° N and 20° S.
• Characterized by dual seasonal winds: sea to land in summer and land to sea in winter.
• Unique to regions like the Indian Subcontinent, Southeast Asia, and parts of Central Western Africa.
• Southwest monsoons originate from a low-pressure system over the Tibetan plateau.
• Northeast monsoons are linked to high-pressure cells over the Tibetan and Siberian plateaus.
• Southwest monsoons bring significant rainfall to most Indian regions.
• Northeast monsoons primarily impact the southeastern coast of India.

Mechanism of Monsoon:

• Monsoon typically lasts 100 to 120 days from early June to mid-September.
• Onset marked by a burst of increased rainfall lasting several days.
• Progression from South to North with a split into Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal branches.
• Most of India welcomes the Monsoon by mid-July.

Withdrawal of Monsoon:

• Gradual withdrawal starting in the North-Western part of India by early September.
• Complete retreat from the northern half of the Peninsula by mid-October.
• Withdraws from the rest of India by early December.

Factors Affecting Monsoon

• Differential Heating and Cooling lead to low pressure over land in India and high pressure over seas.
• Shift of the Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) pulls southwest monsoon winds onto land from the sea.
• High-Pressure Region East of Madagascar influences the Indian Monsoon.
• Warming of the Tibetan Plateau creates low pressure at high altitude.
• Movement of Jet Streams from Himalayas plays a significant role.

Effect of Western Ghats:

• The Western Ghats act as a barrier to moisture-filled clouds during the monsoon.

El Niño Southern Oscillations (ENSO):

• El Niño and La Niña events impact the monsoon and climate variability.

Pressure Variations between Tahiti and Darwin:

• The difference in pressure between Tahiti and Darwin forecasts monsoon intensity.

How Does the Monsoon Affect India?

• Positive Impact:
• Agricultural Dependency and Prosperity: 64% of India's population relies on agriculture, with timely rainfall crucial for prosperity.
• Regional Crop Diversity contributes to a varied range of food and products.
• Water Recharge ensures essential water supply for various needs.
• Economic Growth is stimulated, especially in rural areas.
• Cultural Significance celebrated through festivals and rituals.
• Negative Impact:
• Flooding and Waterlogging cause damage to property and infrastructure.
• Droughts affect agricultural productivity and livelihoods.
• Health Risks increase due to waterborne diseases.
• Infrastructure Damage disrupts essential services.

Way Forward

• Enhanced Water Management strategies are crucial for irrigation and power generation.
• Investment in Forecasting Technology improves prediction accuracy.
• Climate Adaptation Measures help in adapting to climate change impacts.
• Strengthened International Cooperation is essential for addressing global climate challenges.