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GS Paper: GS1

  • China, US and India absent at Climate Ambition Summit

     

    Central Idea

    • The Climate Ambition Summit (CAS) held in New York during the United Nations General Assembly concluded.
    • China, the United States, and India, together responsible for about 42% of the world’s greenhouse gas emissions and ranking as the top three emitters, were missing.

    Climate Ambition Summit (CAS)

    Purpose Strengthen global climate action and increase climate ambition.
    Anniversary of Paris Agreement Typically held on December 12th, coinciding with the Paris Agreement’s anniversary.
    Linked to Paris Agreement Connected to the international treaty aiming to limit global warming to well below 2°C or 1.5°C.
    Hosts and Participants Hosted by countries/regions; attended by heads of state, officials, organizations, and stakeholders.
    Commitments and Pledges Platform for announcing climate commitments, NDCs, funding, and policy measures.
    Climate Finance Discussions on financing mitigation and adaptation in developing countries.
    Global Cooperation Emphasizes collective efforts and solidarity in addressing climate change.
    Outcome Results in declarations and announcements reflecting increased ambition.
    Subsequent COPs Contributions influence discussions at future UN Climate Change Conferences.
    Climate Emergency Acknowledges climate emergency and the need for urgent, transformative action.
    Non-State Actors Provides a platform for businesses, cities, and civil society to showcase actions.
    Long-Term Goals May include goals like achieving net-zero emissions by mid-century.

    India’s Involvement

    • India last updated its climate commitments in 2022, aiming to reduce emissions intensity (the volume of emissions per unit of GDP) by 45% from 2005 levels by 2030, a 10% increase from its 2015 commitment.
    • India also pledged to fulfill 50% of its electricity needs with renewable, non-fossil fuel energy sources and create an additional carbon sink of 2.5 to 3 billion tonnes of CO2-equivalent by 2030.
    • In 2021, PM Modi pledged that India would achieve net-zero emissions by 2070.
    • However, experts suggest these commitments may not be enough to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.

  • UNESCO Heritage Status for Hoysala Temples in Karnataka

    hoysala

    Central Idea

    • The Hoysala temples located in Belur, Halebid, and Somanathapur in Karnataka were granted UNESCO World Heritage status, marking a significant moment for these architectural marvels.

    Hoysala Temples and Their Nomination

    • Previous Recognition: The Chennakeshava temple at Belur and the Hoysaleshwara temple at Halebidu, both situated in Hassan district, have been on UNESCO’s tentative list since 2014.
    • Expansion of the Nomination: The Keshava temple at Somanathapur in Mysuru district was included in the tentative list alongside the other two temples. The Center officially nominated all three as India’s entry for 2022-23 in February 2022.

    Distinctive Features of the Hoysala Temples

    • Distinct Architectural Style: The Hoysala temples are renowned for their distinctive architectural style characterized by ornate designs and a stellate plan built on raised platforms.
    • Unique Material: These temples are constructed using choloritic schist, commonly known as soapstone, which is soft and amenable to intricate carving.
    • Artistic Signatures: Many sculptures within the temples bear the signatures of the artists, a unique feature in Indian art history.
    • Intricate Carvings: The doorways of these temples feature intricate carvings, showcasing the remarkable craftsmanship of Hoysala artists.

    Historical Timeline

    • Chennakeshava Temple at Belur: Construction began in 1117 CE during the reign of King Vishnuvardhana and was completed in 1220 CE.
    • Hoysaleshwara Temple at Halebid: Commissioned in 1121 CE.
    • Keshava Temple at Somanathapur: Commissioned by Somanatha Dandanayaka in 1268 CE during the rule of Narasimha III.

    Impact on Tourism and Future Focus

    • Global Recognition: The UNESCO World Heritage status is expected to bring global recognition to these temples and boost tourism in the region.
    • Enhancing Amenities: Authorities plan to address any concerns raised by UNESCO and focus on improving tourist amenities, including signage and connectivity.
    • Management Action Plan: A management action plan will be implemented to preserve and promote these heritage sites.

    Back2Basics: Hoysala Architecture

    Origins
    • Rooted in the Karnataka Dravidian architectural tradition, with its beginnings in the 7th century under the Badami Chalukya patronage.
    • Flourished during the Hoysala dynasty’s rule in the 13th century.
    Temple-Centric Creations
    • Hoysalas were prolific builders of Hindu temples, dedicating their architectural prowess to deities like Lord Shiva, Lord Vishnu, and various forms of the Goddess.
    • Star-shaped ground plans with symmetrically arranged shrines are common.
    Primary Building Material
    • Soapstone, also known as chloritic schist, was the primary material used.
    • Offering a pliable canvas for intricate carvings and detailing.
    Carvings
    • Hoysala temples are renowned for their exceptionally detailed and ornate carvings.
    • Carvings depict scenes from Hindu mythology, celestial beings, deities, animals, and intricate geometric patterns.
    Distinctive Features
    • Makartorana, mantapa (both open and closed), circular pillars with sculpted figures and Sthambha buttalikas, vimana with intricate exteriors, shrine variety (ekakuta, dvikuta, etc.), kalasa crowning, salabhanjika, kirtimukh.
    • Extensive depiction of Hindu mythology, live panels featuring various subjects, stellate shrine shapes, occasional erotic sculptures influenced by the Sakta tradition.
    Influence of Chola and Chalukya Art
    • Western Chalukyan influence, seen in pillar images known as “Sthambha buttalikas.”
    • Integration of Chola art, exemplified by the image of Mohini on a pillar in the Chennakeshava temple.
    • Hoysala artists adorned both pillar surfaces and tops.

  • Entrances in India’s New Parliament Building

    Central Idea

    • Vice-President Jagdeep Dhankhar raised the national flag at the Gaja Dwar (elephant gate) of India’s new Parliament building just days before its first session.
    • This event sheds light on the symbolic importance of the Gaja Dwar and the other entrances in the new Parliament.

    Gaja Dwar (Elephant Gate)

    • Wisdom and Wealth: The new Parliament building features six entrances, each representing a distinct role. The Gaja Dwar, adorned with a sculpture of an elephant, guards the northern entrance. The elephant is a symbol of wisdom, wealth, intellect, memory, and embodies the aspirations of elected representatives in the democracy.
    • Vastu Shastra: According to Vastu shastra, the northern direction is associated with planet Mercury, the source of higher intellect, and is presided over by Kubera, the god of wealth. Hence, the Gaja is placed at the northern entrance.

    Cultural Symbolism

    • Guardian Statues: All six entrances of the New Parliament Building feature red sandstone sculptures of auspicious animals known as “guardian statues.” These selections were made based on their significance in Indian culture, aesthetic appeal, positive qualities, and Vaastu Shastra principles.
    1. Asva (Horse): Positioned at the southern entrance, the vigilant horse symbolizes endurance, strength, power, and speed, reflecting the quality of governance.
    2. Garuda (Eagle-like Bird): The Garuda stands at the eastern ceremonial entrance, representing the aspirations of the people and the country’s administrators. In Vastu shastra, the east is associated with the rising sun, symbolizing hope, victory, and success.
    3. Makara (Mythological Aquatic Creature): Combining features of different animals, the Makara signifies unity in diversity among the nation’s people.
    4. Shardula (Mythological Creature): Regarded as the most powerful among all living beings, the Shardula symbolizes the strength of the country’s people.
    5. Hamsa (Swan): Located at the public entrance to the northeast, the Hamsa highlights the essential quality of discernment and self-realization, born of wisdom, in the nation’s people.

    Ceremonial Entrances

    • Three of these entrances are designed as ceremonial entrances, meant to welcome special guests and mark significant events.
    • These entrances showcase Indian art, culture, ethos, and patriotism.
    • They are named Gyan, Shakti, and Karma, representing the Indian knowledge system, patriotism, and artistic traditions, respectively.

  • Places in news: Lampedusa Island

    Lampedusa Island

    Central Idea

    • Italy’s Lampedusa Island witnessed an influx of migrants after around 7,000 people arrived from North Africa in two days.
    • Nearly 1,26,000 migrants have arrived in Italy so far this year.

    About Lampedusa Island

    • Lampedusa is the largest of the Italian Pelagie Islands in the Mediterranean Sea.
    • It is located approximately 205 km southwest of Sicily, 113 km east of Tunisia, and about 176 kmnorth of Libya.
    • It is part of the Sicilian region of Italy and is situated in the southern Mediterranean Sea.
    • It covers an area of approximately 20.2 square km (7.8 square miles).
    • It has a rich history, with influences from various civilizations, including the Phoenicians, Romans, Arabs, and Normans.
    • During World War II, the island was of strategic importance and saw military activity.
    • It has been part of Italy since 1860.

    Migration and Humanitarian Issues

    • Lampedusa has been a focal point for migration from Africa to Europe, with many migrants and refugees attempting to reach the island by boat.
    • This has led to humanitarian challenges and efforts to manage immigration.
    • The island has received international attention for its role in rescue operations and the reception of migrants and asylum seekers.

  • Santiniketan gets UNESCO’s World Heritage List tag

    Santiniketan

    Central Idea

    • Situated in West Bengal’s Birbhum district, the small town of Santiniketan has been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List.
    • This is the place where Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore spent much of his life.

    About Santiniketan

    • Santiniketan, situated in Birbhum District, West Bengal, India, is an iconic cultural and heritage destination with a rich historical legacy.
    • Its prominence is attributed to its association with Nobel laureate Rabindranath Tagore.

    Significance of Santiniketan

    • Rabindranath Tagore’s Home: Santiniketan served as the residence of Rabindranath Tagore, where he not only lived but also composed numerous literary works, encompassing songs, poems, and novels.
    • Artistic Abode: The Santiniketan campus is adorned with magnificent sculptures, frescoes, murals, and paintings created by eminent artists like Rabindranath Tagore, Nandalal Bose, Ramkinkar, Binodbehari Mukhopadhyay, and others.
    • Cultural Festivals: The broader Birbhum District, where Santiniketan is nestled, is renowned for its vibrant fairs and festivals. Notable celebrations include Poush Mela (December), Joydev Mela (January), Basanta Utsav (Holi) in March and the renowned mystic Baul Singers.
    • Unique Events: Santiniketan hosts special cultural festivities during Bengali New Year and Rabindra Janmotsav (Rabindranath Tagore’s birth anniversary) in the Bengali month of Boisakh, marked with great enthusiasm.
    • Distinctive Festivals: The region observes distinctive festivals such as Briksharopan (festival of Planting Saplings) and Halakarshan (festival of Plowing the Fields) on the 22nd and 23rd days of Sravana (August), respectively. Additionally, Varshamangal, the festival of rains, is celebrated in August/September.
    • Poush Mela: Santiniketan hosts the annual Poush Mela, commencing on the 7th day of the Poush month. While officially spanning three days, vendors may extend their stay throughout the month. The festival is renowned for live performances of Bengali folk music, particularly by bauls (traditional wandering minstrels), and showcases tribal dances like Santali.

    West Bengal’s Presence on the World Heritage List

    • Santiniketan is the second cultural symbol from West Bengal to join the prestigious UNESCO list.
    • In 2021, UNESCO added ‘Durga Puja in Kolkata’ to its Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity list, highlighting West Bengal’s rich cultural heritage.

    Back2Basics: UNESCO World Heritage Sites

    Description
    UNESCO World Heritage Sites Landmarks or areas selected by UNESCO for their cultural, historical, scientific, or other significant value, legally protected by international treaties.
    Importance World Heritage Sites represent collective and preservative interests of humanity, signifying remarkable accomplishments and intellectual history.
    Selection Criteria Sites must be already-classified landmarks, unique and significant culturally or physically, such as ancient ruins, historical structures, cities, monuments, etc.
    Conservation World Heritage Sites require practical conservation to protect them from risks like trespassing, uncontrolled access, or administrative negligence.
    World Heritage Committee Selects and monitors World Heritage Sites, manages the World Heritage Fund, and provides financial assistance. Composed of 21 states parties elected for a four-year term.
    Membership India is not a member of the World Heritage Committee.

    Note: “States parties” refer to the countries that have ratified the World Heritage Convention and participate in the decision-making process.

  • USCIRF to hold hearing on Religious Freedom in India

    Central Idea

    • The US Commission for International Religious Freedom (USCIRF) has announced that it will hold a hearing on religious freedom in India on September 20.
    • India has previously rejected USCIRF reports that alleged violations of religious freedom in the country.

    What is the USCIRF Report?

    • The USCIRF report assesses the status of religious freedom around the world.
    • It provides a comprehensive analysis of the state of religious freedom in countries across the globe, highlighting issues of concern and making recommendations for action by the US government.
    • The report is an important tool for raising awareness of violations of religious freedom and advocating for greater protection of this fundamental human right.

    Allegations against India

    (1) Policies

    • It is alleged that the Indian government at the national, state, and local levels promoted and enforced religiously discriminatory policies, including:
    1. Laws targeting religious conversion
    2. Interfaith relationships
    3. Ban over wearing of hijabs and cow slaughter
    • This has negatively impacted Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, and Adivasis.

    (2) Laws of Suppression

    • The report also alleges that the national government continued to suppress critical voices, particularly of religious minorities and those advocating on their behalf through-
    1. Surveillance / Harassment / Cow Vigilantism
    2. Accusation of Sedition
    3. Demolition of Property
    4. Detention under the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act (UAPA)
    5. Targeted banning of NGOs ex. Missionaries of Charity under the Foreign Contribution Regulation Act (FCRA)
    6. Constitution

    India’s response

    • India has slammed USCIRF for “misrepresenting” facts and described it as an “organisation of particular concern”.
    • The Indian government rejected the biased and inaccurate comments.
    • The Foundation of Indian and Indian Diaspora Studies (FIIDS) slammed USCIRF for its biased report and failure to acknowledge the cultural and economic significance of cows to Indians.

    Why such reports often falsely target India?

    • Lack of objectivity: There have been instances in the past where these reports have been criticized for being one-sided and lacking objectivity.
    • US lobby against everyone: It is important to note that reports like USCIRF’s are based on the organization’s own assessments.
    • Inherent bias against India: Such allegations are prevalent ever since India attained its Freedom.
    • Self-proclaimed father of democracy: US has infamous for selectively promoting democracy and human rights, and for supporting authoritarian regimes that align with its strategic interests.
    • Anti-regime: Such reports often overlook the efforts made by the present regime in India towards promoting religious tolerance and communal harmony.

    Way forward

    • Urgent action: India needs to take prompt and necessary steps to address religious freedom issues and take everyone’s faith in the government and democratic process.
    • Nuanced understanding: International organizations and foreign governments must make a conscious effort to understand the complexities of India’s social, political, and economic landscape before making any recommendations or issuing reports.
    • Avoid sweeping generalizations: It is important to avoid sweeping generalizations and presenting a one-sided view of the situation, which can be detrimental to India’s reputation and lead to misunderstandings.
    • Self-reflection by the US: The US must address its own issues related to religious freedom and human rights violations, and not just sermon other countries.

    Conclusion

    • India’s historical diversity and pluralism: India has a long history of diversity, pluralism, and peaceful coexistence among different communities.
    • Constitutional guarantees: The Constitution guarantees fundamental rights to all citizens, regardless of their religion, caste, or creed.
    • Media as a strong pillar: The country has a vibrant democracy and a free and independent media that regularly scrutinizes the government and its policies. This eliminates the scope for anyone’s oppression.
    • Nation-building: All communities have contributed significantly to the country’s cultural and social fabric. Success of India is often unwelcomed by the US. People should not fall prey to foreign propaganda.

  • Operation Polo: Integrating Hyderabad – 75 Years On

    operation polo

    Central Idea

    • September 13, 2023, marks the 75th anniversary of Operation Polo, a significant military action undertaken by the Indian Army in 1948 to integrate the princely state of Hyderabad.
    • This operation, also known as the “Police Action,” led to the Nizam of Hyderabad’s forces surrendering to the Indian Army by September 18, 1948.
    • Understanding the background and events surrounding Operation Polo is essential to appreciate its historical significance.

    Context of Operation Polo

    (1) The Nizam’s Stand:

    • The Nizam of Hyderabad, Mir Osman Ali Shah, was reluctant to join India or Pakistan after India’s Independence in 1947.
    • He exploited the diversion of Indian resources towards the Kashmir conflict, signing a standstill agreement with India in November 1947, maintaining the status quo in Hyderabad.

    (2) Growing Tensions:

    • Hyderabad, a populous and prosperous state in the Deccan, was predominantly Hindu but administered by Muslim rulers.
    • The state had no common border with Pakistan, yet the Nizam sought amicable relations with Pakistan.
    • The Nizam’s forces, especially the Razakars, escalated tensions with their actions, including cross-border raids and overtures to Pakistan.

    The Military Campaign: Operation Polo

    (1) Hyderabad’s Forces and Situation:

    • Hyderabad’s military consisted of approximately 25,000 troops, with limited training and readiness.
    • The Razakars, though numerous, posed a minor military challenge.

    (2) Indian Army’s Leadership:

    • Major General Jayanto Nath Chaudhuri, the General Officer Commanding of 1 Armoured Division, led the Indian forces.

    (3) Multi-Directional Offensive:

    • The primary assault came from the west, led by 1 Armoured Division, supported by forces from the north, south, and east.
    • Key elements included the Smash Force, Kill Force, and Vir Force in the western thrust.
    • Additional thrusts were launched from Aurangabad, Jabalpur, and the eastern front.
    • The southern thrust originated from Vijayawada.

    Conclusion: Surrender and Significance

    (1) Ceasefire and Surrender:

    • The Nizam announced a ceasefire on September 17, 1948.
    • On September 18, Major General Chaudhuri entered Hyderabad, and Major General El Edroos surrendered to him.
    • Major General Chaudhuri was subsequently appointed as the Military Governor of Hyderabad.

    (2) Honoring a Hero:

    • Havildar Bachhitar Singh of 2 Sikh was posthumously awarded the first Ashoka Chakra of Independent India for his role in Operation Polo.
    • He sacrificed his life on September 13, 1948, while advancing towards Naldurg, a part of Hyderabad state.

  • Global Stocktake Report

    Central Idea

    • Amid the gathering of world leaders in New Delhi for the G-20 summit, the UN climate secretariat unveiled a ‘synthesis report’ summarizing progress made by nations towards the goals of the 2015 Paris Agreement.
    • Known as the ‘global stocktake,’ this report is a vital component of global climate action, assessing efforts to combat climate change every five years.

    Understanding the ‘Global Stocktake’

    (1) Origins and Purpose:

    • The ‘global stocktake’ is integral to the Paris Agreement, which commits countries to limit global warming to below 2 degrees Celsius and strive for a 1.5-degree target.
    • Its primary aim is to periodically review and evaluate individual nations’ efforts in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and transitioning to renewable energy sources.

    (2) Influence on Climate Talks:

    • The inaugural report, released this year, carries significant weight, shaping discussions at the upcoming 28th UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP) in Dubai in November.
    • While countries have submitted their Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs) for climate action, the stocktake encourages them to enhance their ambitions before the next NDCs in 2025.

    Key Insights from the Report

    (1) Overall Assessment:

    • The 45-page synthesis report delivers 17 key findings that collectively convey that the world is falling short of its Paris Agreement targets. However, it highlights a narrowing window of opportunity for countries to align their efforts.

    (2) Echoing Previous Concerns:

    • The report echoes concerns raised in the 2022 UN synthesis report, which analyzed the NDCs of 166 countries and found them inadequate to meet Paris Agreement goals.
    • It reiterates the findings of the United Nations Emissions Gap Report, emphasizing the vast shortfall in reducing CO2 emissions compared to the Paris targets.

    Crucial ‘Key Findings’

    (1) Galvanized Global Response:

    • The Paris Agreement has spurred countries to set climate goals and acknowledge the urgency of addressing the climate crisis.
    • Governments must support the transition away from fossil fuels, ensuring it is equitable and inclusive.

    (2) Ambitious Goals:

    • Much greater ambition is needed to achieve global greenhouse gas emission reductions of 43% by 2030 and 60% by 2035, leading to net-zero CO2 emissions by 2050.

    (3) Renewable Energy Transition:

    • Scaling up renewable energy is imperative, while unabated fossil fuels must be phased out rapidly.

    (4) Environmental Conservation:

    • Efforts to halt deforestation, reverse land degradation, and promote emission-reducing agricultural practices must be encouraged.

    (5) Adaptation and Loss Management:

    • Comprehensive risk management and support for impacted communities are essential for averting, minimizing, and addressing loss and damage due to climate change.

    (6) Financial Commitment:

    • Transparent adaptation reporting and the rapid scaling up of financial support are needed to align global financial flows with climate-resilient development.

    Influence on Global Climate Discussion

    • The global stocktake report serves as a foundational document for the upcoming UN Climate Conference of Parties (COP).
    • It notably influenced the G20 Leaders Declaration, which officially acknowledged the substantial financial requirements for transitioning to a renewable energy economy.
    • This acknowledgement sets the stage for intensified efforts, emphasizing the need for trillions of dollars to support climate action, renewable technologies, and the path to net-zero emissions by 2050.

  • Six of 9 Planetary Boundaries breached by Humans

    boundaries

     

    Central Idea

    • A recent study has delivered a stark message: humanity has breached six of the nine planetary boundaries that are crucial for maintaining Earth’s stability and resilience.

    What are the 9 Planetary Boundaries?

    • These boundaries encompass climate change, biosphere integrity, land system change, freshwater change, biogeochemical flows, and novel entities.
    • These findings underscore the urgent need for a thorough reassessment of our environmental impact and the imperative of global collaboration to address these critical challenges.

    Understanding Planetary Boundaries

    (1) Setting Safe Limits:

    • Planetary boundaries can be likened to the vital parameters in human health, such as blood pressure.
    • Just as high blood pressure elevates the risk of heart disease, exceeding planetary boundaries heightens the risk of triggering irreversible environmental changes.

    (2) An Evolving Framework:

    • The planetary boundaries framework was introduced in 2009 to define the safe environmental limits within which humanity should operate.
    • To remain relevant, the framework must adapt as our understanding of Earth’s complex systems and human impacts evolves.

    The Third Iteration: Assessing Environmental Risks

    (1) Identifying Critical Processes:

    • Researchers examined processes within Earth’s ecosystem that have been vital for sustaining favourable conditions for humans over the past 12,000 years.
    • This era is noted for its stable and temperate planetary conditions.

    (2) Evaluating Human Impact:

    • The study assessed the extent to which human activities are modifying these crucial processes.
    • Computer simulations were employed to determine the point at which human activities could trigger irreversible changes in Earth’s systems.

    (3) Alarming Revelations:

    • The study found that human activities had breached safe boundaries for climate change and land system change as early as 1988.
    • The current trajectory poses a substantial risk of systemic disruption.

    Boundaries Crossed and Their Consequences

    (1) Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide Concentration:

    • The safe limit was set at 350 ppm; it currently stands at 417 ppm.
    • This has led to significant climate change.

    (2) Land System Change:

    • The safe limit aimed to maintain 75% of the original forest cover; the current estimate is at 60%.
    • Such alterations have profound consequences for land systems.

    (3) Biosphere Integrity:

    • The safe limit was fewer than 10 extinctions per million species-years; the actual rate has exceeded 100.
    • This poses a severe threat to millions of plant and animal species.

    (4) Freshwater Change:

    • Boundaries have been exceeded for both blue (surface and groundwater) and green (water available for plants) water resources.
    • This has negative consequences for ecosystems.

    (5) Biogeochemical Flows:

    • Safe boundaries have been surpassed for phosphorus and nitrogen flows.
    • This has alarming implications for biodiversity and water quality.

    (6) Novel Entities:

    • The planetary boundary for novel entities was set at zero, and this boundary has been transgressed.
    • Risks include stratospheric ozone depletion, aerosol loading, and ocean acidification.

    Way Forward: Urgent Global Collaboration

    (1) Lessons from the Ozone Layer:

    • Successful global negotiations, like the Montreal Protocol, managed to restore the ozone layer to safe levels after transgression.
    • Emphasizes the importance of adhering to limits on environmental waste.

    (2) Embracing a Circular Economy:

    • A circular economy, mirroring nature’s own system, is essential.
    • Transitioning towards a circular economy represents a crucial step in tackling these planetary challenges.

    Conclusion

    • The study’s findings serve as a stark reminder of humanity’s responsibility to safeguard Earth’s delicate equilibrium.
    • Breaching planetary boundaries not only poses immediate risks but also imperils the long-term sustainability of our planet.
    • Urgent global cooperation and a commitment to respecting environmental limits are essential to avert a potentially catastrophic future.

  • Climate phenomena and food security

    https://epaper.thehindu.com/reader

    What’s the news?

    • Disruptive weather events, including El Niño and changing precipitation patterns, are impacting India’s agriculture, resulting in reduced crop yields, water stress, and rising food prices.

    Central idea

    • India has experienced a series of disruptive weather and climate phenomena in recent times, highlighting the complexity of our precipitation system. This complexity poses significant challenges to the sustainability and resilience of development projects in the mountains and floodplains.

    How do western disturbances influence India’s climate?

    • Origin: Western disturbances are weather systems that originate in the Mediterranean region and travel eastward towards South Asia, including India.
    • Winter and Spring Impact: During the winter and spring seasons, these disturbances bring much-needed moisture to the western Himalayan region and parts of northern India. This moisture contributes to rainfall and snowfall in these areas, which are essential for agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems.
    • Unusual Behavior: The Western disturbance typically follows a seasonal pattern, but in some years, it can exhibit unusual behavior. For example, it may persist late into the summer months, affecting weather patterns beyond its usual timeframe.
    • Impact on Southwest Monsoon: When a Western disturbance lingers into the summer, it can influence the southwest monsoon, which is crucial for India’s agriculture. The interaction between these weather systems can lead to unpredictable and sometimes extreme weather events, including heavy rainfall, landslides, and flooding.
    • Concerns: The unusual behavior of the Western disturbance can raise concerns about the sustainability and resilience of development projects in regions affected by these weather events, such as the western Himalayan region and northern India.

    El Niño’s Influence on Monsoons

    • El Niño:
      • El Niño is a climate phenomenon characterized by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the eastern and central tropical Pacific Oceans.
      • This warming disrupts normal atmospheric circulation patterns, leading to significant climatic impacts worldwide.
    • Impact on the Southwest Monsoon:
      • El Niño events can influence the Indian Southwest Monsoon, which is responsible for the majority of India’s annual rainfall.
      • While not all El Niño events have adverse effects on the monsoon, their intensification can lead to drier conditions in some parts of India.
      • El Niño tends to weaken the monsoon, reducing the amount and distribution of rainfall.
    • Interaction with Indian Ocean Dipole (IOD):
      • The relationship between El Niño and the monsoon has evolved over time.
      • In some cases, when El Niño affects the monsoon, another climate phenomenon in the Indian Ocean, known as the positive-phase IOD, can balance the consequences.
      • The IOD can influence monsoon variability and rainfall patterns, either mitigating or exacerbating the impact of El Niño.
    • Predictive Value of Models:
      • Dynamic regression models have suggested that a significant portion of the inter-annual variability of the Southwest Monsoon can be attributed to the combined effects of El Niño and the IOD.
      • This indicates the predictive value of these models in understanding and forecasting monsoon behavior during El Niño events.
    • Food Security Implications:
      • El Niño’s influence on the monsoon has direct implications for food security in India.
      • Reduced monsoon rainfall can delay the onset of rains, affect crop sowing, and result in hot temperatures that negatively impact crop growth and soil moisture.
      • Crop yields, especially for water-intensive crops like rice and soybean, can be significantly affected during El Niño years, leading to food production challenges.

    Climate

    How are agriculture and water dependency intricately linked in India?

    • Two Types of Water for Agriculture:
      • Agriculture in India relies on two primary sources of water: green water and blue water.
      • Green water refers to rain-fed soil moisture that is utilized by crops and eventually transpires into the atmosphere.
      • Blue water includes the water found in rivers, lakes, reservoirs, and groundwater, which is essential for irrigation as well as drinking and industrial use.
    • Importance of Green Water:
      • Despite significant investments in dams, reservoirs, and irrigation systems, approximately half of the cultivated area in India depends on green water.
      • Green water is crucial for rainfed agriculture, as it provides moisture for crops and contributes to the overall water availability for agriculture.
    • Water Requirements for the Daily Diet:
      • The daily diet of individuals in India, from cooking oil to diverse foods, is associated with a substantial water footprint.
      • On average, an individual’s daily diet in India requires approximately 3,268 liters of water per day, subject to regional variability.
      • A significant portion (about 75%) of this water footprint is attributed to green water, highlighting the importance of rainfed agriculture to food and nutritional security.
    • Dependency on Green Water in Irrigated Areas:
      • Even in areas with access to irrigation, many dominant crops still depend on green water to varying degrees.
      • For example, during the kharif season, rice paddy under irrigation uses green water for about 35% of its water requirements.
      • Staple crops like tur dal, soybean, groundnut, and maize also rely considerably on green water, particularly during specific growing seasons.
    • Impact of Climate Phenomena on Green Water:
      • Climate phenomena like El Niño can disrupt the availability of green water by delaying the start of rains and affecting sowing schedules.
      • Higher temperatures during El Niño events may negatively influence plant growth and soil moisture, impacting crop yields.
    • Food Production Challenges:
      • During El Niño years, when green water availability may be compromised, crop production can be significantly affected.
      • For instance, there was a 28% decline in soybean production in India during the 2015–2016 El Niño year compared to the average

    Central India’s vulnerability

    • Geographic Region:
      • Central India comprises 36 districts across the states of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Maharashtra.
      • This region is characterized by diverse landscapes, including highlands and urban centers.
    • Climate Change Hotspot:
      • Central India is identified as a climate change hotspot due to its critical role in water, food, and ecological security.
      • The region includes headwaters for five of India’s 10 major river basins, making it crucial for water resources.
    • Water Stress:
      • Central India experiences significant and persistent water stress.
      • Water stress is driven primarily by the demand for irrigation, particularly during the rabi season, which relies on blue water sources such as rivers and reservoirs.
    • Extent of Water Stress:
      • Approximately 70–78% of the landscape in Central India experiences water stress for four or more months each year.
      • Among the 17 urban centers in the region, 11 face water stress for six to eight months, with Nagpur enduring water stress for the longest duration.
      • Changing precipitation patterns, including declining monsoon precipitation since the 1950s, have exacerbated water stress in Central India.

    Adaptation Strategies

    • Diversifying Agro-Food Systems:
      • To adapt to changing precipitation patterns and water availability, there’s an emphasis on diversifying agro-food systems.
      • This includes shifting away from water-intensive crops to alternative, less water-dependent crops like millets.
    • Reducing Dependence on Water-Intensive Crops:
      • A key adaptation strategy is reducing dependence on water-intensive crops, particularly during periods of water stress.
      • Crop diversification may involve promoting the cultivation of millets and alternative varieties of dominant cereals.
    • Shorter growing cycles:
      • Advisories to farmers may include shifting to crops with shorter growing cycles.
      • Shorter growing cycles can help adapt to changing precipitation patterns and mitigate the risks associated with extended dry periods.
    • Improved Forecasting and Early Warning Systems:
      • Adaptation efforts are aided by advancements in short-term weather forecasting and early warning systems.
      • Timely weather forecasts and warnings for intense rain and dry spells can help farmers make informed decisions.
    • Enhancing Reservoir and Dam Management:
      • Given the risks associated with extreme rain events, adaptive strategies include improved management of dams and reservoirs.
      • Effective reservoir and dam management can reduce the risk of dam-based flood disasters.
    • Balancing Water Demands:
      • Sustainable water-sharing practices between humans and nature are crucial for adaptation.
      • Balancing the needs of agriculture, industry, and ecosystems while maintaining ecological flows in rivers is a priority.
    • Government Initiatives:
      • Both the central and state governments are involved in implementing adaptation strategies.
      • Government efforts may include policy support, incentives for farmers, and investments in infrastructure.

    Conclusion

    • The water and climate change crises in India, intertwined with food, water, and ecological security, require a multifaceted response. Diversifying agro-food systems, reducing dependence on blue water, rejuvenating rivers, and sustainable water sharing between humans and nature are essential for the well-being of India’s 1.4 billion people.