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Subject: Climate Change

1. Global Warming and Issues
2. All about Pollution

  • Ocean Darkening: A New Ecological Crisis

    Why in the News?

    A new study from the University of Plymouth has revealed that over 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened in the last two decades.

    What is Ocean Darkening?

    • Ocean darkening refers to the reduction in sunlight penetration into the ocean’s upper layers, known as the photic zone (up to 200 meters deep), where sunlight drives photosynthesis and supports marine biodiversity.
    • This process is measured using the diffuse attenuation coefficient (Kd 490), which tracks how quickly light diminishes as it passes through seawater.
    • The photic zone is essential for phytoplankton productivity, oxygen generation, marine food chains, and the regulation of global climate.

    Recent Report Citing Ocean Darkening:

    • A new study by researchers from the University of Plymouth, published in 2024, titled “Darkening of the Global Ocean”, revealed that 21% of the global ocean has significantly darkened from 2003 to 2022.
    • Key findings:
      • 9% of the ocean saw a drop of more than 50 meters in light penetration—equal to the area of Africa.
      • 2.6% experienced a loss exceeding 100 meters in photic depth.
    • Affected Region: The study found the Arctic, Antarctic, Gulf Stream, and North Sea among the worst affected regions.
    • Causes:
      • Algal blooms from nutrient runoff in coastal areas.
      • Warming seas, altered plankton dynamics, and changing ocean currents in open ocean zones.

    Implications of Ocean Darkening:

    • Ecosystem Disruption: Light-dependent species, such as Calanus copepods, are being pushed into shallower zones, increasing predation and competition.
    • Loss of Habitat: The shrinkage of the photic zone could be one of the largest marine habitat losses ever, affecting fish stocks and biodiversity.
    • Climate Feedback Loop: Reduced photosynthesis in oceans could weaken the ocean’s role in carbon sequestration and oxygen production, worsening climate change.
    • Threat to Global Fisheries: The contraction of productive zones affects fish populations, jeopardising fisheries and food security.
    • Scientific Concern: Researchers warn that this hidden crisis could fundamentally alter marine ecosystems if not urgently addressed.
    [UPSC 2025] With reference to the planet Earth, consider the following statements:

    I. Rain forests produce more oxygen than that produced by oceans. II. Marine phytoplankton and photosynthetic bacteria produce about 50% of the world’s oxygen. III. Well-oxygenated surface water contains several folds higher oxygen than that in atmospheric air.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) I and II (b) II only * (c) I and III (d) None of the above statements is correct

     

  • [pib] Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3)

    Why in the News?

    At the Third United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC3) in Nice, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica, India made a powerful case for urgent international cooperation to protect the world’s oceans.

    About United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC)

    • What is it: The UNOC is a major international forum dedicated to supporting Sustainable Development Goal 14 (SDG 14): Life Below Water.
    • Primary Focus: It promotes the conservation and sustainable use of oceans, seas, and marine resources.
    • Multi-Stakeholder Participation: UNOC brings together governments, NGOs, academia, intergovernmental organizations, private companies, and Indigenous communities to address ocean-related challenges.
    • Key Themes: The conference tackles issues like marine pollution, overfishing, climate change, and habitat degradation, and encourages policy coordination and financial pledges.
    • Timeline of Conferences:
      • 2017: First conference in New York, co-hosted by Fiji and Sweden
      • 2022: Second in Lisbon, co-hosted by Portugal and Kenya
      • 2025: Third in Nice, co-hosted by France and Costa Rica
      • 2028: Fourth conference to be hosted by Chile and South Korea (yet to be announced officially)
    • Legal Framework: UNOC operates within the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS).
    • Financial and Policy Impact: Since 2014, UNOC has mobilized over $130 billion and generated 2,160+ voluntary commitments toward protecting ocean health.

    Major Indian Initiatives Showcased at UNOC3 (2025):

    • Deep Ocean Mission: India showcased progress on the ‘Samudrayaan’ mission, a deep-sea manned submersible targeting 6,000-meter depth by 2026.
    • Plastic Pollution Action: India emphasized the national ban on single-use plastics and the ‘Swachh Sagar, Surakshit Sagar’ campaign, which has cleaned 1,000+ km of coastline and removed over 50,000 tonnes of plastic waste. A draft Marine Litter Policy has been prepared and India strongly supports a Global Plastics Treaty.
    • Blue Economy Development: Under the Sagarmala Programme, $80 billion has been invested in port-led infrastructure. An additional $2.5 billion has been deployed under PM Matsya Sampada Yojana, leading to a 10% rise in fish production and creation of 1,000+ fish farmer producer organizations.
    • Marine Biodiversity Efforts: India expanded Marine Protected Areas to 6.6% of its Exclusive Economic Zone and restored over 10,000 hectares of mangroves.
    • Marine Data Transparency: India launched the SAHAV Portal, a digital ocean governance platform for science-based and transparent decision-making.
    • International Leadership: India co-led the ‘Blue Talks’ with France and Costa Rica, participated in high-level panels, and advocated for equitable ocean data access and capacity-building in developing nations.

    Back2Basics: United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS)

    • UNCLOS is a global treaty that regulates all maritime activities and ocean space.
    • It defines maritime zones such as: Internal Waters (within the baseline), Territorial Sea (up to 12 nautical miles), Contiguous Zone (up to 24 nautical miles), Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) (up to 200 nautical miles), High Seas, which lie beyond national jurisdiction.
    • It came into force in 1994 and has 169 parties (as of 2024), including India, but not the U.S.
    • It established the International Seabed Authority and declared the deep seabed as the “common heritage of mankind.”
    • India ratified UNCLOS in 1995 and uses it to claim maritime rights, including its extended continental shelf.
    • It supports freedom of navigation and advocates for a rules-based maritime order under UNCLOS.

     

    [UPSC 2022] With reference to the United Nations Convention on the Law of Sea, consider the following statements:

    1. A coastal state has the right to establish the breadth of its territorial sea up to a limit not exceeding 12 nautical miles, measured from baseline determined in accordance with the convention.

    2. Ships of all states, whether coastal or land-locked, enjoy the right of innocent passage through the territorial sea.

    3. The Exclusive Economic Zone shall not extend beyond 200 nautical miles from the baseline from which the breadth of the territorial sea is measured.

    Which of the statements given above are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3*

     

  • What are Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs)?

    Why in the News?

    A new ETH Zurich study warns that under the Shared Socioeconomic Pathway (SSP) 5-8.5 scenario, warming could make cyclones more intense and hit unusual regions with greater damage.

    What are Shared Socioeconomic Pathways (SSPs)?

    • Definition: SSPs are 5 global scenarios that show how changes in society, economy, and technology might influence climate adaptation and mitigation.
    • Purpose: They complement Representative Concentration Pathways (RCPs) by adding socioeconomic context to climate models.
    • Development: Created in the late 2000s, published in 2016, and used in the IPCC 6th Assessment Report and CMIP6 models.
    • Function: SSPs assume no new climate policies, helping scientists explore how global trends affect emissions and climate action.
    • The Five Pathways:
      1. SSP1: Sustainable and equitable world
      2. SSP2: Continuation of current trends
      3. SSP3: Regional rivalry with high population growth
      4. SSP4: Unequal world with high disparities
      5. SSP5: Fossil-fuel-based rapid economic growth
    • Usage: SSPs are used with RCPs to explore how different futures could affect the 1.5°C or 2°C warming targets.
    • Significance: They help policymakers assess how societal choices impact climate risks, emissions, and the feasibility of global goals.

    About SSP5-8.5 and Cyclone Risks:

    • Scenario Summary: SSP5 shows rapid economic growth fuelled by fossil fuels.
    • Radiative Forcing: SSP5-8.5 implies 8.5 W/m² of energy, compared to about 2.7 W/m² today.
    • Climate Target Gap: To limit warming below 2°C, forcing must stay around 2.6 W/m².
    • Cyclone Projections: Using the CLIMADA (climate adaptation) AI model, scientists studied past cyclone patterns and projected risks from 2015–2050.
    • Ecoregion Types:
      1. Resilient: Often affected, but recover quickly
      2. Dependent: Moderately impacted and adaptive
      3. Vulnerable: Rarely hit but slow to recover
    • Findings:
      • Time between severe cyclones in resilient areas may drop from 19 to 12 years.
      • East Asia, Central America, and the Caribbean will face stronger, more frequent cyclones.
      • Madagascar, Oceania, and the Philippines will face unprecedented cyclone activity.

    Impact on Mangroves and Coastal Ecosystems:

    • Mangrove Risk: By 2100, up to 56% of global mangroves could be at high to severe risk.
    • Most Affected Region: Southeast Asia, with 52–78% of mangroves at risk.
    • Other Scenario Impact (SSP3-7.0): Even under less severe warming, 97–98% of protective mangroves in Southeast Asia could still face critical threats.
    • Environmental Concern: These losses would severely weaken coastal protection, biodiversity, and carbon storage.
    [UPSC 2020] Consider the following statements:

    1. Jet streams occur in the Northern Hemisphere only. 2. Only some cyclones develop an eye. 3. The temperature inside the eye of a cyclone is nearly 10°C lesser than that of the surroundings.

    Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 2 only* (d) 1 and 3 only

     

  • [pib] 20th Session of UN Forum on Forests (UNFF20)

    Why in the News?

    India participated in the 20th session of the United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF20) held at the UN Headquarters, New York, reaffirming its commitment to the United Nations Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) 2017–2030.

    About United Nations Forum on Forests (UNFF):

    • UNFF was established in 2000 by the UN Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).
    • It aims to promote sustainable forest management and global forest policy coordination.
    • It holds annual sessions at UN Headquarters:
      • Technical discussions in odd years
      • Policy-level dialogues in even years
    • It has universal membership — includes all UN Member States and relevant forest-related agencies.
    • India is a founding member and plays an active role in shaping forest policies.
    • The UN Strategic Plan for Forests (UNSPF) is the guiding framework for achieving global forest goals by 2030.
    • The 19th UNFF Declaration secured high-level political commitment for forest conservation.

    Key Highlights of UNFF20:

    • India reaffirmed its commitment to Voluntary National Contributions (VNCs) under the UNSPF (2017–2030).
    • It reported an increase in forest and tree cover to 25.17% of its geographical area.
    • National efforts included the Aravalli Green Wall, a 7.86% rise in mangrove cover, 1.55 lakh hectares afforested under the Green India Mission, and 1.4 billion seedlings planted under the Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam campaign.
    • India invited countries to join the International Big Cat Alliance (IBCA) for big cat conservation.
    • It urged support for outcomes of the Country-Led Initiative (CLI) on forest fire management held in Dehradun (2023).
    • In a high-level panel, India presented findings on carbon sequestration, water services, biodiversity, and tools like System of Environmental Economic Accounting (SEEA) and Millennium Ecosystem Assessment (MEA).
    • It stressed the need to mainstream ecosystem valuation in forest policy.
    [UPSC 2021] With reference to the ‘New York Declaration on Forests’, which of the following statements are correct?

    1. It was first endorsed at the United Nations Climate Summit in 2014.

    2. It endorses a global timeline to end the loss of forests.

    3. It is a legally binding international declaration.

    4. It is endorsed by governments, big companies, and indigenous communities.

    5. India was one of the signatories at its inception.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    Options: (a) 1, 2, and 4* (b) 1, 3, and 5 (c) 3 and 4 (d) 2 and 5

     

  • Centre releases Draft Climate Finance Taxonomy Framework

    Why in the News?

    To channel investments into clean-energy projects and climate-resilient infrastructure, the Finance Ministry has released a draft document titled ‘Framework of India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy’.

    What is a Climate Finance Taxonomy?

    • A CFT is a classification system that defines which economic activities qualify as climate-friendly or sustainable investments.
    • It helps investors, financial institutions, and policymakers channel funds into low-emission and climate-resilient projects.
    • It acts as a safeguard against green-washing, where non-sustainable initiatives are falsely labelled as green.
    • It supports the mobilization of finance necessary to achieve global climate goals, including Net Zero targets.
    • It offers a structured decision-making framework to ensure that investments deliver measurable environmental benefits.

    About India’s Draft ‘Climate Taxonomy’ (May 2025)

    • The Finance Ministry released the draft ‘Framework of India’s Climate Finance Taxonomy’ to help meet India’s Net Zero by 2070 goal while maintaining energy access.
    • It categorizes activities as:
      • Climate Supportive Activities: Those that reduce GHG emissions, enable adaptation, or promote clean tech R&D.
      • Climate Transition Activities: Those that encourage gradual progress, especially in hard-to-abate sectors like steel, iron, and cement.
    • It aligns with the national vision of ‘Viksit Bharat 2047’.
    • It includes key sectors such as power, mobility, buildings, agriculture, food, and water security.
    • The framework was first announced in the Union Budget 2025.

    Global Context and Negotiation Relevance:

    • A standard taxonomy is critical in global forums like the Conference of Parties (COP) to resolve disputes over climate finance commitments.
    • Developing nations, including India, advocate for grants and technology transfers, while developed countries often include private investments in their finance counts.
    • At the Baku Climate Conference, developed countries pledged $300 billion annually by 2035, far below the $1.35 trillion required.
    • India’s taxonomy aims to provide a clear benchmark for climate-related financial flows, promoting transparency, credibility, and trust in international climate funding.
    [UPSC 2015] With reference to ‘Green Climate Fund’ is/are correct?

    1. It is intended to assist the developing countries in adaptation and mitigation practices to counter climate change.

    2. It is founded under the aegis of UNEP, OECD, Asian Development Bank and World Bank.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    Options: (a) 1 only* (b) 2 only (c) Both 1 and 2  (d) Neither 1 nor 2

     

  • What is AIM4NatuRe Initiative?

    Why in the News?

    On Earth Day, April 22, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) launched the Accelerating Innovative Monitoring for Nature Restoration (AIM4NatuRe) Initiative aimed at accelerating nature restoration.

    About the AIM4NatuRe Initiative:

    • AIM4NatuRe is a global initiative launched by the FAO aimed at enhancing countries’ ability to monitor and report ecosystem restoration efforts.
    • With £7 million (approximately USD 9.38 million) from the United Kingdom, the initiative will run from 2025 to 2028, focusing on restoring 30% of degraded ecosystems globally by 2030, in alignment with the Global Biodiversity Framework (GBF).
    • Key aspects:
      • Utilizes advanced technology and data frameworks for ecosystem restoration monitoring.
      • Targets restoration across forests, wetlands, grasslands, marine ecosystems, and agricultural landscapes.
      • Integrates Indigenous knowledge in restoration efforts.
      • Develops tools like the Framework for Ecosystem Restoration Monitoring (FERM) and builds a unified global dataset for transparency.

    Key Stakeholders:

    • FAO: Leads the initiative, providing tools, data, and frameworks to support restoration.
    • UK: Provides financial backing and focuses on helping countries achieve the 30×30 target.
    • Indigenous Communities: Contribute traditional knowledge and participate in restoration efforts.
    • World Resources Institute (WRI): Supports global restoration initiatives, including the Kham River Restoration Mission in India.
    • Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD): Shapes the biodiversity framework for monitoring progress on 30% ecosystem restoration by 2030.
    • World Bank: Provides funding and technical expertise for financing and implementing ecosystem restoration.
    [UPSC 2014] Consider the following international agreements:

    1. The International Treaty on Plant Genetic Resources for Food and Agriculture. 2. The United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification. 3. The World Heritage Convention.

    Which of the above has/have a bearing on the biodiversity?

    Options: (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3 *

     

  • “Revive Our Ocean” Initiative

    Why in the News?

    A new global initiative called ‘Revive Our Ocean’ was launched with the goal of scaling up effective, community-led marine protected areas (MPAs) to boost marine conservation efforts.

    About the Revive Our Ocean Initiative:

    • It is a global effort to enhance marine ecosystem protection through community-led Marine Protected Areas (MPAs).
    • It was launched by David Attenborough, Dynamic Planet, and National Geographic’s Pristine Seas to scale up MPAs, empowering coastal communities to lead conservation efforts.
    • The goal is to protect 30% of the world’s oceans by 2030, aligning with the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF).
    • Initially focused on 7 countries: UK, Portugal, Greece, Turkey, Philippines, Indonesia, and Mexico, using successful MPA models.
    • It emphasizes economic benefits of MPAs, such as generating €16 million annually from diving tourism in Medes Island, Spain.

    Back2Basics: Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework (KMGBF)

    • KMGBF was adopted in December 2022, the KMGBF aims to halt biodiversity loss by 2030 and ensure human-nature harmony by 2050.
    • It replaces the Aichi Biodiversity Targets and is often referred to as the “Paris Agreement for Nature“, with 196 countries adopting it.
    • The framework sets a 30×30 target, aiming to protect 30% of global land and marine areas by 2030 and restore ecosystems.
    • It focuses on halting species extinction, reducing pollution, and promoting sustainable agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
    • Other targets include reducing pesticide and nutrient pollution, minimising harmful waste, and promoting urban green spaces.

     

    [UPSC 2012] The acidification of oceans is increasing. Why is this phenomenon a cause of concern?

    1. The growth and survival of calcareous phytoplankton will be adversely affected.

    2. The growth and survival of coral reefs will be adversely affected.

    3. The survival of some animals that have phytoplanktonic larvae will be adversely affected.

    4. The cloud seeding and formation of clouds will be adversely affected.

    Which among the statements given above is/are correct?

    Options: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only* (b) 2 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • Why is Europe warming faster?

    Why in the News?

    The 2024 European State of the Climate Report shows Europe warming nearly twice as fast as the global average, with significant regional variations due to human-driven climate change.

    European State of the Climate Report: Key Highlights  

    • 2024 as the Warmest Year: The year 2024 was recorded as the warmest year ever, not just globally but for Europe as well, with Eastern Europe experiencing particularly high temperatures.
    • East-West Contrast: While Eastern Europe enjoyed sunny and warm conditions, Western Europe was cloudier and wetter, highlighting the regional differences in climate impact.
    • Southeastern Europe Heatwave: Countries like Bulgaria, Romania, Croatia, Kosovo, and Serbia faced their longest heatwave on record, adding to the already extreme conditions.

    Reasons Behind Europe’s Higher Rate of Warming:

    • Proximity to the Arctic Region: A large part of Europe lies within the Arctic region, where warming is three to four times faster than the global average, driving higher temperatures in Europe.
    • Albedo Effect: The melting of Arctic ice exposes darker surfaces (land and water) that absorb more solar radiation, accelerating warming in Europe.
    • Reduction in Aerosols: Decreasing aerosol emissions in Europe allow more solar radiation to reach the Earth’s surface, contributing to faster warming.
    • Land-Based Warming: Europe’s land areas warm faster than oceans, triggering extreme weather like heatwaves, heavy rainfall, and flooding.
    • Global Climate Dynamics: Europe’s geographical and atmospheric conditions make it more susceptible to climate change effects compared to other regions.
    [UPSC 2014] The scientific view is that the increase in global temperature should not exceed 2 0 C above pre-industrial level. If the global temperature increases beyond 30 C above the pre-industrial level, what can be its possible impact/impacts on the world?

    1. Terrestrial biosphere tends toward a net carbon source.

    2. Widespread coral mortality will occur.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below:

    (a) 1 only (b) 1 and 2 only * (c) 2, 3 and 4 only (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

     

  • United Nations World Water Development Report, 2025

    Why in the News?

    On March 21, 2025, the United Nations marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, and in conjunction, the United Nations World Water Development Report issued a disturbing warning about the rapid loss of glaciers.

     

    Key Highlights of the Report:

    • Hindu Kush Himalayas (HKH) Glacier Loss: Glaciers are melting 65% faster (2011-2020) than the previous decade, with up to 50% shrinkage by 2100 if global temperatures rise by 1.5-2°C.
    • WMO’s Climate Report: The 2024 climate year was the warmest in 175 years, reinforcing the link between rising temperatures and accelerated glacier melt.
    • Unprecedented Glacier Mass Loss: Over 9,000 billion tonnes of ice lost since 1975, with 450 gigatons lost in 2024 alone.
    • Rising Sea Levels: Melting glaciers contribute to sea level rise, displacing 200,000 to 300,000 people annually and increasing coastal flooding risks.
    • Increased Wildfires and Dust Storms: Rising wildfires and dust storms accelerate glacier melt by darkening their surfaces.
    • Permafrost Thawing: Thawing permafrost releases carbon and nutrients, worsening climate change and increasing landslide risks.
    • Declining Snow Cover: A 7.79% global decline in persistent snow cover from 1979-2022 affects water resources.

    About World Glaciers Day 

    • March 21, 2025, marked the first-ever World Day for Glaciers, aimed at raising awareness about glaciers and the risks posed by their loss due to climate change.
    • It was declared by the UN in its resolution A/RES/77/158 along with the International Year of Glaciers 2025.
    • The day calls for governments, organizations, and individuals to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adopt sustainable water management practices.
    [UPSC 2019] Consider the following statements:

    1. Global warming might trigger the release of methane gas from these deposits.

    2. Large deposits of ‘methane hydrate’ are found in Arctic Tundra and under the seafloor.

    3. Methane in atmosphere oxidizes to carbon dioxide after a decade or two.

    Select the correct answer using the code given below.

    (a) 1 and 2 only (b) 2 and 3 only (c) 1 and 3 only (d) 1, 2 and 3

     

  • [18th March 2025] The Hindu Op-ed: How climate change affects India’s wheat production

    PYQ Relevance:

     Q Discuss the consequences of climate change on food security in tropical countries. (UPSC 2023)

    Reason: This question directly addresses the impact of climate change on food security.

    Mentor’s Comment:  UPSC mains have always focused on the strategy of consequences of climate change on the food security (2023) and the ‘Climate Change’ is a global problem (2017).

    Heat waves lead to health crises, crop losses, water shortages, and increased energy demand. In 2023, severe heat in India caused record-breaking temperatures, affecting wheat production in Punjab and Haryana. For example, The Indian state of Bihar had the highest number of heat wave days in 2023, with a total of 18 days. This was followed by the states of Andhra Pradesh and Odisha, both having experienced a total of 15 days of heat waves that year.

    Today’s editorial discusses the impact of Extreme heat in India, providing valuable insights for GS Paper 3 in UPSC Mains answer writing.

    _

    Let’s learn!

    Why in the News?

    This year, India experienced its hottest February in 124 years. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that March will also be hotter than usual, with more days of extreme heat.

    What are the major wheat-producing states in India?

    • Uttar Pradesh is the largest wheat producer, contributing approximately 31.77% to India’s total wheat output. In the crop year 2023-24, it produced around 35.34 million tonnes of wheat from an area of 9.53 million hectares. Example: Districts like Meerut, Muzaffarnagar, and Agra are significant contributors, utilizing both traditional and modern agricultural practices to achieve high yields.
    • Madhya Pradesh ranks second, accounting for about 20.98% of the national production. The state produced approximately 22.58 million tonnes in the same crop year. Example: The Malwa plateau region, particularly districts like Indore and Ujjain, benefits from black soil and moderate temperatures, which are conducive to wheat cultivation.
    • Punjab Known as the “Granary of India,” contributes around 13.87% to India’s wheat output, with a production of about 17.74 million tonnes. Example: Major districts such as Amritsar and Ludhiana utilize advanced farming techniques and well-developed irrigation systems to maintain high productivity levels.

    Why is wheat primarily grown in these regions?

    • Agro-Climatic Conditions – These states have a cool winter and warm summer, which is ideal for wheat cultivation. The Rabi season (sown in November-December, harvested in March-April) aligns perfectly with the climate. Example: The Malwa plateau in Madhya Pradesh benefits from moderate temperatures that support high wheat yields.
    • Fertile Soil – These regions have alluvial and black soil, which retain moisture and provide essential nutrients for wheat growth. The soil is well-suited for irrigated farming. Example: The Indo-Gangetic plains of Uttar Pradesh and Punjab have deep, fertile alluvial soil, which supports extensive wheat cultivation.
    • Irrigation Facilities – These states have well-developed canal and groundwater irrigation systems, ensuring a stable water supply for wheat crops, which require controlled irrigation. Example: Punjab’s extensive canal network, supported by the Bhakra Nangal Dam, ensures year-round irrigation, enabling high wheat productivity.

    Why is extreme heat during the wheat harvest season a serious concern for India’s food security and economy?

    • Reduced Wheat Yield: Extreme heat accelerates wheat ripening, leading to shorter grain-filling periods and lighter grains. This results in lower overall production, affecting food availability. Example: In 2022, a sudden heatwave in March reduced India’s wheat output from the projected 111 million tonnes to ~107 million tonnes.
    • Lower Grain Quality: High temperatures increase protein content but reduce starch accumulation, making wheat harder and affecting its milling quality. Example: Farmers in Punjab and Haryana reported lower market prices in 2023 due to poor grain quality caused by excessive heat.
    • Impact on Food Security: Wheat is a staple for a significant portion of India’s population. Production shortfalls can lead to food shortages, disproportionately affecting low-income communities. The 2025 heatwave poses a serious threat to wheat and rice production, potentially leading to a 6-10% decline, thereby jeopardizing food security for millions.
    • Economic Losses for Farmers: Heat stress forces farmers to spend more on irrigation, fertilizers, and pest control, increasing costs while reducing yields, leading to financial distress. Example: Farmers in Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan faced heavy losses in 2023 due to unexpected temperature spikes during the grain-filling stage.
    • Disruptions in Procurement & Trade: Lower production impacts government wheat procurement, affecting stock availability for schemes like the Public Distribution System (PDS) and exports. Example: India had to ban wheat exports in 2022 to ensure domestic supply, disrupting global markets and trade agreements.

    What steps have been taken by the Indian government?

    • Minimum Support Price (MSP) – The government announces a minimum support price for wheat every year to ensure farmers get a fair price and are encouraged to produce more. Example: In 2023-24, the MSP for wheat was ₹2,275 per quintal, benefiting farmers in states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
    • Subsidized Inputs – The government provides subsidies on seeds, fertilizers, and electricity to make wheat farming more affordable and increase productivity. Example: Under the National Food Security Mission (NFSM), high-yield variety (HYV) seeds and soil nutrients are distributed to farmers in states like Madhya Pradesh.
    • Irrigation Development – Investment in major irrigation projects has improved water availability, reducing dependence on erratic rainfall. Example: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) has helped expand irrigation in wheat-producing states like Punjab and Uttar Pradesh.
    • Research & Development (R&D) – The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and agricultural universities develop climate-resilient, high-yield wheat varieties to enhance productivity. Example: The DBW-187 wheat variety, developed by ICAR, has helped increase yields in states like Haryana and Madhya Pradesh.
    • Procurement & Storage Infrastructure – The Food Corporation of India (FCI) and state agencies procure large quantities of wheat to ensure food security and stabilize market prices. Example: In 2023, FCI procured over 26 million tonnes of wheat, mainly from Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, ensuring buffer stock availability.

    What adaptation and mitigation strategies can policymakers implement to protect wheat crops from rising temperatures? (Way forward)

    • Development of Heat-Resistant Wheat Varieties: Traditional wheat varieties are vulnerable to heat stress, reducing yield and quality. Example: The Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) has developed HD 3385, a climate-resilient wheat variety with better heat tolerance, which is expected to perform well in rising temperatures.
    • Shifting Sowing Dates and Crop Calendars: Adjusting the sowing period can help wheat plants escape extreme heat during critical growth phases. Example: The Punjab Agricultural University (PAU) has recommended advancing wheat sowing to mid-October instead of November to allow crops to mature before peak heat in March-April.
    • Improved Irrigation and Water Management: Heat stress increases water loss from soil and plants, requiring efficient irrigation. Example: The “Per Drop More Crop” scheme under Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) promotes micro-irrigation (drip and sprinkler systems) to optimize water use in wheat-growing states like Uttar Pradesh and Punjab.
    • Promoting Conservation Agriculture Practices: Practices like zero tillage and residue mulching help retain soil moisture and lower soil temperature. Example: Zero tillage wheat in Haryana and Punjab has shown 5-10% higher yields and reduced water usage compared to conventional plowing methods.
    • Climate Forecasting and Early Warning Systems: Advanced weather predictions help farmers plan for extreme heat events. Example: The Gramin Krishi Mausam Seva (GKMS) provides real-time agro-advisories, warning farmers about heatwaves and recommending protective measures like additional irrigation and mulching.