Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Drought is a recurring phenomenon in India, impacting a significant portion of the country’s geographical area and population. Identifying drought-prone areas is crucial for effective mitigation and preparedness. Initially, identification was largely based on rainfall deficiency. However, recognizing the complex interplay of factors contributing to drought, the approach has evolved over time. The Government of India, through initiatives like the Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP) launched in 1973, has continuously refined the criteria for identifying these vulnerable regions, moving towards a more holistic and multi-indicator assessment.
Historical Context & Initial Criteria
Early identification of drought-prone areas relied heavily on rainfall data. Areas receiving less than 750 mm of annual rainfall were generally considered drought-prone. This simplistic approach, however, failed to capture the nuances of drought vulnerability, as factors like soil type, groundwater availability, and land use patterns were not considered. The initial focus was largely on arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan, Gujarat, Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu.
Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP) & Revised Criteria
The DPAP marked a shift towards a more comprehensive assessment. The criteria were revised based on the following indicators:
- Rainfall Index: Deviation from normal rainfall (based on 30-year averages). Areas with rainfall deficiency of 20% or more were considered.
- Vegetation Index: Normalized Difference Vegetation Index (NDVI) derived from satellite data, indicating vegetation health and stress.
- Soil Moisture Index: Assessing soil moisture levels through remote sensing and ground-based observations.
- Hydrological Index: Groundwater levels and surface water availability.
- Socio-economic Factors: Dependence on rain-fed agriculture, livestock population, and poverty levels.
The DPAP initially covered 67 districts in seven states. Later, the programme was revised and expanded, incorporating watershed development and employment generation schemes.
National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) Guidelines & Current Methodology
The NDMA, established in 2005, further refined the drought declaration and management guidelines. The current methodology involves a three-stage declaration process:
- Early Warning Stage: Monitoring rainfall and other indicators to predict potential drought conditions.
- Alert Stage: Declared when there is a rainfall deficiency of 20-40% and other indicators show adverse conditions.
- Drought Declared Stage: Declared when rainfall deficiency exceeds 50% or other indicators reach critical levels.
The NDMA guidelines emphasize the use of a composite drought index, combining rainfall, vegetation, and hydrological indicators. States are responsible for declaring drought based on these guidelines, and central assistance is provided based on the severity of the drought.
Challenges & Recent Advancements
Despite advancements, challenges remain in accurately identifying drought-prone areas. These include:
- Data Scarcity: Limited availability of reliable and timely data, particularly at the micro-level.
- Regional Variations: Drought vulnerability varies significantly within states, requiring localized assessments.
- Climate Change: Changing rainfall patterns and increased frequency of extreme weather events are making drought prediction more difficult.
Recent advancements include the use of advanced remote sensing technologies, GIS mapping, and drought early warning systems. The Integrated Drought Management Programme (IDMP) aims to promote a holistic and integrated approach to drought management.
| Criteria | Initial Approach (Pre-DPAP) | DPAP & NDMA Guidelines (Current) |
|---|---|---|
| Rainfall | < 750mm annual rainfall | Rainfall deficiency of 20-50% (stages vary) |
| Indicators | Rainfall only | Rainfall, Vegetation Index, Soil Moisture, Hydrological Index, Socio-economic factors |
| Assessment Level | Broad regional classification | District and sub-district level assessment |
Conclusion
Identifying drought-prone areas in India has evolved from a simplistic rainfall-based approach to a more comprehensive, multi-indicator assessment. While significant progress has been made through initiatives like the DPAP and NDMA guidelines, challenges related to data availability, regional variations, and climate change persist. A continued focus on strengthening early warning systems, promoting water conservation, and adopting climate-resilient agricultural practices is crucial for mitigating the impacts of drought and ensuring food security in India.
Answer Length
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