Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
Drought, a recurring phenomenon in India, affects approximately 68% of the total geographical area and impacts over 12% of the population (Source: Ministry of Jal Shakti, 2023 - knowledge cutoff). While national policies exist, a ‘one-size-fits-all’ approach is ineffective due to the diverse agro-climatic conditions across the country. Therefore, area-specific strategies are crucial for mitigating drought impacts and building resilience. These strategies must integrate ecological principles, socio-economic realities, and technological advancements to ensure sustainable development in these vulnerable regions.
Categorization of Drought-Prone Areas
India’s drought-prone areas can be broadly categorized into:
- Arid Zone: Rajasthan, Gujarat, parts of Punjab and Haryana – characterized by low rainfall and high evaporation rates.
- Semi-Arid Zone: Maharashtra, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, and parts of Uttar Pradesh – receives moderate rainfall but is prone to frequent and prolonged dry spells.
- Coastal Drought-Prone Areas: Parts of Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh – experience drought due to erratic monsoon patterns and salinity intrusion.
- Hill Regions: Parts of Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, and Jammu & Kashmir – face water scarcity due to snowmelt variations and deforestation.
Area-Specific Strategies
1. Arid Zone (Rajasthan, Gujarat)
- Water Harvesting: Promoting traditional water harvesting structures like tankas (Rajasthan) and check dams.
- Micro-Irrigation: Extensive use of drip and sprinkler irrigation to maximize water use efficiency.
- Livestock Management: Promoting drought-resistant fodder varieties and improving animal husbandry practices.
- Desert Afforestation: Planting drought-resistant species like Khejri and Babul to combat desertification.
2. Semi-Arid Zone (Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana)
- Watershed Development: Implementing integrated watershed management programs focusing on soil and moisture conservation. (e.g., Hariyali, Neeranchal).
- Contour Bunding & Terracing: Preventing soil erosion and enhancing water infiltration.
- Crop Diversification: Shifting from water-intensive crops like sugarcane and paddy to drought-resistant crops like millets, pulses, and oilseeds.
- Farm Ponds & Percolation Tanks: Creating local water storage facilities.
3. Coastal Drought-Prone Areas (Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh)
- Salinity Management: Implementing measures to prevent salinity intrusion into groundwater and agricultural lands.
- Rainwater Harvesting: Promoting rooftop rainwater harvesting and construction of farm ponds.
- Groundwater Recharge: Artificial recharge of groundwater through injection wells and percolation tanks.
- Casuarina & Mangrove Plantation: Planting coastal vegetation to stabilize shorelines and prevent erosion.
4. Hill Regions (Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand)
- Spring Shed Management: Protecting and rejuvenating natural springs, the primary water source in these regions.
- Forest Conservation: Preventing deforestation and promoting afforestation to maintain hydrological cycles.
- Water-Efficient Irrigation: Utilizing micro-irrigation techniques for horticulture crops.
- Diversification of Livelihoods: Promoting tourism, handicrafts, and other non-agricultural activities.
Policy and Institutional Framework
Effective drought management requires a robust policy and institutional framework. Key initiatives include:
- National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA): Plays a crucial role in coordinating drought relief measures.
- Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY): Focuses on improving irrigation efficiency and expanding irrigation coverage.
- MGNREGA: Provides employment opportunities in drought-affected areas through water conservation and land development works.
- Drought Prone Areas Programme (DPAP): A long-standing program aimed at mitigating drought impacts in identified districts.
| Region | Key Vulnerability | Specific Strategy |
|---|---|---|
| Rajasthan | Low Rainfall, High Evaporation | Tanka construction, Micro-irrigation |
| Maharashtra | Erratic Monsoon, Water Intensive Crops | Watershed Development, Crop Diversification |
| Tamil Nadu | Salinity Intrusion, Monsoon Failure | Salinity Management, Rainwater Harvesting |
Conclusion
Addressing drought in India necessitates a shift from reactive relief measures to proactive, area-specific strategies. Integrating traditional knowledge with modern technologies, strengthening community participation, and ensuring effective policy implementation are crucial for building long-term resilience. Investing in water conservation, sustainable agriculture, and livelihood diversification will not only mitigate drought impacts but also contribute to the overall socio-economic development of these vulnerable regions. A holistic and integrated approach is paramount for ensuring water security and sustainable development in drought-prone India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.