GS 1 Sample Iashub

GS PAPER 1: 100 MOST PROBABLE QUESTIONS | Mains 2022
Under the Guidance of M K YADAV SIR
3. GEOGRAPHY
Q.56. What is heat wave? Examine the factors responsible for the spatiotemporal shift in the currents of heat waves in India.(15M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-how-heatwave-is-again-sweeping-across-india-7919613/
APPROACH
Introduction: Define heatwaves and its characteristics
Main Body:
• Discuss the Spatiotemporal shift of heat waves in India
• Highlight the factors responsible for the spatiotemporal shift
Conclusion: Conclude with the updating of Heat Action Plan in India.
NDMA defines heat wave as a period of abnormally high temperatures in summers. It typically occurs between March and June.
Heat wave = temp > 40°C for Plains, > 37°C for coastal stations and > 30°C for Hilly regions.
Spatiotemporal shift of heatwaves in India:

• Spatial shift: From traditional areas of northern India (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Delhi and northern Madhya Pradesh) → North western
regions, Central and South Central (southern Madhya Pradesh, Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu)
• Temporal shift: increasing trend and frequency of severe heatwave days.
The factors responsible for the spatiotemporal shift:

• Natural factors:
– Climate change: Temperature has risen by 0.8 degrees in the past 100 years.
– Tropical zone: High intensity of UV rays in medium-high heat wave zone.
– Delayed monsoons: increase in heatwaves observed during El Niño events.
– Anti-cyclone formations: with no cloud formation which fails to balance
temperature.
– Absence of Western Disturbances which bring rain to north-western and
central parts of India.
• Anthropogenic factors
– Uncontrolled urbanisation:
▪ Concretization of land-> increased heating effect.
▪ Urban heat island: in cities like Delhi, Bangalore. This also increases the
night time temperatures.
– Rise in Aerosols and Particulate Matter: Vehicular and industrial emissions
absorb infrared radiation.
– Increased power usage: High usage of air conditioners. Increased also due
to Work from Home.
– Deforestation: Forests in Northern, central and southern Western Ghats
have decreased by 2.84%, 4.38% and 5.77% respectively over the last decade.
– Rapid lifestyle changes: Higher income→ higher consumption→ developing country with low sustainable alternatives→higher
emissions.
Way forward:
• Afforestation: Utilise Compensatory Afforestation and involve personnel – for e.g. as done by Territorial Army in Asola Wildlife
Sactuary
• Green infrastructure: Rooftop solar power, white paints, Energy efficient infrastructure (use of plants, less wind resistant
infrastructure)
• Sustainable Public Transport: Green Hydrogen + electric powered public transport systems
• Need of roadmap: for India's Heat Wave Management planning in line with SDGs.
According to the IPCC 6th Assessment Report, heatwaves are set to intensify in South Asia. Updating the Heat Action Plan 2013 across India is
needed to tackle the shift of heatwaves in India.
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56
Q.57. Elaborate the drainage pattern of India with examples. Briefly discuss how anthropogenic activities lead to change in drainage patterns
and substantiate with examples. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Define Drainage pattern
Main Body:
• Explain types of Drainage patterns
• Explain changes in it due to human activities, using examples.
Conclusion: Conclude with bringing changes to the land use pattern
The flow of water through well-defined channels having unique shape and form is known as ‘drainage pattern’
Plethora of rivers in India showcase various drainage patterns:

• Trellis Pattern: Rivers and tributaries flow parallel to each other forming net like system.
– Example: Rivers of Chotanagpur Plateau.
• Pinnate Pattern: Developed in a narrow valley flanked by steep ranges.
– Example: Narmada and Son rivers
• Dendritic Pattern: Tree like pattern in regions with uniform rock structure with joints and faults.
– Example: Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra River systems.
• Centripetal Pattern: opposite of the radial as streams flow toward a central depression.
– Example: Loktak lake in Manipur.
• Radial Pattern: formed on hill tops with flow in all directions.
– Example: The rivers from Amarkantak.
Role of Anthropogenic activities in changing drainage patterns:

• Climate change: Increases precipitation in the southern part of India during monsoon season. Example: High rainfall will erode narrow
water divide between Savitri River and Krishna River.
• High sediments: reduces velocity, carrying capacity and more deposition in middle course. Example: Brahmaputra floods due to
sedimentation from construction.
• Topographical changes: Quarrying and mining in mountains affect gradient of slope and narrows down the river. Example: Kerala
floods
• Deforestation: increases water supply leading to river capture and changing patterns. Example: Yamuna tributaries will be captured
by the Ganga (Song and Asan River)
Impact of the anthropogenic activities on drainage pattern often becomes disastrous (floods, soil erosion, water insecurity). Thus, land use
pattern changes need to be in accordance with the changing drainage pattern.
57
Q.58. Various geographical factors played a crucial role in the formation of fishing grounds around the world. Explain (15 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Define the fishing grounds and point major fishing grounds of the world
Main Body:
• Discuss the various geographical factors played a crucial role in formation of fishing grounds
Conclusion: Conclude with relevance to India.
Fishing ground is an area or region in Ocean or sea where fishes congregate and fishing is usually at higher levels.
Various geographical factor that played a crucial role in formation of fishing grounds:
• Physical Geographical factors:
– Abundance of plankton: Due to the intermixing of warm and cold current. Example: Mixing of Gulfstream and labrador current.
– Indented coastlines: allow breeding of fish as they are sheltered from strong winds and ocean currents. Example: The coastal
lines of the Atlantic Ocean has such an indented pattern.
– Cool climate: Temperate climate with temperature less than 20°C is best for fish production. Example: All 5 major fishing regions
all under this climatic condition.
– Topographical factors: Unfavourable topographic for agriculture such as rough and rugged land. Example: 34% of the total Peru is
hilly area
• Human Geography factors:
– Labour: Fishing is highly labour-intensive. Hence, fishing thrives in areas due medium to high population.Example: Europe and
North America
– Technology: Modernisation of fishing sector enable fishermen to conduct fishing deep in oceans. Example: Japan industries and
Newfoundland industries.
– Transportation facilities: Highly in dented coastal line provides site for harbours and ports. This increased the access to market.
Example: Kodiak Port in USA.
With 7500 km of coastline, sustainable development of fishing grounds in India can help in augmenting food supply, generating employment,
raising nutritional level and earning foreign exchange.
58
Q.59. Geographical landforms such as Plateau is significant for agriculture and economic value. Examine with examples. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are plateaus.

Main Body:
• Highlight the economic significance of Plateau
• Highlight the agricultural significance of Plateau
Conclusion: Conclude with emphasis on the Plateaus.
Plateau is extensive area of flat upland and cover about 18% of the earth’s land surface.
Economic significance of Plateau:

• Storehouses of minerals: Minerals like coal, iron ore, etc are significant for the industrial development. Example: Chota Nagpur
Plateau, Plateau of western Australia.
• Energy sector: Plateaus led to formation of waterfalls- ideal for the hydro electricity generation. Example: jog falls is lifeline for iron
and steel industries of the region.
• Tourism sector: Due to their high elevation, act as scenic spots and place of adventures. Example: Rajrappa falls of Ranchi Plateau.
Agricultural significance of Plateau:

• Plantation: Plateaus have cool climate and play a crucial role in development of Plantations. Example: Samthar plateau and Deccan
Plateau-Chikmagalur Arabica coffee plantation.
• Animal rearing and agriculture: Plateaus have large grassland areas suitable for animal rearing Example: Malwa Plateau is known for
the dry farming.
• Rich soils: plateaus of volcanic origin have fertile soi. Example: Deccan Plateau is famous for regur soil, good for cotton cultivation.
• Water resources: plateaus are dissected by rivers, thus increase the significance of cultivation. Example: Godavari and Kaveri dissect
Deccan Plateau.
• Forest resource: Forest rich plateaus are source for honey, wood, lac, etc. Example: Maharashtra Plateau.
Plateaus are thus an important geomorphological entity creating a link between resources and humans, helping them achieve civilisational
success.
59
Q.60. List out the characteristics of Indian coal. Examine the reasons for coal crisis in India, despite being one of the largest coal reserve
country in the world.(15 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about the significance of coal reserves for India

Main Body:
• Discuss the characteristics of Indian coal
• Highlight the reasons for coal crisis in India
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward
Coal remains to the King of Fuels in India with 55% of the country’s energy needs fulfilled by it. India is the 2 nd largest coal-producing nation
in the world.
The characteristics of Indian coal:
Nature High Ash and moisture

Origin Found in continental platforms
Carbon % 50 to 70 %
Sulphur content around 0.5-1
India is facing coal crisis because :

• Geographical reasons
– Climate targets: to meet INDC targets under Paris Climate
Summit – CO2 emissions per unit of GDP) will be 33-35%
lower in 2030 compared to 2005 levels.
– Flooding and Rainfall: lowers production and slow
despatches of coal from coal mines.
– Increased demands: due to rising cooling requirements.
– Geopolitical competition: India is competing against
buyers such as China, which is under pressure to ramp up
imports amid a severe power crunch.
• Economic reasons:
– Eruption in Power Demand: Economy recovering from the
Covid-19 pandemic led to a sharp surge in electricity
demand.
– Increased Share of Thermal Power Plants: increasing to 66%
Types of coal found in India.
from 62% in 2019.
– Reducing import dependence: A consistent move to lower • Anthracite: highest grade of coal, found in regions of
imports coupled with high international prices of coal have also Jammu and Kashmir.
led to plants cutting imports. • Bituminous: It is a medium grade of coal and most
commonly used type of coal for electricity generation
The Government has amended mineral concession rules, 1960 and launched in India; found in in Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal,
Coking Coal Mission to increase the coal availability. Chhattisgarh, and Madhya Pradesh.
Given the environmental and social impacts of coal use, a phase-out is • Subbituminous: It is black in colour, dull (not shiny) and
inevitable. The transition should be based on a socially inclusive and has a higher heating value than lignite.
participatory planning process. • Lignite: It is the lowest grade coal with the least carbon
content. found in the regions of Rajasthan, Tamil Nadu,
and J&K.
60
Q.61. Plate tectonics, mountains, and deep-sea sediments have played a crucial role in maintaining the Earth's goldilocks climate. Discuss.
(10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.enn.com/articles/70448-how-plate-tectonics-has-maintained-earth-s-goldilocks-climate
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the significance of geomorphological feature in controlling the climate.

Main Body:
• Discuss specific points on how plate tectonics, mountains, deep-sea sediments played a role in maintaining the Earth's
Goldilocks climate
Conclusion: Conclude with a remark on geomorphology
Geomorphological process plays a crucial role in maintaining that the Earth remain habitable.
They play a crucial role in maintaining the Earth’s Goldilocks Climate in following ways:
• Plate tectonics :
– Diverging plates: This allows magma to rise to the surface and release carbon into the atmosphere
– Converging plates: This will cool down and recycle back the carbon into the deep Earth.
– Fast movement: Very fast moving tectonic plates will drastically increase CO2 emissionsExample: Cretaceous hothouse climate
– Slow movement: Slow-moving tectonic plates will reduce CO2 emissions. Example: Cenozoic ice-house climate
• Mountains :
– Mountain erosion : Dissolved carbon dioxide of rainfall reacts with the mountain material and they become part of carbon rich
marine sediments
– Weathering: It is very efficient in reducing atmospheric CO2. Example: weathering of basalt
• Deep - sea sediments
– Formation of deep-sea sediments : The carbon rich marine sediments are being pushed to feed the volcanoes and increase in
Carbon-dioxide emissions.
While geomorphology helps in keeping a balance, the speed of human-induced warming should be reduced quickly to avoid catastrophic
global warming like Cretaceous period.
61
Q.62. Scientists gain knowledge about the Earth's interior from a variety of observations. Describe the various observations and discuss how
this affects what we see or feel at the surface? (15 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/earths-interior-cooling-faster-study-7739443/
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the layering of the earth

Main Body:
• Explain the sources to study the Earth's interior and explain how the study of Earth's interior affects the surface.
Conclusion: Conclude with stating our evolving understanding about the interiors.
Scientists often compare Earth to an onion because the planet is made up of many layers of rocks of different densities.
These sources are -

● Direct Sources:
– The process of mining and drilling : It gave information about the
crustal layer.
– Volcanic eruption : it gave information about the mantle and
core layers.
● Indirect Sources:
– Seismic waves: different velocities of different waves helps in
determining various layers.
– Increase in Temperature and pressure: With increasing depth,
reveals about the density of rocks.
– Gravity anomalies: It provides about the unequal distribution of
mass of material in the earth’s crust.
– Meteorite studies: helps in studying the composition of celestial
bodies – including earth.
The knowledge about the interior affects our understanding at the Earth
surface in following ways-
• Evolution of the earth’s surface: Major geological features can be predicted by studying about the endogenic forces.
• Disaster management: better understanding of the catastrophic events like earthquake.
• Magnetic field: the earth’s magnetic field which originated from interior helps in protecting the earth’s atmosphere from the
harmful solar wind.
• Internal structure of various solar system objects: The formation of solar system object is similar to that of the earth, it will help us in
understanding about other planetary objects.
• Evolution of life: Volcanic eruptions are responsible for oxygen, ozone and other greenhouse gases to maintain the temperature.
• Mineral exploration: Understanding volcanic activity and the nature of rocks is essential for mineral exploration.
• Alternate energy: geothermal energy utilized around the world- for e.g. in Iceland
We know so little about interior that our understanding is still evolving. Recent researches in Hawaii shows that there is a bridge between the
core and mantle through which magma flows to the crust (surface), putting question over the fact that is the Earth really like an onion??
62
Q.63. Shed light on the significance of the extra-terrestrial planetary missions. How are these missions helpful in determining the evolution
of habitable planets? [15 M]
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/children/explained-nasas-missions-to-venus/article34863589.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the importance of extra- terrestrial planetary missions

Main Body:
• Discuss the Significance of the extra-terrestrial planetary missions and how these are helpful in determining the evolution
of habitable planets.
Conclusion: Conclude with its impact on human civilisation.
Scientists through extra-terrestrial missions are trying to understand how planets evolve in general, and specifically how habitable conditions
develop.
Significance of the extra-terrestrial planetary missions:

• Understand the terrestrial planet formation : It helps in analysing the atmosphere, components of the planets and determine their
formation.
• Analyse the habitable environment : The planetary missions help to understand how only the Earth is habitable among the planets.
• Motivation: It can motivate the youth to develop scientific temper and undertake real life applications
• Developing manufacturing units: with high standards, imbibing the spirit of innovation and productive skills.
• To find a new home: Certain companies like SpaceX are planning to have a second human base at Mars.
• Mineral resource extraction: China considers moon as the “Persian Gulf of the solar system”.
Extra-terrestrial missions have helped in determining the evolution of habitable planets in following ways:
• MOM mission : It will gather more detail on the composition of Mars atmosphere to learn how it formed and evolved.
• Probe Davinci+ : It will helps to determine whether Venus once had an ocean.
• Images of Venus tesserae : These are similar to the earth's continents and high resolution images help to understand whether Venus
had plate tectonics similar to earth.
• VERITAS : It helps to confirm whether volcanoes and earthquakes are still happening on Venus.
• Phosphine detection on Venus: a chemical released by microbes, suggested that life was possible in the clouds of Venus.
• Huygens probe: Saturn’s moon - Titan floating lander. Successful soft landing – found traces of methane and underground water
acquifers.
• OSIRIS – Rex - a NASA asteroid-study and sample-return mission, landed on asteroid Bennu, to learn more about the formation and
evolution of the Solar System.
Besides that, extra-terrestrial mission provide significant advantage in areas such as new materials, health and medicine, transportation and
computer technology. Thus, these mission will not only expand our knowledge of universe but also expand our time in it.
63
Q.64. Recently, the Northeast region has been experiencing an increase in variability and unpredictability in the pattern of rainfall. Examine
the reasons for such a change. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/climate-crisis-in-north-east-india-how-geography-rainfall-

variations-define-calamity-course-78845
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the facts about increase in variability and unpredictability of rainfall in the Northeast region.
Main Body:
• The reasons for the change in pattern of rainfall in the Northeast region
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward in tackling the changes rainfall pattern.
In last 30 years or so all states in the North Eastern region, except Sikkim, show a decreasing trend in monsoon rainfall
The reasons for the increase in variability and unpredictability of rainfall in Northeast region:
• Warming of region: As a result, there is increase in frequency and intensity of dry periods and droughts.
– Example: projected temperatures in the region will raise by 1.8°C by the end of 2030.
• Increase in snowfall in Eurasia: This cost cooling of the Impact of changes in the rainfall pattern affects:
atmosphere of the region which weakens summer monsoon • The flow of rivers.
season.
• Extent of snow cover and health of mountain springs.
• Increase in El nino events: This led to the monsoon deficit
• Deforestation and soil erosion.
with reduction in moisture supply
• Positive phase of Pacific decadal oscillation: which impacts • Impact on livelihoods, especially agriculture and fishing,
moisture supply in the Indian Ocean, thereby increasing forest flora growth, animal and bird habitat (and
variability in rainfall. behaviour) and other ecosystem aspects.
• Geographical factors: localised geographical changes due to
deforestation etc. has led to drying up of mountain springs, which acted as a source of precipitation.
• Alternating Sunspot epoch: This causes differential intensification of seasonal trough of low pressure over India. It has inverse
relationship with rainfall in India, affecting rainfall patterns in Northeast.
• Reduction in evapotranspiration: reduction in rainfall in northeast region, due to increased deforestation.
• Rising black carbon emission: this led to decrease in low intensity rainfall and pushes up severe rainfall in pre-monsoon.
– Example: Black carbon loading around Tezpur, Assam.
Adaptation strategies will mean community involvement; plans for building resilience and adapting to changes. Traditional knowledge (water
harvesting and watershed management) should be combined with modern science and technology.
64
Q.65. Examine the role of El-Nino on the rising incidences of cyclones in the Indian Ocean. Discuss how El-Niño affects the coastal ecosystem?
(10M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1740252
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what is El-nino at its characteristic effect on Indian monsoons.
Main Body:
• Explain how El-Nino increases cyclones and how cyclones affect the coastal ecosystem.
Conclusion: Conclude with a relevant statement
El Niño, is the warm phase of the El Niño Southern Oscillation, that involves fluctuating ocean temperatures in the tropical Pacific. El Niño
events are associated with weak monsoons and lower than average rainfall in India.
Role of El-Nino’s in rising cyclones:

• Prolonged marine heat wave : A prolonged marine heatwave in the Arabian Sea helps the formation of cyclone.
• El Niño modoki: resulting in more cyclones over Arabian Sea with positive Indian Ocean dipole.
Impact of El Nino on coastal ecosystem:

• Invasion of species : Along the Peruvian coast, it favours invasive species such as fire ants.
• Coral bleaching : The mass coral bleaching in India’s Lakshadweep archipelago in 2015-2016.
• Destruction of habitat : The loss of aquatic animal species, destruction of kelp forests, etc.
• High sea temperature: Plays a role in increase in ocean acidification.
• Oceanic drought : a drop in sardine fishery, affecting fishing community.
The El-Nino event is being increased due to rise in Global warming, should be addressed effectively to handle the crisis of the coastal
ecosystems.
65
Q.66. There has been a noticeable increase in the extreme rainfall events with monsoon deficits occurring with higher frequency in different
regions in India. Examine the role of climate change in changing the pattern of monsoons. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-behind-the-unprecedented-pre-monsoon-devastation-in-assam-

7929244/
APPROACH
Introduction: Write how climate change is changing the pattern of monsoon

Main Body:
• Explain with examples how climate change is changing the monsoon patterns
Climate change is altering the nature of the Indian monsoon, turning it into an erratic and destructive force. Climate change has added a
further layer of variability to a weather system that anyway registers a degree of natural and regional variability
Climate change is contributing to the changing patterns of the Indian Monsoon:

• By increasing the Intensity: In 2018, Kerala received 164% above normal rainfall.
• Global warming: According to climate models would increase monsoon rainfall by 14%.
– Example: India has heated up by over 0.7 degree Celsius
• Increases moisture content: Increase in sea surface temperature, increases moisture content. For every 1 degree Celsius rise in heat,
the atmosphere can hold 7% more moisture.
• Low pressure depression: In 2019, low pressure depression over Bay of Bengal sucked in the monsoon trade winds, resulting in
extremely severe cyclone Fani.
• Extreme (positive) Indian Ocean dipole: In 2019, Indian summer monsoon was one of the strongest due to warmer than normal
western basin of Indian Ocean.
• Madden-Julienne Oscillation: The MJO is parked over Indian Ocean, enhancing NorthEast monsoon.
– Example: Severe rainfall in Chennai in 2021.
• Weakening of the land-sea temperature gradient: Causes drying of the monsoon circulation.
• Unpredictability of monsoon westerly winds: This is driving surges of moisture supply leading to extreme rainfall.
• El Nino and La Nina events: Climate change caused Strong El Nino contributes to weaker monsoons.
• Shifting of the Inter Tropical Convergence Zone (ITCZ) northwards: due to melting Arctic and Himalayan ice and snow.
– Example: Recent floods in Bihar can be attributed to the northwards shifting of the ITCZ
As the dark clouds of climate change approach us, it is important tackle the challenges through hyper-local understanding of risks and
evolving the nature of forecasting to bring out multiple plans for changing face Indian monsoons.
66
Q.67. Bring out the causes that give rise to the formation of heat island in the urban habitats of the world. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/india-heatwave-urban-heat-islands-explained-7921454/
APPROACH
Introduction: Define heat island

Main Body:
• Discuss the causes for the formation of heat island in urban habitat
Conclusion: Conclude with the smart solutions to mitigate the effect of heat island
An urban heat island is an area that has temperature considerably higher than its surrounding rural areas.
The causes for the formation of heat island in urban habitat:

• Heat-trapping concrete: Have very low albedo, replace natural vegetation and water (reduced evaporation and evapo-transpiration).
• Urban canopy: In urban areas, there are multilayer buildings and the reflected heat is trapped by the nearby taller buildings,
multiplying the heating effect.
• Urban haze: haze of air pollution can act as miniature greenhouse layer.
• Vertical infrastructure: High rise buildings that offer more surface area for heat absorption, and also block movement of winds.
• High vehicle density: a lot of heat released from their engines.
• High power usage: Cooling appliances like air conditioners that release the heat into the surroundings.
• Lack of Trees and green areas: which impedes evapo-transpiration, shade and removal of carbon dioxide, all the processes that help
to cool the surrounding air.
• Climate change: The more extreme heatwaves in urban areas, mainly in northern regions, are a factor that contributes to urban heat
island formation.
Tackling Urban Heat:

• Cooling infrastructure: investing in green infrastructure, cool roof and payments (use light colors/coating), green roof (with garden),
vertical farming etc.
• Investing in nature-based solutions (NBS) (Afforestation) under National Mission on sustainable habitat is one feasible option to
adapt to climate change, with community involvement (Kochi’s Cities4Forests initiative).
• Sustainable mobility: Promotion of the use of shared, sustainable transport is essential for minimizing carbon emissions, unblocking
roads and freeing the streets of parked cars.
As smart cities have emerged as a possible solution to sustainability problems deriving from rapid urbanization, they need to incorporate
nature in development so as to remain truly sustainable.
67
Q.68. What is seafloor spreading? Examine the reasons and significance of slowdown of seafloor spreading. (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Explain what is seafloor spreading and its process

Main Body:
• Discuss the reason for slow-down of seafloor spreading
• Highlight the ssignificance of slowdown
Conclusion: Conclude with the relevant statements
Seafloor Spreading is the usual process at work at divergent plate boundaries, leading to the creation of new ocean floor. E.g Mid-Atlantic
Oceanic Ridge
Process of seafloor spreading

• As plates separate, molten material rises up from within the mantle to fill the opening.
• Rugged volcanic landscape of a mid-ocean ridge is created along the plate boundary.
However, in the last 19 million years, the seafloor spreading slowed down by 35%.
The reason for slow-down of seafloor spreading:

• Rapid Mountain building process: slowing down the seafloor spreading along the ridges.
• Slowdown in Mantle Convection Rate: or transportation of heat from earth interior to the surface.
Significance of slowdown of seafloor spreading:

• Less volcanic activity: This results in lower emissions of greenhouse gas by volcanic activity into the atmosphere.
• No island formation: It will result in reduction in magma outpouring and affects Island formation.
• Sealevel rise: With no formation of new crust, sea level will rise.
• Reduction in availability of minerals: With less magma appealing along the ridges.
Determining the seafloor spreading rate is always crucial for planning climate change framework by taking into the consideration of carbon
cycle and sea-level rise.
68
Q.69. Extensive deltas are formed along the eastern coast but not along the western coast. Analyse the reasons. (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the definition of delta.

Main Body:
• Delta formation in India
• Reasons for the formation of extensive deltas along eastern coast
• Reason for lack of Delta formation along western coast
The depositional feature of almost triangular shape at the mouth of a river debouching either in a lake or a sea is called Delta.
Reasons for the formation of extensive deltas along eastern coast:

• Favourable condition: Suitable place in the form of shallow sea, lagoons, etc. E.g. Chilka, Sundarbans, etc.
• Long courses of the river: These long rivers brings enough amount of sediments. E.g. Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery etc.
• Size of sediments: Rivers carry medium size of sediments..
• Shape of physiography: Closed shape of Bay of Bengal led to relatively calm at the mouth of the rivers.
• Erosion rate: Accelerated rate of erosion in the catchment area of the concerned rivers
• Emergent coastal line: Due to this extensive plains are formed, which favours is delta formation.
Reasons for lack of delta formation along western coast:

• Unfavourable topography: slopes are very steep and plains are narrow.
• Short course of rivers: They carry very less amount of sediments along with them. E.g. mandovi, pampa, Periyar, etc
• Size of sediment: Due to short course of rivers, they carry fine sediments mostly.
• Precipitation: It receives very high amount of rainfall, which leads to high turbulence of streams. E.g. High amount of rainfall during
S-W monsoon
• Amount of sediment: These rivers carry less amount of sediments, as their length is short.
Recent researches have shown that deltas in India are facing existential crisis due to high extraction of groundwater and climate change.
Better management of river sediment is vital to improve the outlook for the deltas.
69
Q.70. What are the causes of emergence of marine heat waves in the oceans? Identify the adverse effects caused by it on Marine and coastal
ecosystem. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/marine-heatwaves-rising-around-india-says-study/article38393806.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are marine heat waves

Main Body:
• Highlight the causes of emergence of heat waves
• Discuss its adverse effects on Marine and coastal ecosystem
Marine heat waves are prolonged extreme oceanic warm water events that can have a devastating impact on marine ecosystem.
The causes of emergence of heatwaves:

• Ocean currents: Warm ocean current can build up areas of warm water and air sea heat flux
• Poor wind activity: this leads to concentration of heat at a single region
• Global warming: Melting of polar regions reduces the frequency of cold ocean currents
• Climatic events: Strong EL Nino event can bring changes in surface heat fluxes.
The warming in the upper ocean is projected to be between 0.6°C and 2°C and it is expected to increase the occurrences of marine
heatwaves.
Adverse effects of marine heatwaves:

• Impact on Kelp Forest: increase the temperatures is unsustainable for the subsurface kelp Forest
• Habitat destruction: Marine heat waves can change the habitat range of certain species for e.g. Spiny sea urchin
• Migration routes: Changes in the sea temperature impacts the migration of fishes
• Coral bleaching: exposure to high temperature results in bleaching
• Invasive species: changing climatic condition can also help invasive species to spread.
• Economic losses: through impacts on fisheries and aquaculture for e.g. as it led to led to outbreaks of Pacific oyster mortality
syndrome.
By raising general awareness of these phenomena, and by improving our scientific understanding of their physical properties and ecological
impacts, we can better predict future conditions and protect vulnerable marine habitats and resource
70
Q.71. Point out the geographical impediments to the growth of fisheries sector in India (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/wtos-fisheries-pact-should-provide-space-for-equitable-growth-

sources/2537681/
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the scope and scale of fisheries sector in India
Main Body:
• Discuss the various geographical impediments to the growth of fisheries sector in India
Conclusion: conclude with ways to increase the production of fishes in India
Fisheries sector has been recognized as a ‘Sunrise Sector’ and has demonstrated an outstanding double-digit average annual growth of 11%
since 2014-15.
India is the second largest fish producing country in the world accounting for 7.5% of global production and contributing about 1 % to the
GVA and over 7 % to the agricultural GVA.
However, their lies some geographical impediments in the growth of fisheries in India:
• Physical factors:
– Tropical Climate: High water temperature is not conductive for the growth of fishes (20°C is best)
– Absence of cold currents: They are
significant for growth of plankton as they
lead to upwelling.
– Cyclonic activity: Arabian Sea and Bay of
Bengal is prone to cyclogenesis which
affects fish production.
– Unpredictable nature of monsoon as a
result of which the inland fisheries suffer
adversely.
– Topographical issues: Lack of broken
coastal lines with numerous indentations
– Continental shelves: India lacks broad
continental shelves in the eastern part.
– Dependent on inland fisheries: which is
seasonal in nature (65% production).
• Human factors:
– Port development: Poor development with lack of connectivity
– Lack of cold storages:This will affecting the storage of fishes for exports.
– Water pollution: turns the water murkier and decreases the fish concentration.
Today, we are the world leaders in shrimp production, thanks to the pink revolution in the Eastern Coast of India. Similar dedication needs to
be achieved in the Blue Revolution 2.0 to make fisheries in India inclusive, equitable, productive and sustainable.
71
Q.72. Discuss the factors responsible for India being the manufacturing hub for generic medicines (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/domestic-medicine-manufacture-accelerating-the-growth-of-the-indian-

pharmaceutical-industry/
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are generic medicines and their significance.

Main Body:
• Discuss the factors responsible for making Indian generic medicine manufacturing hub
Conclusion: conclude with a way forward
A generic drug has the same active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) as the original, but it may differ in some characteristics such as the
manufacturing process, formulation, excipients, colour, taste, and packaging.
Factors responsible for making India generic medicines manufacturing hub:

• Low cost of production: Costs in India are 60% cheaper than U.S. and 50% cheaper than Europe.
• Availability of Skilled labour: from people in warehouses to board of directors, are Indian.
• Huge population: Most Indians don’t have health insurance; thus medicines have to be produced locally as generic medicines.
• Access to education: Various institutes are providing professional courses on pharmacy.
• Geographical factors:
– Connectivity: Presents of port like Mumbai, led to establishment of factories due to easy imports
– Market access: to the poor African countries.
• Initial government efforts:
– Government restriction on Patents: on medical products in the country.
– Indian Patent Act, 1970: It enabled local companies to produce efficiently to sell medicines cheaper
• 2005 TRIPS Agreement and beyond: Compulsory licensing provisions gave India an opportunity.
• Various schemes:
– Pharmaceutical PLI scheme: Such schemes encouraged entrepreneurs to establish cheap medicines.
– Atmanirbhar Bharat 3.0: Mission COVID Suraksha accelerate development of indigenous COVID vaccines.
– Pharma parks: Punjab government announced to establish three pharma parks in state.
Pharma can do for India what software sector was able to do in the 1990s and 2000s. This can be the moment that India can be ‘Pharmacy to
the World’.
72
Q.73. In India, mini steel plant will be key for the development of the iron and steel industries. Discuss (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the iron and steel production in Indi and Describe what are mini steel plants
Main Body:
• Discuss how mini steel plant plays a crucial role in development of iron and steel
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions to promote mini steel plants in India
Mini Steel Plant is the plant with a capacity bearing from 10,000 to 5,00,00 tonnes.
Mini steel plants play a crucial role in development of Iron and Steel:
• Geographical factors:
– Unequal distribution of resources: Like iron and coal. mini steel plants will bridge the gap of processing.
– Locational factors: Most of the mini steel plants are located away from the integrated plants. So, they are in a position to meet local
demand.
– Raw material: Steel scrap can be transported easily to country’s interior.
– Labour availability: They require semi-skilled labourers.
– Poor connectivity: Due to poor connectivity, demand for mini steel is increasing over heavy steel industries.
• Economic factors:
– Low cost of establishment:. The operation and maintenance cost of mini plants is low.
– Establish anywhere: mini steel plants require minimal infrastructure to handle the processing.
– Short gestation period: Mini plants are time-efficient and much competitive.
– Increase in demand: due to construction activities taken up by the government. E.g., PM-Gram Sadaf Yojana.
– Circular economy: government focusing towards recycling steel and iron scrap led to growth of mini steel plants.
Issues in the development of mini-steel plants:

• Lack of safety: Health hazards like obstructive breathing, prolonged cough, dermatitides, etc., are very common.
• Highly unorganised: lack of inspection and social security to the labours.
• High pollution: Mini steel plants release pollutants like carbon monoxide, nitrous oxide, etc.
• Shortage of electricity: in rural areas, people face shortage of electricity as mini steel plants run on electricity furnace.
The government should address logistic cost issues and other is of doing business issues of mini steel Plant to make to achieve self-reliance
India.
73
Q.74. Despite of having high wind potential, wind energy has not been developed to the desired level in India. Elaborate (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.newindianexpress.com/opinions/editorials/2022/may/10/renewables-area-long-way-from-solvingour-

energy-needs-2451803.html
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the wind energy potential in India; draw a map of potential locations.
Main Body:
• Discuss why the total installed wind power capacity is low
Conclusion: Conclude with a future scope of wind energy.
India's energy demand is set to grow by 3% per year up to 2040, and meeting this demand sustainably will require clean sources of power.
India’s total installed capacity is only 40 GW. This is despite a 7,600 km-long coastline, and an offshore wind energy potential of 140 GW by
2050. Of this, Gujarat and Tamil Nadu make up 71 GW.
The reasons for low development in wind energy -

• Geographical:
– Lack of infrastructures and institutions: to carry out R&D, majorly based on European technology.
– Far from market: They are often located in remote locations, far from cities.
– Wind speed variation: This cause intermittency issues for power grids.
• Economic:
– Financial: High initial investements;
– High per unit cost: Wind power must still compete with conventional generation like coal.
– Not a profitable use of land: Alternative uses for the land might be more highly valued than electricity generation.
– Losses in DISCOMS: and unable to build infrastructure to help transition to renewable energy sources
– Logistics issues: Offshore wind turbines require longer blades and transporting them over long distances is not viable.
• Social: Resistance by local communities.
• Environmental impacts: the Gulf of Khambhat is one of the important natural systems of Gujarat and is an "ecologically sensitive
coastal region.
By deriving the multiple uses of wind energy plant (desalination, hydrogen recovery), exporting electricity to nearby countries (Sri Lanka) can
help arrest the huge costs of wind energy generation.
74
Q.75. Give an account of groundwater exploitation in India. How the recent guidelines relating to groundwater extraction will help address
the issues of exploitation. (15 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/water/groundwater-management-the-visible-crisis-of-an-invisible-resource-83163
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about water groundwater stress levels

Main Body:
• Give an extent of ground water exploitation in India
• Discuss how the recent guidelines relating to groundwater extraction will help address the issues of exploitation
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward to check groundwater exploitation
At just over 260 cubic km per year, our country uses 25% of all groundwater extracted globally, ahead of USA and China. And because 70% of
the water supply in agriculture today is groundwater, it will remain the lifeline of India’s water supplies for years to come.
Extent of groundwater exploitation in India:

• Overuse Punjab was found to be the highest groundwater exploited state in India
followed by Rajasthan.
– Compared to the decadal average for 2009-18, there has been a decline in the
groundwater level in 61% of wells.
• Deterioration: 29% of groundwater blocks are semi-critical, critical, or overexploited.
– High Pollution: According to the findings published in the journal Environmental Science & Technology, there is uranium
contamination in groundwater in 16 states.
The recent guidelines relating to groundwater extraction will help address the issues of exploitation in following ways:
• Prohibition of new industries: In over-exploited zones, which will avert over exploitation.
• Checking the use: mandatory requirement of digital flow meters, piezometers and digital water level recorders
• Mandatory audit: by industries abstracting ground water 500 m3/day
• Mandatory “No Objection Certification”: regulating the groundwater use.
• Reuse of water: mandatory roof top rain water harvesting except for specified industries
• Compensation: It prescribes a minimum environmental compensation of ₹1 lakh for extracting groundwater without a NOC.
• Abstraction charges: water supply agencies in urban areas need to pay.
However, certain exemption (in agriculture) still exists. Since the ground water development is mostly demand driven, it can be geared up
through proper agricultural, credits, subsidy and energy support policies along with creation of suitable markets.
75
Q.76. The river linking project is envisioned to address India’s growing water resource scarcity, yet it has its own issues. Comment (15 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/river-linking-project-in-gujarat-scrapped-after-protests-by-tribal-

communities/article65443193.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about Project is envision to address India’s growing water

Main Body:
• The river linking project will lead to other geographical issues
• Discuss the way forward.
Conclusion: Conclude with a remark on water scarcity
The idea of interlinking of rivers in the Indian subcontinent is atleast 150 years old. During the British Raj in India, Sir Arthur Cotton, a British
general and irrigation engineer, first suggested linking the Ganga and the Cauvery for navigational purposes.
Recently, government has proposed interlinking of rivers as a bold and ambitious engineering
project that will resolve the country’s water woes. E.g. Ken-Betwa project
Advantages of river linking projects:
• Controlling droughts and floods – reduced dependence on rainfall.
• Irrigation, land will also increase by about 15 percent.
• Reduced transportation costs: 15,000 km of river and 10,000 km of navigation will be
developed.
• Large scale afforestation and about 3,000 tourist spots will be built.
• Solve the problems of drinking water.
• Provide jobs for landless farmers in rural areas.
Negative impacts of river linking projects:

• Physical geographical:
– Reservoir Induced Seismicity: There is a strong relation
between the earthquakes and loading and unloading of
water from the dam. E.g. the Koyna and Warna region.
– Submerge critical Forest areas under water: The Ken -
Betwa Project will submerge around 10 % of Panna Tiger
Reserve
– Effects Riparian Course: The project can impact the Raneh
Falls India's Mini Grand Canyon - cum- Mini Niagara
– Desilting: There is a big problem of desilting and there is no
clarity on where the silt can be actually dumped.
– Soil erosion: Dam construction in India lead to erosion and
bankers and in many areas.
– Issues with Bangladesh: Diversion of water from Brahmaputra and Teesta rivers into Ganga has made Bangladesh apprehensive
that this would reduced the water flow into its territory.
– Complex engineering: water has to be channelled across different terrains, topographies & elevation, requiring huge cost and time.
• Human geographical
– Tribal Displacement: It can lead to the displacement of people living in the areas to be flooded.
– Agricultural Land: Many areas will have their agricultural land submerged thus loss of livelihood .
– Impact urban areas: Areas which fall in lowers riparian course will suffer from water scarcity.
– Aquatic life: Diversion of water from one river to another will pose an issue for migration of fish stocks and affect aquatic ecosystem.
• Environmental:
– Species invasion: If Ken’s water is diverted to Betwa then fish and other biodiversity will also move and we do not know what
impact it will have on the local fish.
– Impact on monsoon cycle: By river-linking, we are stopping flow of fresh water to sea and the salinity gradient is also reduced.
– Deforestation: 23 lakh big trees will be cut for the Ken-Betwa inter-linking.
• Political:
– Centre-State issues: issues will arise in cases of land acquisition, compensation, and benefits from the project.
– State-state issues: river water sharing and land related issues are bound to occur in such projects.
The Government must first explore and exhaust other methods of increasing and augmenting water resources for farm use as well as for
other purposes.
76
Q.77. What is carbon farming? Evaluate its significance in maintaining sustainable farming in India and identify the challenges associated
with it. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-carbon-is-the-crop-of-the-future/article65431204.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what is carbon farming?

Main Body:
• Discuss its significance to a country like India
• Highlight the advantages of carbon farming
• Point out the challenges in its implementation.
Conclusion: Conclude with a future scope of carbon farming
Carbon farming means using farming methods that reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and capture and hold carbon in vegetation and soils.
Significance of carbon farming for India:

• Achievement of climate targets: Carbon farming can help in achieving
India’s INDC targets.
• Reduction in agriculture subsidy burden: By using conservation tillage
and controlled traffic techniques in cropping operations.
• Earning carbon credits: Indian can earn carbon credit units through the
emissions reduction fund.
• Soils: Carbon farming can help increase soil health by improving soil
structure
• Efficient fertilizer use: Carbon farming enables farmers to apply fertilisers
more efficiently, which reduces eutrophication.
• Reduce livestock emissions: By optimizing feed quality. By using a genetic improvement program to increase reproductive rates.
• Improves availability of water: Carbon farming safeguard soil biodiversity, which in turn will increase groundwater
percolation/recharge.
Challenges with carbon farming:

• Increased complexity: deters the involvement of farmers, due to lack of skills
• Lack of approved methods
• Higher input costs: due to the huge capital requirements.
• Instability in carbon prices
• Difficulty in monitoring the carbon sequestration
There is a need to strengthen carbon trading segment to enable Indian farmers to generate a sustainable income from carbon cropping and
to create direct market linkages in India.
77
Q.78. Land degradation is a major issue but avoidable. Highlight the various causes leading to land degradation and suggest measures to
control it. (15 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/land-degradation-a-major-threat-but-avoidable-so-why-the-

inaction-66508
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the menace of land degradation in India

Main Body:
• Discuss the various causes leading to land degradation
• Suggest measures to control it.
Conclusion: Conclude with macro solution to land degradation
Land degradation is temporary or permanent degeneration of productivity of land due to physical, chemical or biological factors. Land
degradation is a major issue because about 29% of total land are considered degraded in India
The various causes leading to land degradation:

• Geographical:
– Wind Erosion: Due to depletion of forests leads to loosening of
soil particles
– Water Erosion: Huge loss of top fertile soil along with plant
nutrients through runoff water.
– Desertification: It is also the end result of Land Degradation
but it could also be the reason.
▪ E.g This problem is particularly serious in areas adjoining
the Thar desert in Rajasthan.
• Anthropogenic
– Urbanization: Encroachment of land for urbanization purpose
lead to change in land forms and concretization of land.
– Increasing population: The economic demand for agricultural
land has led to increase land clearing, over-cultivation,
– Mining: Excessive mining triggers soil erosion and aggravated
water scarcity E.g. Jharkhand
– Inefficient agriculture: Depleting groundwater, the spread of
problem soils (acidic, saline & alkaline), loss of soil organic
carbon.
Measures to control land degradation:

• Adopt better agricultural practices: Tillage on higher slopes should
be avoided, while contour ploughing on the slopes to maintain the
soil depth.
• Shelterbelts: Planting of shelterbelts and stubble mulching help in
conserving the soils in desert regions.
• Afforestation: through various interventions like Agroforestry, Compensatory Afforestation and Van Mahotsav and Green India
Mission
• Integrated land and water management approach: to protect soils from erosion
• Adopt traditional practices: Applying a combination of traditional practices with locally acceptable and locally adapted land use
technologies.
• Avoid overgrazing: The pressure of livestock on pastures in hilly, desert and plateau regions has to be reduced
• Focus on social aspects: participative planning at micro-watershed level; transect walk; Constitution of Watershed Committee under
Gram Sabha; social audit etc.
Ending land degradation cannot be a ‘one size fits all’ approach which could be robust across regions around India. Checking and reversing
land degradation has to be essentially based on self-regulatory practices with regard to a sustainable use of resources and energy.
78
Q.79. The geographical factors make north eastern states vulnerable to landslides. Examine the statement with examples (10M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/natural-disasters/assam-s-haflong-swept-by-landslides-activists-blame-

development--82899
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about landslides in Northeast region

Main Body:
• The geographical factors that makes north-eastern states vulnerable
The north-eastern states fall under very high and high landslide hazard zone in the country.
The geographical factors that makes north-eastern states vulnerable are –
Natural:
• Steep hilly ranges: Hill ranges covers 85% and 87% of the total Meghalaya and Nagaland land respectively
• Unconsolidated soil: They are highly prone to weathering
• Precipitation: Heavy precipitation due to the south-west monsoon leads to erosion
• Deforestation: According to the Forest survey, forest area declined in Northeast
• Seismic zone: Entire Northeast falls under zone five of hazard zone
Anthropogenic:
• Agriculture activities: Prevalence of Practice of jhum cultivation in the region
• Infrastructure development: Increase in road construction activities impact soil strength.
• Urbanisation: This led to concretisation of land
• Mining and quarrying: Will disturb slope gradient. Example: Meghalaya
Along with the NDMA guidelines, retaining walls and surface drainage control works should be implemented to mitigate the impact of
landslides
79
Q.80. There is a rise in hydro meteorological events across the country. Discuss the reasons and suggest some measures to mitigate the
intensity of these hazards. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/karnataka/extreme-weather-events-imprints-of-changes-in-climatic-

conditions/article65482976.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the rising hydro metrological events in India with facts
Main Body:
• Discuss the reasons for raising hydro meteorological events
• Suggest measures to mitigate the intensity of these hazards
Hydro metrological events includes flash floods, cloudburst and landslides which occur due to unprecedented heavy rainfall. At least 26
cloudburst occurred in himalayan region in first 6 months of 2021
The reason for rise in hydro metrological events:

• Increase in temperature: This lead to increase in moisture (0.7°C Increase in last century) .
• Increase in intensity of monsoon: Rainfall intensity has increased But number of days of rainfall reduced. E.g.: 200 MM of rainfall in
Mumbai in single day in 2021
• Increase in deforestation: Led to increase in landslides in himalayan and Northeast region
• Increase in natural events: Like El Niño mandoki – Led to increase in cyclones occurrence
• Urbanisation: Lead to Change in microclimate of urban with increase in urban heat island.
• Mining and quarrying: It Disturbs the integrity of soil strength in hilly areas
Measures to mitigate the intensity of this hazards:

• Multilateral approach: Risk reduction practises need to be multi Hazard and multi-sectorial in order to be effective and efficient
• Necessary to continue strengthening good governance: in mitigation strategies at the national and regional levels.
• Crisis mapping: real-time data gathering and analysis is need of hour
• Protection to natural storm breakers: such as mangroves should be promoted
• Disaster preparedness plan: A comprehensive flood management plant is needed
There is need for integrated management plan that Addresses all hydro metrological events issues and to implement Sendai disaster risk
reduction framework.
80
Q.81. Explain briefly the mechanism of cloudburst and the factors responsible for their frequency in Himalayas. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/what-are-cloudbursts-and-why-they-occur-more-in-

places-like-amarnath-8019367/
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the definition of cloudburst.

Main Body:
• Discuss the mechanism of cloudburst with a diagram
• Write the factors responsible for cloudburst in the Himalayas.
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward.
Cloudburst is an event of extreme rainfall with high intensity in brief duration and over a small geographic area.
Cloudburst Mechanism:
• Heating of the airmass: Creation of low
pressure zone, move from high
pressure region to low pressure region.
• Updraft of hot air: Warm moist air mass
is uplifted in the troposphere.
• Development of Cumulonimbus
clouds: 10°C fall in temperature for
every 1 km rise of water vapour.
• Dominance of updraft over downdraft:
Violent updraft dominates the
downdraft, and it prevents rain from
falling and large amount of water starts
accumulating.
• Final downpour: Clouds then burst with
great strength resulting in torrential
downpour.
Factors responsible for frequent cloudburst in

Himalayas:
• Decadal temperature rise: There has
been 1.6°C temperature rise in the North-
West Himalayas, way more than global
average of 0.4°C. This increases the
moisture levels.
• Increased incidence of Forest fire: Forest fires give out a lot of smoke and other particulate matter, that aids in rainfall. Example: 36
big fires in Chamoli before the disastrous cloudburst.
• Rising temperature of Indian Ocean: This is an indication of climate change, and cause huge rise in the moisture content in the
atmosphere.
• Increased human interference: Deforestation in Himalayan tourist spots has exposed land to intense heating, coupled with urban
emissions.
– Example: Tourist town of Kullu has witnessed most of the cloudbursts in Himachal Pradesh.
Predicting cloudbursts are very difficult, hence measures like installation of Doppler weather radars are crucial for real-time tracking of
potential cloudbursts.
81
Q.82. Examine why soil conservation is crucial for addressing climate change. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.hindustantimes.com/india-news/world-environment-day-pm-modi-gives-5-points-to-save-soil-recalls-

policies-in-8-years-for-environment-101654410817358.html
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about soil conservation and fact about soil degradation.
Main Body:
• Mention significance of soil conservation in addressing climate change.
• Discuss the way forward.
Conclusion: Conclude with solution to conserve soil
Soil conservation is defined as the prevention of loss of the topmost layer of the soil. Soil degradation in India is estimated to be occurring on
147 million hectares (Mha) of land. As per IPBES, on average, the benefits of restoration are 10 times higher than the costs
Significance of Soil Conservation in addressing climate change:

• Carbon Sequestration: Soil stores more than three times the amount of carbon in the atmosphere.
• Filter emissions: Soils remove around 25% of the world’s fossil fuel emissions each year, stored mostly in permafrost and peatlands.
(In Arctic and boreal ecosystems of Northern Eurasia)
• Microbial activity in soil: Microbes in soil form soil organic matter or humus, which acts as carbon sink for centuries.
• Carbon Cycle: Soil organic matter contains around 60% carbon, it is the defining factor in soil’s influence on the global carbon cycle.
• Water retention: Soil organic matter can hold four times its weight in water, therefore it can reduce amount of water vapour in the
atmosphere, which is a potential GHG.
• Reduce N2O emissions: Soil conservation may have the ability to reduce N2O emissions, through affecting a number of Nitrogen
cycling-related soil biophysical properties.
However, Soils have lost over 50% of stored Carbon due to excess agricultural practices, contributing to 25% of total man-made GHG
emissions.
Soil Conservation practices- A way forward:

• Afforestation: Forest cover should be increased to 33% of total land area.
• Changing agricultural practices: Agricultural practices like- no-till farming, organic farming, contour farming, crop rotation, windbreaks,
etc., should be adopted
• Natural fertilizers: They should be used as an alternative to chemical fertilizers to replenish soil with essential nutrients.
• Check overgrazing: Separate grounds should be earmarked for grazing, and not allowed in forests and grasslands.
There is a need to market the soil conservation through carbon credits (offered per unit of sequestration) for people to make changes in
agriculture and land use, and adopt sustainable practices of soil conservation to reverse climate change.
82
Q.83. Compared to others, states like Assam are highly vulnerable to landslides and floods. Analyse. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/natural-disasters/tripura-mizoram-meghalaya-south-assam-running-out-of-

essentials-after-downpour-landslides-82923
APPROACH
Introduction: Mention the recent incidents of landslides and flood in North-East India.
Main Body:
• Discuss the reasons for high vulnerability of states like Assam to landslides and floods.
• Mention the steps that can be taken to address the issues.
Conclusion: : Conclude with a way forward.
Recently, 85% of Kaziranga National Park has submerged, and massive landslides disrupted rail communication between Tripura, Manipur,
Mizoram and Assam, with rest of the country.
Reasons for high vulnerability to landslides and floods:

• Unstable Brahmaputra: Brahmaputra River is unstable as it flows from a high slope to a flat plain, also earthquakes prevent the river
from becoming stable.
• Heavy Rainfall: Due to climate change, states like Assam, Tripura have been experiencing concentrated, heavy rainfall leading to
devastating floods.
• Fragile Landscape: Undesirable and unsustainable structural intervention in the fragile landscape of Assam Hills is a major cause of
landslides.
• Deforestation: Riverbed mining, expansion of Railways and roadways have caused massive deforestation, leading to soil erosion.
• Prone to Earthquakes: North-eastern region is prone to earthquakes which cause landslides, sending debris into rivers and thereby
causing floods.
• Topography: Bowl-like topography of the region is very susceptible to water-logging.
• Cloudbursts: In the catchment areas of Meghalaya, cloudbursts are occurring, leading to flash floods in Assam.
Steps to be taken:
• Strengthen embankments: Old and weak structures should be renovated and strengthened all along Brahmaputra. Use of GIS/RS for
Roads and Highway construction and planning.
• Dredging Brahmaputra: The river has extremely shallow bed coupled with heavy siltation during monsoon, so dredging may increase
the water-holding capacity.
• Environment Restoration: Rejuvenation of wetlands and afforestation can also mitigate floods. E.g. growing of vetiver grasses
• Set up weather stations: in the upstream catchment of all dams in the North East and sirens on river banks near dams would alert
downstream populations in the event of floods.
The impact of climate change in North-East India needs to studied to understand the reason behind these catastrophes. Accurate forecast of
rain and increasing the preparedness of inhabitants through sustainable infrastructure is the need of the hour.
83
Q.84. What is a Twin Cyclone? Explain the factors responsible for the development of such cyclone. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/sci-tech/science/explained-the-science-behind-twin-cyclones/article65402306.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are twin cyclone and mention the recent event of twin cyclone formation in the north Indian Ocean.
Main Body:
• Discuss the factors responsible for the development of twin cyclones.
Conclusion: : Conclude with suggestions to track the development of Twin Cyclone
Twin Cyclones are synchronous cyclones created by the interaction of winds and monsoon system with the Earth system. They form on both
sides of equator at low latitudes and along the same longitude.
Recently, twin cyclones of Karim and Asani formed over the Indian Ocean, one in the northern and the other in the southern hemisphere.
Factors responsible for the development of a Twin Cyclone system:

• Presence of Rossby waves: Due to Rossby waves (formed due to coriolois effect), vortex develops which spins anti-clockwise in
North and clockwise in South.
• Low-level equatorial westerly anomaly: This is produced by the combination of convectively coupled Kelvin and Rossby waves. As
this strengthens, twin cyclones emerge.
• High Ocean surface temperature: It should be 27°C or above.
• Presence of a positive feedback As the warm air mass condense, it releases latent heat of evaporation which warms the atmosphere,
setting up a positive feedback loop.
• High mid-tropospheric humidity: 50-60% humidity is required for the formation of cumulonimbus clouds.
• Low vertical wind shear: Weak vertical wind shear allows the warm moist air mass to grow faster into the atmosphere. Moisture will
infiltrate from all sides.
• High salinity: salinity increases the intensity of cyclonic formations.
• Coriolis force: This deflects wind and keeps cyclone rotating- counter clockwise in northern and clockwise in southern hemisphere.
• Madden Julien Oscillation: It is a large cluster of clouds originating over the Indian ocean, it gives rise to Kelvin (eastward movement)
and Rossby waves (westward movement).
There needs to establish better computational models for understanding the dynamic nature of cyclogenesis that has increased in its
frequency, strength and variety.
84
Q.85. Discuss the need for an end-to-end tracking system of Western Disturbance in India. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/delhi/explained-how-western-disturbances-are-keeping-delhi-weather-in-a-flux-

7882979/
APPROACH
Introduction: Define Western Disturbance.

Main Body:
• Discuss significance of an end-to-end tracking of western disturbances for India.
Conclusion: Conclude with the significance of such tracking system in Indian context.
Western disturbances are mid-latitude or extra-tropical storms formed due to low pressure system over Mediterranean Sea. These moisture
laden winds reach India, via the sub-tropical westerly jet stream, getting blocked by the Himalayas and giving precipitation over North-west
and parts of North India in Winter.
Significance of an end-to-end tracking system of Western Disturbance (WD):

• Ensuring Food security: Winter precipitation in Punjab, Haryana, West UP, is crucial for Rabi crops, especially Wheat. During April-May,
WD can help activate monsoon in North-west India.
• Address water scarcity: Strong western disturbance comes to the rescue of North India from water scarcity problems, as this region
does not benefit much from South-West monsoon.
• Better disaster management: Strong WD causes heavy downpour leading to severe landslides and avalanches, claiming lives of many.
– Example: 2013 Uttarakhand disaster.
• Develop alert system for farmers: Wheat requires 30-100mm of rainfall, so extreme rainfall can cause crop damage.
• Prevent accidents: Fog and misty conditions cause very low visibility especially in Delhi NCR, making people vulnerable to road
accidents, creating difficulty for railways and airways operations as well.
– Example: 2018 cars collision in the Agra-Noida Yamuna Expressway.
• Prediction of cloudburst: WD causes prolonged cloudy skies and higher than normal night temperatures, which lead to numerous
cloudbursts in J&K, Himachal and Uttarakhand.
– Example: 2010 flash floods in Ladakh.
• Early warning for air pollution: WD brings dust storms in North India adding to the woes of air pollution, sometime these dust storms
are so deadly that they cost many lives.
• Protecting lives: WD usually leads to cold waves. If government is prepared, it can prevent deaths of homeless people and also protect
livestock.
– Example: Between 2010-2018, over 4000 people have died due to cold wave.
Advection-based systems like WDs need different tracking mechanisms from convection-based ones. In an age where droughts, crop failure
and melting glaciers are becoming all too common, studying these linkages more closely will allow scientists to get deeper insights into
western disturbances.
85
Q.86. Existence of volcanoes are crucial for human development. Comment. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.volcanodiscovery.com/krakatau/news/183998/Krakatau-volcano-Sunda-Strait-Indonesia-series-of-vigorous-

eruptions-continue.html
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are volcanoes and their dual nature

Main Body:
• Discuss the benefits of volcanoes to humans
• Discuss the adverse implication for humans
Conclusion: Conclude with the future significance for human civilisation
A volcano is an opening in the earth’s crust through which lava, volcanic ash, and gases escape. Despite their destructive power, volcanoes
actually come with their share of benefits
They have directly and indirectly benefitted mankind in following ways:

• Increase soil fertility: Weathering of volcanic materials results in fertile soils with good water retention capacity. E.g.- Andisols
around ‘Pacific Ring of Fire’.
• Geothermal Power Plants: Production of electricity by harnessing geothermal energy, e.g.- in Iceland, Kenya, etc.
• Minerals: Perlite and tuff are used in construction. Copper, Gold, Silver, Uranium, etc. are also found in volcanoes.
• Global Cooling: Volcanic ash and SO2 reflect insolation back into space.
• Land Formation: Habitable Islands-Hawaii, Ryuku, Micronesia, etc. Caldera Lake Toba reserves huge economic potential.
• Oxidizing Atmosphere: Release of CO2 eventually increased carbonates leading to proliferation of life and release of O2.
• Cosmetics: Skincare products, e.g.- Bentonite clay.
• Fungicidal effect: Volcanic ash kills potato blight, mildew and mold.
However, volcanoes also have some adverse implications for humans:

• Loss of lives and property: Volcanic eruptions cause tsunamis, earthquakes, mud slides, etc.
• Impact on forestry sector and agriculture: Flowing lava sets wildfires and destroys forests, crop lands, etc.
• Impact on lumber sector: Volcanic eruptions can destroy timberlands in its vicinity.
• Impact on fisheries sector: Volcanic eruption degrades habitats of fishes.
• Health hazard: large amount of carbon monoxide, sulphur, dust and ash pollutes the atmosphere and cause respiratory and other
health problems.
• Impacts tourism sector: In case of natural disaster such as volcanic eruptions, tourism is significantly disrupted leading to loss in
revenue generation of people involved.
Studying volcanoes not only can be beneficial for the human civilization on this planet, but also is helpful in determining the evolution
elsewhere in the solar system.
86
Q.87. In India, water crisis has more to do with the water management than with climate change. Evaluate. (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the issue India is facing with respect to water crisis
Main Body:
• Discuss how India is going through a water crisis
• Highlight the role of climate change in water crisis.
Conclusion: Conclude with future suggestions
India has relatively wet climate, yet lacks long-term availability of replenishable water resources. According to NITI Aayog, India is undergoing
the worst water crisis in its history and nearly 600 million people are facing high to extreme water stress.
Role of climate change in water crisis:

• Extreme events- Frequent flash floods and draughts. E.g.- Cloud burst in Himalayan region.
• Declined rainfall- Since 1970-2015 as per Economic Survey 2018-19.
• Global Warming- Rivers and lakes are drying up.
• Delay in monsoon: drought conditions, drying up of many reservoirs. E.g., 2019 Chennai reservoir crisis- people on roads.
However, water crisis is more about water mis-management

• Unregulated Groundwater Extraction: In Punjab, 59% more than the annual groundwater recharge is extracted.
• Deforestation and wetland degradation: These led to run-off of rainwater, resulting in wastage of water by floods.
• Distribution Losses: Leakages in old pipes. E.g.- in Delhi, J&K, etc.
• Dam Mismanagement: Kerala flood in 2018, etc.
• Poor sanitation: Insufficient sewage treatment plants, and lack of investigation of industrial effluents by State Pollution Control
Boards.
• Limited wastewater recycling: Only 30% wastewater is recycled.
• Concretization: this led to reduced water percolation and impacted rain harvesting traditions.
India needs to regulate groundwater use, modernize urban water distribution, promote watershed development (through rainwater
harvesting) and finance wastewater recycling infrastructure.
87
Q.88 What are the causes of frothing in Indian rivers? Discuss its impacts. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/what-causes-frothing-in-delhi-yamuna-7615109/
APPROACH
Introduction: Highlight the frothing in Yamuna in recent times.

Main Body:
• Discuss the causes of river frothing
• Discuss the impact of river frothing
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions to reduce frothing in rivers.
Yamuna — once the lifeline of Delhi, is one of the “most polluted rivers in the world”. Recently, visuals of toxic froth floating on the surface
of the Yamuna river near Delhi
Causes of river frothing:

• High Phosphate Content: Surfactants and phosphates in detergents from households and laundry gets discharged.
• Sewage: Untreated sewage from industries enters rivers.
• Turbulence and churning: The deposited detergent and organic material is agitated as water is released upstream, forming froth.
• Release of certain gases: Anaerobic bacteria releases gases that create froth.
• Low water flow: Pollutants, therefore, are not diluted.
• Other pollutants: Cyanide, Lead, Copper, Cadmium, etc.
Impact of river frothing:

• Health: Exposure to the toxic foam can cause skin allergies, pigmentation, skin cancer, trigger vitiligo, etc. High concentration
ammonia can damage lungs and GI tract.
• Marine: Heavy froth cut off O2 and sunlight, killing marine life.
• Biodiversity: River ecosystem is disturbed, affecting animals and birds.
• Livelihood: Frothing of rivers negatively impacts the livelihood of people living on the banks.
• Food chain: serious water and soil contamination with heavy metals deeply impacts the food chain.
Government must prioritize proper sewage treatment, tech-upgradation and ban sale of detergents not meeting BIS standard.
88
Q.89. Explain how climate change is contributing to the increase in the incidence of tropical cyclones in the Indian Ocean. Discuss how it
affects the coastal areas. (10 M)
ARTICLE LINK: https://scroll.in/article/1025325/in-the-arabian-sea-marine-heatwave-days-are-becoming-more-frequent-and-intense
APPROACH
Introduction: Define what are tropical cyclones and highlight the increasing instances of cyclone
Main Body:
• Discuss the contribution of climate change in increasing cyclone incidences.
• Discuss its impact of coastal areas.
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions to mitigate the impacts.
Tropical cyclones are intense low-pressure areas confined to the area lying between 30° N and 30° S latitudes, in the atmosphere around
which high velocity winds blow.
According to the Council on Energy, Environment and Water (CEEW)in the last 50 years, has also recorded a 12-fold surge in the number of
associated cyclonic events.
Contribution of Climate Change:

• High Sea Surface Temperature- 1.2°C temperature increase in Northern Indian Ocean, particularly Arabian Sea. This has led to
following effects -
– Decreased vertical wind shear- It is due to increase in thermal energy of Arabian Sea, giving rise to severe cyclone formation.
– Increased mid-tropospheric moisture- Atmospheric heating increases the latent heat of oceans and intensify Tropical cyclone
formation.
– Increased frequency of El Nino Modoki- Large atmospheric convergence over Arabian Sea.
• Increase in Salinity- High-salinity advection from Gulf of Oman into Arabian Sea, thus rapid intensification of cyclones.
• Delayed onset of Winter Monsoon- This stretches the storm period.
Impact on Coastal Areas of India:

• Loss of Life- Cyclones kill dozens and leave thousands homeless.
• Damage to infrastructure- Strong winds and squalls by cyclone Nisarga damaged installations, dwellings, communications systems,
etc., in Maharashtra.
• Soil erosion: Inundation of low-lying areas by Cyclone Yaas, eroded beaches, destroyed vegetation in Odisha and West Bengal.
• Rise in temperature: Cyclone Vardah brought warmer air into Pune, rising temperature by 5°C overnight.
• Loss of marine habitat- Cyclone Phailin impacted livelihoods of fish farmers and fishermen.
• Damage to Mangroves- Cyclone Amphan destroyed 28% of Sundarbans mangrove.
• Affect Biodiversity- Cyclone Fani impacted wildlife sanctuaries and biodiversity parks in Odisha.
• Coral Bleaching- It occurred in Gulf of Mannar during cyclone Roanu.
• Diseases- Bacterial pollution of drinking water in cyclone-hit areas.
Disaster resilient infrastructure, flood plain development, inclusive disaster management are some measures that Government should take in
this era of climate change.
89
Q.90. Give an account of locational factors that have influenced the distribution of Hi-tech companies in India. What are the challenges that
these companies face? (15 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Explain what are high-tech companies, their significance and highlight the distribution of hi-tech companies in India
Main Body:
• Discuss the locational factors and reasons
• Discuss the challenges associated with them
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions to promote growth of high-tech companies.
High-technology businesses are those engaged in securing growth and revenue from industry sectors characterized by new and rapidly
changing technology (electronics, aviation, medical devices)
India is the fastest growing tech industry globally, with hi-tech hubs operating in big cities like Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Delhi and Pune.
Locational Factors that have influenced the distribution of Hi-tech companies in India
Locational Factors: Reasons:
• Good Transportation Network Companies like Amazon, can market their products seamlessly.
• Highly Skilled Labour Good educational institutes in South India promotes growth of tech-clusters,
e.g.- Bengaluru.
• High Population This provides cheap labour. E.g.- Mumbai.
• Regional Development Schemes They promote regional concentration of hi-tech companies. E.g.- Software
Technology Park scheme.
• Infrastructure Continuous power supply is crucial for tech sector.
• Leisure Amenities These attract educated and skilled youth.
• Good Standard of Living This will drive demand for the services of companies like- Zomato, Uber, etc.
• Proximity to Airports Company executives travel for conferences, etc.
Challenges faced by the Hi-Tech Companies:

• Increased cyber security risks- Major critical infrastructure, like- banking, power, etc., are shifting to digital realm.
• Competition from abroad- Majority of H1-B visa holders in USA are Indians, working in hi-tech.
• Skill Gap: It has led to reduction in hiring and efficiency of companies.
• General Data Protection Regulations- Some Indian IT companies lost European clients due to non-compliance with European Union’s
GDPR.
• Social distrust of Artificial Intelligence- This stem from faulty data source and other data-related issues
• Check on trade barriers: uniform duty structure across commodities by eliminating anomalies in HSN and appropriate classification
of products to mitigate the risk of classification disputes.
Bringing out national policies on the development of hi-tech equipment in India will attract the big companies and startups too, which will
help India become the Technology Powerhouse of the World.
90
Q.91. Across the globe, the natural factors of the equatorial region are a reason for its underdeveloped status. Examine the statement.
(10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Explain what is an equatorial region and its characteristics.

Main Body:
• Discuss the natural factors leading to its under-developed status.
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions imperative for development of these regions.
The equatorial region is located between 0o and 100 latitude on either side of the equator. It stretches in the Amazon lowlands in South
America, Congo basin in Africa and the East Indies, from Sumatra to New Guinea in Asia.
They are characterized with sparse population, diverse flora and fauna, and home to different tribal groups.
Natural factors of equatorial region and underdevelopment:
Factors Impact on Development

High humidity and temperature • Reduced work capacity- People perspire profusely.
• Diseases- insects and pests spread diseases rampantly. E.g.- Malaria
prevalent in equatorial regions of Africa.
Equatorial rainforests with dense canopy • Primitive Lifestyle- Abundant food and practice of shifting cultivation. E.g.-
Pygmies.
• Low Connectivity- high cost of construction.
• Crop damage- Lalang grass choke crops.
• Illegal forest activities- Deforestation and poaching especially in West Africa.
• Low yielding livestock- absence of nutritious meadow grass.
Multiple species of trees in small area • Lack lumbering industry- absence of homogenous stand makes extraction
difficult.
Heavy • Soil Leaching- highly acidic soil not suited for agriculture.
Rainfall
Others • Anti-social elements: thick forests become home for extremist groups who
impacts economic activities in border areas.
• Tribal revolts: culturally inclined tribals oppose economic exploitation, like
gold quarrying, which impacts environment.
Sanitation and disease eradication schemes are imperative for development of equatorial regions. Nonetheless, there is huge potential in
cultivation of rubber, palm oil, cocoa, etc. in these regions.
91
Q.92. What is watershed management? Evaluate its significance in hilly areas. (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Define water shed management.

Main Body:
• Evaluate its significance in hilly areas with examples.
Conclusion: Conclude with suggestions to improve watershed management
Watershed management is used to describe the process of implementing land use practices and water management practices to protect and
improve the quality of the water and other natural resources.
Bench
terracing
Land Contour
levelling Water bunding
shed
managem
ent in hilly
areas
Diversion Percolation
drains ponds
Significance of watershed management in hilly areas:

Environmental:
• Store surplus water: Eg: Bamboo drip irrigation in Meghalaya is increasing ground water level.
• Checks land-degradation: Eg- Water speed movement is slowed down by Spiti’s Kul irrigation, reducing soil erosion.
• Restores ecological balance: Eg: Uttarakhand’s Naulas, Guhls – water for domestic, irrigation in Central Himalayas is helping in
afforestation.
• Sustainable farming practices: Bio-villages of Himachal Pradesh are promoting sustainable farming with the help of water shed
management.
Social:
• Increased living standards: Integrated water shed development hills-II in shivaliks to increase the yield of the crops, profiting
farmers.
• Ensuring local partnership in development: Gyan Dhara - students from hilly areas participated in DHI Eco Challenge 2017 and
learnt to implement watershed management.
• Reduced migration: Training, workshops, Exposure visits by SHGs in Uttarakhand, by providing high quality life in rural areas itself,
preventing migration.
Economical:
• Employment opportunities: Better wage earning during pre-watershed in construction activities and post-water shed in agricultural
activities. Eg: Efforts by VDCs in skilling water shed related jobs.
• Financial boost to industries: of tourism, agriculture, forestry, and mining in hilly areas. Eg: Success story of Bhutan in water shed
management.
The recent water crisis in hilly regions like Shimla is alarming. There is a need to involve community, both water and spring-shed
management, geological mapping and utilising the religious aspect of ecology (scared groves) to effectively and sustainably manage the
water resources in these regions
92
Q.93. Discuss the factors affecting the ocean currents. Also highlight the significance of ocean currents. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Define ocean currents and mark the major ones on a map
Main Body:
• Write factors affecting ocean currents and highlight significance of ocean currents.
Conclusion: Conclude with the impact of climate change on ocean currents.
Ocean currents are the continuous, predictable, directional movement of seawater driven by gravity, Coriolis force, and water density.
Factors affecting the ocean currents:

• Atmospheric Pressure: The water moves as surface current from the areas of high-pressure areas to low pressure areas.
• Planetary Winds: Permanent Trade winds blowing from one pressure belt to other have dominant influence on ocean currents.
• Coriolis Force: The Coriolis effect bends the direction of surface currents to the right in the Northern Hemisphere and left in the
Southern Hemisphere.
• Insolation: Slight gradient rise in temperature tends the water to flow normally from west to east causing ocean current.
• Salinity: Oceanic salinity affects the density of ocean water and density variation causes ocean currents.
• Density: Differences in water density affect the vertical mobility of ocean currents (vertical currents)-Denser water tends to sink,
while relatively lighter water tends to rise.
• Physiography: When a surface current collides with land, the current must change direction.
• Earth’s rotation: Ocean currents which are moving also get deflected to right.
Significance of ocean currents are:

• Influence on global and regional climate:
– Heat Budget: 25% of the planet’s global heat budget is transferred through the actions of ocean currents.
– Precipitation: Warm currents flow along the east coast of continents resulting in warm and rainy climates, while cold currents flow
along the west coast of continents.
– Tropical cyclones: pile up warm waters in tropics
• Shipping and reducing fuel costs: Surface ocean currents reduce the costs of shipping and maintaining speed
– The North Atlantic Drift, keeps most of the European ports ice-free and operational.
• Biological richness:
– Oceans are an essential part: of Earth’s water cycle due to ocean currents.
– Biomass: Marine life makes up the majority of all biomass on Earth.
• Distribution of nutrients and food: Eg- In Newfoundland, Phytoplankton in the oceans provide the foundation of the global food web
of species.
• Power generation: Ocean currents can be used for marine power generation, with areas off of Japan, Florida and Hawaii to test
projects.
• Distribution of pollution: Ocean currents play a role in the distribution of pollution, such as oil spills.
However, climate change will continue to speed up across ocean currents, potentially limiting the heat the ocean can capture and
complicating migrations for already stressed marine life.
93
Q.94. Explain the reasons for the presence of high density fertilizer industries in the western part of India. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write any fact supporting the statement.

Main Body:
• Explain the reasons for the presence of high-density fertilizer industries in western part of the country..
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward to cater to rising fertiliser demand.
India leads 2nd in the production of nitrogenous fertilizers and 3rd in phosphatic fertilizers in the world and is the 2 nd largest consumer of
fertilisers after China.
Reasons for the presence of high-density fertilizer industries in western region:
Reasons Western Location of fertilizer plant.

Raw Materials: Naphtha is a crucial raw material of fertilizers is a by- product of refineries.
Eg: Jamnagar in Gujarat
Energy: Availability of cheap energy
Eg: Nangal Plant in Punjab
Green Revolution: High Fertilizer demand for the HYV seeds in North western region.
Eg: Bhatinda Plant in Punjab
Demand Led Market: Africa near to western part plays a great market for exports.
Eg: Panipat plant in Haryana and Badaun plant in Western UP.
Pipeline connectivity: Pipe line connectivity led to growth of fertilizer plants.

Eg: HBJ Gas pipeline in North-West region provides gas every day to fertilizer powerhouses at
Kawas (Gujarat), Anta (Rajasthan),Auraiya (U.P.).
Port development led Highly developed ports enables easy imports and exports easily.
transportation: Eg: Phosphate via Mumbai Plant
Technology: Involvement of various chemical processes in upgradation of technology.

Eg: Kandla and Nandesari fertilizer plants.
Fuel efficiency: Petrochemical industries and oil refineries of this region of Vadodara, Kalol, Ahmedabad, Kandla
and Trombay led to growth of fertilizer industry in this region.
Government policy: In regions like Bhatinda, Nangal (Punjab), Panipat (Haryana) and Delhi.
International agreements: In the form of subsides regulate the consumption of fertilizers.
Capital: Easy access of capital in industrial areas - Gujarat-Maharashtra region.
However, distribution has spread across India too:

• In Chotanagpur plateau region, fertilizer industries have cropped up due to proximity to Iron and Steel industries.
• In Tamil Nadu Region, it is the availability of Sulphur propelled the growth of the industry in this region.
While India import dependency is 25% for urea and as high as 90% for potash, there is need to localise fertiliser production and identify
alternatives (Neem Coating) to economical and efficient usage.
94
Q.95. Illustrate the factors responsible for location of Iron and Steel industries in India. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write any fact supporting Iron and steel Industries

Main Body:
• Illustrate the factors responsible for location of Iron and steel Industries in India
Conclusion: Conclude with a way forward for iron and steel industries
India is the world’s second-largest steel producer standing in 2019 proving dynamics of industrial growth is based on the growth of the iron
and steel industry.
The factors responsible for location of Iron and steel Industries in India are:
Factors Location of Iron and steel Industries

Raw Material: Availability of coal and iron ore.
Eg: TISCO at Jamshedpur gets coal from Jharia coalfields, iron ore from Singhbhum.
Availability of water for cooling: From river waters

Eg: Bokaro steel plant on the bank of river Damodar,
Visheshwarya steel plant, near river Bhadra
Nearness to Industrial Town: Steel plants in Maharashtra.

Eg: JSW Steel Ltd in Maharashtra.
Power: TISCO and Bokaro steel plant gets hydroelectricity from Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC).
Market: TISCO in Jamshedpur is nearer to Kolkata, Port led Vizag steel plant provided a large market.
Transportation: Durgapur Plant has Navigable Canal from Durgapur to Hugli and Kolkata Port eases the movement of
finished goods.
Technology: The technological improvement in port locations i.e. Vizag Steel plant.
Government policy: Bhilai Steel Plant in Chhattisgarh in line with the principle of the Trickle-down theory of Growth.
Lobbying, and strategic VISW (Bhadaravati) was set up to fulfill defense requirements.
requirements:
Labour Cheap and abundant is required for this industry, easily available in West Bengal and Chota Nagpur region
Due to strong linkages with other sectors like construction, oil & gas, automobile, machinery, the demand for steel is increasing continuously
along with the development in these sectors. Easing the logistics (under NIF) and producing Green Steel (using green hydrogen) needs to be
the way forward.
95
Q.96. Give an account of the distribution of oil and gas reserves in India. (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about India’s oil and gas reserves share globally.
Main Body:
• Tabulate the different basin category along with percentage reserves of oil and natural gas
Conclusion: Conclude with future prospects of India’s hydrocarbon reserves.
India holds 1% of global natural gas and 0.3% of global oil reserves, present in Sedimentary rock formations of Tertiary period. India has 26
such sedimentary basins.
Oil and Gas Reserves of India:
Basin Category: Basin Name:

Category I: Basins with • Assam-Arakan Fold Belt
reserves being produced • Assam Shelf
and exploited • Cambay
• Cauvery
• Krishna-Godavari (highest reserves
– 23%)
• Mumbai offshore (23 %)
• Rajasthan
Category II: Basins with • Andaman
contingent resources to be • Kutch
developed and monetized. • Mahanadi
• Saurashtra
• Vindhyan
Category III: Basins with
only prospective resources • Bengal
to be explored and • Ganga
discovered. • Kerala-Konkan
• Pranhita-Godavari
Crude oil and natural gas production in India is mainly confined to Category I i.e., basins with reserves being produced and exploited. In five
Category II basins, significant amount of oil resources has been established but production is yet to commence. The demand for energy is
rising, hence it is imperative to accelerate the exploration and production activities in India.
96
Q.97. Is inland water transport system environment friendly and economical? Comment and suggest measures to address the challenges
faced by the inland water transport in India.
ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/reviving-the-inland-water-transport-system-for-the-

northeast/article65207285.ece
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about India’s inland waterways.

Main Body:
• Mention benefits of inland waterways transport.
• Write measures to address challenges faced by inland waterways in India.
India has over 14500km of navigable inland waterways, including rivers, backwaters, canals, creeks, etc. Currently 13 national waterways are
operational for shipping and navigation.
Benefits of inland waterways transport:

• Economic:
– Low cost: Inland waterways need less capital for development and less maintenance costs. Example: Cost of IWT is nearly 0.25
Rs/km, of rail is 1.5 Rs/km while that of road transport is 2.5Rs/km.
– Navigable: In India, around 14,500 km of river channels are navigable. But only 2000 km is used.
– Export promotion: Lower factor costs will make our exports more competitive.
– Decongestion: It will decongest our choked highways and overburdened railways. There will be fewer accidents also.
– Better connectivity: It helps create seamless interconnectivity connecting hinterlands along navigable river coasts and coastal
routes. Further, riverine routes are likely to play a crucial role in connecting the north-eastern states to the mainland.
– Job opportunity: Development of inland waterways will help in the generation of job opportunities.
– Growth: The development of waterways will stimulate industrial growth and tourism. It will also promote export and import as it
reduces logistics cost of moving cargo between ports and hinterlands. Fewer accidents and less congestion compared to roads.
– High capacity: It has an enormous capacity to carry bulk cargo, goods etc.
• Environmental:
– Fewer emissions: CO2 Emission from container vessels range much lesser than Road transport vehicles.
– Fuel efficient: Inland water transport is considered to be the most cost-effective mode of transport from the point of view of fuel
efficiency
▪ Example: According to World Bank, 1L of fuel moves 105 ton- km by inland waterways but only 85 ton- km by rail and 24 ton-
km by Road.
Measures to address challenges:

• Basic infra development: Measures should be taken to develop basic infrastructure, address technological bottlenecks and
maintenance of rivers to ensure year-round navigability.
• Passenger terminal development: The government should develop passenger terminal development, offer financial support to ferry
operators to improve safety, and facilitate insurance coverage to boost passenger transport.
• Strengthening public-private partnership: Has the key role to play in developing the inland waterways sector. Private players can
undertake terminal development, cargo and passenger handling, and building low-draft vessels and related repair facilities.
• Multi-model project: Measures should be taken to ensure availability of seamless, multimodal last-mile connectivity to and from
hinterland to reduce trans-shipment cost and make inland water transport economically more viable.
• Follow international best practice:
– China: China has an inland waterways system of more than 5600 navigable rivers and 2000 inland ports. IWT development is
concentrated on 5 specific areas.
India holds huge potential for growth through inland water systems, but there are various environmental and social vulnerabilities linked
with it. Therefore, to make inland water transport more efficient and sustainable, proper safeguard must be provided.
97
Q.98. What is coral bleaching? Examine the environmental factors that cause bleaching and mention steps taken by the government to
address the same. (15 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write recent data on coral bleaching and define coral bleaching
Main Body:
• Mention threat factors of coral bleaching.
• Mention the government and global initiatives to tackle coral bleaching.
Conclusion: Conclude with a solution to conserve coral reefs.
Coral bleaching is the process when corals become white due to various stressors, such as changes in temperature, light, or nutrients.
Bleaching occurs when coral polyps expel the algae (zooxanthellae) that live inside their tissue, causing the coral to turn white.
The U.N. has reported that 70% of Earth’s coral reefs are threatened, with 20% destroyed with hope of recovery.
Threats Factors:
• Environmental
– Ocean acidification: Change in pH of ocean water starts its bleaching
– Water pollution and surface runoff: Decreases clarity of water which restricts formation of corals
– Rise in temperature: High temperature of water leads to the declination of these corals as they cannot survive in high
temperature.
• Geographical
– Fresh water Dilution: Rapid dilution of reef waters from storm-generated precipitation and runoff had seen demonstrated to
cause coral bleaching
– Infectious diseases: penetration of bacterium like vibrio Shiloi inhibits photosynthesis of zooxanthellae. These bacteria become
more potent with elevated seat temperatures.
• Anthropogenic
– Coastal development: development of coastal infrastructure and tourist resorts on or close by these coral reefs causes significant
damages.
– Sedimentation: Construction along the coasts and islands lead to soil erosion increasing the sediments in the river.
– Pollution: The toxic pollutants which are dumped directly into the ocean can lead to the poisoning of the coral reefs.
– Overfishing: It is another major concern as it is leading to an ecological imbalance of the coral reefs.
– Blast fishing: Use of explosives destroys coral reefs indiscriminately.
– Bottom Trawling: This destroys the corals at the bottom and margins of continents and Islands.
Government and global initiatives

• Government initiatives
– Integrated coastal and Marine area management: Aims at integrating the management of coastal and marine areas has prepared
model plans for the Gulf of Kutch.
– Coastal regulation zone notification, and Island protection zone notification: Corals are sought to be protected by regulating
developmental activities along the sea coast.
– National coastal zone management authority (NCZMA) and State coastal zone management authority: India has created
mechanisms such authority for the protection of coastal and marine areas.
– Ministry of environment and Forest (MoEF): India has included studies on coral reef under the coastal zone studies (CZS).
• Global initiatives
– Global warming measures: Adopting UNFCCC and IPCC protocol.
– CITES: Corals are protected under CITES which manage its trade activities
Measures like treatment of harmful industrial waste, preventing dumping of chemicals, avoiding water pollution, etc., may give a chance to
the corals to recover if bleaching has not been severe. Corals are the “rainforests of the seas”, so we need to take all possible actions to
prevent its degradation.
98
Q.99. Western Ghats play a crucial role as a physical barrier, climate and drainage divide. Elucidate (10 M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Introduce with the regional coverage of Western Ghats

Main Body:
• Discuss how Western Ghats play a crucial role as a physical barrier, climate and drainage divide.
Conclusion: Conclude with a remark on Western Ghats
Western Ghats are mountain ranges which are running parallel to the western coast of India across six states. They are known for their high
biodiversity and endemism.
Physical Barrier:
• Act as bulwark: They act as a barrier to the cyclones forming in the Arabian sea and moving to towards Indian main land.
• Obstructing monsoonal streams: Arabian sea monsoonal stream is obstructed by the Western ghats as these winds climbs the slopes of
the Western Ghats.
• Marine heat waves: It will either deflect the marine heat waves or force to climb slopes and leads to adiabatic cooling.
Climate Divide:
• Rainfall: Windward slopes of the western ghats register high rainfall but leeward side of western ghats receives less rainfall.
• Example: Mumbai receives 190 cm but Pune just 60 cm.
• Temperature: In the northern part of western ghats, the temperature is 24°C whereas in the Southern part the temperature is 20°C.
• Wind speeds: High wind speeds are registered in the southern part whereas in northern part low wind speed registered.
Drainage Divide:
• Water divide: The western ghats act as a water divide for west flowing rivers and east flowing rivers.
• Divided basins: west flowing rivers are Mandovi River, Vaitarna River, etc. East flowing rivers are Godavari, Krishna, etc.
This peculiar physiography of India is facing/endangered by the anthropogenic activities such as mining, quarrying, deforestation, etc. This led
to change in climatic conditions and nature as a physical barrier.
99
Q.100. Comment on role played by the mangroves in stabilising geographical systems. Also, list out threats faced by them. (15M)
APPROACH
Introduction: Write about Mangroves

Main Body:
• Discuss how mangrove forest place a role in stabilising geographical systems.
• Highlight the threats faced by them
Mangroves are a salt tolerant plant community is found in tropical and subtropical inter-tidal region of the world.
Mangroves role in stabilising geographical systems:
• Physical geography:
– Prevent soil erosion: They reduce high tides and waves and help prevent soil erosion
– Act as shock absorbers: protect shorelines from erosion and also minimise disasters due to cyclones and tsunami. Example: The
mangroves on the eastern coast helped mitigate the impact of the 2004 Boxing Day tsunami.
• Environmental geography:
– Rich in biodiversity: Mangrove forests are home to a large variety of fish, crab, shrimp, and mollusc species.
– Provide unique environment for niche development: Mangroves are structurally complex with diversified habitat.
– Nutrient cycle: Mangroves enhance the natural recycling of nutrients.
– Carbon sequestration: Absorb upto 5 times more carbon than the other forests
• Economic geography:
– Food supply: These fisheries form an essential source of food for thousands of coastal communities around the world.
– Timber: Mangrove wood is resistant to rot and insects, making it extremely valuable for construction material and fuel.
– Livelihood: They provide numerous employment opportunities to local communities and augment their livelihoods.
– Metal extraction: Mangrove filter out heavy metals from the mud and deposit them as rich sediments.
– Sustainable development: Intact and healthy mangrove forests have a potential for sustainable revenue-generating initiatives
including ecotourism, sport fishing, and other recreational activities.
– Medicinal benefits: Coastal communities collect medicinal plants and use mangrove leaves as animal fodder.
Threats faced by Mangroves:
• Anthropogenic
– River flow changes: Dams and irrigation reduce the amount of water reaching mangrove forests, changing the salinity level of
water in the forest.
– Agriculture: 40% of mangroves on the west coast has been converted into farmlands and other settlements in just 3 decades.
– Overfishing: The ecological balance of food chains and mangrove fish communities can also be altered. Example: Due to shrimp
farming, about 35,000 ha of mangroves have been lost in India.
– Salt farming: Saltpans and aquaculture also pose major threat to the mangroves.
– Clearing: Clearing for tourist developments, shrimp aquaculture, and salt farms has taken place.
– Overharvesting: Mangrove trees are used for firewood, construction wood, wood chip and pulp production, charcoal production,
and animal fodder, in some part it is sustainable.
– Human expansion: 40 %of mangrove forests in west coast have been converted into farmlands and housing colonies.
• Natural
– Sea level rise and coastal erosion: Due to global warming, the sea levels are continuously rising. The rising sea levels have
flooded large areas of mangrove forests. This has resulted in their depletion.
– Invasion by alien species: Introduction of non-native and alien species of plants and animals are causing threat to the endemic
species of the region. This has led to imbalance in ecological structure, resulting in their depletion.
– Extreme events: Cyclones, typhoons and strong wave actions uprooted mangroves
– Overgrazing: Trampling and over grazing by wildlife and livestock close to mangrove regions.
Way forward:
• Locals participation: The participation of the local community should be made compulsory for conservation and management.
• Nursery Development: Mangrove nursery banks should be developed for propagation purposes.
• Floristic survey: Floristic survey of mangroves along the coast is to be taken up to prepare biodiversity atlas for mangroves.
• Persuasion and Monitoring: Coastal industries and private owners need to actively participate in protection and development.
• Capacity building: The forest department officials should be trained on taxonomy, biology and ecology of mangrove species.
Environmental monitoring in the existing mangrove areas should be taken up systematically and periodically. Aquaculture remains a primary
threat as perceived by experts. Therefore, sustainable approach can be followed.
100

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GS PAPER 1: 100 MOST PROBABLE QUESTIONS | Mains 2022

Under the Guidance of M K YADAV SIR

ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-how-heatwave-is-again-sweeping-across-india-7919613/

Spatiotemporal shift of heatwaves in India:

The factors responsible for the spatiotemporal shift:

Plethora of rivers in India showcase various drainage patterns:

Role of Anthropogenic activities in changing drainage patterns:

Introduction: Define what are plateaus.

Economic significance of Plateau:

Agricultural significance of Plateau:

Introduction: Write about the significance of coal reserves for India

The characteristics of Indian coal:

Nature High Ash and moisture

India is facing coal crisis because :

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.enn.com/articles/70448-how-plate-tectonics-has-maintained-earth-s-goldilocks-climate

Introduction: Highlight the significance of geomorphological feature in controlling the climate.

ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/technology/science/earths-interior-cooling-faster-study-7739443/

Introduction: Introduce with the layering of the earth

These sources are -

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/children/explained-nasas-missions-to-venus/article34863589.ece

Introduction: Highlight the importance of extra- terrestrial planetary missions

Significance of the extra-terrestrial planetary missions:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/climate-crisis-in-north-east-india-how-geography-rainfall-

ARTICLE LINK: https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1740252

Introduction: Define what is El-nino at its characteristic effect on Indian monsoons.

Role of El-Nino’s in rising cyclones:

Impact of El Nino on coastal ecosystem:

ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/explained-behind-the-unprecedented-pre-monsoon-devastation-in-assam-

Introduction: Write how climate change is changing the pattern of monsoon

Climate change is contributing to the changing patterns of the Indian Monsoon:

ARTICLE LINK: https://indianexpress.com/article/explained/everyday-explainers/india-heatwave-urban-heat-islands-explained-7921454/

Introduction: Define heat island

The causes for the formation of heat island in urban habitat:

Tackling Urban Heat:

Introduction: Explain what is seafloor spreading and its process

Process of seafloor spreading

The reason for slow-down of seafloor spreading:

Significance of slowdown of seafloor spreading:

Introduction: Introduce with the definition of delta.

Reasons for the formation of extensive deltas along eastern coast:

Reasons for lack of delta formation along western coast:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/marine-heatwaves-rising-around-india-says-study/article38393806.ece

Introduction: Define what are marine heat waves

The causes of emergence of heatwaves:

Adverse effects of marine heatwaves:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.financialexpress.com/economy/wtos-fisheries-pact-should-provide-space-for-equitable-growth-

ARTICLE LINK: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/blogs/voices/domestic-medicine-manufacture-accelerating-the-growth-of-the-indian-

Introduction: Define what are generic medicines and their significance.

Factors responsible for making India generic medicines manufacturing hub:

Issues in the development of mini-steel plants:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.newindianexpress.com/opinions/editorials/2022/may/10/renewables-area-long-way-from-solvingour-

The reasons for low development in wind energy -

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/blog/water/groundwater-management-the-visible-crisis-of-an-invisible-resource-83163

Introduction: Write about water groundwater stress levels

Extent of groundwater exploitation in India:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/river-linking-project-in-gujarat-scrapped-after-protests-by-tribal-

Introduction: Write about Project is envision to address India’s growing water

Negative impacts of river linking projects:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/opinion/why-carbon-is-the-crop-of-the-future/article65431204.ece

Introduction: Define what is carbon farming?

Significance of carbon farming for India:

Challenges with carbon farming:

ARTICLE LINK: https://www.downtoearth.org.in/news/climate-change/land-degradation-a-major-threat-but-avoidable-so-why-the-