Topic: Disaster and disaster management.
6) It is not deficit monsoon, rather the lack of policies and mechanisms to drought-proof susceptible areas that has turned the situation in India so severe. Examine.(250 words)
Why this question
Drought is a huge challenge for the government. With climate change adversely affecting monsoons each year, it is imperative for us to analyze whether we have been able to get the policy steps to tackle drought right.
Key demand of the question
The question expects us to first explain the causes of drought, whether lack of rainfall is the only reason. Thereafter, we need to highlight the lacunae in governmental policy to tackle drought. We should briefly highlight the seriousness of the problem and end with a way forward.
Directive word
Examine – When you are asked to examine, you have to probe deeper into the topic, get into details, and find out the causes or implications if any .
Structure of the answer
Introduction – Bring out the fact through relevant data that drought is a recurring problem for India and needs deeper analysis.
Body – Examine the reasons of drought to evaluate whether lack of rainfall is the sole reason and how far mismanagement of drought by government is responsible for the current state. Delve deeper into the lacunae in governmental policies to prevent drought as well as in capacity building to withstand drought. Analyze whether we have been successful in creating natural assets, utilize our traditional water harvesting systems, our agricultural policies which have induced drought like situations in certain parts, our mismanagement of groundwater reserves etc. Discuss the impact of these gaps by emphasizing on how serious the situation has become.
Conclusion – Highlight the importance of urgently tackling this issue and discuss way forward.
