Discuss the relationship between El Nino and south-east monsoon in India and its impact on agriculture.

Q18. Discuss the relationship between El Nino and south-east monsoon in India and its impact on agriculture. (20m)

The relationship between El Nino and the South Asian monsoon, including the Indian monsoon, is complex and can have significant impacts on agriculture in the region.

El Nino and Its Impact:

•   El Nino is a climate phenomenon characterised by the warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. It occurs irregularly, typically every 2-7 years, and can disrupt global weather patterns.
•   During an El Nino event, there is a weakening of the Walker Circulation, which can influence atmospheric conditions across the Indian Ocean and the Indian subcontinent.

Influence on the Indian Monsoon:

•   El Nino tends to have a weakening effect on the Indian monsoon. It disrupts the normal east-to-west movement of moist air masses, leading to altered rainfall patterns in India.
•   El Nino is associated with reduced rainfall in many parts of India, including the traditionally rain-fed agricultural regions. This can result in drought conditions and water shortages.

Impact on Agriculture:

•   Delayed Monsoon Onset: El Nino often leads to a delayed onset of the monsoon season. Late or erratic monsoons can affect the sowing of crops, as farmers rely on timely rains to prepare their fields.
•   Reduced Rainfall: The reduced rainfall during an El Nino year can result in lower soil moisture levels and inadequate irrigation. This can lead to crop stress, reduced yields, and even crop failures.
•   Increased Temperature: El Nino is associated with higher temperatures, which can exacerbate water stress on crops and contribute to heat stress-related damage.
•   Pests and Diseases: El Nino can create favourable conditions for the proliferation of pests and diseases, further impacting agricultural productivity.

Mitigation and Adaptation:

•   Farmers in India have adapted to El Nino-related challenges by diversifying crops, using drought-resistant crop varieties, and adopting water-saving agricultural practices.
•   Government agencies provide early warning systems to help farmers prepare for adverse conditions.
•   Effective water management, including the construction of water storage facilities and efficient irrigation systems.

In summary, the relationship between El Nino and the South Asian monsoon, including the Indian monsoon, can significantly affect agriculture. Farmers and governments in the region have implemented various strategies to mitigate these impacts and adapt to the changing climate patterns associated with El Nino events.

Q17. भारत में एल नीनो और दक्षिण-पश्चिम मानसून के बीच संबंधों की व्याख्या कीजिए और उसके कृषि पर प्रभाव बताइए ।

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