geography

Tropic of Cancer and Capricorn, Importance and Difference

The Earth’s geography is marked by several lines of latitude that help define climatic and environmental patterns. Among these, the Tropic of Cancer and the Tropic of Capricorn are particularly significant as they demarcate the boundaries of the tropical zone....

Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOF), Reasons and Impacts

Context: The National Disaster Management Authority (NDMA) has finalised a list of 189 “high-risk” glacial lakes for mitigation measures to reduce the risk emanating from them. Glacial Lakes Formation: Created by meltwater accumulating in depressions left by retreating glaciers. Types:...

Why Himalayan Towns Need a Different Kind of Development?

The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), spanning 11 States and two Union Territories, experienced a decadal urban growth rate exceeding 40% from 2011 to 2021. This rapid expansion highlights the need for a tailored approach to urbanisation in the region. Challenges...

Japan Earthquake 2024, Magnitude, Casualties, and Impact Analysis

On August 8, 2024, a powerful earthquake with a magnitude of 7.1 struck the southern island of Kyushu, Japan, causing significant concern across the region. The earthquake, which was recorded at a depth of approximately 30 kilometers off Kyushu's eastern...

Western Ghats in India, Importance, Recommendations of Kasturirangan Committee

Context: Implementation of recommendations of Kasturirangan Committee by Karnataka More in News The Union government reissued the draft notification classifying parts of the Western Ghats in six States, including Karnataka, as ecologically sensitive areas (ESAs). Karnataka Forest and Environment Minister...

Tropical Cyclone Hurricane Beryl, Formation, Progression and Impact

Hurricane Beryl is a powerful and dangerous tropical cyclone threatening the Windward Islands and is the earliest-forming Category 4 Atlantic hurricane on record in a season. Check Out Tropical Cyclone Hurricane Beryl's formation, Progression, and Impact in this Article. Tropical...

Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) Technique, Concerns and Requirements

Context The Punjab government is promoting the Direct Seeding of Rice (DSR) technique, also known as the ‘tar-wattar’ technique. This can reduce water use by 15% to 20% and requires less labour while maturing 7 to 10 days faster. Despite...

Hindu Kush Himalayas Snow Update and Findings of ICIMOD

Context The Ganga river basin, India's largest, experienced a record low snow persistence in 2024, as reported by the International Centre for Integrated Mountain Development (ICIMOD). Similar declines were noted in the Brahmaputra and Indus basins, posing significant threats to...

Forest Fires in India 2024, Causes, Government Measures

Context: Uttarakhand's forest fires have caused at least five deaths and threaten populated areas like Nainital. Air Force firefighting is hampered by poor visibility. Himachal Pradesh (H.P.) is experiencing extensive forest fires, with 1,684 incidents reported since last two months,...

El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)

Context: The US-based National Ocean and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) announced that the El Nino conditions that began in mid-2023 ended last month. El Nino conditions have been replaced by El Nino Southern Oscillation (ENSO) neutral conditions. El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)...