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25 July 2026

Monsoon floods and disaster management in India

The topic covers critical aspects of disaster management, climate-induced geographical phenomena, and transboundary water cooperation, all of which are core themes frequently tested in UPSC Mains.

2 min read 2 questions 2 prelims

Notes

  • IMD reports that heavy rainfall in Gujarat has eliminated the July monsoon deficit, though cumulative national rainfall from June 1 to July 24 remains 16.1% below normal.
  • Regional disparities persist: East and Northeast India face a 31.9% seasonal deficit, while South Peninsular India has a 26.8% shortfall.
  • Monsoon dynamics: Heavy rain in Central India often correlates with reduced rainfall in the Northeast due to the southward shift of the monsoon trough.
  • Gujarat flood impact: Over 40,500 people evacuated and 6,367 rescued; major rivers including Ambika, Par, and Auranga breached danger levels.
  • Disaster response: Multi-agency coordination involving NDRF, SDRF, Army, and Coast Guard; airlifting used for inaccessible areas.
  • Assam flood situation: 61 deaths reported since mid-June; significant challenges in reaching 25% of flood-hit areas in Sivasagar and Charaideo districts.
  • Geological hazards: Landslides in Himachal Pradesh (Lahaul-Spiti) highlight the vulnerability of mountainous regions to extreme weather events.
  • Transboundary water management: India continues to share high-flood data with Pakistan under the Indus Waters Treaty framework despite bilateral tensions, citing humanitarian grounds.

Questions

  1. Analyze the role of inter-agency coordination between NDRF, SDRF, and the armed forces in managing large-scale flood disasters in India. How can technology improve the reach of rescue operations in inaccessible terrains? 150 words
    Attempt this — 150 words in 8 min
    0 / 150 words 8:00
  2. Discuss the challenges posed by regional monsoon variability in India. How do shifting monsoon troughs and climate-induced extreme weather events complicate disaster preparedness and water resource management? 250 words
    Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min
    0 / 250 words 11:00

Prelims

  1. Which of the following factors is primarily responsible for the recent heavy rainfall in Gujarat as per IMD observations?

  2. Under the Indus Waters Treaty, what is the nature of India's obligation regarding the sharing of flood-related data with Pakistan?