UPSC Mains 2022 GS1 Q5 — Disaster Management
Discuss the meaning of colour-coded weather warnings for cyclone prone areas given by India Meteorological Department. (Answer in 150 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discuss
- Scope keywords
- meaning of colour-coded weather warningscyclone prone areasIndia Meteorological Department
- Implicit sub-parts
- What is the specific objective and target audience for these color codes?
- What are the four specific colors (Yellow, Orange, Red, Green) and their associated levels of severity/action required?
- How do these warnings translate into disaster management actions (NDRF deployment, evacuations)?
- What is the significance of these codes in the context of the 'Early Warning System' (EWS) for coastal resilience?
- Common pitfalls
- Defining the colors as general rain alerts rather than specific cyclone impact-based warnings.
- Failing to mention the 'Action' component for each color (e.g., 'Be Prepared' vs 'Take Action').
- Spending too much time on the physics of cyclone formation instead of the warning system mechanics.
- Omitting the 'Green' code (no warning) which is essential for a complete classification of the IMD system.
- Neglecting to mention that these are part of the 'Impact Based Forecasting' approach.
- Dimensions required
- Institutional (IMD's role)Operational (Emergency response protocols)Socio-Economic (Minimizing loss of life and livelihood)Technical (Communication of risk severity)
- Marks allocation hint
Spend 20-30 words on the introductory role of IMD in coastal safety. Devote the bulk (80-90 words) to a clear, structured breakdown of the four colors and their specific meanings/required actions. Use the final 30 words to conclude on how this system bridges the gap between scientific data and community response.
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