UPSC Mains 2019 GS1 Q14 — Geography
What is water stress ? How and why does it differ regionally in India ? (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- What isHowwhy
- Scope keywords
- water stressdiffer regionallyIndia
- Implicit sub-parts
- Definition of water stress using technical benchmarks (Falkenmark Indicator).
- Mapping of regional variations: High stress (Northwest/Peninsular) vs. Surplus/Moderate stress (Northeast/Himalayan).
- Natural/Geological reasons for regional differences (topography, monsoon variability).
- Anthropogenic/Socio-economic reasons for regional differences (cropping patterns, urbanization, mismanagement).
- Common pitfalls
- Confusing 'water stress' with 'water scarcity'—the former is a broader ratio of use to availability.
- Failing to mention the 'why' for specific regions, such as the impact of the Green Revolution in Punjab vs. basaltic topography in Vidarbha.
- Omitting the mention of Composite Water Management Index (CWMI) or NITI Aayog data.
- Neglecting the temporal aspect—how stress varies seasonally even in high-rainfall zones like Cherrapunji.
- Dimensions required
- Hydrological/ClimaticAgricultural/EconomicDemographic/UrbanGeological/TopographicalPolicy/Governance
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 3 marks (50 words) to a precise definition and current Indian context. Dedicate 6 marks (100 words) to the 'How' by describing regional patterns with a rough map of India. Use the remaining 6 marks (100 words) for the 'Why', focusing on the nexus of geology, agriculture, and population density.
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