UPSC Mains 2017 GS3 Q18 — Disaster Management
On December 2004, tsunami brought havoc on fourteen countries including India. Discuss the factors responsible for occurrence of tsunami and its effects on life and economy. In the light of guidelines of NDMA (2010) describe the mechanisms for preparedness to reduce the risk during such events. (Answer in 250 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- Discussdescribe
- Scope keywords
- factors responsible for occurrenceeffects on life and economyguidelines of NDMA (2010)mechanisms for preparednessreduce the risk
- Implicit sub-parts
- Geophysical triggers beyond just subsea earthquakes (e.g., landslides, volcanic activity).
- Specific vulnerabilities of the Indian coastline post-2004 experience.
- A comparison of 'pre-event' vs 'during-event' preparedness mechanisms in the NDMA framework.
- The role of the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning System (ITEWS) as a specific preparedness mechanism.
- Common pitfalls
- Spending too many words narrating the history of the 2004 disaster instead of focusing on the 'factors' and 'mechanisms'.
- Vaguely listing general disaster management steps instead of citing specific NDMA 2010 Tsunami Guideline pillars like 'structural' and 'non-structural' measures.
- Neglecting the 'economy' aspect of the effects, focusing only on the loss of human life.
- Failing to mention the 'Intergovernmental Oceanographic Commission' or the 'Early Warning System' which are central to modern tsunami preparedness.
- Dimensions required
- Geophysical/SeismologicalSocio-economicInstitutional/RegulatoryTechnological (Warning Systems)Community-based mitigation
- Marks allocation hint
Allocate 50 words to the introduction and geophysical factors, 60 words to the multi-dimensional impact on life and economy, and the bulk (140 words) to the NDMA guidelines and preparedness mechanisms, as this is the core 'solution-oriented' part of a 15-mark GS3 question.
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