UPSC Mains 2015 GS1 Q18 — Monsoon and Landscapes
How far do you agree that the behaviour of the Indian monsoon has been changing due to humanizing landscapes ? Discuss. (Answer in not more than 200 words)
Question Decoded — examiner's intent
- Directive verbs
- How far do you agreeDiscuss
- Scope keywords
- behaviour of the Indian monsoonchanginghumanizing landscapes
- Implicit sub-parts
- Definition and evidence of the changing nature of the Indian monsoon (frequency, intensity, and spatial distribution).
- Mechanisms through which 'humanizing landscapes' (urbanization, deforestation, agriculture) impact monsoon dynamics.
- The counter-argument or complementary role of global climate change (GHG emissions) vs. localized landscape changes.
- A nuanced conclusion on the extent of agreement (e.g., landscape change as a primary local amplifier).
- Common pitfalls
- Focusing solely on global warming/greenhouse gases without linking them specifically to landscape modification.
- Failing to define 'humanizing landscapes' as land-use and land-cover change (LULCC) like urban heat islands or irrigation.
- Ignoring the 'How far do you agree' element by not acknowledging that natural variability still plays a significant role.
- Treating the monsoon as a singular event rather than discussing spatial shifts (e.g., more rain in dry areas, less in traditional belts).
- Dimensions required
- Land-use change (deforestation/afforestation)Urbanization (Heat Island effect and aerosols)Agricultural practices (Irrigation and moisture recycling)Meteorological/Physical geographyAnthropogenic vs. Natural variability
- Marks allocation hint
Spend 30 words on the intro defining humanized landscapes. Allocate 80 words to the core mechanisms of how landscape changes (urbanization/irrigation) affect monsoon intensity and spatial shifts. Use 60 words to discuss other factors like global warming to address the 'how far' aspect, and 30 words for a concluding synthesis.
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