How melting glaciers could put 20% of GDP at risk
Relevant to UPSC Mains GS-I (Geography, Climate Change) and GS-III (Environment, Economy). Addresses climate change impacts on Himalayan glaciers, water security, and economic implications.
UPSC Relevance
This topic is highly relevant for UPSC GS Paper III (Environment, Economy, Disaster Management) and GS Paper I (Geography). It covers the economic and ecological impact of melting Himalayan glaciers, a critical climate change issue.
What You Need to Know
Himalayan glaciers are a critical water source for major rivers like Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra. A new report estimates that their melting could put 20% of India's GDP at risk due to water scarcity affecting agriculture and hydropower.
Why It Matters for UPSC
This threatens India's water, food, and energy security, impacting millions of livelihoods. It underscores the urgent need for climate mitigation and adaptation strategies, making it a key governance challenge.
Background
The Himalayas are warming faster than the global average, leading to accelerated glacier melt. International agreements like the Paris Agreement aim to limit global warming, but national policies like the National Action Plan on Climate Change need strengthening.
Current Relevance
Recent reports highlight the economic risks, with 20% of GDP at stake. India must invest in research, renewable energy, and regional cooperation to mitigate risks and adapt.
Key Points for Revision
- •Himalayan glaciers feed the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra rivers, supporting agriculture and hydropower for over 1 billion people.
- •A new report estimates that melting glaciers could put 20% of India's GDP at risk due to water scarcity and reduced hydropower.
- •Urgent action is needed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy to mitigate climate change.
- •Investment in research and adaptation strategies is crucial to understand and address the impacts of glacier melt.
- •Transboundary cooperation with neighboring countries is essential to manage shared water resources sustainably.
Prelims Practice MCQs
Q1. Consider the following statements regarding the impact of melting Himalayan glaciers: 1. They feed the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra rivers. 2. Melting glaciers could put 20% of India's GDP at risk. 3. The report suggests that only national efforts are sufficient to address the issue. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Statements 1 and 2 are correct as per the text. Statement 3 is incorrect because the report highlights the need for regional cooperation.
Q2. The melting of Himalayan glaciers is a critical issue because:
Melting glaciers threaten water supply for agriculture and hydropower, which are vital for India's economy and livelihoods.
Q3. Which of the following measures are suggested to address the challenges of melting Himalayan glaciers? 1. Reducing greenhouse gas emissions 2. Promoting renewable energy 3. Investing in research and adaptation strategies 4. Working with neighboring countries on transboundary water issues Select the correct answer using the code given below:
The text suggests all these measures: reducing emissions, promoting renewables, investing in research, and international cooperation.
Mains Practice Questions
Discuss the economic and ecological implications of melting Himalayan glaciers for India. Suggest measures to mitigate and adapt to this challenge. (250 words)
DiscussCritically analyse the statement: 'Melting Himalayan glaciers could put 20% of India's GDP at risk.' What policy interventions are needed to address this challenge? (250 words)
Critically analyse