Ministry of Earth Sciences (MoES) released the ‘Assessment of Climate Change over the Indian Region’ in 2020, presenting a comprehensive analysis of climate change’s impact on India. The report reveals crucial findings that shed light on the changing climate trends in the country:
Findings of the Report- Assessment of Climate Change over the Indian Region’ in 2020
- Rising Temperatures: India’s average temperature has witnessed an increase of approximately 0.7 degrees Celsius during the period of 1901-2018. This warming trend poses significant challenges to various aspects of life, from agriculture to health.
- Intense Precipitation: The frequency of daily precipitation extremes, characterized by rainfall intensities exceeding 150 mm per day, has risen by about 75% from 1950 to 2015. This escalation in extreme rainfall events can lead to more frequent and severe floods.
- Growing Droughts: India has experienced a significant increase in the frequency and spatial extent of droughts during the period of 1951-2015. Droughts can adversely affect water resources, agriculture, and overall livelihoods.
- Rising Sea Levels: The North Indian Ocean has witnessed a sea-level rise at a rate of 3.3 mm per year over the last twenty-five years (1993-2017). This poses threats to coastal regions, causing erosion, flooding, and salinization of freshwater sources.
- Increased Cyclonic Activity: The Arabian Sea has observed a rise in the frequency of Severe Cyclonic Storms during the post-monsoon seasons from 1998 to 2018. Such cyclonic events can lead to devastating impacts, including loss of lives and damage to infrastructure.
In addition to the MoES report, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) regularly monitors the climate across the Indian region. They publish an annual climate summary, which provides essential information on temperature, rainfall, and extreme weather events during the concerned period. The IMD also issues monthly climate summaries to keep track of changing weather patterns.
Understanding the implications of climate change in India is crucial for effective policy-making, adaptation strategies, and sustainable development. These reports and assessments serve as valuable resources for policymakers, researchers, and the public in addressing the challenges posed by a changing climate. Timely and informed actions are necessary to safeguard the environment, biodiversity, and the well-being of millions of people across the country.
Source: PIB
