APSC Answer Writing (Daily) based on Assam Tribune – 24/06/2026

Model answer

Model Answer

Introduction

According to the World Meteorological Organization (WMO), El Niño is the warm phase of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) phenomenon, characterized by abnormal warming of sea surface temperatures in the central and eastern equatorial Pacific Ocean. Historically, several drought years in India have been associated with El Niño events.

Impact of El Niño on India’s Monsoon System

1. Weakening of Southwest Monsoon

• Weakens Walker Circulation and monsoon winds.
• Leads to below-normal rainfall in many parts of India.

2. Increased Frequency of Heatwaves

• Higher temperatures and prolonged dry spells.
• Greater evapotranspiration and water stress.

3. Agricultural Impact

• Reduced yields of paddy, pulses and oilseeds.
• Increased irrigation requirements and production costs.

4. Economic Consequences

• Food inflation due to lower agricultural output.
• Increased pressure on rural livelihoods.

Challenges for Assam

A. Agricultural Vulnerability

• Assam’s agriculture is heavily dependent on monsoon rainfall.
• Paddy, jute and horticultural crops may suffer productivity losses.

B. Public Health Risks

• Rising temperatures increase heat-related illnesses.
• Greater vulnerability among elderly people, children and outdoor workers.
• Possible changes in disease patterns, including vector-borne diseases.

C. Water and Ecosystem Stress

• Reduced river recharge and groundwater availability.
• Adverse impacts on wetlands, fisheries and biodiversity.

D. Disaster Management Challenges

• Simultaneous risks of drought-like conditions and localized extreme weather events.
• Increased pressure on disaster preparedness mechanisms.

Measures to Enhance Climate Resilience

• Promote climate-resilient and drought-tolerant crop varieties.
• Strengthen IMD-based early warning and advisory systems.
• Expand rainwater harvesting and watershed management.
• Implement Heat Action Plans at district level.
• Enhance ecosystem conservation, especially wetlands and forests.
• Strengthen the Assam State Disaster Management Authority’s climate adaptation framework.

Conclusion

As climate change intensifies weather variability, El Niño poses a significant challenge to India’s food, water and health security. For Assam, building resilience through scientific forecasting, climate-smart agriculture, and proactive disaster management will be crucial for ensuring sustainable development and safeguarding vulnerable communities.