QUES . What characteristics can be assigned to monsoon climate that succeeds in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia? UPSC 2017 G S MAINS PAPER 1
HINTS:
Among all the climate regions of the world, the Monsoon climate is unique for its temperature, precipitation and the resultant seasons, which in turn have profound impact on the vegetation of the associated countries and the lifestyle and economic habits of its inhabitants.
Characteristics of monsoon climate that contribute to agricultural productivity and food security
Monsoon climate plays a crucial role in feeding more than 50 percent of the world population residing in Monsoon Asia. The characteristics of monsoon climate that contribute to agricultural productivity and food security are:
The Asian monsoon region has a rainy season with plenty of rainfall in summer due to monsoon winds from the seaside, so rice cultivation has been the base of food production since ancient times, and a rice growing culture has developed. Rice grown in abundant quantity is affordable and accessible for most of the population residing in Monsoon Asia.
Monsoon climate is characterized by distinct wet and dry seasons, providing ample rainfall during the wet season, which is essential for crop growth. For example, monsoons provide more than three-quarters of India’s total annual rainfall, replenishing reservoirs and aquifers. Heavy rainfall collected in ponds, dams, and tanks also supports aquaculture, horticulture and other crops.
Because monsoon regions offer such a wide range of temperatures, many different crops that are adapted to various temperature ranges can be grown there. Also Monsoon regions typically have monthly mean temperatures above 18°C (64°F) throughout the year, creating a warm environment suitable for crop growth.
In monsoon regions, regular rainfall and seasonal flooding help to replenish soil nutrients, which raises the productivity of agricultural land. Moreover, adequate soil moisture in monsoon regions supports the growth of forests and agricultural crops.
Monsoon climate supports the cultivation of a wide variety of crops, including rice, corn, cotton, soybeans, sugarcane, and peanuts. For instance, India is the second-largest producer of rice worldwide, and its rice harvest directly impacts global supply and demand balances.
The monsoon climate supports a wide variety of plant and animal species, which maintains the food chain and preserves the ecological equilibrium which is vital for agriculture.
Farmers in monsoon regions have developed a range of adaptation strategies to cope with the variability of the monsoon climate, including crop diversification, water storage, and soil conservation techniques.
The monsoon climate has a deep cultural significance in many societies in Monsoon Asia, where it is often celebrated in festivals and ceremonies, and it is closely linked to traditional farming practices and knowledge systems.
However, climate change is posing significant challenges to monsoon climate and food security:
Global warming is causing monsoons to become stronger and more erratic, threatening farming and incomes across the region. Monsoon rains are critical for farm output and economic growth, as about 55% of India’s arable land is rain-fed.
Climate change is increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events such as heatwaves, droughts, floods, and cyclones, which can negatively impact crop production and food security.
Despite average monsoon rains being beneficial for farmers, uneven distribution can create new challenges, with some regions experiencing excessive rainfall and others facing unusually dry conditions.
Overall, millions of people in Monsoon Asia depend on the monsoon climate for their food supply and way of life. Thus, it is crucial to remember that climate change and other variables have the potential to seriously impact the region’s food security and sustainability by upsetting the delicate balance of the monsoon system.
