12th March 2025-Current Affairs

1. Chandrayaan-3: New Discoveries on Lunar Water Ice – Science and Technology

Why in News?

• Chandrayaan-3 mission has provided new evidence suggesting the presence of water ice beyond the Moon’s polar regions.
• This discovery enhances our understanding of lunar resources, which are crucial for:
  • Future lunar habitation.
  • Potential fuel for interplanetary travel.
• Chandrayaan-3 is ISRO’s second attempt at a successful Moon landing after Chandrayaan-2.

Key Features of Chandrayaan-3 Mission

Scientific Instruments & Key Findings

1. Chandra’s Surface Thermophysical Experiment (ChaSTE)

• Measured temperature variations on the Moon’s surface & subsurface.
• Revealed that the top layer is highly non-conductive, influencing heat retention.
• Temperature drops drastically beneath the surface, indicating potential for water ice deposits.

2. Lunar Seismometer (ILSA – Instrument for Lunar Seismic Activity)

• First-ever seismic data from the Moon’s South Pole.
• Detected moonquakes, crucial for understanding lunar geology.

3. Alpha Particle X-ray Spectrometer (APXS) & Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscope (LIBS)

• Identified key elements in lunar soil, including sulfur (S), aluminum (Al), and iron (Fe).
• Confirms volcanic activity history on the Moon.

Significance of Chandrayaan-3’s Water Ice Discovery

• Supports Future Lunar Bases – Water ice can be converted into oxygen for breathing & hydrogen for rocket fuel.
• Helps in Understanding Lunar Climate – Water presence may influence temperature variations & atmosphere formation.
• Boosts India’s Role in Space Exploration – Strengthens ISRO’s reputation in planetary exploration.
  • NASA’s Artemis Program aims for a lunar base by 2030.
  • India’s findings can contribute to global lunar missions.

Comparison of Chandrayaan Missions

Relevance of Chandrayaan-3 for India

• Boosts India’s Space Ambitions – Advances ISRO’s capability in planetary missions.
• Strengthens Global Collaborations – India is now a key partner in lunar research.
• Supports Future Moon Missions – Paves the way for human exploration & lunar economy.
  • ISRO’s Next Mission: Gaganyaan (India’s first human spaceflight, expected in 2025).

Way Forward: Future Lunar Exploration Plans

🔹 Lunar Base Development – India can collaborate with NASA, ESA, and Roscosmos.
🔹 Advancing Deep Space Missions – ISRO plans a Mars sample return mission & Venus exploration.
🔹 Investment in Space Mining – Potential for commercial extraction of lunar resources.

Relevance for Exam

• Science & Technology
  • India’s advancements in space technology.
  • Potential of lunar resources & their impact on space colonization.
• Economy & Strategic Importance
  • Space exploration as a driver of economic & technological growth.
  • International collaborations in space missions.
• Environment & Climate Studies
  • Lunar water ice and its role in sustaining long-term space missions.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following statements about Chandrayaan-3 is correct?
   a) It was India’s first mission to land on the Moon.
   b) It successfully landed near the Moon’s South Pole.
   c) It discovered liquid water on the Moon.
   d) It was launched using PSLV.
2. Which scientific instrument on Chandrayaan-3 helped measure lunar surface temperature variations?
   a) APXS
   b) LIBS
   c) ChaSTE
   d) ILSA
3. Why is water ice on the Moon significant for future space missions?
   a) It can be used for making oxygen and rocket fuel.
   b) It will be used to increase the Moon’s gravity.
   c) It has no scientific importance.
   d) It can only be used for drinking purposes.
4. Which space organization is planning to build a lunar base by 2030?
   a) ISRO
   b) CNSA
   c) NASA (Artemis Program)
   d) Roscosmos
5. Which of the following is NOT a scientific objective of Chandrayaan-3?
   a) Analyzing the composition of lunar soil
   b) Studying seismic activity on the Moon
   c) Searching for extraterrestrial life on the Moon
   d) Measuring surface temperature variations

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the significance of Chandrayaan-3’s discoveries on the Moon. How does this impact India’s space exploration ambitions?
2. What are the scientific and economic benefits of lunar water ice? How can India leverage its discoveries for future space missions?
3. Analyze India’s progress in lunar exploration. How does Chandrayaan-3 compare with previous ISRO missions?
4. What are the challenges of deep space exploration, and how is ISRO addressing them through missions like Chandrayaan-3?
5. Discuss the role of international collaboration in space exploration. How can India contribute to future lunar missions?

Final Takeaway

• Chandrayaan-3 successfully landed near the Moon’s South Pole, a first for ISRO.
• The mission provided strong evidence of water ice beyond polar regions, crucial for future space missions.
• Scientific instruments (ChaSTE, ILSA, APXS) revealed lunar soil composition, seismic activity, and surface temperature variations.
• Findings enhance India’s global standing in space exploration & support future Moon missions.

2. Kisan Credit Card (KCC) – Economy

Why in News?

• Bad loans associated with Kisan Credit Card (KCC) accounts have risen by 42% among Scheduled Commercial Banks (excluding Regional Rural Banks), highlighting financial stress in the agriculture sector.
• The KCC scheme, launched in 1998, provides easy access to credit for farmers to purchase agricultural inputs.
• In 2018-19, the scheme was expanded to include fisheries and animal husbandry farmers.

Key Features of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) Scheme

• Farmers use KCC for: Seeds, fertilizers, pesticides, irrigation, post-harvest expenses, household needs, and working capital.

Expansion of KCC to Fisheries & Animal Husbandry (2018-19)

• Inclusion of dairy farmers, poultry farmers, and fisheries sector workers.
• Loans up to ₹2 lakh for inland & marine fisheries, livestock farmers.

• Why?
  • Diversification of rural economy & reducing dependence on seasonal crops.

Kisan Rin Portal: A Digital Boost

• Facilitates subsidized loan access for farmers.
• Key Features:
  • Comprehensive farmer data.
  • Loan disbursement tracking.
  • Interest subvention claims monitoring.
  • Progress tracking for KCC scheme utilization.

Major Challenges Facing the KCC Scheme

• Issue: Despite KCC’s benefits, many small & marginal farmers still rely on informal moneylenders.

Steps to Improve KCC Implementation

• Expand Digital Banking – More farmers should access Kisan Rin Portal & online KCC applications.
• Faster Loan Disbursement – Reduce bureaucratic delays in banks.
• Climate Risk Adaptation – Strengthen crop insurance (PMFBY) & weather-based credit assessment.
• Increase KCC Coverage – Ensure tenant farmers, sharecroppers, & women farmers receive credit.
• Financial Literacy Campaigns – Educate farmers on proper loan usage & repayment.

Relevance for Exam

• Agriculture & Rural Development
  • Government schemes for farmers.
  • Role of credit in increasing agricultural productivity.
• Economy & Financial Inclusion
  • Rising NPAs in agriculture sector & challenges in rural credit.
  • Role of banking institutions in agriculture financing.
• Governance & Policy Implementation
  • Effectiveness of KCC & Kisan Rin Portal in rural credit disbursement.
  • Need for financial reforms in agricultural lending.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. What is the primary objective of the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) scheme?
   a) To provide free agricultural inputs to farmers.
   b) To offer short-term credit for agricultural and allied activities.
   c) To distribute direct income support to farmers.
   d) To regulate Minimum Support Price (MSP).
2. Which financial institutions implement the KCC scheme?
   a) Only Regional Rural Banks (RRBs).
   b) Only Scheduled Commercial Banks.
   c) Scheduled Commercial Banks, RRBs, Cooperative Banks, and Small Finance Banks.
   d) Only NABARD.
3. Which of the following is NOT a feature of the KCC scheme?
   a) Loans for purchasing seeds and fertilizers.
   b) Mandatory crop insurance under PM-KISAN.
   c) Interest subvention for prompt repayment.
   d) Loan coverage for fisheries & animal husbandry.
4. What is the maximum amount of collateral-free loan available under KCC?
   a) ₹50,000
   b) ₹1 lakh
   c) ₹1.6 lakh
   d) ₹2.5 lakh
5. Which portal has been launched to facilitate digital access to KCC loans?
   a) e-NAM
   b) PM-KISAN Portal
   c) Kisan Rin Portal
   d) Agri Infra Fund Portal

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the significance of the Kisan Credit Card scheme in enhancing financial inclusion for farmers. What challenges does it face, and how can they be addressed?
2. Analyze the impact of KCC expansion to fisheries and animal husbandry. How does it contribute to rural economic diversification?
3. Despite the benefits of KCC, many farmers still rely on informal credit sources. Suggest measures to improve the accessibility and efficiency of the scheme.
4. Rising NPAs in agricultural credit have put pressure on banks. How can financial institutions balance credit support for farmers while ensuring loan repayment discipline?
5. Examine the role of digital initiatives like the Kisan Rin Portal in improving credit access for farmers. What further steps can be taken to enhance digital financial services in rural India?

Final Takeaway

• Kisan Credit Card (KCC) is a crucial initiative for providing farmers with easy credit access.
• Rising NPAs (42% increase) highlight financial stress in agriculture.
• KCC covers crop loans, post-harvest expenses, animal husbandry & fisheries.
• Kisan Rin Portal aims to improve digital access & loan tracking.
• Challenges like climate risks, bureaucratic delays, and loan misuse need policy improvements.

3. Stagnation of Real Wages for Salaried Workers in India – Economy

Why in News?

• Periodic Labour Force Survey (PLFS) data (June 2024) reveals that while employment has increased, real wages for salaried workers have stagnated since 2019.
• Real wages declined by 1.7% in June 2024 compared to June 2019.
• The share of salaried employment fell from 22.9% (2019-20) to 21.7% (2023-24), indicating a shift toward self-employment and informal work.

Key Factors Behind Wage Stagnation

1. Inflation Outpacing Wage Growth

• Consumer prices have risen faster than salary increments, reducing real purchasing power.
• Result: Even if salaries have increased in nominal terms, inflation has eroded their real value.

2. Excess Labour Supply & Falling Wage Premium for Education

• More graduates entering the job market → Employers offer lower starting salaries.
• Share of self-employed workers increased from 53.5% (2019-20) to 58.4% (2023-24).

3. Declining Private Sector Investment

• Private investment-to-GDP ratio fell from 28% (2011-12) to 21.1% (2022-23).
• Result: Fewer formal job opportunities & weaker wage growth.

4. Policy Shocks (Demonetisation & GST Impact)

• Small & medium enterprises (SMEs) struggled post-GST implementation.
• Result: Slowdown in formal hiring & rise in contractual or gig work.

5. Shift Toward Informal & Gig Economy Jobs

• Companies prefer hiring temporary workers (gig economy) to cut costs.
• Result: Fewer benefits, no job security, and lower wages.

Impact of Wage Stagnation on the Economy

• Key Statistic: Real wages for self-employed workers in urban areas declined by 5.2%, while rural self-employed wages increased by 3.02%.

Government Policies & Interventions

1. Employment Generation & Formalization

• Production-Linked Incentive (PLI) Schemes – Encouraging formal sector job creation.
• Startup India & MSME Support – Increasing credit access for small businesses.

2. Skill Development & Labor Market Reforms

• Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY) – Upskilling workers for higher-paying jobs.
• National Apprenticeship Promotion Scheme (NAPS) – Bridging the skill gap in industries.

3. Strengthening Social Security for Informal Workers

• E-Shram Portal – Registering informal workers for welfare benefits.
• Code on Social Security, 2020 – Expanding coverage of PF, pension & health benefits.

Way Forward: Boosting Wage Growth & Economic Stability

• Encouraging Private Investment – Reviving domestic & foreign investment in labor-intensive sectors.
• Strengthening Labor Laws – Protecting worker rights while ensuring flexibility for businesses.
• Enhancing Skill Development – Aligning education with industry needs to boost employability.
• Promoting MSMEs & Startups – Creating job opportunities in high-growth sectors.
• Expanding Social Security Coverage – Ensuring income stability, healthcare, & pension benefits.

Relevance for Exam

• Economy & Employment Trends
  • Reasons for wage stagnation & labor market shifts.
  • Impact of inflation, investment decline, and gig economy growth.
• Government Schemes & Policies
  • PLI, PMKVY, E-Shram & MSME policies to improve employment conditions.
  • Labour Code reforms & formalization efforts.
• Social Issues & Development
  • Rising informal employment & its impact on workers.
  • Challenges in ensuring income security & fair wages.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following factors has contributed to the stagnation of real wages in India?
   a) Rising inflation
   b) Increased public sector employment
   c) Higher agricultural productivity
   d) Strengthening of trade unions
2. What is the share of salaried employment in India as per PLFS 2023-24?
   a) 21.7%
   b) 30%
   c) 45%
   d) 50%
3. Which government initiative aims to provide skill training to improve employability?
   a) E-Shram
   b) Pradhan Mantri Kaushal Vikas Yojana (PMKVY)
   c) Ayushman Bharat
   d) Make in India
4. Which sector has witnessed an increase in employment despite wage stagnation?
   a) Manufacturing
   b) Self-employment & gig economy
   c) IT sector
   d) Public administration
5. Which economic policy factor has led to a decline in formal sector hiring?
   a) Increase in government salaries
   b) Impact of GST & demonetisation on SMEs
   c) Rise in foreign direct investment
   d) Increased demand for skilled labor

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Examine the reasons behind the stagnation of real wages in India despite rising employment. Suggest policy measures to address this issue.
2. How has inflation affected the real wages of salaried workers in India? Discuss the economic implications and policy responses.
3. The gig economy is expanding rapidly in India. Discuss its impact on wage growth, job security, and social security.
4. Analyze the role of private investment in driving wage growth and employment generation in India. What factors are limiting private sector expansion?
5. Discuss the significance of labor market reforms and skill development initiatives in addressing the wage stagnation issue in India.

Final Takeaway

• Real wages for salaried workers have stagnated since 2019 due to inflation, excess labor supply & declining private investment.
• More workers are shifting toward self-employment & gig economy jobs with lower wages & fewer benefits.
• Policy measures like skill development, MSME support & investment promotion are essential for wage growth.
• Expanding social security coverage can ensure income stability for informal workers.

4. India’s Position as the Second-Largest Arms Importer – Defence & Security

Why in News?

• India remains the world’s second-largest arms importer (after Ukraine), as per the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) report (2024).
• India’s arms imports declined by 9.3% between 2015-19 and 2020-24, but it still relies heavily on foreign defense equipment.
• Russia’s share in India’s arms imports dropped from 55% to 36%, while imports from France, the U.S., and Israel have increased.

Key Highlights from SIPRI Report

About SIPRI (Stockholm International Peace Research Institute)

• Founded in 1966 – Based in Stockholm, Sweden.
• Conducts research on global arms trade, conflicts, disarmament, and defense spending.
• Publishes SIPRI Yearbook, a key report on military expenditures and arms transfers.

India’s Changing Defense Import Patterns

1. Declining Dependence on Russia

• Russia’s share in Indian arms imports fell to 36% due to:
  • Delays in Russian supplies amid Ukraine war.
  • India’s push for defense diversification & self-reliance (Atmanirbhar Bharat).

2. Increased Imports from Western Nations

• France: Rafale jets, Scorpene submarines.
• U.S.: Apache & Chinook helicopters, P-8I surveillance aircraft.
• Israel: Heron drones, Barak missiles.

• Why this shift?
  • Reliability issues with Russia (due to Ukraine war).
  • Better technology & strategic partnerships with the West.
  • Indo-Pacific security concerns → Strengthened India-France & India-U.S. defense ties.

Reasons for India’s High Arms Imports

Government Initiatives to Reduce Arms Imports

1. Atmanirbhar Bharat in Defense

• Emphasis on domestic manufacturing of fighter jets, missiles, and submarines.
• Ban on importing 400+ defense items that India can produce locally.

2. Make in India & Defense Industrial Corridors

• Two defense corridors in Uttar Pradesh & Tamil Nadu to boost manufacturing.

3. Increased R&D in Defense Technology

• DRDO (Defense Research & Development Organisation) is developing:
  • AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft).
  • Indigenous missile defense systems.

4. Defense Export Growth

• India now exports defense equipment to 85+ countries.
• Export target: $5 billion by 2025.

Impact of India’s Defense Procurement Shift

• Geopolitical Leverage – Strengthens ties with France, U.S., Israel, and EU nations.
• Reduced Dependency on Russia – Enhances India’s strategic autonomy.
• Boost for Domestic Industry – Encourages HAL, DRDO, BEL & private sector in defense.
• More Secure Indo-Pacific Presence – Enhances India’s naval & aerial capabilities.

Way Forward: Strengthening India’s Defense Industry

• Increase investment in R&D for indigenous weapon systems.
• Strengthen Private Sector Role – Encourage firms like L&T, Tata, Mahindra Defense.
• Expand Global Defense Collaborations – Continue joint ventures with France, U.S., Israel, and Japan.
• Fast-Track Delayed Projects – Speed up Tejas Mk2, AMCA, and BrahMos-II development.

Relevance for Exam

• International Relations & Security
  • India’s changing defense procurement strategy.
  • Impact of Indo-Pacific security on military planning.
• Science & Technology
  • Advancements in defense R&D (DRDO, HAL, ISRO’s military tech).
  • Indigenous fighter jets, submarines, and missile systems.
• Economy & Industrial Growth
  • Defense manufacturing under ‘Make in India’ & Atmanirbhar Bharat.
  • Export potential of India’s defense sector.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which country was the largest arms importer according to SIPRI’s 2024 report?
   a) India
   b) Ukraine
   c) Saudi Arabia
   d) China
2. What was Russia’s share in India’s arms imports in the 2020-24 period?
   a) 55%
   b) 45%
   c) 36%
   d) 25%
3. Which of the following countries has emerged as a key defense supplier to India apart from Russia?
   a) France
   b) Iran
   c) China
   d) South Korea
4. Which Indian initiative aims to boost self-reliance in defense manufacturing?
   a) Start-Up India
   b) Atmanirbhar Bharat
   c) Sagarmala Project
   d) Smart City Mission
5. Which of the following is a major indigenous defense project under DRDO?
   a) F-16 Fighter Jet
   b) AMCA (Advanced Medium Combat Aircraft)
   c) Rafael Missile System
   d) Sukhoi Su-30

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Analyze India’s position as the world’s second-largest arms importer. What factors contribute to India’s high defense imports?
2. Discuss the challenges and opportunities in India’s defense sector. How can Atmanirbhar Bharat improve self-reliance in defense production?
3. Evaluate the impact of declining Russian defense exports to India. How is India diversifying its arms procurement strategy?
4. How does India’s defense modernization impact its strategic role in the Indo-Pacific region? Discuss with reference to recent defense agreements.
5. What role does the private sector play in India’s defense manufacturing? Suggest policy measures to enhance domestic defense production.

Final Takeaway

• India remains the second-largest arms importer, despite a 9.3% decline in imports.
• Russia’s share has fallen to 36%, while France, U.S., and Israel have gained ground.
• India is focusing on self-reliance under Atmanirbhar Bharat & Make in India.
• Defense exports & indigenous manufacturing are growing, but challenges remain.

5. KHANJAR-XII: India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise – International Relations

Why in News?

• The 12th edition of the India-Kyrgyzstan Joint Special Forces Exercise, “KHANJAR-XII,” is scheduled in Kyrgyzstan.
• This annual military drill focuses on counterterrorism operations and high-altitude warfare.
• First conducted in 2011 in Nahan, India, KHANJAR has become a crucial defense cooperation initiative between both nations.

Key Features of KHANJAR-XII

Objectives & Importance of KHANJAR-XII

• Counterterrorism Training – Enhancing skills in neutralizing terrorist threats.
• Special Forces Tactics – Focus on high-altitude warfare & urban combat.
• Sniper Training & Close-Quarters Combat – Improving precision targeting & rapid response skills.
• Mountain Warfare Techniques – Strengthening combat readiness in challenging terrains.
• Cultural Exchange – Strengthening people-to-people ties (including celebration of Nowruz, Kyrgyz New Year).

Strategic Importance of India-Kyrgyzstan Defense Ties

1. Strengthening India’s Presence in Central Asia

• Kyrgyzstan is a key partner in India’s “Connect Central Asia” policy.
• Helps India counter China’s influence in the region.

2. Counterterrorism & Regional Stability

• Central Asia faces terror threats from Taliban & ISIS-Khorasan.
• Joint exercises improve India’s counterterrorism preparedness.

3. Military-to-Military Cooperation

• India & Kyrgyzstan share expertise in mountain warfare.
• Kyrgyz forces train at India’s High-Altitude Warfare School (HAWS), Gulmarg.

4. Support for India’s Global Position

• Strengthens India’s bid for regional security leadership.
• Enhances India’s strategic ties within the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO).

Other India-Central Asia Military Exercises

• Why Important? Strengthens defense partnerships in Central & South Asia, countering China’s Belt & Road Initiative (BRI) expansion.

Way Forward: Enhancing India-Kyrgyzstan Defense Ties

• More Frequent Joint Training – Expanding training scope to cyber & drone warfare.
• Strengthening Military Hardware Cooperation – India can export defense equipment to Kyrgyzstan.
• Boosting Intelligence Sharing – Joint efforts to counter terror threats from Afghanistan.
• Leveraging SCO Platform – Coordinating counterterrorism strategies within Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Relevance for Exam

• International Relations & Defense
  • India’s military engagements in Central Asia.
  • Strategic importance of defense partnerships.
• Security & Counterterrorism
  • Counterterrorism strategies in high-altitude warfare.
  • Terror threats from Afghanistan & ISIS-Khorasan.
• India’s Foreign Policy
  • “Connect Central Asia” policy & India’s role in SCO.
  • Balancing China’s influence in the region.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. KHANJAR-XII is a joint military exercise between India and which country?
   a) Kazakhstan
   b) Kyrgyzstan
   c) Uzbekistan
   d) Tajikistan
2. What is the primary focus of KHANJAR-XII?
   a) Naval warfare
   b) Counterterrorism & high-altitude warfare
   c) Cyber defense
   d) Peacekeeping operations
3. Which Indian special forces unit participates in KHANJAR-XII?
   a) NSG
   b) Parachute Regiment (Special Forces)
   c) Ghatak Commandos
   d) MARCOS
4. Where was the first KHANJAR exercise held in 2011?
   a) Leh
   b) Tawang
   c) Nahan, Himachal Pradesh
   d) Jaisalmer
5. Which of the following military exercises is conducted between India and Kazakhstan?
   a) Indra
   b) KAZIND
   c) Garuda Shakti
   d) Varuna

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Discuss the strategic significance of KHANJAR-XII in strengthening India-Kyrgyzstan defense ties. How does this exercise contribute to India’s security interests in Central Asia?
2. How do joint military exercises like KHANJAR-XII enhance India’s regional influence? Discuss with reference to India’s ‘Connect Central Asia’ policy.
3. Analyze the role of India’s special forces in counterterrorism operations. How do exercises like KHANJAR-XII improve India’s military preparedness?
4. India is deepening its defense cooperation with Central Asian countries. Discuss the significance of military exercises like KHANJAR, KAZIND, and PRABAL DOSTYK in this context.
5. What are the emerging security challenges in Central Asia? How can India strengthen its defense partnerships to address these challenges?

Final Takeaway

• KHANJAR-XII focuses on counterterrorism & high-altitude warfare.
• India-Kyrgyzstan defense ties are growing through military collaboration.
• Kyrgyzstan is important for India’s “Connect Central Asia” policy.
• Exercises like KHANJAR help counter terror threats & balance China’s influence in the region.

6. La Niña – Environment

Why in News?

• Climate scientists warn that climate change is weakening the cooling effects of La Niña.
• Recent heat trends suggest that La Niña’s influence on global temperatures may reduce in the future.
• La Niña is the “cold phase” of the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) cycle, which affects weather patterns worldwide.

What is La Niña?

Causes of La Niña

• Strong eastward-moving trade winds push warm waters westward toward Indonesia.
• Upwelling (rising of cold water) in the eastern Pacific brings nutrient-rich waters to the surface.
• Drastic drop in sea-surface temperatures due to the accumulation of cooler-than-normal waters in the tropical Pacific.

Effects of La Niña

1. Impact on India’s Climate

• Stronger summer monsoons – More rainfall, benefiting agriculture.
• Colder winters in North India due to altered jet streams.
• Increased cyclone activity in the Bay of Bengal.

2. Global Weather Impacts

3. Economic Impacts

• Boosts fishing industry – Upwelling brings nutrient-rich waters, increasing fish populations.
• Agriculture benefits in monsoon-dependent regions but suffers in drought-prone areas.

4. Impact on Climate Change Trends

• Global warming may weaken La Niña’s cooling effects.
• Future La Niña events may become less predictable & more extreme.

La Niña vs. El Niño Comparison

Duration & Frequency of La Niña

• Typically lasts 1-3 years, peaking in Northern Hemisphere winter.
• Occurs every 3-7 years, but cycles may shift due to climate change.

Importance of Understanding La Niña

• Better disaster preparedness – Helps predict floods, droughts & cyclones.
• Improved agricultural planning – Farmers can adjust crop cycles based on rainfall patterns.
• Economic adaptation – Governments can plan for fisheries, trade, and resource management.

Way Forward: Mitigating La Niña’s Impact

• Invest in better climate prediction models to prepare for extreme weather.
• Strengthen flood control measures in La Niña-affected regions.
• Enhance disaster relief & early warning systems for cyclones & droughts.
• Support adaptive farming techniques to reduce agriculture losses.

Relevance for Exam

• Geography & Environment
  • ENSO’s role in climate regulation.
  • Monsoon variations & their impact on agriculture.
• Economy & Agriculture
  • Effects of La Niña on crops, fisheries & inflation.
  • Role of climate cycles in food security.
• Disaster Management
  • Floods, droughts & cyclones due to La Niña.
  • Need for improved forecasting & early warning systems.

Possible Exam Questions (Prelims & Mains)

Prelims (MCQ) Based Questions:

1. Which of the following correctly describes La Niña?
   a) Warming of the equatorial Pacific Ocean
   b) Cooling of the equatorial Pacific Ocean
   c) Increase in sea surface temperatures near Europe
   d) No impact on global climate
2. Which of the following is an effect of La Niña on India?
   a) Weaker monsoons
   b) Stronger monsoons & increased rainfall
   c) Higher summer temperatures
   d) Decline in fish population
3. What is the main reason for La Niña formation?
   a) Weakening of trade winds
   b) Stronger trade winds pushing warm water westward
   c) Melting of polar ice caps
   d) Volcanic activity
4. Which region experiences drought conditions during La Niña?
   a) India
   b) South America (west coast)
   c) Australia
   d) Africa
5. How often do La Niña events occur?
   a) Every 2 years
   b) Every 3-7 years
   c) Once a decade
   d) Annually

Mains (Descriptive) Based Questions:

1. Explain the phenomenon of La Niña and its impact on global climate. How does it affect India’s monsoon system?
2. Discuss the economic and environmental consequences of La Niña. How can India adapt to these challenges?
3. How does the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influence weather patterns globally? Compare the impacts of La Niña and El Niño.
4. Analyze the role of climate change in altering La Niña patterns. What steps can be taken to mitigate its adverse effects?
5. Discuss the importance of climate forecasting in disaster management with reference to La Niña and its effects on India.

Final Takeaway

• La Niña is the “cold phase” of ENSO, cooling the Pacific Ocean & influencing weather patterns worldwide.
• In India, La Niña leads to stronger monsoons, colder winters & increased cyclone activity.
• Globally, it causes floods in some regions (Australia, Africa) & droughts in others (South America, US Gulf Coast).
• Climate change may weaken La Niña’s cooling effects, making weather patterns more unpredictable.
• Better forecasting, disaster preparedness & adaptive agriculture policies are needed to manage La Niña’s impacts.