El Niño to Persist Until April 2027, Threatening India’s Monsoon and Fisheries
GS1History · Society · Geography· Geophysical phenomena (earthquakes, cyclones, volcanoes)· Prelims + Mains·
Climate change and oceanography: a GS1 and GS3 case study on monsoon variability and marine biodiversity.
Why in news
Scientists at the Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services (INCOIS) predicted that El Niño conditions will persist until April 2027, threatening India's monsoon and marine ecosystems.
Background
INCOIS predicts El Niño persistence until April 2027. The phenomenon is expected to cause higher sea surface temperatures, marine heatwaves, and reduced coastal upwelling along India's west coast.
Facts for Prelims
- BodyINCOIS: Indian National Centre for Ocean Information Services
- FactEl Niño conditions predicted to persist until April 2027
- EnvironmentIndian oil sardine and Indian mackerel are species specifically mentioned as being affected in Kerala and Karnataka
- PlaceReduced coastal upwelling is specifically noted along India's west coast
Prelims practice question
Which specific geographical feature is predicted to experience reduced coastal upwelling due to persistent El Niño conditions?
- (a)India's west coast
- (b)Andaman and Nicobar Islands
- (c)India's east coast
- (d)Gulf of Mannar
Show answer
Answer: (a) India's west coast — The note specifically notes that reduced coastal upwelling is expected along India's west coast.
For Mains
Q. Discuss the impact of El Niño on India's monsoon patterns and marine biodiversity, and suggest measures to mitigate the resulting ecological and economic damage.
Dimensions to cover in your answer
- Ecological degradation: Marine heatwaves causing coral reef bleaching and habitat loss for coastal fish species
- Economic vulnerability: Impact on artisanal fisheries and export productivity in Kerala and Karnataka
- Monsoon variability: Weakened summer monsoon affecting agricultural yields and water security
Keywords: El Niño · Marine Heatwaves · Coastal Upwelling · Monsoon Variability · Marine Biodiversity
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