What are the potential impacts of climate change in India ?
In short
Climate change threatens India with heatwaves, erratic monsoons causing droughts and floods, sea-level rise, stronger cyclones, biodiversity loss, crop failure and health risks, with about 75 percent of districts being climate hotspots. Andhra Pradesh's 974 km coastline faces a projected 300 mm sea-level rise and cyclones like Titli.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 271 words
Rising Temperatures and Heat Stress
Temperatures rise 0.68°C per century, intensifying heatwaves; Ahmedabad’s 2010 heatwave caused over 1,300 deaths.
Erratic Monsoon and Water Scarcity
Monsoon variability leads to droughts and floods, threatening water security in northern India and Andhra Pradesh1’s Rayalaseema.
Sea-Level Rise and Coastal Risks
Andhra Pradesh’s 974 km coastline faces 300 mm sea-level rise, increasing salinity ingress and storm surge damage.
Extreme Weather2 Events
Cyclone Titli (2018) caused widespread damage and displacement in Andhra Pradesh, and Gaja (2018) in Tamil Nadu.
Ecological Disruptions
Rising temperatures disrupt Andhra Pradesh’s coastal and forest ecosystems, affecting fisheries and agriculture.
Economic Strain
Agriculture’s 10.7% GVA growth in Andhra Pradesh is vulnerable to climate shocks, increasing farmer distress.
Social Vulnerability
Marginalized groups in Andhra Pradesh face health risks from heat stress and waterborne diseases.
Urban Challenges
Cities like Visakhapatnam suffer flooding and heat stress due to inadequate infrastructure.
Climate-Resilient Agriculture
Promote drought-resistant crops under National Mission for Sustainable Agriculture3 in Rayalaseema.
Coastal Protection
Invest in mangrove restoration and cyclone-resilient infrastructure along Andhra Pradesh’s coast.
Urban Adaptation
Upgrade infrastructure via Smart Cities Mission and AMRUT in Visakhapatnam.
Health System Strengthening
Enhance healthcare for climate-induced illnesses in Andhra Pradesh.
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Question from the official APPSC Group-I Mains 2008 paper. Answer written by Ghissu's engine and checked against our editorial standards. Found an error? Tell us and we correct it within 48 hours.