Define 'Drought'. What are its different types ? Add a note on drought prone areas in India.
In short
Drought is a prolonged water shortage caused by deficient or erratic rainfall, classified as meteorological, hydrological, agricultural and socioeconomic, and about 30% of India is drought-prone, from western Rajasthan and Kachchh to southern rain-shadow areas like Rayalaseema. IMD defines drought as rainfall below 75% of normal.
Model answer
Ghissu Editorial · Verified 4 Oct 2026 · 269 words
IMD’s Definition and Classification
IMD defines drought as rainfall below 75% of normal, with severe droughts under 50%. It categorizes drought into meteorological (rainfall deficiency), hydrological (reduced surface and groundwater), agricultural (soil moisture deficit), and socioeconomic (impact on livelihoods) types, highlighting the multifaceted nature of drought.
Early Warning and Community Action
IMD’s conservative rainfall deficit forecasts often delay timely interventions, complicating relief efforts. However, community-led early warning systems, such as those in Marathwada, Maharashtra, demonstrate the effectiveness of local participation in drought preparedness and response.
Agricultural and Water Impacts
In Andhra Pradesh1, the 2014-15 drought reduced food grain production and increased rural distress, including farmer indebtedness. Hydrological drought causes drying rivers and falling groundwater levels; coastal aquifers face salinity intrusion, necessitating scientific aquifer management to sustain water availability.
Geographical Spread
About 30% of India is drought-prone, affecting 19% of its area and 12% of its population annually. The most vulnerable regions include western Rajasthan (Marusthali, Jaisalmer, Barmer), Gujarat’s Kachchh, and southern rain-shadow zones such as parts of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, where erratic rainfall and poor irrigation exacerbate drought risks.
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Environmental Geography7 questions
Asked in 3 of 8 sittings since 2008
Most tested: Environmental vulnerability and management in Andhra Pradesh, especially drought, pollution control, and disaster impacts.
- 2025Discuss the vulnerability of Andhra Pradesh to cyclones and floods, highlighting the causes, regional patterns, and impacts.
- 2025Analyse the disaster vulnerability of Rayalaseema region in Andhra Pradesh with respect to droughts. Discuss the socio-economic consequences.
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