Drought has been recognised as a disaster in view of its party expense, temporal duration, slow onset and lasting effect on various vulnerable sections. With a focus on the September 2010 guidelines from the National Disaster management authority, discuss the mechanism for preparedness to deal with the El Nino and La Nina fallouts in India.

Introduction

Drought, a slow-onset disaster, significantly impacts agriculture, water resources, and livelihoods, especially in a country like India where 60% of agriculture is rain-fed. The 2010 NDMA guidelines on drought management emphasize preparedness, mitigation, and response strategies to address the challenges posed by El Niño and La Niña phenomena, which influence the Indian monsoon and exacerbate drought risks.

Key Dimensions of Drought Preparedness

Mechanism for Preparedness under NDMA Guidelines

1. Early Warning Systems

• IMD Monitoring: The India Meteorological Department (IMD) monitors El Niño and La Niña events using tools like the Oceanic Niño Index (ONI) and provides seasonal forecasts.
• Real-time Data Sharing: Collaboration between IMD, ISRO, and state governments ensures timely dissemination of weather forecasts to stakeholders.
• Substantiation: For example, the 2015-16 El Niño was effectively predicted, allowing pre-emptive measures in drought-prone states like Maharashtra.

2. Drought Risk Assessment

• Vulnerability Mapping: Identification of drought-prone regions using remote sensing and GIS tools.
• Crop Contingency Plans: Development of district-level contingency plans for alternative cropping patterns.
• Substantiation: The National Agricultural Drought Assessment and Monitoring System (NADAMS) provides real-time drought monitoring.

3. Water Resource Management

• Rainwater Harvesting: Promotion of watershed development and check dams to conserve water.
• Efficient Irrigation: Adoption of micro-irrigation techniques like drip and sprinkler systems to optimize water use.
• Substantiation: The Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) focuses on "more crop per drop."

4. Agricultural Resilience

• Drought-Resistant Crops: Promotion of climate-resilient crop varieties and short-duration crops.
• Crop Insurance: Implementation of the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to protect farmers from crop losses.
• Substantiation: During the 2018 drought, drought-resistant millet varieties were promoted in Karnataka.

5. Community Awareness and Capacity Building

• Training Programs: Conducting awareness campaigns and capacity-building workshops for farmers and local communities.
• Community Participation: Involvement of Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) in drought preparedness and response.
• Substantiation: The Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs) play a pivotal role in disseminating knowledge on drought management.

6. Financial and Institutional Mechanisms

• State Drought Relief Funds: Allocation of funds under the State Disaster Response Fund (SDRF) and National Disaster Response Fund (NDRF).
• Inter-Agency Coordination: Collaboration between NDMA, state governments, and NGOs for effective implementation of drought mitigation measures.
• Substantiation: The 2016 drought relief package in Bundelkhand was a result of coordinated efforts.

Challenges in Implementation

• Inadequate Forecasting: Limited accuracy in long-term monsoon predictions.
• Resource Constraints: Insufficient funds and infrastructure in drought-prone regions.
• Community Awareness: Low awareness among vulnerable populations about drought mitigation measures.

Way Forward

• Strengthening Forecasting Models: Investment in AI-based predictive models for better accuracy in El Niño and La Niña forecasting.
• Integrated Water Management: Expanding watershed programs and promoting inter-basin water transfer projects.
• Policy Reforms: Revisiting the 2010 NDMA guidelines to incorporate climate change adaptation strategies.
• Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs): Leveraging private sector expertise in drought management technologies.

Conclusion

Preparedness for El Niño and La Niña fallouts requires a multi-pronged approach involving early warning systems, water management, agricultural resilience, and community participation. By aligning with the 2010 NDMA guidelines and leveraging modern technologies, India can mitigate the adverse impacts of drought and ensure sustainable development in vulnerable regions.