Topic: Disaster management
Q1. What are heat waves? Analyze the measures that can be taken to enhance preparedness for extreme heat events in India. (10 M)
Difficulty Level: Easy
Reefrence: InsightsIAS
Why the question
The question tests the candidate’s understanding of heat waves as a climatic phenomenon and India’s preparedness to manage and mitigate the impact of extreme heat events.Key Demand of the question
Define heat waves and explain their occurrence. Discuss measures to enhance preparedness.
Structure of the Answer:
Introduction
Briefly define what heat waves are and provide some context about their increasing frequency and intensity in India due to climate change.Body:
Definition and Causes of Heat Waves:
- Explain the meteorological definition of heat waves (criteria by IMD).
Measures to Enhance Preparedness:
- Discuss existing measures like the Heat Action Plans of Ahmedabad.
- Importance of educating people on preventive actions.
- Healthcare System Readiness: Improving medical response and cooling mechanisms in hospitals.
- Write about early warning systems and forecasting improvements.
Conclusion
Emphasize the importance of proactive and integrated approaches to managing heat waves in the face of climate change, with emphasis on a multi-stakeholder response.
