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Give the characteristics and effects of the monsoon rainfall i... - Contemporary India
Give the characteristics and effects of the monsoon rainfall in India.
The characteristics and effects of the monsoon rainfall in India are as follows:
Characteristics of Monsoon Rainfall:
Duration: The duration of the monsoon is between 100 to 120 days, from early June to mid-September.
"Burst" of Monsoon: At the time of its arrival, the normal rainfall increases suddenly and continues constantly for several days. This is known as the ‘burst’ of the monsoon.
Breaks in Rainfall: Monsoon rain takes place only for a few days at a time. These wet spells are interspersed with rainless intervals known as "breaks".
Uneven Distribution: The rainfall is highly unevenly distributed across the country. For example, parts of Meghalaya receive over 400 cm, while Rajasthan and Ladakh receive less than 10 cm.
Uncertainty (Vagaries): The monsoon is known for its uncertainties. While it causes heavy floods in one part, it may be responsible for droughts in another.
Effects of Monsoon Rainfall:
Agriculture: The Indian economy is primarily agrarian, and the monsoon is the backbone of Indian agriculture. Most crops are dependent on these rains.
Water Supply: It recharges various water bodies like rivers, lakes, and groundwater, which provide water for drinking and irrigation for the entire year.
Economic Impact: A good monsoon leads to a good harvest and prosperity, whereas the failure of the monsoon results in low food production and economic distress.
Unifying Bond: The monsoon acts as a unifying bond as it binds the whole country in a single rhythmic cycle of seasons and agricultural activities.
Climate Regulation: It brings a sudden relief by lowering the temperature significantly after the scorching heat of the summer months.