Current Affairs

Geography

Syllabus-mapped editorials, PIB updates, reports, judgments, and policy news for prelims and mains revision.

22 July 2026

GS-1PIB Daily22 Jul 2026pib.gov.in

PARLIAMENT QUESTION: RAINFALL DEFICIT

The article discusses the rainfall deficit during the initial weeks of the Southwest Monsoon in 2026, as monitored by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). As of July 14, 2026, the country received 21% below normal rainfall, with significant spatial and temporal variability. While some regions experienced normal or excess rainfall, others faced deficiencies. The impact on agriculture, water resources, and food grain production is being assessed by concerned ministries and state governments, with no nationwide impact on food grain production indicated currently. The government is strengthening weather forecasting through 'Mission Mausam' under the Ministry of Earth Sciences to improve observations, understanding of physical processes, and advanced numerical models. Drought and flood declarations fall under the purview of State Governments in coordination with the Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare and the Ministry of Home Affairs.

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05 July 2026

GS-1News & Analysis05 Jul 2026thehindu.com

Situation grim, but recent rains in Maharashtra have raised some hope in north Karnataka

North Karnataka is experiencing a severe rainfall deficit and low reservoir levels due to a delayed monsoon, significantly impacting agricultural sowing. While recent heavy rains in Maharashtra and parts of Karnataka have offered some hope for increased inflows into major rivers like Krishna and its reservoirs (Almatti, Narayanpur, Tungabhadra), the overall situation remains grim. Sowing coverage for food crops is particularly low, raising concerns about a potential drought and its socio-economic consequences, including reduced farmer income and increased migration. Experts attribute the situation to factors like a 'super El Nino' and reduced African sea winds, emphasizing the need for urgent remedial measures.

Geography

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14 June 2026

GS-2News & Analysis14 Jun 2026thehindu.com

In Zojila, light at the end of tunnel

The article details the construction breakthrough of the 13.14-kilometre-long Zojila Tunnel, connecting Baltal in Kashmir's Ganderbal district and Minamarg in Ladakh's Drass on National Highway-1. It highlights the immense challenges faced during construction due to the treacherous Himalayan terrain, extreme weather, and complex geology. The tunnel, expected to be operational by 2028, will provide all-weather connectivity to Ladakh, significantly reducing travel time and enhancing the region's economic prospects through tourism and improved supply chains. Crucially, the article emphasizes the tunnel's strategic importance for national security, facilitating faster and safer movement of the Indian Army and supplies, especially in the context of border tensions with China and Pakistan. It also touches upon the historical significance of the Zojila Pass in past conflicts and the impact of the project on local communities.

Geography International Relations

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31 May 2026

GS-1Editorials31 May 2026thehindu.com

Is India getting hotter?

The article discusses the prevalence of heatwave conditions across several Indian cities, attributing the increased heat-related distress to a delayed monsoon and the near certainty of an El Niño event during the monsoon months.

Geography

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22 May 2026

GS-1News & Analysis22 May 2026thehindu.com

Severe heatwave conditions likely to prevail over parts of India: IMD

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted severe heatwave conditions to persist over the plains of Northwest, Central, and East India, as well as parts of Peninsular India, for the next six to seven days. Specific regions like Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Rajasthan, Vidarbha, Coastal Andhra, Yanam, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Odisha, Telangana, Jammu-Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand are expected to experience heatwave or severe heatwave conditions. Additionally, warm night conditions are anticipated in isolated pockets of Uttar Pradesh, Vidarbha, Odisha, and Telangana.

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