Understanding natural disasters is crucial for the UPSC Prelims General Studies and CSAT papers. This module focuses on four major types of natural disasters prevalent in India: Earthquakes, Floods, Droughts, and Cyclones. We will explore their causes, impacts, and mitigation strategies relevant to the Indian context.

Earthquakes are sudden tremors in the Earth's crust caused by the release of energy, usually due to the movement of tectonic plates. India's geographical location, situated on the Indian tectonic plate, makes it highly susceptible to seismic activity, particularly in the Himalayan region.

Floods are the most common natural disaster in India, characterized by the inundation of land that is normally dry. They are primarily caused by heavy rainfall, especially during the monsoon season, but also by overflowing rivers, dam failures, and coastal storm surges.

Droughts are prolonged periods of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water. In India, droughts are often linked to the erratic behavior of the monsoon, which is the lifeline of the country's agriculture.

Regions like the semi-arid areas of Rajasthan, Gujarat, and parts of Maharashtra are particularly vulnerable to recurrent droughts. The impact extends beyond agriculture, affecting water availability for domestic use, industry, and power generation.

Cyclones, also known as tropical storms, are intense low-pressure systems that form over warm ocean waters. They are characterized by strong winds, heavy rainfall, and storm surges, posing a significant threat to India's long coastline.

Effective disaster management involves a multi-pronged approach, including early warning systems, infrastructure development (e.g., flood control measures, earthquake-resistant buildings), public awareness campaigns, and robust response mechanisms. Understanding the specific vulnerabilities of different regions in India is key to developing targeted mitigation strategies.