Introduction Tropical cyclones are among the most destructive natural hazards, capable of causing massive loss of life, property damage, and economic disruption. Across the globe, these storms are known by different regional names such as hurricanes in the Atlantic and eastern Pacific, typhoons in the western Pacific, and cyclones in the Indian Ocean and South…
Introduction Mountain ecosystems are among the most fragile and biodiverse ecosystems on Earth. They provide essential ecosystem services such as water regulation, biodiversity conservation, soil stabilization, climate regulation, and cultural heritage. These ecosystems support millions of people directly and indirectly through agriculture, forest products, and tourism. However, in recent decades, development initiatives and tourism have…
Introduction Coral reefs, often referred to as the “rainforests of the sea,” are among the most biologically diverse and productive ecosystems on Earth. They provide shelter, food, and breeding grounds for nearly one-quarter of all marine species, despite covering less than 1% of the ocean floor. Beyond biodiversity, coral ecosystems contribute to human societies by…
Introduction Landslides are among the most destructive forms of natural disasters that occur due to the downward and outward movement of slope-forming materials like rocks, debris, and soil under the influence of gravity. In India, landslides are a recurrent hazard, especially in the mountainous and hilly terrains that cover a significant portion of the country….
Introduction Biological disasters, particularly pandemics, have emerged as some of the most complex and devastating challenges for modern societies. India, with its vast population, diverse ecology, and varying levels of healthcare infrastructure, is particularly vulnerable. The COVID-19 pandemic exposed many gaps in India’s biological disaster preparedness, but it also catalyzed reforms. In this essay, we…
Introduction Earth’s climate system is a complex interaction of various atmospheric, oceanic, and terrestrial processes. Among the most influential natural climatic phenomena that disrupt this balance are El Niño and La Niña, collectively known as the El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO). These irregular periodic variations in sea surface temperatures (SSTs) and wind patterns in the central…
Introduction In recent decades, the frequency and intensity of natural disasters have escalated dramatically across the globe. These disasters—ranging from cyclones, floods, earthquakes, wildfires, and droughts—are increasingly linked to the growing impacts of climate change. Rising global temperatures, melting glaciers, erratic rainfall, and rising sea levels are not only environmental challenges but also catalysts for…
Introduction In an era characterized by frequent and increasingly severe natural and man-made disasters, from hurricanes and floods to wildfires and pandemics, post-disaster recovery planning has become an essential component of community preparedness and sustainable development. Beyond immediate emergency response, recovery planning serves as a blueprint for restoring livelihoods, rebuilding infrastructure, and enhancing the long-term…
Climate change has emerged as one of the most significant global challenges, posing a threat to ecosystems, economies, and communities worldwide. In India, states such as Uttar Pradesh, which has a large population and significant agricultural activity, are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change. As a response to this, the State Action Plan…