Subject: Indian Geography

Climate change has emerged as an existential threat, with the Himalayan glaciers, often called the "Third Pole", showing alarming rates of retreat. The relationship between melting glaciers and climate change symptoms manifests through complex feedback mechanisms affecting the Indian subcontinent's environmental stability.

Impact of Climate Change on Himalayan Glaciers

• Accelerated Melting: Recent studies indicate that Himalayan glaciers could lose up to 75% of their volume by 2100, driven by rising global temperatures and altered precipitation patterns.
• Temperature Anomalies: India recorded its second warmest year in 2023 since 1901, with temperatures 0.65°C above the 1981-2010 average, directly impacting glacier health.
• Precipitation Changes: The 30% below average rainfall and record-breaking minimum temperatures (15.02°C in February 2025) demonstrate the disruption of natural climate patterns.

Manifestation of Climate Change Symptoms

• Hydrological Impact:

  • Altered flow patterns in major rivers like the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra.
  • Increased risk of Glacial Lake Outburst Floods (GLOFs) threatening downstream communities.
  • Disruption of water availability for agriculture and drinking purposes.

• Monsoon Variations:

  • Early onset of southwest monsoon (May 24th, 2025), eight days ahead of schedule.
  • Erratic distribution despite IMD's forecast of 106% of Long Period Average.
  • Impact on agricultural productivity and food security.

Feedback Mechanisms and Future Implications

• Regional Weather Patterns:

  • Enhanced frequency and intensity of extreme weather events.
  • Creation of microclimatic changes affecting local ecosystems.
  • Disturbance in the Hindu Kush Himalayan region's thermal regulation.

• Socio-Economic Consequences:

  • Threats to water security for billions of people in the subcontinent.
  • Impact on hydroelectric power generation.
  • Challenges to traditional agricultural practices.

The intricate relationship between shrinking Himalayan glaciers and climate change symptoms presents a critical challenge requiring immediate attention through climate adaptation strategies and implementation of Paris Agreement goals. The future of the Indian subcontinent's environmental stability depends on our collective response to this climate emergency.