TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 214

PRERNA FOR IAS

(ASSOCIATE OF SAMKALP)

TEN CRITICAL QUESTIONS ON CURRENT GEOPLOITICAL AND NATIONAL ISSUES – 214

Q1. Iran has warned of a major war if the United States launches further military strikes. How should India respond to this growing crisis in West Asia?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, India should follow a policy of strategic autonomy and diplomatic balance. A conflict between Iran and the United States could threaten the Strait of Hormuz, increase oil prices and endanger Indian citizens working in West Asia. India maintains important relationships with Iran, the United States and Gulf countries. Therefore, taking an unnecessarily confrontational position could harm our national interests. India should encourage dialogue, support peaceful dispute resolution and prepare contingency plans for energy supplies and the safety of Indian nationals. My view is that India's priority should be regional stability, secure maritime trade and protection of its citizens rather than alignment with any particular military position.

Q2. A powerful El Niño has been forecast for the coming months. Should India change its agricultural planning in response to such climate warnings?

Answer: Sir/Ma'am, India should certainly use climate forecasts in agricultural planning, but forecasts should not be treated as guaranteed outcomes. El Niño can increase the risk of weaker monsoon rainfall, affecting crops, drinking water and food prices. However, other factors also influence the Indian monsoon. The government should strengthen weather-based crop advisories, promote drought-resistant varieties, improve irrigation efficiency and maintain emergency food reserves. District administrations should prepare contingency plans for water shortages and crop losses. My view is that India must move from reactive drought relief to anticipatory climate-risk management. Scientific forecasts should guide preparedness while remaining open to revision.