MONSOON WINDS IN INDIA

PRERNA FOR IAS

MONSOON WINDS IN INDIA

1. Southwest Monsoon (Summer Monsoon)

The Southwest Monsoon is the most important monsoon season in India. It begins in June and continues until September, bringing nearly 75% of the country's annual rainfall. During summer, intense heating over the Indian landmass creates a low-pressure area that attracts moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean. These winds split into the Arabian Sea Branch and the Bay of Bengal Branch. The monsoon provides water for agriculture, rivers, reservoirs, and groundwater recharge. It is essential for India's economy, especially farming. However, excessive rainfall may also cause floods, landslides, and disruptions to transportation and daily life.

2. Arabian Sea Branch

The Arabian Sea Branch is one of the two major branches of the Southwest Monsoon. After crossing the Arabian Sea, these moisture-rich winds strike the Western Ghats along India's west coast. As the winds rise over the mountains, they cool and produce heavy rainfall on the windward side. States such as Kerala, Karnataka, Goa, Maharashtra, and Gujarat receive significant rainfall from this branch. It then moves further inland, bringing rain to central and northern India. The Arabian Sea Branch plays a vital role in supporting agriculture, water resources, and ecosystems across large parts of the country.