Tungabhadra dam gets new crest gates, but weak monsoon threatens paddy crop, survival of rice mills in Karnataka
A weak monsoon has left the Tungabhadra reservoir nearly empty, threatening not only this year’s paddy crop but also an entire economy built around premium Sona Masuri rice
Quick Revision
Prelims-testable facts
- 01The Tungabhadra dam is a major irrigation project in Karnataka, India.
- 02The dam's new crest gates have been installed to improve water management and storage capacity.
- 03A weak monsoon has resulted in the Tungabhadra reservoir being nearly empty, affecting paddy crop cultivation.
- 04Paddy crop cultivation is a significant contributor to the economy of Karnataka, particularly for premium Sona Masuri rice.
- 05The Tungabhadra dam is one of the largest dams in India, with a storage capacity of approximately 104 TMC (thousand million cubic feet).
- 06Karnataka's paddy crop production is heavily dependent on the monsoon rains, which are expected to be weak this year.
Trap alerts
- Most people think that the Tungabhadra dam is a source of drinking water for Karnataka, but actually it is primarily used for irrigation purposes.
- Many assume that the Sona Masuri rice variety is native to Karnataka, but in fact it was introduced from Tamil Nadu.
Mains Practice Question
Critically examine the relationship between monsoon patterns and agricultural production in Karnataka, highlighting key vulnerabilities and policy implications.
250 words
Practice this in the exam hall →Prelims Practice MCQs
The Tungabhadra dam gets new crest gates?
- A.Yes
- B.No
- C.It has already been upgraded
- D.There is no information about it
The Tungabhadra dam indeed gets new crest gates, as reported in the article.
What is the impact of a weak monsoon on this year's paddy crop in Karnataka?
- A.It will increase production
- B.It will have no effect on production
- C.The crop will be severely affected, threatening livelihoods and the economy built around Sona Masuri rice
- D.The monsoon has no bearing on paddy crop yields
A weak monsoon poses a significant threat to this year's paddy crop in Karnataka, with potential consequences for livelihoods and the economy built around Sona Masuri rice.
What type of rice is particularly vulnerable due to the weak monsoon?
- A.Basmati
- B.Sona Masuri
- C.Jeera
- D.Jowar
The article specifically mentions that the weak monsoon threatens Sona Masuri rice, a premium variety.
Consider the following statements regarding Tungabhadra Dam and Monsoon: 1. The Tungabhadra reservoir is currently at full capacity. 2. A weak monsoon has left the Tungabhadra reservoir nearly empty. 3. The monsoon in Karnataka has been 20% above average for the past three years. How many of the above statements are correct?
- A.Only one
- B.Only two
- C.All three
- D.None
Statement 1 is incorrect because the text states that the reservoir is 'nearly empty', implying it's not at full capacity. Statement 2 is correct as per the text. Statement 3 is incorrect because there's no information about the monsoon being above average in the past three years.
Consider the following two statements: Statement-I: The Tungabhadra reservoir is nearly empty. Statement-II: A weak monsoon has led to a low water level in the reservoir. Which one of the following is correct in respect of the above statements?
- A.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct and Statement-II is the correct explanation for Statement-I
- B.Both Statement-I and Statement-II are correct but Statement-II is not the correct explanation for Statement-I
- C.Statement-I is correct but Statement-II is incorrect
- D.Statement-I is incorrect but Statement-II is correct
Statement 1 is correct as per the text. Statement 2 correctly explains why the reservoir is nearly empty, making it a causal explanation.