CURRENT AFFAIRS
CURRENT AFFAIRS
Description
A recent report by the Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), published in June 2025, warns of the escalating economic burden caused by more frequent and severe droughts. The report forecasts a 35% increase in drought-related costs by 2035, noting that the annual economic losses are growing by 3% to 7.5%. Agriculture remains the hardest hit, with severe droughts slashing crop yields by up to 22%.
Global Surge In Drought Events
In recent decades, around 40% of the Earth's surface has experienced a rise in drought intensity and frequency. In 2023 alone, nearly 50% of global land was affected by extreme drought conditions for at least one month. Areas most severely impacted include the western United States, southern Europe, Australia, and regions in Africa, highlighting the increasing footprint of climate-induced water scarcity.
Economic Repercussions Across Sectors
While agriculture bears the brunt, the effects of drought extend to manufacturing, trade, and energy production. The OECD report highlights how persistent drought conditions undermine productivity across multiple industries, intensifying the financial strain on economies globally.
Environmental Challenges Intensify
The environmental consequences of droughts are becoming more pronounced. Since 1980, approximately 37% of the world’s land area has experienced depletion in soil moisture. A worrying 62% of monitored aquifers show declining groundwater levels, and reduced river flows are becoming increasingly common. These changes threaten ecosystems, reduce biodiversity, and impair the natural services that sustain agriculture and clean water supply.
Social Impacts And Human Suffering
The human cost of drought is significant. Droughts are responsible for over a third of disaster-related deaths globally. Regions such as sub-Saharan Africa face the worst social consequences, with droughts exacerbating poverty, food insecurity, displacement, and inequality. Vulnerable populations remain at the highest risk, requiring targeted policy responses.
Strategic Recommendations For Building Resilience
The OECD calls for comprehensive and forward-looking policies to address the mounting challenges posed by droughts. Suggested solutions include:
Expanding water recycling and rainwater harvesting
Promoting drought-resistant crops
Enhancing irrigation efficiency
Encouraging sustainable land-use and agroecological practices
Restoring and protecting water-related ecosystems
These interventions can reduce water usage and help communities adapt to future climate extremes.
Path Forward: Innovation And Adaptation
To address the growing costs and risks associated with drought, governments and global institutions must prioritize sustainable development practices. Investments in infrastructure, technology, and community-level adaptation will be crucial. Building climate resilience, particularly in water management and land restoration, is now a critical component of economic and environmental policy.
Welcome to Notopedia.com, your free learning platform that caters to the diverse needs of students and aspirants across a spectrum of entrance exams and educational endeavors. Whether you're preparing for highly anticipated exams like CAT, NEET, JEE Main, or bank job vacancies, our platform offers a wealth of resources to guide you towards success. Stay up-to-date with the latest exam dates, announcements, and results for various government recruitment exams, including SSC CGL, CHSL, NDA, and UPSC. Explore comprehensive study materials, sample papers, and exam patterns to hone your skills and boost your confidence. From important dates like CBSE Class 10 and 12 date sheets to exam-specific information like JEE Main application form date, we cover it all. Notopedia.com is your go-to source for everything from admissions and admit cards to scholarships and college information. Whether you're aiming for a career in defense, government, banking, or higher education, our free learning platform equips you with the knowledge and resources you need to excel. Join us in your educational journey and unlock a world of opportunities, guidance, and comprehensive support.
For more Updates and Information - Visit Notopedia's Bulletin Board
For Latest Sarkari Jobs - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Jobs Section
For access to more than 20,000 Colleges - Visit Notopedia's College Section
For School Studies and Exams Preparation across 14 Boards - Visit Notopedia's School Section
For Comprehensive Preparation of Sarkari Job Exams - Visit Notopedia's Sarkari Exams Section
