Authors: Dr. R. Kalirajan, Dr. R. Alagesan, Dr. S. Vigneswaran
Abstract: El Nino is one of the most influential forms of natural climate variability, with consequences that can extend well beyond the tropical Pacific Ocean. Through changes in atmospheric circulation, rainfall and temperature, El Nino episodes can affect agriculture, water resources, food prices, public health, livelihoods and ecosystems. These effects are directly relevant to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly SDG 1 (No Poverty), SDG 2 (Zero Hunger), SDG 3 (Good Health and Well-being), SDG 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), SDG 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), SDG 13 (Climate Action) and SDG 15 (Life on Land). This review paper examines the ways in which El Nino can slow progress towards the SDGs, with particular attention to India. It brings together international evidence, United Nations assessments, climate literature and Indian research on monsoon rainfall and agriculture. The paper argues that El Nino should not be understood simply as a temporary weather disturbance. Its consequences depend on the vulnerability of food, water, economic and social systems, and these vulnerabilities can be intensified by a warming climate. The paper discusses the food–water–climate nexus, the implications for India's agricultural and rural economy, and the importance of early warning, climate-resilient agriculture, water conservation, crop diversification and anticipatory social protection. The review concludes that strengthening resilience to El Nino is not separate from sustainable development; it is an important part of protecting development gains and keeping the SDGs within reach.
DOI: http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.22303016
