All Exams Test series for 1 year @ ₹349 only
Question

How are climate change and the sea level rise affecting the very existence of many island nations? Discuss with examples.

This question was previously asked in
UPSC CSE 2025 (Prelims) CSAT Official Paper (25-May-2025)

Climate change and the consequent sea level rise pose an existential threat to many low-lying island nations. The very land they call home is at risk of being submerged.

One of the most immediate impacts is coastal erosion. Rising sea levels, combined with more frequent and intense storms, are washing away shorelines, shrinking the already limited landmass of these nations. For example, Tuvalu, a Pacific island nation, is experiencing significant land loss, with some areas becoming uninhabitable.

Saltwater intrusion is another critical issue. As sea levels rise, saltwater seeps into freshwater aquifers, contaminating the primary source of drinking water. This also affects agriculture, as the soil becomes too saline for many crops to grow, threatening food security. The Maldives, an archipelago in the Indian Ocean, is facing severe water shortages due to this problem.

Furthermore, the warming of oceans is leading to coral bleaching, which destroys the coral reefs that act as natural barriers against storm surges. This leaves island nations even more vulnerable to extreme weather events. The combination of these factors is forcing many island communities to consider relocation, creating a new category of climate refugees.

Answered By:

Sakshi Negi

Sakshi Negi is a Delhi-based journalist and content specialist with expertise in educational content and digital media, focusing particularly on government exam preparation and career guidance. With a degree in Journalism and Mass Communication from NRAI School of Mass Communication and her background as a Kendriya Vidyalaya alumna, she brings unique insights into the Indian education system and government sector opportunities.

Was this answer helpful?

Similar Questions

  1. Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. 

  2. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. 

  3. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of the balance of power?

  4. How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?

  5. The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?

  6. What are aurora australis and aurora borealis? How are these triggered?

  7. What is a twister? Why are the majority of twisters observed in areas around the Gulf of Mexico?

  8. Despite comprehensive policies for equity and social justice, underprivileged sections are not yet getting the full benefits of affirmative action, envisaged by the Constitution. Comment.

  9. Globalization has increased urban migration by skilled, young, unmarried women from various classes. How has this trend impacted upon their personal freedom and relationship with family?

  10. Critically analyse the proposition that there is a high correlation between India’s cultural diversities and socio-economic marginalities.


Important Questions from GS1

  1. Underline the changes in the field of society and economy from the Rig Vedic to the later Vedic period. 

  2. Estimate the contribution of Pallavas of Kanchi for the development of art and literature of South India. 

  3. How far is it correct to say that the First World War was fought essentially for the preservation of the balance of power?

  4. How far was the Industrial Revolution in England responsible for the decline of handicrafts and cottage industries in India?

  5. The groundwater potential of the Gangetic valley is on a serious decline. How may it affect the food security of India?

Need Expert Advice?
Upcoming Exams
UPSC IFoS
November 22, 2026
UPSC SO Steno
December 12, 2026
Test Series
IAS img
UPSC
UPSC CSE (IAS) 2027 Prelims Mock Test Series
662 Tests 3 Tests Free
1703 Attempts
4.8(203)
English, Hindi
More Questions from IAS

Start Your Preparation with Prepp Mobile App

Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Download the app from Google Play & App Store
Prepp Mobile App