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Geography

Indian Monsoon Mechanism

Complex weather system driven by differential heating of land and sea, shifting of ITCZ, and upper air circulation (Jet Streams).

01

Thermal Concept

Halley's Theory: Differential heating causes low pressure over land (Summer) drawing winds from high pressure sea.

02

ITCZ Shift

Inter-Tropical Convergence Zone shifts north to Ganga plain in summer (Monsoon Trough), pulling South East Trade Winds across equator.

03

Jet Streams

Sub-Tropical Westerly Jet withdraws from north India. Tropical Easterly Jet sets in, steering depressions.

04

El Nino & La Nina

El Nino (warming of Peru coast) generally weakens monsoon. La Nina (cooling) strengthens it. IOD (Indian Ocean Dipole) also impacts.

05

Onset & Withdrawal

Bursts on Malabar coast (June 1). Branches: Arabian Sea & Bay of Bengal. Retreats by September-October (Retreating Monsoon).

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Relevance: GS-1: Physical Geography, Climate, Agriculture
Last Updated: 2024-12-28