Differentiate between Weather and Climate. Discuss the major factors influencing the climate of India.

Introduction
 

Weather: The daily or short-term condition of the atmosphere.
Climate: The long-term average weather pattern of a place.
 

---

Difference between Weather and Climate

 

Characteristic	Weather	Climate
Definition	Short-term atmospheric condition	Long-term average weather condition
Time Duration	Changes over hours, days, or weeks	Changes over years or decades
Components	Temperature, rainfall, wind speed	Rainfall pattern, average temperature
Example	It is raining today	Rajasthan has a dry climate

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

---

Major Factors Affecting India’s Climate
 

• Earth’s Location and Latitudinal Position

  • India lies across the Tropic of Cancer.

  • The Himalayas in the north block cold winds.
     

• Mountain Barriers

  • The Himalayas prevent cold Siberian winds from entering India in winter.

  • The Western Ghats influence the monsoon winds.
     

• Oceanic Influence

  • The Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean affect India's climate.

  • Coastal regions experience less variation in temperature.
     

• Monsoon

  • Southwest Monsoon: Brings rainfall to India from June to September.

  • Northeast Monsoon: Brings rainfall to Tamil Nadu from October to December.
     

• Air Pressure and Wind Systems

  • Trade Winds, Westerlies, and Polar Winds influence India’s climate.
     

• Altitude

  • Temperature decreases with an increase in altitude.

  • Example: Difference in climate between Shimla and Delhi.
     

---

Conclusion
 

India's climate is diverse and influenced by various natural and geographical factors. The monsoon system is extremely important for India’s agriculture and economy.

To mitigate the risks associated with climate change, sustainable policies are essential.