What is the reason for the phenomenon called ‘breaks’ associated with monsoon?

Correct option is D

The Correct Answer is: (d) Movements of monsoon troughs

Explanation:
The phenomenon of "breaks in the monsoon" refers to periods when the monsoon trough shifts significantly north or south of its normal position, resulting in a decline or complete cessation of rainfall over large parts of India, especially the central and northwestern plains. These breaks are caused by the movement of the monsoon trough, which is an elongated area of low pressure stretching from the northwest to the Bay of Bengal.

When the monsoon trough moves northward towards the Himalayan foothills, rainfall decreases over the Indo-Gangetic plains and central India. Conversely, if it shifts southward or becomes less defined, similar dry conditions occur. Rain may persist in the Himalayan foothills and southern peninsula during these periods.

Information Booster:
• The monsoon trough is a key feature of the southwest monsoon; its position influences rainfall intensity.
• Breaks in monsoon are most common in July and August.
• During breaks, dry weather prevails in northwest and central India.
• Rainfall continues in the northeast, foothills of Himalayas, and parts of the southern peninsula.
• These breaks can significantly affect agricultural output, especially Kharif crops.
• The trough's oscillation is influenced by global climatic factors like the Madden-Julian Oscillation (MJO) and El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO).
• Breaks are an intrinsic part of the intra-seasonal variability of the Indian monsoon.