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Semester 4: Core Course GEOGRAPHY OF INDIA
Location Frontiers - Neighbouring Countries- Physiography - Himalayas, Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats Plateau - East Coastal Plain, West Coastal Plain and Islands - Rivers Northern Peninsular and Southern Non Peninsular
Location Frontiers
India is located in South Asia, sharing its borders with several countries. It is bounded by Pakistan to the northwest, China and Nepal to the north, and Bhutan to the northeast. To the east, India shares its border with Bangladesh and Myanmar. The Indian Ocean lies to the south, providing maritime borders.
Neighbouring Countries
India's direct neighbors include Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar. Each of these countries has unique geographical, cultural, and political relationships with India, impacting trade, security, and diplomatic relations.
Physiography - Himalayas
The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world, stretching across northern India. They serve as a natural barrier between India and its northern neighbors. The region is characterized by rugged terrain, deep valleys, and diverse flora and fauna, and is vital for sustaining major river systems.
Physiography - Western Ghats
The Western Ghats run parallel to the western coast of India. This mountain range is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to its rich biodiversity and important ecosystems. It plays a crucial role in regulating the monsoon and is a significant source of water for the region.
Physiography - Eastern Ghats
The Eastern Ghats are a discontinuous range of mountains along the eastern coast. They are less continuous and lower than the Western Ghats. The Eastern Ghats influence local climate patterns and house several important rivers originating from the region.
Plateau Regions
The Deccan Plateau is situated in southern India, bordered by the Western and Eastern Ghats. The plateau is characterized by its flat terrain and is rich in mineral resources. It supports agriculture and is home to several important cities.
East Coastal Plain
The East Coastal Plain extends along the eastern coast of India, from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu. It is characterized by fertile land, suitable for agriculture, and features significant river deltas, contributing to rich biodiversity.
West Coastal Plain
The West Coastal Plain stretches along the western coast of India, from Gujarat to Kerala. This region is known for its beautiful beaches and backwaters, and its economy is bolstered by fishing and tourism.
Islands
India has several islands, with the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. These islands are known for their unique ecosystems and serve strategic military and trade purposes.
Rivers - Northern Peninsular
The northern peninsular region is characterized by major rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra. These rivers are crucial for sustaining agriculture, providing water for drinking, and supporting transportation.
Rivers - Southern Non-Peninsular
In the southern non-peninsular region, rivers like Godavari and Krishna play significant roles in irrigation and agriculture. The rivers are essential for the livelihoods of millions and are often considered sacred.
Climate Seasons, Monsoons, Rainfall Pattern and Distribution of Rainfall. Soil and its Types - Natural Vegetation- Tropical Forest, Sub Tropical Forest, Evergreen Forest, Mangrove, Thorny Forest
Climate Seasons, Monsoons, Rainfall Pattern and Distribution of Rainfall, Soil and its Types, Natural Vegetation
Climate Seasons in India
India experiences four main seasons: winter, summer, monsoon, and post-monsoon. Winter lasts from December to February, characterized by cooler temperatures. Summer spans March to June, marked by rising temperatures.
Monsoons
Monsoon refers to the seasonal winds that bring rainfall to the Indian subcontinent. The southwest monsoon (June to September) is critical for agriculture. The northeast monsoon (October to December) affects southeastern India.
Rainfall Pattern and Distribution
Rainfall in India is unevenly distributed, with the western coast receiving heavy rainfall and interior regions receiving less. The Western Ghats and northeastern states witness substantial rainfall due to orographic lift.
Soil Types in India
India has diverse soil types including alluvial, black, red, laterite, and sandy soils. Alluvial soil is fertile, found in river basins. Black soil is suitable for cotton farming. Red soil is less fertile, while laterite soil is found in hilly areas.
Natural Vegetation
Natural vegetation varies across regions: Tropical forests thrive in humid areas, subtropical forests in drier zones, evergreen forests in areas with heavy rainfall, mangroves in coastal regions, and thorny forests in arid regions.
Tropical Forests
Tropical forests, found in areas with high rainfall and temperature, are rich in biodiversity and include species like teak and mahogany.
Sub-Tropical Forests
Sub-tropical forests exist in the foothills of the Himalayas and are characterized by a mixture of temperate and tropical species.
Evergreen Forests
Evergreen forests, found in regions with heavy rainfall, feature dense canopies and a variety of trees, playing a crucial role in maintaining ecological balance.
Mangrove Forests
Mangrove forests are found in coastal regions and are important for protecting shorelines from erosion, serving as critical habitats for marine species.
Thorny Forests
Thorny forests, found in arid and semi-arid regions, are adapted to dry conditions and consist of drought-resistant species.
Agriculture Geographical Requirements of Crops Rice - Wheat Oilseeds Sugarcane Cotton - Jute - Tea Coffee Rubber - Livestock Fisheries- Irrigation Types Multipurpose Projects
Agriculture Geographical Requirements of Crops
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Rice
Rice requires warm temperatures and abundant water for growth. Ideal conditions include a temperature range of 20-35 degrees Celsius. It is predominantly cultivated in flood-prone areas, where water is plentiful, making it suitable for regions with heavy monsoons.
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Wheat
Wheat thrives in temperate climates. Optimal temperature ranges are between 15-20 degrees Celsius. It requires well-drained soils and a moderate amount of rainfall, with irrigation often needed in drier regions. Major wheat-producing areas include the Indo-Gangetic Plains.
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Oilseeds
Oilseed crops like soybean and groundnut prefer warm climates with good drainage. They typically require well-aerated soils and sunny conditions. Regions with annual rainfall between 500-1000 mm are ideal for oilseed cultivation.
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Sugarcane
Sugarcane needs a tropical climate with consistent rainfall. Ideal temperatures range from 20-30 degrees Celsius. It requires rich soil and ample water for optimal growth, making it suitable for regions with extensive irrigation systems.
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Cotton
Cotton grows well in warm and dry climates, needing temperatures between 20-30 degrees Celsius. It requires well-drained soil and moderate rainfall. Regions with a distinct dry season are preferred to facilitate harvest.
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Jute
Jute is cultivated in tropical and subtropical regions, requiring high humidity and rainfall between 100-200 cm. It thrives in fertile soil with good drainage and temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius.
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Tea
Tea grows best in hilly regions with cool, moist climates. Ideal conditions include rich, well-drained soil and rainfall of 100-150 cm. It thrives in temperatures ranging from 10-30 degrees Celsius.
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Coffee
Coffee thrives in tropical climates with rich, well-drained soil. Ideal temperatures are between 15-25 degrees Celsius. It requires consistent rainfall, approximately 100-150 cm annually, and is sensitive to frost.
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Rubber
Rubber requires a hot and humid climate. Optimal conditions include temperatures above 25 degrees Celsius and annual rainfall ranging from 2000-3000 mm. It grows best in deep, well-drained soils.
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Livestock
The geographical requirements for livestock depend on the type. Cattle prefer pasturelands with ample water supply, while sheep thrive in arid and semi-arid regions. Pigs are best raised in regions with good feed supply.
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Fisheries
Fisheries are dependent on water bodies with rich biodiversity. Ideal conditions include clean water with ample nutrients. Coastal areas with brackish water are suitable for shrimp and crabs, while freshwater bodies support various fish species.
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Types
Irrigation types include surface irrigation, drip irrigation, and sprinkler irrigation. Surface irrigation is common for rice, while drip irrigation is efficient for oilseeds and vegetables. Sprinkler systems are versatile and can be used for various crops.
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Multipurpose Projects
Multipurpose projects involve dam construction for irrigation, flood control, and hydroelectric power generation. Examples include the Sardar Sarovar Project, which supports irrigation in arid regions, promotes agriculture, and generates electricity.
Minerals Metallic and Non-Metallic Minerals - Iron Manganese Bauxite Copper Mica Illuminate Energy Hydel, Thermal and Atomic Industries- Iron Steel Textiles Paper Shipbuilding Locomotives Cement Fertilizer- Major Industrial Regions of India
Minerals Metallic and Non-Metallic Minerals and Industries in India
Metallic Minerals
Metallic minerals are those which yield a metal upon extraction. Examples include iron, manganese, bauxite, and copper. Iron is crucial for steel production, and India is one of the largest producers of iron ore globally. Manganese is vital for steel production and the manufacture of alloys. Bauxite is the primary ore of aluminum, while copper is used in electrical applications and various alloys.
Non-Metallic Minerals
Non-metallic minerals do not yield metal upon extraction but have other industrial applications. Mica is an important non-metallic mineral used in electronics and cosmetics due to its insulating properties. Non-metallic minerals are generally used in the construction industry, agriculture, and other sectors.
Energy Resources
Energy resources are vital for running industries. Hydel energy is harnessed from water sources, thermal energy is produced from coal and other fossil fuels, and atomic energy is derived from nuclear reactions. Each energy source has its advantages and disadvantages concerning cost, sustainability, and environmental impact.
Industries and Their Connections to Minerals
Industries like iron and steel, textiles, paper, shipbuilding, locomotives, cement, and fertilizer heavily rely on minerals. The iron and steel industry is foundational for construction and manufacturing. The textile industry uses non-metallic resources such as cotton and jute. Paper industries depend on wood and non-wood raw materials, whereas the cement industry requires limestone and clay.
Major Industrial Regions of India
India has several industrial regions characterized by clusters of industries. The Mumbai-Pune region is known for textiles and manufacturing. The Chennai-Bangalore corridor is significant for automotive and IT industries. The Kolkata region is historically linked to jute and heavy industries. The northern states are known for their agricultural industries and production of fertilizers.
Population Distribution Density and growth Population Problems - Transport Roadways Railways Water ways Air ways Ports and Harbors
Population Distribution, Density and Growth; Population Problems; Transport Infrastructure: Roadways, Railways, Waterways, Airways, Ports and Harbors
Population Distribution
Population distribution refers to the way in which people are spread across the earth. In India, this distribution is uneven, with high concentrations in urban areas, particularly in states like Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh.
Population Density
Population density is a measure of the number of people living per unit area. India is one of the most densely populated countries in the world, with significant variations between regions. Urban areas exhibit much higher density than rural areas.
Population Growth
Population growth in India has been substantial, driven by factors such as declining mortality rates and high birth rates. This growth presents challenges and opportunities for economic development and resource management.
Population Problems
Rapid population growth leads to various problems, including overcrowding, resource depletion, environmental degradation, and increased pressure on infrastructure and services.
Transport Infrastructure
The transport network in India is crucial for managing population density and growth. It encompasses various systems including roadways, railways, waterways, airways, and the development of ports and harbors.
Roadways
Road transport is the most widely used mode in India due to its flexibility and reach, connecting rural and urban areas. The National Highways and State Highways form the backbone of this network.
Railways
Indian Railways is one of the largest railway networks in the world. It plays a vital role in transporting goods and people across vast distances efficiently.
Waterways
Water transport is significant for trade and commerce in India, particularly in coastal and riverine regions. National Waterways are being developed to enhance freight movement.
Airways
Air transport is growing rapidly in India, facilitating faster travel and connecting major cities. Increasing competition has led to more affordable airfares for consumers.
Ports and Harbors
India has a long coastline with several major and minor ports. These ports are essential for maritime trade, helping to boost the economy and manage exports and imports.
