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Semester 5: Core Course GEOGRAPHY OF TAMILNADU WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SPECIFIC REGION
Tamil Nadu Location Districts of Tamil Nadu - Physiography Mountains, Plateaus, Plains - Climate Seasons - South West and North East Monsoon - Distribution of Rainfall- Rivers of Tamil Nadu
Geography of Tamil Nadu with Special Reference to Specific Region
Location and Districts of Tamil Nadu
Tamil Nadu is located in the southern part of India. It is bordered by Andhra Pradesh to the north, Karnataka to the northwest, Kerala to the west, and the Indian Ocean to the south and east. The state is divided into 38 districts, with Chennai serving as the capital. Other major districts include Coimbatore, Madurai, Tiruchirappalli, and Salem.
Physiography: Mountains, Plateaus, and Plains
The physiography of Tamil Nadu is diverse, consisting of mountains, plateaus, and plains. The Western Ghats, a significant mountain range, runs along the western border, contributing to the state's elevation and biodiversity. The Deccan Plateau covers most of the state, featuring rich soil and agriculture. The coastal plains are characterized by fertile land and support extensive farming.
Climate and Seasons
Tamil Nadu experiences a tropical climate, influenced by its geographical location. The state has distinct seasons: summer (March to June), southwest monsoon (June to September), post-monsoon (October to December), and winter (December to February). Summer is typically hot, while winters are cooler and more pleasant.
Monsoon: Southwest and Northeast
The southwest monsoon usually arrives in June and lasts until September, bringing important rainfall to the western and southern parts of the state. The northeast monsoon occurs from October to December, primarily affecting the eastern regions, particularly the delta areas.
Distribution of Rainfall
Rainfall distribution in Tamil Nadu is uneven, with the western districts receiving more precipitation due to the Western Ghats, while the interior districts are drier. The average annual rainfall ranges from 800 mm to 1,500 mm, depending on the region.
Rivers of Tamil Nadu
Several major rivers flow through Tamil Nadu, including the Kaveri, Vaigai, and Godavari. The Kaveri River is one of the most significant, supporting agriculture and being a vital water source for various districts. The river systems are crucial for irrigation and drinking water supply in the state.
Soils Types of Soil - Natural Vegetation- Forest and its types- Flora and Fauna -Wild life Sanctuaries - Bird Sanctuaries - Botanical Gardens
Soils Types of Soil Natural Vegetation Forest and its types Flora and Fauna Wild life Sanctuaries Bird Sanctuaries Botanical Gardens with reference to this context
Soil Types
Soil types can be classified based on texture, structure, and fertility. Major types include sandy, clayey, loamy, and silt soils. Each type has distinct characteristics that influence water retention, nutrient availability, and suitability for various crops.
Natural Vegetation
Natural vegetation refers to the plant life that grows in a particular area without human intervention. It includes forests, grasslands, and deserts. In Tamil Nadu, tropical rainforests, evergreen forests, and deciduous forests are prominent.
Forest and its Types
Forests in Tamil Nadu can be classified into evergreen, semi-evergreen, deciduous, and scrub forests. Each type supports diverse biodiversity and plays a vital role in the ecosystem.
Flora and Fauna
Flora represents the plant species in an area while fauna includes the animal species. Tamil Nadu has a rich diversity of flora and fauna, including endemic species.
Wildlife Sanctuaries
Wildlife sanctuaries in Tamil Nadu provide a protected space for various animals and plants. Notable sanctuaries include Mudumalai, Anamalai, and Kalakad-Mundanthurai.
Bird Sanctuaries
Bird sanctuaries are dedicated to the conservation of bird species. In Tamil Nadu, important bird sanctuaries include Vedanthangal and Karikili, which host migratory and resident birds.
Botanical Gardens
Botanical gardens are places for the collection, cultivation, and display of a wide range of plants. They serve educational and research purposes. The Botanical Garden in Ooty is a significant example.
Distribution of Crops Food Crops - Paddy, Millets, Pulses, Oilseeds- Cash Crops Sugarcane, Cotton - Plantation Crops Tea, Coffee, Rubber and Spices Livestock Cattle, Sheep and Dairying Fisheries Inland and Deep Sea Fishing
Distribution of Crops
Food Crops
Food crops are vital for sustenance and include paddy, millets, pulses, and oilseeds. They are primarily cultivated for human consumption. Paddy is widely grown in wet regions, while millets are suited for dry areas. Pulses enrich soil fertility with nitrogen fixation, and oilseeds contribute to edible oils.
Cash Crops
Cash crops are cultivated for commercial value rather than subsistence. Major cash crops include sugarcane and cotton. Sugarcane thrives in tropical climates and is processed into sugar and other products. Cotton is integral to the textile industry and requires warm weather and ample water.
Plantation Crops
Plantation crops, like tea, coffee, rubber, and spices, are grown on large estates. Tea and coffee require specific climatic conditions, while rubber is significant for its latex. Spices enhance culinary flavor and have international market demand.
Livestock
Livestock contributes significantly to the agricultural economy. Cattle and sheep are raised for milk, meat, and wool. Dairying is essential for milk production and supports local economies.
Fisheries
Fisheries include inland and deep-sea fishing. Inland fishing occurs in lakes and rivers, providing local communities with food and income. Deep-sea fishing targets a variety of marine species and is crucial for international trade.
Distribution of Minerals and Industries-Metallic- Non-Metallic Iron, Manganese, Bauxite, Copper, Mica, Illuminate and power resources - Agro Based Industries-Cotton, Sugar and Paper Cement Automobile
Distribution of Minerals and Industries
Metallic Minerals
Metallic minerals are minerals that yield metallic elements upon melting. Key examples include iron, manganese, bauxite, and copper. These minerals are crucial for various industrial processes and the production of metals. Iron is primarily found in sedimentary rocks and is essential for steel production. Manganese, often associated with iron ore, is vital for steel manufacturing and battery production. Bauxite is the primary ore of aluminum, distinguished by its high aluminum content. Copper is utilized in electrical wiring and plumbing due to its excellent conductivity.
Non-Metallic Minerals
Non-metallic minerals do not yield metals. They include mica, which is used in electrical insulators and cosmetics, and other minerals that serve industrial purposes. The distribution of these minerals often influences the location of industries that rely on them, such as the mica mining industries in particular regions.
Energy Resources
Illuminate and power resources encompass coal, oil, natural gas, and renewable sources like solar and wind. These energy resources are foundational for powering industries and homes. Tamil Nadu, with significant coal deposits, also focuses on renewable energy to meet increasing demand.
Agro Based Industries
Agro-based industries rely on agricultural products. In Tamil Nadu, key industries include cotton, sugar, and paper production. Cotton textile industries thrive due to the availability of raw cotton, while sugar factories benefit from the sugarcane produced in the region. Paper industries depend on both bamboo and wood pulp derived from agricultural practices.
Cement Industry
The cement industry is vital for construction and infrastructure development. Tamil Nadu hosts several cement plants, leveraging local limestone deposits. The growth in construction activities has boosted cement production, making it one of the leading industries in the state.
Automobile Industry
The automobile industry in Tamil Nadu is a significant contributor to the economy. The state hosts various automobile manufacturers and ancillary industries. Proximity to raw materials and an established supply chain bolster this sector's growth, facilitating job creation and technological advancement.
Population Distribution Density Growth - Population Problems Transportation - Roadways Railways Airports - Ports
Population Distribution Density Growth - Population Problems Transportation - Roadways Railways Airports - Ports
Population Distribution
Population distribution refers to the way in which people are spread across a given area. Factors affecting population distribution include geographical features, climate, economic opportunities, and accessibility to resources.
Population Density
Population density measures the number of people living per unit of area. High density can lead to problems such as overcrowding, while low density may indicate underutilized land.
Population Growth
Population growth is the increase in the number of individuals in a population, influenced by birth rates, death rates, immigration, and emigration. Rapid growth can strain resources and infrastructure.
Population Problems
Challenges related to population include urbanization, environmental degradation, and socioeconomic disparities. Addressing these issues requires integrated planning and policy implementation.
Transportation Systems
Transportation is crucial for economic development and connectivity. It includes roads, railways, airports, and ports that facilitate movement of people and goods.
Roadways
Road networks are essential for regional connectivity and access to markets. They influence economic activities and are vital for transport logistics.
Railways
Rail transport is efficient for moving large quantities of goods and passengers across regions. Railways can reduce traffic congestion and lower transportation costs.
Airports
Airports serve as major hubs for international and domestic air travel. They are critical for tourism and commerce and significantly impact regional economic growth.
Ports
Ports are key infrastructures for maritime trade. They support economic development by providing a gateway for importing and exporting goods, facilitating regional trade relationships.
