Factors Affecting the Climate of India

The climate of India is influenced by various factors such as latitude, distance from the sea, and topography. Among these, both latitude and distance from the sea play significant roles in shaping the climate of the country.

(i) Latitude:
- Latitude refers to the angular distance of a place from the equator. It is one of the primary factors that affect the climate of a region.
- India is located in the tropical and subtropical latitudes between 8°4'N and 37°6'N.
- The Tropic of Cancer passes through the middle of the country.
- Due to its location, India experiences a tropical monsoon climate characterized by distinct seasons and heavy rainfall.
- The high temperatures and abundant rainfall in the tropical latitudes contribute to the diverse vegetation and agricultural practices in the country.

(ii) Distance from the Sea:
- The presence or absence of a nearby sea or large water body significantly influences the climate of a region.
- India is surrounded by the Arabian Sea on the west, the Bay of Bengal on the east, and the Indian Ocean on the south.
- The presence of these large water bodies has a moderating effect on the climate of coastal regions.
- Coastal areas experience milder temperatures compared to inland areas due to the influence of maritime air currents.
- The sea also provides a source of moisture, which leads to higher levels of humidity and increased precipitation along the coastal regions.
- The western coast of India receives heavy rainfall during the Southwest Monsoon season as moist winds from the Arabian Sea bring precipitation to the region.
- In contrast, the interior regions of India, which are far from the sea, experience a more extreme climate with higher temperature variations and lower rainfall.

Overall, both latitude and distance from the sea are important factors that affect the climate of India. The country's location in the tropical latitudes and its proximity to large water bodies contribute to the unique monsoon climate and diverse weather patterns experienced across different regions.