India is called a subcontinent because of its distinct geographical features and cultural diversity. It is a large landmass that is separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayan mountains in the north. Here are some reasons why India is considered a subcontinent:

Geographical Features
India is a large landmass that is surrounded by water on three sides (the Arabian Sea to the west, the Bay of Bengal to the east, and the Indian Ocean to the south). The northern part of India is separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayan mountain range, which includes some of the highest peaks in the world such as Mount Everest and K2. The Himalayas also act as a natural barrier, shielding India from the harsh cold winds that sweep across Central Asia. The subcontinent also has several large rivers such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Indus, which have given birth to some of the world's oldest civilizations.

Cultural Diversity
India is home to a diverse array of cultures, religions, and languages. It is a melting pot of different ethnicities, with people from all over the world settling here over the centuries. India has a rich history and is known for its ancient civilizations, such as the Indus Valley Civilization, which dates back to 2600 BCE. The country has been ruled by several empires, including the Mauryan, Gupta, and Mughal empires, which have left their mark on Indian culture and society.

Political Unity
Despite its diversity, India has remained politically united for centuries. The country has been ruled by several dynasties and empires, but it has always remained a single entity. India gained independence from British colonial rule in 1947 and has since become the world's largest democracy.

In conclusion, India is called a subcontinent because of its unique geographical features, cultural diversity, and political unity. Its vast size, varied topography, and rich history have made it a distinct entity in the world.

A place is classed as a subcontinentwhen it is part of a continent but is considered either geographically or politically as an independent entity or it is smaller than a continent. India is often called a subcontinent because it is a distinct landmass, not just a country.