UPSC Mains Answer PYQ 2024: Geography Paper 2 (Section- B) | Geography Optional for UPSC (Notes) PDF Download

Q5: Answer the following questions in about 150 words each:
(a) How are geographic factors influencing the distribution of high, annual rainfall in certain parts of India?
Ans: 
Introduction
The spatial distribution of high annual rainfall in India is primarily determined by geographical factors such as topography, monsoons, and proximity to water bodies.

Factors Influencing Rainfall

1. Monsoons:

   • The Southwest Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the Western Ghats, Konkan coast, and northeastern states.
   • Example: Mawsynram (Meghalaya) receives over 11,000 mm annually.

2. Orographic Effect:

   • Windward slopes of the Western Ghats and Himalayas receive high rainfall, while leeward areas remain dry.

3. Proximity to Water Bodies:

   • Coastal regions like Kerala and the Andaman Islands experience abundant rainfall due to moisture-laden winds.

4. Cyclonic Activity:

   • Eastern coastal regions receive additional rainfall during cyclonic storms.

Conclusion
India's diverse geography and the monsoon system contribute to the uneven distribution of rainfall, impacting agriculture and water resources.

(b) Indian population belongs to large number of races. Discuss the spatial distribution of major races.
Ans: 
Introduction
The Indian population is a mix of various racial groups, reflecting historical migrations and cultural integration.

Major Races and Their Distribution

1. Negrito:

   • Found in the Andaman Islands (e.g., Jarawas, Onges).

2. Proto-Australoid:

   • Tribals in central and eastern India (e.g., Santhals, Gonds).

3. Mongoloid:

   • Inhabitants of northeastern states (e.g., Nagas, Mizos).

4. Mediterranean:

   • Dominant in southern India, contributing to the Dravidian population.

5. Nordic/Indo-Aryan:

   • Predominantly in northern and western India (e.g., Punjab, Haryana).

Conclusion
The spatial distribution of races in India is a testament to its cultural and genetic diversity.

(c) Examine the transitional role of technology on Indian agriculture sector.
Ans: 
Introduction
Technological advancements have revolutionized Indian agriculture, increasing productivity and efficiency.

Role of Technology

1. Green Revolution:

   • High-yield variety seeds and chemical fertilizers boosted wheat and rice production.

2. Irrigation:

   • Drip and sprinkler systems conserve water and enhance efficiency.

3. Mechanization:

   • Tractors and harvesters reduce labor dependency.

4. Digital Platforms:

   • Apps like Kisan Suvidha provide weather forecasts and market prices.

5. Precision Agriculture:

   • Use of GIS and drones optimizes resource use and monitoring.

Conclusion
Technology has transformed Indian agriculture from subsistence to market-oriented farming, though challenges like accessibility and affordability persist.

(d) Describe the area-specific strategies for the development of drought-prone areas in India.
Ans: 
Introduction
Drought-prone areas in India, such as Rajasthan and Bundelkhand, require tailored strategies to address water scarcity and livelihood issues.

Strategies

1. Water Management:

   • Rainwater harvesting and construction of check dams.

2. Crop Diversification:

   • Drought-resistant crops like millets and pulses.

3. Afforestation:

   • Enhances groundwater recharge and prevents soil erosion.

4. Livelihood Diversification:

   • Promoting non-farm activities like animal husbandry.

5. Community Participation:

   • Example: Watershed projects under Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (MGNREGA).

Conclusion
Integrated approaches combining water conservation and livelihood strategies ensure sustainable development in drought-prone regions.

(e) Examine the relationship between seaports and regional development in India.
Ans: 
Introduction
Seaports are vital for regional development, facilitating trade, industrial growth, and employment.

Contribution of Seaports

1. Economic Growth:

   • Ports like Mumbai and Chennai drive industrialization and exports.

2. Infrastructure Development:

   • Connectivity through roads, railways, and pipelines promotes regional integration.

3. Employment:

   • Direct and indirect job creation in logistics and allied industries.

4. Special Economic Zones (SEZs):

   • Proximity to ports attracts industries (e.g., Kandla SEZ).

Conclusion
Seaports act as engines of growth, bridging regional disparities and integrating India with global markets.

Q6: (a) Industrial waste is diversified. Discuss the potentials and challenges associated with it.
Ans: 
Introduction
Industrial waste, including solid, liquid, and hazardous materials, poses challenges and opportunities for resource recovery and environmental management.

Potentials

1. Recycling and Resource Recovery:

   • Example: Fly ash used in cement manufacturing.

2. Energy Generation:

   • Waste-to-energy plants utilize industrial waste for electricity production.

3. Employment:

   • Waste management creates jobs in recycling and processing sectors.

Challenges

1. Environmental Pollution:

   • Unregulated disposal contaminates air, soil, and water.

2. Health Hazards:

   • Toxic chemicals pose risks to workers and communities.

3. Policy Gaps:

   • Weak enforcement of waste management regulations.

Conclusion
Efficient management of industrial waste can turn challenges into opportunities, supporting sustainability and economic growth.

(b) How is cultural background of States of India reflected in the attributes of sex and age structure?
Ans: 
Introduction
India’s cultural diversity influences the sex and age structure of its population, reflecting social norms and practices.

Influence of Cultural Background

1. Sex Ratio:

   • Patriarchal societies in northern India show lower sex ratios.
   • Example: Haryana (877 females/1000 males).

2. Age Structure:

   • Early marriages in rural areas lead to a younger population base.
   • Urban areas have a higher working-age population due to migration.

Conclusion
Cultural traits shape demographic attributes, emphasizing the need for social reforms and gender equity.

(c) Discuss the targets of focused interventions of the Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Catch the Rain, 2024 in rural and urban areas.
Ans: 
Introduction
The Jal Shakti Abhiyan focuses on water conservation and rainwater harvesting in rural and urban areas.

Targets

1. Rural Areas:

   • Construction of check dams and farm ponds.
   • Revival of traditional water bodies.

2. Urban Areas:

   • Rooftop rainwater harvesting systems.
   • Stormwater management in cities.

3. Awareness Campaigns:

   • Community participation in water conservation.

Conclusion
The initiative aims to ensure water security through location-specific interventions, fostering sustainable resource management.

Q7: (a) India is playing a very significant role in world affairs. Examine the stands taken by India in important global and regional summits.
Ans: 
Introduction
India’s participation in global and regional summits reflects its commitment to multilateralism and sustainable development.

Key Stands

1. Climate Change:

   • Advocated for equity at COP27 and committed to net-zero emissions by 2070.

2. Economic Cooperation:

   • Promoted trade and investment at G20 and BRICS summits.

3. Regional Security:

   • Focused on terrorism and connectivity at SAARC and SCO meetings.

Conclusion
India’s active diplomacy enhances its global stature and addresses pressing challenges like climate change and regional stability.

(b) The 73rd Constitutional Amendment Act devolved functions, finances and functionaries for planning of rural areas in India. Discuss the major achievements with examples.
Ans: 
Introduction
The 73rd Amendment decentralized governance by empowering Panchayati Raj Institutions (PRIs) with functions, finances, and functionaries.

Achievements

1. Participatory Democracy:

   • Example: Gram Sabhas enable community decision-making.

2. Women’s Empowerment:

   • 33% reservation for women has increased their political participation.

3. Rural Development:

   • PRIs implement schemes like MGNREGA and Swachh Bharat Mission.

Conclusion
The 73rd Amendment fosters grassroots governance, addressing local needs effectively.

(c) How do small and fragmented landholdings affect the agro-ecological system in rural India? What are the resilient steps needed to overcome this issue?
Ans: 
Introduction
Small and fragmented landholdings are a major challenge for Indian agriculture, impacting productivity and sustainability.

Impacts

1. Low Productivity:

   • Difficulties in mechanization and irrigation.

2. Soil Degradation:

   • Intensive farming leads to nutrient depletion.

Resilient Steps

1. Land Consolidation:
   • Promotes cooperative farming.
2. Technological Integration:
   • Use of drones and precision agriculture.

Conclusion
Addressing fragmentation through policy and technology can enhance agro-ecological resilience.

Q8: (a) How can morphology of Indian towns be described historically? Discuss the major features of the first planned city in India after independence.
Ans: 
Introduction
Indian towns have evolved through historical, colonial, and post-independence phases.

Historical Morphology

1. Medieval Towns: Forts and bazaars (e.g., Jaipur).
2. Colonial Towns: Cantonments and ports (e.g., Kolkata).

Planned City – Chandigarh

1. Features:
   • Sector-based layout, wide roads, and green spaces.
   • Designed by Le Corbusier.

Conclusion
The morphology reflects India’s socio-political evolution, blending tradition and modernity.

(b) Health is the outcome of interaction between physical setting, cultural traits and ecological connection. Explain.
Ans: 
Introduction
Health is influenced by environmental conditions, cultural practices, and ecological connections.

Factors

1. Physical Setting:

   • Climate impacts diseases (e.g., malaria in tropical areas).

2. Cultural Traits:

   • Diet and hygiene practices affect nutrition and sanitation.

3. Ecological Connection:

   • Biodiversity supports medicinal plants and clean air.

Conclusion
Integrating these factors ensures holistic health and well-being.

(c) What are the major regional rapid transit systems developed in India? How are urban problems being addressed by them?
Ans:
Introduction
RRTS addresses urban transport issues through efficient, high-speed connectivity.

Major RRTS

1. Delhi-Ghaziabad-Meerut Corridor: Reduces commute time and pollution.
2. Mumbai-Ahmedabad Bullet Train: Promotes regional economic growth.

Urban Challenges Addressed

1. Congestion: Reduces traffic pressure on roads.
2. Pollution: Shifts to sustainable transit modes.

Conclusion
RRTS enhances urban mobility, fostering sustainable urbanization and regional integration.