Worksheet Solutions: Water Resources | Geography Class 12 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

Fill in the Blanks

Q1: India's landmass makes up around _____ of the world's total area.
Ans: 2.45%
India's landmass makes up around 2.45% of the world's total area, emphasizing its relative geographical size on a global scale.

Q2: Annual precipitation provides India with _____ cubic km of water.
Ans: 4000 cubic km
Annual precipitation provides India with 4000 cubic km of water, highlighting the significant water supply derived from natural rainfall.

Q3: _____% of India's water resources come from surface and groundwater sources.
Ans: 4%
4% of India's water resources come from surface and groundwater sources, indicating the proportion of the country's water supply from these essential sources.

Q4: India relies on four main sources of surface water resources: rivers, lakes, ponds, and _____.
Ans: tanks
India relies on four main sources of surface water resources: rivers, lakes, ponds, and tanks, showcasing the diverse array of water bodies contributing to its water resources.

Q5: _____% of surface water and _____% of groundwater are utilized for domestic purposes.
Ans: 90% (surface water) and 3% (groundwater)
90% of surface water and 3% of groundwater are utilized for domestic purposes, underlining the predominant role of surface water in meeting domestic water needs.

Q6: _____% of groundwater resources are found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra basins.
Ans: 46%
46% of groundwater resources are found in the Ganga and Brahmaputra basins, highlighting the concentration of vital water resources in these regions.

Q7: The mean annual flow in all of India's river basins is estimated to be _____ cubic km.
Ans: 1,869 cubic km
The mean annual flow in all of India's river basins is estimated to be 1,869 cubic km, indicating the average volume of water flowing through the country's river systems annually.

Q8: Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are the states with the highest level of _____.
Ans: groundwater utilization
Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan are the states with the highest level of groundwater utilization, emphasizing the intensity of water usage in these regions for various purposes.

Q9: Efficient management and conservation of surface water are the primary goals of _____.
Ans: watershed management
Efficient management and conservation of surface water are the primary goals of watershed management, emphasizing its focus on preserving surface water resources sustainably.

Q10: According to the National Water Policy of 2002, the top priority for water allocation is _____.
Ans: drinking water
According to the National Water Policy of 2002, the top priority for water allocation is drinking water, underscoring the policy's emphasis on ensuring essential water supply for human consumption and basic needs.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: India's rivers have more water during the monsoon season.
Reason: The flow of water in a river is primarily controlled by the size of its catchment area and the amount of rainfall in that catchment area.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
This statement is true because rivers in India do indeed have more water during the monsoon season due to increased rainfall. The reason provided explains the cause behind this phenomenon, emphasizing the relationship between the size of the catchment area and the amount of rainfall in controlling the flow of water in a river.

Q2: Assertion: Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh heavily rely on groundwater resources for irrigation.
Reason: These states have over 85% of their net cultivated area under irrigation.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
This statement is true as these states heavily rely on groundwater for irrigation, and the reason explains why – having over 85% of their net cultivated area under irrigation indicates a high dependence on water resources, particularly groundwater.

Q3: Assertion: Reusing and recycling water is a cost-effective method to preserve fresh water.
Reason: Industries can utilize low-quality water and their own wastewater for certain purposes.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
This statement is true as reusing and recycling water is indeed a cost-effective method, and the reason provides a valid explanation – industries can utilize low-quality water and their own wastewater for various purposes, reducing the demand on fresh water resources.

Q4: Assertion: The National Water Policy of 2002 prioritizes industrial use over hydro-power.
Reason: The policy aims to ensure that all humans and animals have access to water.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (c)
The National Water Policy of 2002 prioritizes water allocation in the following order: drinking water, irrigation, hydro-power, navigation, industrial use, and other purposes. The assertion that the policy prioritizes industrial use over hydro-power is false. The reason given, stating that the policy aims to ensure access to water for humans and animals, is a general statement but not the reason behind the specific priority order mentioned in the policy. Therefore, while the assertion is true, the reason is false.

Q5: Assertion: Rainwater harvesting prevents soil erosion and flooding.
Reason: It increases water availability and enhances the quality of groundwater.
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation of Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true, but Reason is not the correct explanation of Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true, but Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
Ans: (a)
This statement is true as rainwater harvesting indeed prevents soil erosion and flooding. The reason also holds true because rainwater harvesting increases water availability and enhances the quality of groundwater, leading to its sustainable utilization.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What percentage of India's population represents the world's population?
Ans: 16%

Q2: Name two states with a high level of groundwater utilization.
Ans: Punjab, Haryana

Q3: Which rivers have the most significant catchment areas in India?
Ans: Ganga, Brahmaputra, Indus

Q4: What percentage of India's water resources are utilized for agriculture?
Ans: 89% (surface water), 92% (groundwater)

Q5: Which states have a moderate level of groundwater utilization?
Ans: Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Tripura, Maharashtra

Q6: What percentage of India's rivers are heavily polluted with organic and bacterial contaminants?
Ans: Not provided in the text.

Q7: Name one traditional method of rainwater harvesting.
Ans: Kund or tanka

Q8: Which Indian state has made the construction of water harvesting structures compulsory in houses?
Ans: Tamil Nadu

Q9: What is the primary goal of watershed management?
Ans: Efficient management and conservation of surface water.

Q10: Which Act aimed to prevent pollution but was inadequate in curbing water pollution?
Ans: Water Cess Act of 1977

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the factors that control the flow of water in rivers.
Ans: The flow of water in a river is primarily controlled by the size of its catchment area/river basin and the amount of rainfall in that catchment area. Rivers in India have more water during the monsoon season due to increased rainfall.

Q2: Describe the challenges posed by excessive groundwater withdrawal.
Ans: Excessive groundwater withdrawal leads to the depletion of groundwater resources. In some regions, it has resulted in an increase in fluoride and arsenic concentration, making the water unsafe for consumption.

Q3: What are the harmful substances responsible for water pollution?
Ans: Harmful substances responsible for water pollution include microorganisms, chemicals, and industrial or other wastes, which can contaminate water bodies like lakes, streams, rivers, and oceans.

Q4: Explain the goals of India's National Water Policy of 2002.
Ans: The primary goals of India's National Water Policy of 2002 are to ensure access to water for all humans and animals, regularly monitor the quality of surface and groundwater, promote awareness about water as a limited resource, encourage water conservation through education and regulation, and provide incentives and disincentives.

Q5: Discuss the potential solutions for addressing water scarcity in India.
Ans: Potential solutions for addressing water scarcity in India include rainwater harvesting, desalination of brackish water, interlinking rivers, and efficient management and conservation of water resources through watershed development programs.

Q6: Explain the impact of excessive groundwater withdrawal on water quality.
Ans: Excessive groundwater withdrawal can lead to an increase in concentrations of toxic substances like fluoride and arsenic in groundwater, making it unsafe for consumption.

Q7: Describe the significance of rainwater harvesting.
Ans: Rainwater harvesting is a method of collecting and storing rainwater for various purposes. It helps increase water availability, prevent a decline in groundwater levels, enhance groundwater quality, prevent soil erosion and flooding, and reduce dependence on groundwater.

Q8: Discuss the measures mentioned in the text for preventing water pollution in India.
Ans: Measures for preventing water pollution in India include monitoring water quality at various stations, promoting awareness about water conservation, implementing legislative provisions like the Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act of 1974 and the Environment Protection Act of 1986, and adopting practices like watershed development, rainwater harvesting, recycling, and reuse of water.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the challenges faced by India in managing its water resources.
Ans: India faces several challenges in managing its water resources. Some of the major challenges include:

• Increasing Demand: The rapidly growing population and urbanization in India have led to an increased demand for water in various sectors such as agriculture, industry, and domestic use. Meeting this increasing demand is a major challenge for water resource management.
• Unequal Distribution: Water resources in India are not equally distributed across the country. Some regions face water scarcity, while others have an abundance of water. This unequal distribution poses challenges in ensuring equitable access to water for all.
• Depletion of Groundwater: India heavily relies on groundwater for irrigation and drinking water purposes. However, over-extraction of groundwater has led to a decline in water tables, especially in areas with intensive agriculture. This depletion of groundwater resources poses a significant challenge.
• Pollution: Water pollution is a major challenge in India, with rivers and groundwater sources being heavily contaminated due to industrial discharge, improper waste management, and agricultural runoff. Ensuring the quality of water resources is a crucial aspect of water management.
• Climate Change: Climate change has led to unpredictable rainfall patterns, increased frequency of droughts, and melting of glaciers. These changes in climate patterns pose challenges in water resource planning and management.
• Inefficient Water Management Practices: Inefficient irrigation techniques, lack of proper water management infrastructure, and inadequate water conservation measures contribute to the challenges in managing water resources effectively.

Q2: Discuss the impact of water pollution on India's rivers and groundwater.
Ans: Water pollution has severe impacts on India's rivers and groundwater. Some of the key impacts include:

• Contamination of Drinking Water: Water pollution leads to the contamination of rivers and groundwater sources, making it unfit for human consumption. This poses a significant health risk as polluted water can cause waterborne diseases like cholera, typhoid, and diarrhea.
• Loss of Biodiversity: Pollution in rivers affects the aquatic ecosystem, leading to the loss of biodiversity. It disrupts the natural habitat of various species, affecting their survival and overall ecological balance.
• Negative Impact on Agriculture: Contaminated water used for irrigation can lead to the accumulation of pollutants in crops, affecting their quality and posing health risks to consumers. It can also damage soil fertility, further impacting agricultural productivity.
• Economic Losses: Water pollution has economic implications as well. Contaminated water affects fishing and aquaculture industries, leading to a decline in fish populations and loss of livelihoods for fishing communities. It also affects tourism, as polluted rivers and water bodies are unattractive to visitors.
• Groundwater Contamination: Pollution can seep into groundwater sources, which are often used for drinking water and irrigation purposes. This contamination can be persistent and difficult to treat, leading to long-term risks for human health and agricultural productivity.
• Ecosystem Imbalance: Water pollution disrupts the natural balance of ecosystems, leading to the proliferation of harmful algal blooms, depletion of oxygen levels, and the decline of sensitive aquatic species. This can have cascading effects on the overall ecosystem health.

Q3: Explain the importance of watershed management in conserving water resources.
Ans: Watershed management plays a crucial role in conserving water resources. Here's why it is important:

• Sustainable Water Supply: Watershed management helps in maintaining a sustainable water supply by ensuring the optimum utilization of available water resources. It involves activities like rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, and efficient water distribution, which contribute to water conservation.
• Quality Control: By implementing proper watershed management practices, the quality of water resources can be improved. It helps in reducing soil erosion, sedimentation, and runoff of pollutants into rivers and groundwater sources, thus preserving the overall water quality.
• Flood Control: Effective watershed management includes measures like constructing check dams, contour bunding, and afforestation, which help in reducing the intensity of floods. These measures facilitate the natural absorption and retention of rainwater, minimizing the risk of floods.
• Biodiversity Conservation: Watershed management ensures the conservation of diverse ecosystems within a watershed. It helps in preserving the habitat of various flora and fauna, contributing to the overall biodiversity conservation.
• Community Participation: Watershed management involves the active participation of local communities, creating awareness about the importance of water conservation and sustainable practices. It promotes community ownership and responsibility, leading to the long-term sustainability of water resources.
• Climate Change Adaptation: Watershed management practices can help in adapting to the impacts of climate change. By implementing measures like afforestation and soil moisture conservation, it contributes to the resilience of ecosystems and communities in the face of changing climatic conditions.

Q4: Discuss the role of legislation and public awareness in addressing water pollution in India.
Ans: Legislation and public awareness play significant roles in addressing water pollution in India. Here's how they contribute:

• Legislation: The government has enacted various laws and regulations to control and prevent water pollution. The Water (Prevention and Control of Pollution) Act, 1974, and the Environment Protection Act, 1986, are crucial legislations that provide a legal framework for monitoring and regulating water pollution. These laws empower pollution control boards to enforce pollution control measures and take action against polluting industries.
• Enforcement and Monitoring: Legislation enables the enforcement and monitoring of water pollution control measures. Regulatory bodies such as the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) and State Pollution Control Boards (SPCBs) monitor industrial effluents, waste management practices, and compliance with pollution standards. They conduct regular inspections, issue penalties, and take legal actions against violators.
• Public Awareness: Public awareness campaigns play a vital role in addressing water pollution. Educating the public about the impacts of water pollution, promoting responsible water use, and encouraging the adoption of eco-friendly practices help in creating a sense of responsibility among individuals and communities. Public awareness campaigns also highlight the importance of reporting pollution incidents and participating in conservation initiatives.
• Community Participation: Legislation encourages community participation in addressing water pollution. It provides mechanisms for public participation in decision-making processes, such as public hearings and consultations. This involvement ensures that the concerns and inputs of affected communities are considered while formulating pollution control strategies.
• Research and Development: Legislation facilitates research and development activities related to water pollution control. It promotes the development and implementation of innovative technologies and practices for effective pollution prevention and treatment. Government initiatives and collaboration with research institutions help in finding sustainable solutions to water pollution challenges.
• Compliance and Accountability: Legislation establishes a framework for ensuring compliance and holding polluters accountable. By setting pollution standards and imposing penalties for non-compliance, it creates a deterrent for industries and individuals. This promotes responsible behavior and encourages the adoption of pollution control measures.

Overall, the combination of legislation and public awareness is crucial in addressing water pollution, promoting sustainable water management practices, and ensuring the conservation of India's water resources.