Worksheet Solutions: India - Location | Geography Class 11 - Humanities/Arts PDF Download

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Q1: India's territorial limit extends up to __________ nautical miles from the coast.
Ans: 12
This is the limit of India's sovereignty over the sea, allowing control over maritime resources and boundaries within this distance.

Q2: The southern boundary extends up to __________ N latitude in the Bay of Bengal.
Ans: 6
This marks the southernmost point within the Bay of Bengal where India's territory reaches, affecting its maritime jurisdiction.

Q3: The distance between two longitudes decreases towards the __________.
Ans: Poles
As one moves towards the poles, the lines of longitude (meridians) converge, causing the distance between them to decrease.

Q4: India's standard meridian is at __________ E longitude.
Ans: 82.5
The standard meridian was chosen to create a uniform time zone for the entire country, making it 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of Greenwich Mean Time.

Q5: India's coastline extends for __________ km in the mainland.
Ans: 7516.6
This vast coastline plays a crucial role in India's maritime trade and connectivity.

Q6: Sri Lanka is separated from India by the __________ and __________.
Ans: Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar
These water bodies form natural barriers between the two countries.

Q7: The tropic of cancer passes through the __________ of India.
Ans: Central part
The Tropic of Cancer divides India into two climatic zones and influences its weather patterns.

Q8: India's geography is influenced by the presence of the __________.
Ans: Himalayas
The Himalayas have a significant impact on India's climate, river systems, and regional identity.

Q9: The Himalayas have acted as a __________ physical barrier in the past.
Ans: Natural
The Himalayas made it challenging to cross into neighboring regions, contributing to India's unique identity.

Q10: The Indian subcontinent includes the countries __________, __________, __________, __________, and __________.
Ans: India, Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, and Bangladesh.
These countries share historical, cultural, and geographic ties within the Indian subcontinent.

Assertion and Reason Based

Q1: Assertion: India's territorial limit extends up to 12 nautical miles from the coast.
Reason: This is to ensure control over maritime resources and boundaries.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true and related.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true but not related.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion and reason are both accurate and connected as the territorial limit is indeed set to control maritime resources and boundaries.

Q2: Assertion: India's standard meridian is at 82°30' E longitude.
Reason: It helps maintain a uniform time throughout India.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true and related.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true but not related.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion and reason are both accurate and connected as the standard meridian's purpose is to maintain uniform time across India.

Q3: Assertion: The presence of the Himalayas has influenced India's geography.
Reason: The Himalayas have made it easy to cross into neighboring countries.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true and related.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true but not related.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (c)
The presence of the Himalayas has indeed influenced India's geography, but they have historically acted as formidable barriers, making it difficult to cross into neighboring countries.

Q4: Assertion: The Indian subcontinent includes countries like Pakistan, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and India.
Reason: The Himalayas have acted as a physical barrier between India and its neighbors.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true and related.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true but not related.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (a)
The assertion and reason are both accurate and related, as the Himalayas have historically acted as a barrier shaping the subcontinent's identity.

Q5: Assertion: India's location is beneficial due to its position in the Eastern hemisphere.
Reason: The tropic of cancer passes through the center of India.
(a) Both the assertion and reason are true and related.
(b) Both the assertion and reason are true but not related.
(c) Assertion is true, but the reason is false.
(d) Assertion is false, but the reason is true.
Ans: (d)
The assertion and reason are both accurate and related. India's location in the Eastern hemisphere and the tropic of cancer's passage influence its climate and resources.

Very Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: What is India's territorial limit in nautical miles from the coast?
Ans: India's territorial limit extends up to 12 nautical miles from its coast.

Q2: What is the significance of India's standard meridian?
Ans: India's standard meridian, which passes through 82.5 degrees East longitude, is used as the reference point for the Indian Standard Time (IST).

Q3: Name one mountain pass that allows crossing of the Himalayas.
Ans: The famous mountain pass that allows crossing of the Himalayas is the Nathu La Pass.

Q4: Which countries are part of the Indian subcontinent?
Ans: The countries that are part of the Indian subcontinent are India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, Sri Lanka, and Maldives.

Q5: Name the two island countries in the Indian Ocean that are India's neighbors.
Ans: The two island countries in the Indian Ocean that are India's neighbors are Sri Lanka and Maldives.

Q6: What is the importance of the Gulf of Mannar?
Ans: The Gulf of Mannar is important for its rich biodiversity and coral reefs, which support a variety of marine life. It is also a significant fishing zone.

Q7: What geographical feature protects northern India from polar cold winds?
Ans: The Himalayas act as a natural barrier and protect northern India from polar cold winds.

Q8: How does the presence of the Himalayas influence India's climate?
Ans: The Himalayas influence India's climate by blocking the cold winds from Central Asia, resulting in a distinct seasonal pattern and influencing the monsoon winds.

Q9: Which river basins make up the great plains of India?
Ans: The great plains of India are formed by the basins of several rivers, including the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra.

Q10: What are the main human activities associated with the fertile plains region of India?
Ans: The fertile plains region of India is predominantly used for agriculture, with activities such as farming, irrigation, and cultivation of crops like rice, wheat, and sugarcane.

Short Answer Type Questions

Q1: Explain the importance of India's geographic location in the Eastern hemisphere.
Ans: India's geographic location in the Eastern hemisphere is important for several reasons. Firstly, it places India at a strategic position for trade and commerce between the East and the West. It acts as a gateway between the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia. Additionally, its location allows for easy access to the Indian Ocean, an important maritime route connecting various regions. Moreover, being in the Eastern hemisphere gives India cultural and historical connections with neighboring countries, fostering economic and diplomatic relations.

Q2: Describe the role of the Himalayas as a physical barrier in India's geography.
Ans: The Himalayas, located in the northern part of India, serve as a significant physical barrier. They act as a natural boundary, separating India from its northern neighbors, such as China and Nepal. The high mountain ranges and deep valleys make it difficult for easy movement and communication between these regions. The Himalayas also prevent the cold winds from the north, protecting the Indian subcontinent from extreme cold weather conditions.

Q3: Discuss the influence of the Indian Ocean on India's maritime connections with neighboring regions.
Ans: The Indian Ocean plays a crucial role in India's maritime connections with neighboring regions. It provides India with access to important sea routes, facilitating trade and cultural exchanges with countries in the Middle East, East Africa, Southeast Asia, and the Persian Gulf. The Indian Ocean also offers abundant marine resources, supporting India's fishing industry. Furthermore, the ocean influences India's climate and monsoon patterns, impacting agriculture and the overall economy.

Q4: Explain the difference between local time and standard time, and why standard time is important.
Ans: Local time refers to the time observed in a specific region or locality based on the position of the sun. It varies from one location to another, as the Earth's rotation causes differences in sunrise and sunset times. On the other hand, standard time is a uniform time followed across a country or region, usually based on a specific time zone. Standard time is important because it brings consistency and coordination in various activities such as transportation, communication, and commerce. It helps avoid confusion and ensures efficient functioning in a country or region.

Q5: Elaborate on the major physical divisions of India and provide details about one of them.
Ans: India has several major physical divisions, including the Himalayas in the north, the Indo-Gangetic Plains, the Western Ghats, and the Eastern Ghats, to name a few. One example is the Western Ghats, located on the western coast of India. It is a mountain range running parallel to the Arabian Sea. The Western Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity and serve as a crucial ecological hotspot. They receive heavy rainfall, leading to the formation of numerous rivers and waterfalls. The region is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, preserving a variety of plant and animal species.

Q6: How has the changing pattern of human activities in India evolved over time?
Ans: The pattern of human activities in India has evolved significantly over time. Historically, India had an agrarian economy with a focus on agriculture and rural life. However, with the advent of industrialization and urbanization, there has been a shift towards manufacturing and services sectors. Urban areas have witnessed rapid growth, leading to the emergence of cities as centers of commerce, education, and employment. Technology and globalization have also played a role in shaping new industries and transforming the way people work and communicate. Additionally, there has been a greater emphasis on education, healthcare, and infrastructure development in recent years.

Q7: Describe the role of the tropic of cancer in shaping India's climate.
Ans: The Tropic of Cancer, which passes through the middle of India, plays a significant role in shaping the country's climate. It determines the location of the tropical region in India, creating distinct seasons. The Tropic of Cancer's position leads to the occurrence of the summer solstice in June, when the Sun is directly overhead at this latitude. This results in hot summers and influences the monsoon patterns. The Tropic of Cancer also marks the boundary between the tropical and subtropical zones, impacting the overall temperature and climate variations across India.

Q8: Explain the significance of the Ganga-Brahmaputra and Indus river basins in the great plains of India.
Ans: The Ganga-Brahmaputra and Indus river basins hold great significance in the geography of India. They are located in the northern part of the country and form the fertile plains known as the Indo-Gangetic Plains. These river basins are major sources of water for irrigation and support extensive agricultural activities. The fertile soil in the region, deposited by these rivers, makes it one of the most productive agricultural areas in India. The Ganga-Brahmaputra and Indus rivers also have cultural and religious significance, being considered sacred by Hindus.

Long Answer Type Questions

Q1: Discuss the variations in India's landforms, climate, soil types, and natural vegetation due to its geographic location.
Ans: India's geographic location has resulted in a diverse range of landforms, climate patterns, soil types, and natural vegetation across the country.

• Landforms: India is characterized by several distinct landforms. The northern part of the country is dominated by the mighty Himalayas, which are the highest mountain range in the world. These mountains have a significant influence on the climate, as well as the drainage patterns of the region. Moving southwards, one encounters the fertile Gangetic plains, which are formed by the alluvial deposits of the Ganges and its tributaries. Further south, the Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats are two mountain ranges that run parallel to the coastlines, offering scenic landscapes and rich biodiversity. Lastly, the coastal regions are marked by sandy beaches, estuaries, and deltas.
• Climate: India experiences a wide range of climate patterns due to its geographical location. The country lies in the tropical and subtropical region, resulting in diverse climatic zones. The Himalayas act as a barrier, preventing the cold winds from the north to penetrate the Indian subcontinent during winter. As a result, northern India experiences a continental type of climate with hot summers and cold winters. Moving southwards, the climate becomes more tropical, with high temperatures and heavy rainfall during the monsoon season. Coastal areas are influenced by the maritime climate, with relatively moderate temperatures throughout the year.
• Soil Types: India has a variety of soil types due to its diverse topography and climate. The alluvial soil found in the Gangetic plains is highly fertile and suitable for agriculture. The coastal regions have sandy and loamy soils, while the mountainous regions have rocky and coarse soils. The Deccan Plateau, in central India, has black soil, known as regur, which is also highly productive. Additionally, there are red and laterite soils found in certain parts of the country.
• Natural Vegetation: The varied climate and soil conditions have led to a rich diversity of natural vegetation in India. The northern part of the country, including the Himalayas, is covered with coniferous and temperate forests. Moving southwards, one finds deciduous forests in the Gangetic plains, which shed their leaves during the dry season. The Western Ghats and the Eastern Ghats are known for their tropical rainforests, which receive heavy rainfall. Coastal areas are characterized by mangrove forests and coconut groves, adapted to the saline conditions.
  
  

Q2: Explain how the Indian Ocean plays a crucial role in India's trade and economic activities.
Ans: The Indian Ocean plays a crucial role in India's trade and economic activities due to the country's strategic location and historical maritime connections.
Here are some key reasons:

• Trade Routes: The Indian Ocean is a major trade route connecting various regions of the world. India's proximity to the ocean allows for easy access to international markets, facilitating trade with countries in Africa, the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and Australia. The ocean serves as a vital maritime corridor for the transportation of goods, fostering economic activities.
• Ports and Shipping: India has a long coastline along the Indian Ocean, dotted with several major ports. These ports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and others, serve as crucial hubs for international trade. They handle a significant volume of cargo, including exports and imports, contributing to the country's economy. The shipping industry, supported by these ports, plays a vital role in facilitating trade and connectivity.
• Energy Resources: The Indian Ocean is rich in energy resources such as oil and natural gas. India heavily relies on oil imports to meet its energy demands, and the ocean provides a convenient and cost-effective transportation route for oil tankers. Access to these resources in the Indian Ocean region is essential for India's energy security and economic growth.
• Fisheries and Marine Resources: The Indian Ocean is home to a diverse range of marine resources, including fish, crustaceans, and other aquatic life. India has a significant fishing industry that relies on the ocean's resources. The abundance of fish and other seafood supports livelihoods and contributes to the country's food security.
• Tourism and Coastal Development: The Indian Ocean's scenic beaches, islands, and coral reefs attract a large number of tourists to India. Tourism is an essential sector for the country's economy, generating revenue and employment opportunities. The coastal regions, influenced by the Indian Ocean, have witnessed significant development in terms of infrastructure and tourism-related activities.

Overall, the Indian Ocean's strategic location and resources play a crucial role in India's trade, energy security, fisheries, tourism, and coastal development, making it an integral part of the country's economic activities.

Q3: Describe the unique regional identity of the Indian subcontinent and the influence of the Himalayas on this identity.
Ans: The Indian subcontinent possesses a unique regional identity shaped by its diverse culture, languages, religions, and historical influences. The presence of the Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range, has played a significant role in shaping this identity.
Here are some key aspects:

• Cultural Diversity: The Indian subcontinent is known for its cultural diversity, with various ethnic groups, languages, and traditions coexisting in the region. The Himalayas act as a natural barrier, separating different regions and creating distinct cultural identities. Each region within the subcontinent has its own unique customs, festivals, cuisine, and art forms, contributing to the rich tapestry of Indian culture.
• Linguistic Diversity: The Indian subcontinent is home to numerous languages, with over 1,600 languages spoken across the region. The Himalayas have played a role in isolating certain language groups, leading to the development of distinct linguistic identities. For example, the Himalayas have acted as a barrier between North India, where Indo-Aryan languages are spoken, and the Dravidian-speaking regions in the south.
• Religious Influence: The Himalayas have been a significant spiritual and religious center for centuries. The region is associated with several major religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, and Sikhism. The Himalayas are considered sacred in these religions, and the presence of pilgrimage sites, monasteries, and temples in the mountainous terrain has contributed to the region's religious identity.
• Ecological Importance: The Himalayas are known for their unique biodiversity and ecological significance. The region is home to several endemic species and serves as a water source for major rivers in the Indian subcontinent. The ecological importance of the Himalayas has shaped the environmental consciousness and conservation efforts in the surrounding regions, contributing to the overall regional identity.

The influence of the Himalayas on the regional identity of the Indian subcontinent is profound, with its physical presence shaping cultural, linguistic, religious, and ecological aspects. The mountains have acted as a natural barrier, creating distinct identities and fostering a sense of pride and attachment to the diverse regions of the subcontinent.

Q4: Analyze the advantages and disadvantages of India's position as a central location in the Asian continent.
Ans: India's central location in the Asian continent offers both advantages and disadvantages. Here is an analysis of these aspects:

• Advantages:
  • Trade and Connectivity: India's central location allows for easy access to various regions in Asia. The country serves as a bridge between South Asia, Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and Central Asia. This geographical advantage facilitates trade and connectivity, promoting economic activities and regional integration.
  • Cultural Exchange: India's central position makes it a melting pot of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions. The country has historically been a meeting point for different civilizations, leading to a rich cultural exchange. The central location allows for the cross-pollination of ideas, arts, and philosophies, contributing to India's vibrant cultural heritage.
  • Strategic Importance: India's central location gives it strategic significance in the geopolitical landscape of Asia. The country acts as a buffer between major powers in the region, ensuring stability and balance. It also provides opportunities for India to play a diplomatic role and engage in regional cooperation.
• Disadvantages:
  • Security Challenges: India's central location exposes it to various security challenges. The country shares borders with multiple neighboring countries, some of which have experienced political instability and conflicts. This proximity poses security threats, including cross-border terrorism, illicit trade, and territorial disputes.
  • Transportation Costs: While India's central location offers trade advantages, it also presents transportation challenges. Landlocked countries in Central Asia and parts of Southeast Asia may require costly and time-consuming transportation routes to access Indian ports. This can increase transportation costs and hinder trade.
  • Diverse Interests: India's central location means that it needs to balance and manage diverse interests of neighboring countries and regional powers. This can result in complex diplomatic engagements and challenges in aligning regional priorities.

In conclusion, India's central location in the Asian continent provides advantages in terms of trade, connectivity, and cultural exchange. However, it also brings security challenges, transportation costs, and the need to navigate diverse regional interests.