Category: CBSE

Class 11 Geography Notes Chapter 1 Geography as a Discipline

We depend on the resources to sustain ourselves in the surrounding areas. Primitive societies subsisted on ‘natural means of subsistence’, i.e. edible plants and animals.

Importance of Geography: Geography helps us to understand the diversity and the causes and factors that have created it. Through geography we understand how spherical earth is presented through a map and we get information about soil, minerals, weather, climate, population, means of transport and communication, local landscape, etc. It also tells us about rivers, mountains, plateaus, plains, deserts, seas, lakes and cultural facts.

The term geography was first coined by Eratosthenese, a Greek scholar (276-194 BC.). The word has been derived from two roots from Greek language geo (earth) and graphos (description). Put together, they mean description of the earth. The earth has always been seen as the abode of human beings and thus, scholars defined geography as, “the description of the earth as the abode of human beings”.

Geographers do not study only the variations in the phenomena over the earth’s surface (space) but also study the associations with the other factors which cause these variations. For example, cropping patterns differ from region to region but this variation in cropping pattern, as a phenomenon, is related to variations in soils, climates, demands in the market, capacity of the farmer to invest and technological inputs available to her/him.

Geography as a discipline is concerned with three sets of questions:

• Some questions are concerned with the identification of the patterns of natural and cultural features as found over the surface of the earth. These are the questions about “what”?
• Second type of questions are related to the distribution of the natural and human/ cultural features over the surface of the earth. These are the questions about where?
• The third question is related to the explanation or the causal relationships between features and the processes and phenomena.

Many disciplines from natural sciences such as geology, pedology, oceanography, botany, zoology and meteorology and a number of sister disciplines in social sciences such as economics, history, sociology, political science, anthropology, etc. study different aspects of the earth’s surface.

A geographer is required to have a broad understanding of all the related fields, to be able to logically integrate them. A geographer should have some proficiency in mathematics and art, particularly in drawing maps. Geography is very much linked with the study of astronomical locations and deals with latitudes and longitudes. The cartographic and quantitative techniques require sufficient proficiency in mathematics, statistics and econometrics.

All the social science disciplines, viz. sociology, political science, economics and demography study different aspects of social reality. The branches of geography, viz. social, political, economic and population and settlements are closely linked with these disciplines as each one of them has spatial attributes.

The major approaches to study geography have been

• Systematic and
• Regional.

The systematic geography was introduced by Alexander Von Humboldt, a German geographer (1769-1859) while regional geography approach was developed by another German geographer and a contemporary of Humboldt, Karl Ritter (1779-1859).

Class 11 Geography Notes Chapter 1 Important Terms:

• Geography: Geography is concerned with the description and explanation of the areal differentiation of the earth’s surface. (Richard Hartshome); In other words, Geography studies the differences of phenomena usually related in different parts of the earth’s surface. (Hettner) GEOGRAPHY-XI
• Geo-morphology: It is concerned with the study of land forms, their evolution and related processes.
• Climatology: It is concerned with the study of structure of atmosphere and elements of weather and climates and climatic types and regions.
• Hydrology: It studies the realm of water over the surface of the earth including oceans, lakes, rivers and other water bodies and its effect on different life forms including human life and their activities.
• Soil Geography: It is concerned with the study the processes of soil formation, soil types, their fertility status, distribution and use.
• Social/Cultural Geography: It is concerned with the study of society and its spatial dynamics as well as the cultural elements contributed by the society.
• Population Geography: It studies population growth, distribution, density, sex ratio, migration and occupational structure etc.
• Settlement Geography: It studies the characteristics of rural and urban settlements.
• Economic Geography: It studies economic activities of the people including agriculture, industry7, tourism, trade, and transport, infrastructure and services, etc.
• Historical Geography: It studies the historical processes through which the space gets organised. In other words, it studies how history has influenced the geography of a region.
• Political Geography: It studies the impact of political events and studies boundaries, space relations between neighboring political units, delimitation of constituencies, election scenario and develops theoretical framework to understand the political behavior of the population.
• Bio-geography: It has emerged as a result of the interface between physical geography and human geography. It has three branches: Plant Geography, Zoo Geography and Ecology.
• Plant Geography: It studies the spatial pattern of natural vegetation in their habitats.
• Zoo Geography: It studies the spatial patterns and geographic characteristics of animals and their habitats.
• Ecology: It is concerned with the scientific study of the habitats characteristic of species.
• Environmental Geography: It is concerned with environmental problems such as land gradation, pollution and environment conservation.

Class 11 Geography Notes

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions Chapter 12 Geographical Perspective on Selected Issues and Problems

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved

1. Choose the right answers of the following from the given options:

Question 1.(i)
Which one of the following river is highly polluted?
(a) Brahmaputra
(b) Satluj
(c) Yamuna
(d) Godavari
Answer:
(c) Yamuna

Question 1.(ii)
Which one of the following diseases is caused by water pollution?
(a) Conjunctivitis
(b) Diarrhorea
(c) Respiratory infections
(d) Bronchitis
Answer:
(b) Diarrhorea

Question 1.(iii)
Which one of the following is the cause of acid rain?
(a) Water pollution
(b) Land pollution
(c) Noise pollution
(d) Air pollution
Answer:
(d) Air pollution

Question 1.(iv)
Push and pull factors are responsible for-
(a) Migration
(b) Land degradation
(c) Slums
(d) Air pollution
Answer:
(a) Migration

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words:

Question 2.(i)
What is the difference between pollution and pollutants?
Answer:

Pollution	Pollutant
(i) Pollution is the addition of unwanted, harmful substances in the atmosphere in substantial amount over a considerable period of time.	(i) Pollutants are the substances which are unwanted, and harmful. They make the environment polluted.
(ii) It is the degradation of the quality of environment.	(ii) They degrade the quality of the environment.
(iii)Pollution is caused by pollutants.	(iii) Addition of pollutants is the cause of pollution.

Question 2.(ii)
Describe the major source of air pollution.
Answer:
Combustion of coal, petrol and diesel, industrial processes, solid waste disposal, sewage disposal, etc. are the major sources of air pollution because they add oxides of sulfur, oxides of nitrogen, carbon monoxide, hydro-carbons, ammonia, lead aldehydes, asbestos and helium in the atmosphere.

Question 2.(iii)
Mention major problems associated with urban waste disposal in India.
Answer:
Solid waste refers to a variety of old and used articles, For example stained small pieces of metals, broken glasswares, plastic containers, polythene bags, ashes, floppies, CD’s, etc. dumped at different places. Environmental pollution by solid wastes has now got significance because of enormous growth in the quantity of wastes generated from various sources. The huge turn out of ashes and debris from industries, thermal power houses and building constructions or demolitions have posed problems of serious consequences. Solid wastes cause health hazard through creation of obnoxious smell, and harbouring of flies and rodents, which act as carriers of diseases like typhoid, diphtheria, diarrhoea, malaria and cholera, etc.

These wastes cause frequent nuisance as and when these are carelessly handled, spread by wind and splittered through rain water. Concentration of industrial units in and around urban centres gives rise to disposal of industrial wastes. The dumping of industrial waste into rivers leads to water pollution. River pollution from city-based industries and untreated sewage leads to serious health problems downstream. 50 per cent of the waste generated are left uncollected which accumulate on streets, in open spaces between houses and in wastelands leading to serious health hazards. Untreated wastes ferment slowly and release toxic biogas to the atmosphere, including methane. Land is limited in urban centres so looking for landfill to dump the waste generated in urban centres is a major problem.

Question 2.(iv)
What are the effects of air pollution on human health?
Answer:
Air pollution is taken as addition of contaminants like dust, fumes, gas, fog, odour, smoke or vapour to the air in substantial proportion and duration that may be.harmful to flora and fauna and to property. It causes various diseases related to respiratory, nervous and circulatory systems. Smoky fog over cities called as urban smog is caused by atmospheric pollution. It proves very harmful to human health. It can also cause acid rain.

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words:

Question 3.(i)
Describe the nature of water pollution in India.
Answer:
Water pollution is addition of unwanted and harmful material in the water which renders it harmful for the use of human and degrades the flora and fauna around it. Indiscriminate use of water by increasing population and industrial expansion has led degradation of the quality of water considerably. Surface water available from rivers, canals, lakes, etc. is never pure. It contains small quantities of suspended particles, organic and inorganic substances. When concentration of these substances increases, the water becomes polluted, and hence becomes unfit for use. In such a situation, the self-purifying capacity of water is unable to purify the water.

Although water pollutants are also created from natural sources (erosion, landslides, decay and decomposition of plants and animals, etc.). Pollutants from human sources are the real causes of concern. Human beings pollute the water through industrial, agricultural and cultural activities. Among these activities, industry is the most significant contributor. Industries produce several undesirable products including industrial wastes, polluted waste water, poisonous gases, chemical residuals, numerous heavy metals, dust, smoke, etc. Most of the industrial wastes are disposed off in running water or lakes. Consequently, poisonous elements reach the reservoirs, rivers and other water bodies, which destroy the bio-system of these waters. Major water polluting industries are leather, pulp and paper, textiles and chemicals.

Various types of chemicals used in modern agriculture such as inorganic fertilisers, pesticides and herbicides are also pollution generating components. These chemicals are washed down to rivers, lakes and tanks. These chemicals also infiltrate the soil to reach the ground water. Fertiliser induces an increase in the nitrate content of surface waters. Cultural activities such as pilgrimage, religious fairs, tourism, etc. also cause water pollution. In India, almost all surface water sources are contaminated and unfit for human consumption. Also the overutilization of groundwater resources in India has led to groundwater depletion and also increased concentration of Arsenic in many parts of West Bengal and Bihar.

Domestic waste which includes sewage and other household waste also adds on to the pollution of water. Water pollution is a source of various water borne diseases. The diseases commonly caused due to contaminated water are diarrhea, intestinal worms, hepatitis, etc. World Health Organisation shows that about one-fourth of the communicable diseases in India are water-borne.

Question 3.(ii)
Describe the problem of slums in India.
Answer:
Urban centers in India are more differentiated in terms of the .social-economic, politico-cultural and other indicators of development than any other areas. They represent social-economic disparities of highest order. On one hand are the highly posh areas with huge farm houses, wide roads, entertainment center and all amenities required for leading a luxurious life, on the other hand are the slum clusters, generally referred to as “jhuggi- jhopris-clusters and colonies of shanty structures. Those people who were forced to migrate from the rural areas to these urban centers in search of livelihood but could not afford proper housing due to high rent and high costs of land inhabit these slums. They occupy environmentally incompatible and degraded areas.

Slums are residential areas of the least choice, dilapidated houses, poor hygienic conditions, poor ventilation, lack of basic amenities like drinking water, light and toilet facilities, etc. These areas are overcrowded having narrow street pattern prone to serious hazards from fire. Moreover, most of the slum population works in low paid, high risk-prone, unorganised sectors of the urban economy. Consequently, they are the undernourished, prone to different types of diseases and illness and can ill afford to give proper education to their children. The poverty makes them vulnerable to drug abuse, alcoholism, crime, vandalism, escapism, apathy and ultimately social exclusion.

Dharavi, which is the second largest slum of Asia, shows the extreme miserable and unhygienic conditions of existence. The area is devoid of sanitation and is infested by pests such as rats, causing miserable health conditions of the residents. The lanes of the slum are not wide enough to let a bicycle pass through them. People inhabiting the slum face chronic diseases- both communicable and the ones caused by deficiencies.
The lack of employment opportunities in the rural as well as urban areas of developing nations consistently push the population to urban areas.

The enormous migrant population generates a pool of unskilled and semi skilled labour force, which is already saturated in urban areas. People coming to the slums are affected by the several ills which cities of developing countries face. The available social and economic infrastructure is unable to absorb the additional population. Lack of education, employment and male selective migration tends to increase the crime rates. Due to failing infrastructure, people living in slums are devoid of minimum required quantity of potable water. An improper sewage system creates unhealthy conditions.Massive use of traditional fuel severely pollutes the air.

Question 3.(iii)
Suggest measures for reduction of land degradation.
Answer:
The pressure on agricultural land increases not only due to the limited availability but also by deterioration of quality of agricultural land. Soil erosion, water¬logging, salinisation and alkalinisation of land lead to land degradation. Though all degraded land may not be wasteland, but unchecked process of degradation may lead to the conversion to wasteland. There are two processes that induce land degradation. These are natural and created by human beings. National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA) has classified wastelands by using remote sensing techniques and it is possible to categorizes these wastelands according to the processes that have created them. Some degradation which is caused by natural agents cannot be stopped altogether, but the degraded land can be revived through reclamation processes.

Land degradation like gullied/ ravenous land, desertic or coastal sands, barren rocky areas, steep sloping land, and glacial areas are primarily caused by natural agents. There are other type of degraded land such as waterlogged and marshy areas, land affected by salinity and alkalinity and land with or without scrub, which have largely been caused by natural as well as human factors. There are some other types of wastelands such as degraded shifting cultivation area, degraded land under plantation crops, degraded forests, degraded pastures, and mining and industrial wastelands, are caused by human actions.

Land degradation caused by human activities can be controlled by regulating and improving land use practices. Shifting agriculture and open grazing causes a large area of land to be degraded, therefore shifting cultivation and open grazing should be strictly banned. Regulations on use of fertilizers and other chemicals on the agricultural land should be strengthened. Mining activities, deforestation all leads to land degradation, therefore government needs to put strict checks on these practices. The best way to put a check on the land degradation and land revival is by educating the inhabitants of the area and having community based programmes aimed at checking land degradation and reviving the degraded land. Under the various schemes of governments, and aid of NGOs the community is organized in such a way to use sustainable and organic agricultural practices.

Common property resource is revitalized, and its use is promoted. Planting patches of fodder grass so as to limit open grazing is a crucial step to curtail land degradation. Social fencing of the land leads to feeling of responsibility among the people and therefore protection of land. Therefore community participation with public- government participation is. the best method to contain land degradation. The best example from India for.revival of degraded land is of the Jhabua district in the westernmost agro-climatic zone of Madhya Pradesh.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 NCERT Extra Questions

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
What do you mean by environmental pollution?
Answer:
Environmental pollution results from ‘the release of substances and energy from waste products of human activities.

Question 2.
In how many categories is pollution divided on the basis of medium through which pollutants are transported?
Answer:
There are many types of pollution on the basis of medium through which pollutants are transported and diffused:

• Air pollution
• Water pollution
• Land pollution
• Noise pollution

Question 3.
What do you mean by water pollution?
Answer:
Deterioration in quality of water due to presence of waste, toxic chemicals, etc. water becomes unfit for use. They are difficult to remove by standard purification measures. Flourides, e-coli from wastes are examples of water pollution.

Question 4.
What are the main sources of water pollution? .
Answer:
Water pollutants are created by natural sources like soil erosion, landslides, decay and decomposition of plants and animals,
etc. But the main pollutants come from human sources which includes polluting the water through industrial, agricultural and cultural activities. Human causes are the real causes of concern.

Question 5.
What is meant by air pollution?
Answer:
Air pollution is taken as addition of contaminants like dust, fumes, gas, fog, odour, smoke or vapour to the air in substantial proportion and duration that may be harmful to flora and fauna and to property.

Question 6.
Name the diseases caused by air pollution.
Answer:
It causes various respiratory diseases like asthma, sore throat, sneezing, allergic rhinitis, smoky fog over the cities commonly known as smog prevails which may lead to accidents.

Question 7.
What do you mean by noise pollution?
Answer:
Noise pollution refers to the state of unbearable and uncomfortable to human beings which is caused by noise from different sources. The level of steady noise is measured by sound level expressed in terms of decibel (dB).

Question 8.
Which physical disorders take place due to noise pollution?
Answer:
Hearing problems, headache, anxiety, irritation, depression, digestive disorder, etc.

Question 9.
What health problems are caused by solid waste?
Answer:
Solid wastes cause health hazard through creation of obnoxious smell, and harbouring of flies and rodents, which act as carriers of diseases like typhoid, diphtheria, diarrhoea, malaria and cholera, etc.

Question 10.
What are the main causes of migration from rural area to urban area?
Answer:
Population flow from rural to urban areas is caused by many factors:

• High demand for labour in urban areas.
• Low job opportunities in rural areas.
• Imbalanced pattern of development between urban and rural areas.

Question 11.
What do you mean by slums?
Answer:
“Slums”, jhuggi-jhopari” are clusters and colonies of shanty structures. These are inhabited by those people who were forced to migrate from the rural areas to these urban centers in search of livelihood but could not afford proper housing due to high rent and high costs of land. They occupy environmentally unfriendly areas.

Question 12.
What do you mean by land degradation?
Answer:
Land degradation is generally understood either as a temporary or a permanent decline in productive capacity of the land.

Question 13.
Which human action brings reduction in land productivity?
Answer:
Shifting cultivation area, degraded land under plantation crops, degraded forests, degraded pastures, and mining and industrial wastelands, are causes of land degradation by human action.

Question 14.
What per cent of agricultural land in India is barren and uncultivable waste and degraded land?
Answer:
17.98% of total geographical area of land in India is barren and un¬cultivable waste and degraded land for which natural and human actions are responsible.

Short Answer Type Questions Class 12 Geography Chapter 12

Question 1.
Describe the effects and remedies for air pollution.
Answer:
Effects of Air Pollution:

• It causes various respiratory diseases like asthma, sore throat, sneezing, allergic rhinitis, smoky fog over the cities commonly known as smog prevails which may lead to accidents.
• Air pollution also causes acid rain.
• It leads to global warming which creates variation in the rhythmic cycle of seasons.
• Depletion of the ozone layer is the result of excessive chlorofluorocarbons and carbon dioxide in the atmosphere.
• It is also responsible for the various skin diseases like, itching of eyes, pimples, etc.

Measures to curb Air Pollution:

• Promote afforestation
• Use electrical appliances with four star or five star ratings.
• Use CNG for automobiles.
• Proper chimney should be installed.

Question 2.
Describe the sources of air pollution in India.
Answer:
Air Pollution: Increased concentration of contaminants like dust, fumes, gas, odour and smoke in the air causes pollution. This concentration may be harmful to flora, fauna and to property.
Sources of Air Pollution:

• Increased use of variety of fuels such as coal, petrol and diesel.
• Increased emission of toxic gases from industrial activities into the atmosphere.
• Mining activities release the dusts which pollute the air.
• Important pollutants are oxide of sulphur and nitrogen, hydrocarbons, carbon dioxide, carbon monoxide, lead andasbestos

Question 3.
What are the sources of pollution in the Ganga and the Yamuna? Also give its polluted stretch.
Answer:
Sources of pollution in Ganga and Yamuna:

• Domestic and industrial effluents.
• Dumping and carcasses in the river.
• Domestic waste from urban centres.
• Agricultural run-off.
• Extraction of water for irrigation purpose.
• Industrial pollution in the cities like Kanpur, Agra, Mathura, Varanasi and Delhi. The polluted stretch of the river Ganga: Downstream of Kanpur, Varanasi, Farakka barrage. The polluted stretch of the riVer Yamuna: Delhi, Mathura and Agra.

Question 4.
Which problems have arisen due to increasing urban population?
Answer:
Some problems have arisen due to increasing urban population:

• Congestion
• Overcrowding
• Inadequate facilities to support the fast growing population and consequent poor sanitary conditions and foul air.
• Environmental pollution by solid wastes has now got significance because of enormous growth in the quantity of wastes generated from various sources,
• Urban waste disposal.
• Increasing number of slums.

Question 5.
Urban waste disposal is a serious problem in India. Why?
Answer:
In metropolitan cities like Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, etc. about 90 per cent of the solid waste is collected and disposed. But in most of other cities and towns in the country, about 30 to 50 per cent of the waste generated are left uncollected which accumulate on streets, in open spaces between houses and in wastelands leading to serious health hazards. These wastes should be treated as resource and utilized for generating energy and compost. Untreated wastes ferment slowly and release toxic biogas to the atmosphere, including methane.

Question 6.
Write a note on the life of people living in slums.
Answer:
Slums are residential areas of the least choice, dilapidated houses, poor hygienic conditions, poor ventilation, lack of basic amenities like drinking water, light and toilet facilities, etc. Most of the slum population works in low paid, high risk- prone, unorganized sectors of the urban economy. Consequently, they are the undernourished, prone to different types of diseases and illness and can ill afford to give proper education to their children. The poverty makes them vulnerable to drug abuse, alcoholism, crime, vandalism, escapism, apathy and ultimately social exclusion.

Question 7.
What are the main sources of noise pollution?
Answer:
The main sources of noise pollution are various factories, mechanized construction and demolition works, automobiles and aircraft’s, etc. There may be added periodical but polluting noise from sirens, loudspeakers used in various festivals, programmes associated with community activities.

In sea traffic, the noise pollution is confined to the harbour due to loading and unloading activities being carried. Industries cause noise pollution but with varying intensity depending upon the type of industry.

Question 8.
Why are rural areas important for urban centers?
Answer:
Rural areas are important for urban areas because they provide labour for industrial development and for tertiary activities. At present, 47 per cent of the world’s six billion population lives in cities and more will join them in near future. This proportion is estimated to go up to 50 per cent by 2008. By 2050, an estimated two-thirds of the world’s population will live in urban areas, imposing even more pressure on the space infrastructure and resources of cities, which are manifested in terms of sanitary, health, crime problems and urban poverty.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
The largest slum Dharavi exhibits many contradictory elements. What are these? Explain.
Answer:
Dharavi is Asia’s largest slum. There are many contradictory elements.
Negative versus positive aspect of the slum:

• Only one main road traverses the slum, the miscalled ‘ninety-foot road’, which has been reduced to less than half of that for most of its length.
• Some of the side alleys and lanes are so narrow that not even a bicycle can pass. The whole neighborhood consists of temporary buildings, two or three storeyed high with rusty iron stairways to the upper part, where a single room is rented by a whole family, sometimes accommodating twelve or more people.
• On the one hand, in this place of shadowless, treeless sunlight, uncollected garbage, stagnant pools of foul water, where the only non-human creatures are the shining black crows and long grey rats, on the other hand, some of the most beautiful, valuable and useful articles in India are made. From Dharavi come delicate ceramics and pottery, exquisite embroidery and zari work, sophisticated leather goods, high-fashion garments, finely-wrought metalwork, delicate jewellery settings, wood carvings and furniture that would find its way into the richest houses, both in India and abroad.

Question 2.
State any four pressing environmental concerns of India.
Answer:
Four pressing environmental concerns in India are:

• Water Contamination: In India drinking water is getting contaminated due to industrial waste. It is leading to water¬borne diseases.
• Air Pollution: Due to urbanisation, the number of vehicles on Indian roads is increasing continously. Number of motor vehicles has increased from 3 lakh in 1951 to 67 crores in 2003. India is one of the ten most industrialised nations of the world but it has happened at the cost of environment which is irreversible.
• Deforestation: India’s forest cover is dwindling continuously due to increasing demand by increasing population. It is increasing air pollution and the problems associated with it. Per capita forest land in India is only 0.08 hectare against a requirement of 0.47 hectare.
• Land Degradation: Land degradation is happening because of loss of vegetation occurring due to deforestation, unsustainable fuel wood and fodder extraction, encroachment into forest lands, non adoption of adequate soil conservation measures, indiscriminate use of chemicals, improper planning and management of irrigation system. Certainly, correction of environmental degradation involves an opportunity cost in the form of adverse health conditions, poor quality of life in poor environmental conditions and expenditure by government on correcting the harm done by environment.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 Higher Order Thinking Skills

Question 1.
What are the impacts of rural – urban migration in India?
Answer:
Positive Impacts:

• Availability of cheap labour
• Widening of outlook
• Improvement in standard of living
• Improved level of consumption
• Development in their working skill Negative Impacts:
• Rapid population growth in Mega cities,
• Excessive pressure on land, housing and other amenities
• Deterioration in civic amenities
• Increase in anti-social activities
• Environmental degradation

Question 2.
Why has the oceanic noise increased in the last forty years? Give reasons.
Answer:
A study by Scripps Institute of Oceanography has revealed that oceanic noise has increased tenfold since the 1960’s. The reasons are as:

• It is due to the vast increase in the volume of global shipping trade.
• The higher speed of vessels.
• The population has increased around the globe in recent decades.
• Increase in marine activity (exploration of petroleum and natural gas etc.; collection of marine food).
• Increase in naval activities.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 Important Questions

Very Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Mention any two cultural activities responsible for water pollution in India. (Delhi 2009)
Answer:
Pilgrimage and religious fairs.

Question 2.
Which is the main source of water¬borne diseases in India? Name any one water-borne disease. (A.I. 2009) (CBSE 2011)
Answer:
Water pollution is the main source of water-borne diseases in India. Diarrhoea is the main disease caused by polluted water.

Question 3.
Which is the main source of environmental pollution in India? (CBSE 2010)
Answer:
Human activities is the main source of environmental pollution in India.

Question 4.
Which city is the main polluter of River Yamuna? (Delhi 2010)
Answer:
Delhi.

Question 5.
Which source of pollution is responsible for acid rain? (CBSE 2011)
OR
What is the main cause of acid rain? (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Air pollution is responsible for acid rain.

Question 6.
Name the two metropolitan cities which are the main polluters of river Ganga before it reaches Varanasi. (Delhi 2011)
Answer:
Kanpur, Allahabad.

Question 7.
Which is the most significant contributor of water pollution in India? (Foreign 2011)
OR
Mention any two sources of land pollution in India. (A.I. 2013)
Answer:
Industrial waste.

Question 8.
Which are the two major sources of land pollution in India? (Foreign 2011)
Answer:
Large scale use of chemicals in agriculture and industries as well as industrial wastes.

Question 9.
Name two diseases caused by use of contaminated water. (A.I. 2014)
OR
Which diseases may take place due to contaminated water? (CBSE 2005)
Answer:
Diarrhoea, intestinal worms, hepatitis, cholera, jaundice, malaria, etc.

Question 10.
Mention the root cause of ‘acid rains’.
(Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Urban smog/Air pollution/Atmospheric pollution cause acid rain.

Question 11.
What is criterion for the classification of pollution? (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Different types of pollution are classified on the basis of medium through which pollutants are transported and diffused.

Question 12.
Mention any two sources of water pollutants created by humans. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:

• Sewage disposal.
• Urban run-off.
• Toxic effluents from industries.
• Run-off over cultivated lands and nuclear power plants.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Examine any three causes for the deterioration of quality of water in India. (Al CBSE 2013)
Answer:
Causes:

• Water gets polluted by foreign matters like chemicals, industrial waste etc.
• Various types of chemicals used in modern agriculture such as inorganic fertilisers, pesticides, etc. are also pollution generating components.
• Cultural activities such as pilgrimage, religious fairs also cause water pollution.

Question 2.
Explain any three effects of air pollution on human life. (CBSE 2011)
OR
Explain three ill effects of air pollution on human health in India. (Delhi 2010)
OR
Explain any three consequences of air pollution. (A.1.2015)
Answer:
Effect of air Pollution on human are:

• It causes various disease related to respiratory system, nervous and circulatory systems.
• It causes smoky fog over cities called as urban smog which is very harmful to us.
• It causes acid rain etc.

Question 3.
How has noise pollution become hazardous in many big cities of India? Explain with example. (CBSE 2009)
Answer:
The main source of noise pollution are:

• Traffic noise is the biggest sources of air pollution as its intensity and nature depend upon the type of aircraft, vehicle, train and the condition of road.
• In sea traffic, the noise pollution is confined to the harbour due to loading and unloading of goods being carried, (in) Noise pollution’s intensity declines with increase in distance from the source of pollution, i.e., industrial areas, arteries of transportation, airport, etc.

Question 4.
Explain any two major sources of air pollution in India? How is the air pollution harmful to human health? Explain. (CBSE 2008)
Answer:
Two major sources of air pollution in India are: Combustion of coal, petrol and diesel, mining, solid waste disposal, sewage, vehicles etc.
Effect of air pollution on human are:

• It causes various disease related to respiratory system, nervous and circulatory systems.
• It causes smoky fog over cities called as urban smog which is very harmful to us.
• It causes acid rain etc.

Question 5.
Analyse any three major problems of slum dweller in India. (Delhi 2013)
OR
Describe any three major problems of slums in India. (Delhi 2014)
OR
Describe any three major problems of slums in India. (A.I. 2014)
Answer:

• Their houses are dillapidated and poor hygienic conditions.
• They have lack basic amenities like drinking water, light and toilet facilities.
• These areas are over croweded having narrow street pattern prone to serious hazard from fire.

Question 6.
Mention any two sources of land pollution in India. (A.I. 2013)
Answer:

• Improper human activities.
• Disposed of untreated industrial .waste.
• Use of pesticides and fertilizers.

Question 7.
How do industries pollute India’s water bodies? Explain with examples. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Industrial expansion has led degradation of the quality of water considerably. Industry is the most significant contributor of pollution. Industries produce several undesirable products including industrial waste, polluted waste water, poisonous gases, chemical residuals, numerous heavy metals, dust smoke etc. Most of the industrial wastes are disposed off in running water or lakes. As a result, poisonous elements reach the reservoirs, rivers and other water bodies. Major water polluting industries are leather, pulp and paper, textiles and chemicals.

Question 8.
“The urban waste should be properly treated as a resource for various needs of mankind.” Explain the values that can help in changing the urban waste into resources.
Answer:
About 90% of the solid waste is collected and disposed in some metropolitan cities. But in most of their cities and towns in the country, about 30 to 50% of the waste generated are left uncollected which accumulate on streets, in open spaces between houses and in wastelands leading to serious health hazards. These waste should be treated as resource and utilised for generating energy and compost. Untreated wastes ferment slowly and release toxic biogas to the atmosphere, including methane.

Question 9.
Examine the success of watershed management programme implemented in Jhabua district of Madhya Pradesh. (A.I. 2016)
Answer:
Jhabua is a backward district in Madhya Pradesh with high tribal population. People suffer due to poverty caused by resource degradation. The watershed management programme funded by the GOI, has helped .in preventing land degradation and improving soil quality. It emphasized on the holistic development with community participation. The WSDP has treated 20% of the area in the district. The Bhils have revitalized large parts of community resource. Each household planted at least one tree. Stall feeding of cattle has been introduced and they have developed pastures which will sustain their cattle as well. The villagers are proud and confident of their common property resources.

Question 10.
“Air pollution is very harmful to flora, fauna and property.” Explain any three values which can help in maintaining pollution free air to some extent. (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
Values which can help in maintaining pollution free air:

• Air pollution is harmful for environment and mankind, therefore, it is our responsibility to save air from pollution.
• People should be aware of the harmful effects of air pollution.
• People should feel duty bound to save air.
• People must follow rules for saving air.
• We must use eco friendly non-conventional sources of energy (Solar, Biogas and Wind energy) as conventional sources (Coal, oil and gas) are harmful.
• People should feel duty bound to use public transport.
  (Any three points to be explained)

Question 11.
“Indiscriminate use of water by increasing population and industrial expansion has led to degradation of the quality of water considerably.” Evaluate the statement. (Delhi 2018)
Answer:
Increasing population and industrial expansion are responsible for water pollution:

• Domestic and sewage waste water remains untreated.
• Excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in farming results in water pollution.
• Cultural activities: fairs, tourism, pilgrimage, etc.
• Industries produce many undesirable substances which pollutes water.
• Chemical residues and toxins pollute water.
• Major polluting industries are leather, pulp, paper, textiles, chemicals, etc.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 12 Map Based Questions

Question 1.
Locate and label the following five features with appropriate symbols on the given political outline map of India. (Delhi 2017)
(i) The most urbanized state (2011).
(ii) The leading cotton producing state.
(iii) The Software Technology park located in Punjab.
(iv) The major coal field located in Chhattisgarh.
(v) The international airport located in Karnataka.
Answer:

Question 2.
Locate and label the following five features with appropriate symbols on the given political outline map of India. (A.I. 2017)
(i) The state having the highest density of population according to Census 2011
(ii) A leading rice producing state
(iii) The software technology park located in Gujarat
(iv) The major coal field located in Odisha
(v) An international airport located in Tamil Nadu
Answer:

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions

Practical Work in Geography Class 12 Solutions Chapter 6 Spatial Information Technology

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved

1. Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below

Question 1(i).
The spatial data are characterised by the following forms of appearance:
(a) Positional
(b) Linear
(c) Areal
(d) All the above forms.
Answer:
(b) Linear

Question 1(ii).
Which one of the following operations requires analysis module software?
(a) Data storage
(b) Data display
(c) Data output
(d) Buffering
Answer:
(d) Buffering

Question 1(iii).
Which one of the following is disadvantage of Raster data format?
(a) Simple data structure.
(b) Easy and efficient overlaying.
(c) Compatible with remote sensing imagery.
(d) Difficult network analysis.
Answer:
(d) Difficult network analysis.

Question 1(iv).
Which one of the following is an advantage of Vector data format?
(a) Complex data structure.
(b) Difficult overlay operations.
(c) Lack of compatibility with remote sensing data.
(d) Compact data structure
Answer:
(d) Compact data structure

Question 1(v).
Urban change detection is effectively undertaken in GIS core using:
(a) Overlay operations
(b) Proximity analysis
(c) Network analysis
(d) Buffering
Answer:
(b) Proximity analysis

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words:

Question 2(i).
Differentiate between raster and vector data models.
Answer:
Raster data represents a graphic feature as a pattern of grids of squares, whereas vector data represents the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.

Question 2(ii).
What is an overlay analysis?
Answer:
Overlay Analysis Operations is the hallmark of GIS. An integration of multiple layers of maps using overlay operations is an important analysis function. In other words, GIS makes it possible to overlay two or more thematic layers of maps of the same area to obtain a new map layer similar to the sieve mapping, i.e. the overlaying of tracing of maps on a light table to make comparisons and obtain an output map.

Question 2(iii).
What are the advantages of GIS over manual methods?
Answer:
GIS possesses inherent advantages of separate data storage and presentation.
It also provides options for viewing and presenting the data in several ways.

The important advantages of GIS are given below:

• Users can interrogate displayed spatial features and retrieve associated attribute information for analysis.
• Maps can be drawn by querying or analysing attribute data.
• Spatial operations (Polygon overlay or Buffering) can be applied on integrated database to generate new sets of information.
• Different items of attribute data can be associated with one another through shared location code.

Question 2(iv).
What are important components of GIS?
Answer:
The important components of a Geographical Information System include the
following:

• Hardware
• Software
• Data
• People
• Process

The different components of GIS are shown in figure given below:

Question 2(v).
What are different ways in which spatial data is built in GIS core?
Answer:
Spatial Data Input is the spatial database into a GIS. It can be created from a variety of sources. These could be summarised into the following two categories:

1. Acquiring digital data sets from Data Suppliers: The present day data supplies make the digital data readily available, which range from small- scale maps to the large-scale plans. For many local governments and private organisations, such data form an essential source and keep such groups of users free from overheads of digitising or collecting their own data.
2. Creating digital data sets by manual input: The manual input of data to a GIS involves four main stages.
   • Entering the spatial data.
   • Entering the attribute data.
   • Spatial and attribute data verification and editing.
   • Where necessary, linking the spatial to the attribute data.

Question 2(vi).
What is Spatial Information Technology?
Answer:
It refers to the features arid the phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space, thus, having physically measurable dimensions. In other words, the Spatial Information Technology relates to the use of the technological inputs in collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing and analysing the spatial information.

3. Answer the following questions in about 125 words:

Question 3(i).
Differentiate between raster and vector data formats. Give example.
Answer:

Basis	Raster Data Format	Vector Data Format
Meaning	Raster data format represents a graphic feature as a pattern of grids of squares.	Vector data represents the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.
Suitability	The Raster file formats are most often used for the following activities: •   For digital representations of aerial photographs, satellite images, scanned paper maps, etc. •  When costs need to be kept down. •  When the map does not require analysis of individual map features. •  When backdrop’ maps are required.	The Vector files are most often used for: •   Highly precise applications •  When file sizes are important. •  When individual m; features require analysis. •  When descriptive informa­tion must be stored.
Advantages	•   Simple data structure •   Easy and efficient overlaying •   Compatible with satellite imagery •  High spatial variability is efficiently represented •   Simple for own programming •   Same grid cells for several attributes	•   Compact data structure •   Efficient for network analysis •   Efficient projection trans­formation •  Accurate map output
Disadvantages	•   Inefficient use of computer storage •   Errors in perimeter and shape	•  Complex data structure •  Difficult overlay operations

Question 3(ii).
Write an explanatory account of the sequence of activities involved in GIS related work.
Answer:
The following sequence of the activities are involved in GIS related work—
1. Spatial data input: Under this data that are collected from different people are tested and it is checked whether they are as per suitability of investigator or not.

2. Entering of the attribute data: Attribute data define the properties of a spatial entity that need to be handled in the GIS, but which are not spatial. For example, a road may be captured as a set of contiguous pixels or as a line entity and represented in the spatial part of the GIS by a certain colour, symbol or data location.

3. Data verification and editing: The spatial data captured into a GIS require verification for the error identification and corrections so as to ensure the data accuracy. The errors caused during digitisation may include data omissions, and under/over shoots. The best way to check for errors in the spatial data is to produce a computer plot or print of the data, preferably on translucent sheet, at the same scale as the original. The two maps may then be placed over each other on a light table and compared visually, working systematically from left to right and top to bottom of the map. Missing data and locational errors should be clearly marked on the printout.

4. Spatial and attribute data linkages: The linkages of spatial and the attribute data are important in GIS. It must, therefore, carefully be undertaken. Linking of attribute data with a non-related spatial data shall lead to chaos in ultimate data analysis. Similarly, matching of one data layer with another is also significant.

5. Spatial analysis: The objective of geographic analysis is to transform data into useful information to satisfy the requirements of the decision-makers. It requires step-by-step procedures to arrive at the conclusion. The following spatial analysis operation may be undertaken using GIS:

• Overlay analysis
• Buffer analysis
• Network analysis
• Digital terrain model

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 NCERT Extra Questions

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
What do you mean by Database Management System (DBMS) and the Computer-Assisted Cartography?
Answer:
The disciplines that deal with the principles and methods of data processing and mapping using a combination of computer hardware and the application software are termed as the Database Management System (DBMS) and the Computer-Assisted Cartography respectively.

Question 2.
What is Spatial Information System?
In order to understand geographical issues and many other questions, we need to capture the necessary data collected from different sources and integrate them using a computer that is supported by geo-processing tools. It is called Spatial Information System.

Question 3.
What do you mean by Spatial Information Technology?
Answer:
It refers to the features and the phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space, thus, having physically measurable dimensions. In other words, the Spatial Information Technology relates to the use of the technological inputs in collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing and analyzing the spatial information.

Question 4.
What do you mean by GIS?
It is defined as a system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analyzing and displaying data, which are spatially referenced to the Earth. A system capable of all such functions is called Geographic Information System (GIS) This is normally considered to involve a spatially referenced computer database and appropriate applications software.

Question 5.
What are the different elements used to present data?
All data are characterised by:

• Definite Scale: It provides relationship between the map and the surface it represents.
• Use of Symbols: Symbols and colours which define attributes of entities mapped, (c) An agreed coordinate system, which defines the location of entities on the Earth’s surface.

Question 6.
What are different methods of presenting spatial data?
Answer:
The spatial data are represented in raster and vector data formats. Raster data represent a graphic feature as a pattern of grids of squares, whereas vector data represent the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Name the disciplines associated with and helpful in Geographical Information System.
Answer:
It is an amalgamation of Computer Assisted Cartography and Database Management System and draws conceptual and methodological strength from both spatial and allied sciences such as Computer Science, Statistics, Cartography, Remote Sensing, Database Technology, Geography, Geology, Hydrology, Agriculture, Resource Management, Environmental Science, and Public Administration.

Question 2.
Differentiate between Spatial and Non-spatial data.
Answer:
The spatial data are characterised by their positional, linear and areal, forms of appearances. The data describing the information about spatial data are called as non-spatial or attribute data. In other words, you will be defining the attributes of the spatial data. Thus, non-spatial data are also known as attribute-data.

Spatial Data Literacy rate in India (in % in 2001)					Non-spatial Data Stock register of Geography Department
S.No.	Names of the states	Total Literacy Rate	Male Literacy	Female Literacy	Description	Number
1.	Kerala	90.86	94.24	87.72	Physical Map: India	10
2.	Mizoram	88.80	90.72	86.75	Physical Map: World	8
3.	Goa	82.01	88.42	75.57	Thermometer	4
4.	Maharashtra	77.27	85.97	67.51	Barometer	3
5.	Himachal Pradesh	77.13	85.69	68.08	Tracing Table	2
6.	Tripura	73.66	84.37	65.41	Globe	2

Question 3.
Explain the role of computer in Cartography.
Answer:
Computers play an important role in cartography.

• They help to draw maps and graphs speedily.
• They need a computer operator ad not a map expert.
• Maps drawn using computer are flawless.
• They save time as well as money.
• One can get its copies immediately.
• They can be presented well like different colours can be used for different groups.

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain advantages and disadvantages of raster method.
Answer:

Advantages:

• It has simple data structure.
• It has easy and efficient overlaying.
• It is compatible with satellite imagery.
• High spatial variability is efficiently represented.
• It is simple for own programming.
• It uses same grid cells for several attributes.

Disadvantages:

• Inefficient use of computer storage is possible.
• Errors in perimeter and shape is possible.
• Difficult network analysis makes it cumbersome.
• Inefficient projection transformations are misleading.
• Loss of information takes place when using large cells, less accurate (although interactive) maps.

Question 2.
Explain the merits and demerits of vector system.
Answer:
Merits:

• Compact data structure.
• Efficient for network analysis.
• Efficient projection transformation.
• Accurate map output.

Demerits:

• Complex data structure.
• Difficult overlay operations.
• High spatial variability is inefficiently represented.
• Not compatible with satellite imagery.

Class 12 Practical Work in Geography Chapter 6 Viva Questions

Question 1.
Give full form of the following:
(a) DBMS
(b) GPS
(c) GIS
Answer:
(a) Database Management System
(b) Global Positioning System (GPS)
(c) Geographical Information System (GIS)

Question 2.
What are Raster data format?
Answer:
Raster data format represents a graphic feature as a pattern of grids of squares.

Question 3.
What are Vector data format?
Answer:
Vector data format represents the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.

Question 4.
Name the process in GIS that helps in studying the changes in land use.
Answer:
Overlay.

Question 5.
What do you know about GIS?
Answer:
It is a system of capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying data, which are spatially referenced to the Earth. It is normally considered to involve a spatially referenced computer database and appropriate applications software.

Question 6.
Name different components of GIS.
Answer:

• Hardware
• Software
• Data
• People
• Process

Spatial Information Technology Notes

• Computers enhance our capabilities in data processing and in drawing graphs, diagrams and maps.
• The disciplines that deal with the principles and methods of data processing and mapping using a combination of computer hardware and the application software are termed as the Database Management System (DBMS) and the Computer- Assisted Cartography respectively.
• Spatial Information System: In order to understand geographical issues and many other questions, we need to capture the necessary data collected from different sources and integrate them using a computer that is supported by geo-processing tools. It is called Spatial Information System.
• Spatial Information Technology: It refers to the features and the phenomena distributed over a geographically definable space, thus, having physically measurable dimensions. In other words, the Spatial Information Technology relates to the use of the technological inputs in collecting, storing, retrieving, displaying, manipulating, managing and.analysing the spatial information.
• Under Spatial Information Technology four systems work in a combined fashion. These are:
  • Remote Sensing
  • Global Positioning System (GPS)
  • Geographical Information System (GIS)
  • Digital Cartography, and Database Management Systems.
• Geographical Information System: It is defined as a system for capturing, storing, checking, integrating, manipulating, analysing and displaying data, which are spatially referenced to the Earth. A system capable of all such functions is called Geographic Information System (GIS). This is normally considered to involve a spatially referenced computer database and appropriate applications software.
• The advanced computing systems available since mid-1970s, enable the processing of georeferenced information for the purpose of organising spatial and attribute data and their integration; locating specific information in individual files and executing the computations, performing analysis and evolving a decision support system. It is an amalgamation of Computer Assisted Cartography and Database Management System and draws conceptual and methodological strength from both spatial and allied sciences such as Computer Science, Statistics, Cartography, Remote Sensing, Database Technology, Geography, Geology, Hydrology, Agriculture, Resource Management, Environmental Science, and Public Administration.
• Two types of the data represent the geographical information. These are:
  • Spatial Information
  • And non-spatial Information
• Important components of Geographical Information System:
  • Hardware
  • Software
  • Data
  • People
  • Process
• The spatial data are represented in raster and vector data formats.
• Raster Data Format: Raster data represent a graphic feature as a pattern of grids of squares, whereas vector data represent the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.
  
  Fig. Representation of Spatial Entities in Raster and Vector Data Formats
• The Raster file formats are most often used for the following activities:
  For digital representations of aerial photographs, satellite images, scanned paper maps, etc.
  When costs need to be kept down.
  When the map does not require analysis of individual map features.
  When ‘backdrop’ maps are required.
• The Vector files are most often used for:
• Highly precise applications
  When file sizes are important
  When individual map features require analysis
  When descriptive information must be stored
• The following sequence of the activities are involved in GIS related work :
  • Spatial data input
  • Entering of the attribute data
  • Data verification and editing
  • Spatial and attribute data linkages
  • Spatial analysis

Spatial Information Technology Important Terms

• Raster Data Format: Raster data represents a graphic features a pattern of grid of squares.
• Vector Data Format: Vector data represents the object as a set of lines drawn between specific points.
• Scanners: The scanners are the devices for converting analogue data into digital grid- based images.
• Buffer Operation: A buffer of certain specified distance can be created along any. Point, line or area feature. It is useful in locating the areas population benefited or denied of the services polices such as hospitals, post office, etc.

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions

lass 12 Geography NCERT Solutions Chapter 11 International Trade

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved

1. Choose the right answers of the following from the given options:

Question 1.(i)
Trade between two countries is termed as
(a) Internal trade
(b) External trade
(c) International trade
(d) Local trade
Answer:
(c) International trade

Question 1.(ii)
Which one of the following is a land locked harbour?
(a) Vishakhapatnam
(b) Mumbai
(c) Ennore
(d) Haldia
Answer:
(a) Vishakhapatnam

Question 1.(iii)
Most of India’s foreign trade is carried through
(a) Land and sea
(b) Land and air
(c) Sea and air
(d) Sea
Answer:
(c) Sea and air

Question 1.(iv)
Which bne of the following is India’s largest trading partner (2010-11)
(a) U.A.E.
(b) China
(c) Germany
(d) U.S.A.
Answer:
(a) U.A.E.

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words:

Question 2.(i)
Mention the characteristics of India’s foreign trade.
Answer:
The nature of India’s foreign trade has changed over the years. Though there has been an increase in the total volume of import and export, the value of import continued to be higher than that of exports. There has also been an increase in trade deficit over the last couple of years. This increase in deficit is attributed to the price rise of crude petroleum, which forms a major component of India’s international trade. The share of primary products has decreased in the total export of India, whereas share of petroleum products has increased, share of manufactured products has remained constant over the years.

Question 2.(ii)
Distinguish between port and harbour.
Answer:

Question 2.(iii)
Explain the meaning of hinterland.
Answer:
Hinterland is the area served by a port. It is the area of influence of a port. It is a region lying inland from a coast or river. Eg. UP, Bihar, Jharkhand are hinterlands of Kolkata port.

Question 2.(iv)
Name important items which India imports from different countries.
Answer:
The major of items of India’s import as per 2009-2011 are food and allied products, fuel, fertilisers, paper board manufacturing and news print, capital goods, chemicals, pearls, precious and semi precious stones, gold and silver.

Question 2.(v)
Name the ports of India located on the east coast.
Answer:
Ports on the eastern coast of India are:

• Kolkata port – West Bengal
• Haldia port – West Bengal
• Paradip port – Odisha
• Vishakhapatnam port – Andhra Pradesh
• Chennai port – Tamil Nadu
• Ennore port – Tamil Nadu
• Tuticorin port – Tamil Nadu

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words:

Question 3.(i)
Describe the composition of export and import trade of India.
Answer:
Composition of Export trade in India: The composition of commodities in India’s international trade has been undergoing change over years. The share of agriculture and allied products have declined whereas shares of petroleum and crude products and other commodities have increased. The shares of ore minerals and manufactured goods have largely remained constant over the years from 1997-98 to 2003-04. The increase in share of petroleum products is due to rise in petroleum price as well as India’s refining capacity. The decline in traditional products is largely due to the competition from the international market. Amongst the agricultural products, there is a great decline in the exports of traditional items such as coffee, spices, tea, pulses, etc. though an increase has been registered in floricultural products, fresh fruits, marine products and sugar, etc.

Manufacturing sector alone accounted for 68 per cent of India’s total value of export in 2010-11. Engineering goods have shown a significant growth in the export list. China and other East Asian countries are our major competitors. Gems and jewellery contribute a larger portion of India’s foreign trade.

Composition of Import trade in India: Machine and equipment, special steel, edible oil and chemicals largely make the import basket. There has been a steep rise in imports of petroleum products. It is used not only as a fuel but also as an industrial raw material. It indicates the tempo of rising industrialization and better standard of living. Sporadic price rise in the international market is another reason for the same. Import of capital goods maintained a steady increase due to rising demand in the export-oriented industrial and domestic sectors. Non¬electrical machinery, transport equipment, manufacturers of metals and machine tools were the main items of capital goods. Import of food and allied products declined with a fall in imports of edible oils. Other major items of India’s import include pearls and semi precious stones, gold and silver, metalliferrous ores and metal scrap, non-ferrous metals, electronic goods, etc.

Question 3.(ii)
Write a note on the changing nature of the international trade of India.
Answer:
In 1950-51, India’s external trade was worth Rs. 1,2140 million, which rose to Rs. 22,09,270 crore in 2009-10. The main reasons for the rise in the quantum of trade is momentum piched up by the manufacturing sector, the liberal policies of the government and the diversification of markets. The nature of India’s foreign trade has changed over the years. Though there has been an increase in the total volume of import and export, the value of import continued to be higher than that of exports. There has also been an increase in trade deficit over the last couple of years. This increase in deficit is attributed to the price rise of crude petroleum, which forms a major component of India’s international trade.

Changing Nature of India’s Export: The composition of commodities in India’s international trade has been undergoing change over years. The share of agriculture and allied products have declined whereas shares of petroleum and crude products and other commodities have increased. The shares of ore minerals and manufactured goods have largely remained constant over the years from 1997-98 to 2003-04. The increase in share of petroleum products is due to rise in petroleum price as well as India’s refining capacity. The decline in traditional products is largely due to the competition from the international market Amongst the agricultural products, there is a great decline in the exports of traditional items such as coffee, spices, tea, pulses, etc. though an increase has been registered in floricultural products, fresh fruits, marine products and sugar, etc.

Manufacturing sector alone accounted for 68 per cent of India’s total value of export in 2010-11. Engineering goods have shown a significant growth in the export list. China and other East Asian countries are our major competitors.
Gems and jewellery contribute a larger portion of India’s foreign trade.

Changing Nature of India’s Import: India faced serious food shortage during 1950s and 1960s. The major item of import at that time was foodgrain, capital goods, machinery and equipments. The balance of payment was adverse as imports were more than export in spite of all the efforts of import substitution. After 1970s, foodgrain import was discontinued due to the success of green revolution but the energy crisis of 1973 pushed the prices of petroleum, and import budget was also pushed up. Fertilisers and petroleum replaced foodgrain import. Machine and equipment, special steel, edible oil and chemicals largely make the import basket.

There has been a steep rise in imports of petroleum products. It is used not only as a fuel but also as an industrial raw material. It indicates the tempo of rising industrialisation and better standard of living. Sporadic price rise in the international market is another reason for the same. Import of capital goods maintained a steady increase due to rising demand in the export-oriented industrial and domestic sectors. Non-electrical machinery, transport equipment, manufacturers of metals and machine tools were the main items of capital goods.
Import of food and allied products declined with a fall in imports of edible oils. Other major items of India’s import include pearls and semi precious stones, gold and silver, metalliferrous ores and metal scrap, non-ferrous metals, electronic goods, etc.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 NCERT Extra Questions

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
What changes have taken place in exports of India due to increased competition?
Answer:
Due to tough international competition, amongst the agricultural products, there is a great decline in the exports of traditional items such as coffee, spices, tea, pulses, etc. though an increase has been registered in floricultural products, fresh fruits, marine products and sugar, etc.

Question 2.
Which goods were being imported in 1950-60?
Answer:
India faced serious food shortage during 1950’s and 1960’s. The major item of import at that time was food grain, capital goods, machineries and equipment’s. The balance of payment was adverse as imports were more than exports in spite of all the efforts of import substitution.

Question 3.
In the decade of 1970 which goods had replaced food items from imports.
Answer:
After 1970’s, food grain import was discontinued due to the success of green revolution programme but the energy crisis of 1973 pushed the prices of petroleum, and import budget was also pushed up. Food grain import was replaced with fertilizers and petroleum. Machines and equipment’s, special steel, edible oil and chemicals largely made the import items.

Question 4.
Why did India’s external trade increase rapidly between 1950-51 and 2009-10?
Answer:
India’s external trade increased rapidly due to the sharp rise in overseas trade, the momentum picked up by the manufacturing sectors, the liberal policies of the government and the diversification of market.

Question 5.
Why is the export of agricultural and allied products declining continuously after 1997-98?
Answer:
There is a great decline in the exports of traditional items such as coffee, spices, tea, pulses, etc due to the tough international competition amongst agricultural products. Though an increase has been registered in floricultural products, fresh fruits, marine products and sugar, etc.

Question 6.
After attaining a peak in 1999-2000, why has the export of manufacturing goods started decreasing?
Answer:
Engineering goods have shown a significant growth in the export list. But the share of petroleum 8s other commodities have increased.

Question 7.
Name the major items of India’s import list of 1994-2005?
Answer:

• Engineering goods, capital goods
• Gems and jewellery
• Chemical and related products
• Petroleum products (fuel).

Question 8.
Name the trading partners of India ] except the USA.
Answer:
The UAE is India’s largest trading partner and the most important destination of India’s export followed by China. Other countries in order of significance include, Belgium, Germany, Korea, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Singapore and Indonesia.

Question 9.
By which routes does most of international trade take place in India?
Answer:
Most of India’s foreign trade is carried through sea and air routes. However, a small portion is also carried through land route to neighboring countries like Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh and Pakistan.

Question 10.
What natural factors are favorable for international trade in India?
Answer:
India is surrounded by sea from three sides and is bestowed with a long coastline. Water provides a smooth surface for very cheap transport provided there is no turbulence. India has a long tradition of sea-faring and developed many ports with place name suffixed with pattan which means port.

Question 11.
Give share of India’s foreign trade with important partners.
Answer:
Asia and Oceania accounted for 57 per cent of India’s export followed by West Europe (23.80 per cent) and America Europe and America in 2004-05.

Question 12.
Why is the West Coast having more seaports as compared to the East Coast?
Answer:
West Coast have more ports as compared to East Coast because of the availability of indented coastline.

Question 13.
Who decides the policy and plays regulatory role for ports?
Answer:
At present, India has 12 major ports and 185 minor or intermediate ports. In case of the major ports, central government decides the policy and plays regulatory functions. The minor ports are there whose policy and functions are regulated by state governments.

Question 14.
With what objective did British develop ports in India?
Answer:
The British used the ports as suction points of the resources from their hinterlands. The extension of railways towards the interior facilitated the linking of the local markets to regional markets, regional markets to national markets and national markets to the international markets.

Question 15.
Name newly constructed ports of India.
Or
Name the port constructed on west coast immediately after independence.
Answer:
The partition of the country snatched away two very important ports, i.e. Karachi port went to Pakistan and Chittagong port to the erstwhile east-Pakistan, (now Bangladesh. To compensate the losses, many new ports like the Kandla in the west and the Diamond Harbour near Kolkata on the river Hugli in the east were developed.

Question 16.
What is the cargo capacity of Indian ports at present?
Answer:
The capacity of Indian ports increased from 20 million tonnes of cargo handling in 1951 to more than 500 million tonnes at present.

Question 17.
Why is Marmagao Port called natural port?
Answer:
Marmagao Port is situated at the entrance of the Zuari estuary. Therefore, it is a natural harbour in Goa. It gained significance after its remodelling in 1961 to handle iron-ore exports to Japan. Construction of Konkan railway has considerably extended the hinterland of this port.

Question 18.
Why is Vembanad Kayal famous?
Answer:
Kochchi port which is popularly known as the “Queen of the Arabian Sea” is situated at Vembanad Kayal. It is also a natural harbour. This port has an advantageous location being close to the Suez-Colombo route. It caters to the needs of Kerala, southern-Karnataka and south western Tamil Nadu.

Question 19.
What do you know about Visakhapatnam port?
Answer:
Visakhapatnam Port in Andhra Pradesh is a land-locked harbour, connected to the sea by a channel cut through solid rock and sand.

Question 20.
How many ports are there in India at present?
Answer:
At present, India has 12 major seaports and 185 minor or intermediate ports.

Question 21.
Which port has the deepest harbour?
Answer:
Paradwip port has the deepest harbour. It is situated in the Mahanadi delta, about 100 km away from Cuttack.

Question 22.
Which port is situated at downstream Kolkata? Which goods does it handle?
Answer:
Haldia port is located at 105 km downstream from Kolkata. It has been constructed to reduce the congestion at Kolkata port. It handles bulk cargo like iron ore, coal, petroleum, petroleum products and fertilisers, jute, jute products, cotton and cotton yarn, etc.

Question 23.
Name the port which has been constructed to reduce the congestion at Kolkata port.
Answer:
Haldia port has been constructed to reduce the congestion at Kolkata port.

Question 25.
Which is the Biggest port of India?
Answer:
Mumbai Port.

Question 26.
Which is one of the oldest artificial ports in easten coast?
Answer:
Chennai

Question 27.
Which ports have been built to relieve the pressure of Chennai?
Answer:
Ennore & Tuticorin ports

Question 28.
Which is the riverine port?
Answer:
Kolkata on river Hugli.

Question 29.
Which is a land-locked harbour port?
Answer:
Vishakhapatnam

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Why is international trade necessary?
Answer:
International trade is beneficial as no country is self sufficient. It bridges the gap between surplus regions and deficit regions through export and imports. Countries need to trade to obtain commodities, they cannot produce themselves or they can purchase elsewhere at a lower price. It helps countries in maintaining the specialisation in the production of goods and services. It increases international cooperation and understanding. In early times it played significant role in the cultural diffusion.

Question 2.
Explain the causes behind increase in foreign trade in India.
Answer:
There are numerous reasons for this sharp increase in foreign trade:

• The momentum picked up by the manufacturing sectors.
• The liberal policies of the government.
• The diversification of markets.

Question 3.
What factors are responsible for change in nature of international trade?
Answer:
Many changes have taken place in foreign trade of India over time. There has been an increase in the total volume of import & export, but the value of import remained higher. The share of agriculture and allied products has declined while that of petroleum has increased. The increase in deficit is attributed to the price rise of crude petroleum which forms a major component of India’s import list.

Question 4.
Name the goods of imports from 2009 to 2011 whose quantity kept on increasing.
Answer:
Import of Petroleum products & capital goods maintained steady rise in imports due to rising industrialisation and better standard of living. Non-electrical machinery, transport equipment, manufacturers of metals and machine tools were the main items of capital goods. Import of food and allied products declined with a fall in imports of edible oils. Other major items of India’s import include pearls and semi precious stones, gold and silver, ferrous ores and metal scrap, non-ferrous metals, electronic goods, etc.

Question 5.
What steps have been taken by India to • increase its share in international trade?
Answer:
India aims to double its share in the international trade within the next five years. India has started adopting suitable measures such as import liberalization, reduction in import duties, de-licensing and change from process to product patents for attaining these goals.

Question 6.
What steps have been taken for modernization of Indian ports?
Answer:
Today Indian ports are handling large volumes of domestic as well as overseas trade. Most of the ports are equipped with modern infrastructure. Previously the development and modernization was the responsibility of the government agencies, but considering the increase in function and need to bring these ports at par with the international ports, private entrepreneurs have been invited for the modernization of ports in India.

Question 7.
Explain the hinterland of Kolkata port.
Answer:
Hinterland is the influence area which is closely connected to the port with roads and railways. The products of this area are sent to the port for export and imported material is distributed here for sale and consumption.

Kolkata port is also confronted with the problem of silt accumulation in the Hugli river which provides a link to the sea. Its hinterland covers U.P., Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim and the north-eastern states. Apart from this, it also extends ports facilities to our neighbouring land-locked countries such as Nepal and Bhutan.

Question 8.
Explain the features of Kandla Port.
Answer:
Features of Kandla Port:

• Objective: Kandla Port situated at the head of Gulf of Kuchchh has been developed as a major port to cater to the needs of western and north western parts of the country and also to reduce the pressure at Mumbai port.
• Goods Handled: The port is specially designed to receive large quantities of petroleum and petroleum products and fertiliser. The offshore terminal at Vadinar has been developed to reduce the pressure at Kandla port.
• Hinterland: Demarcation of the boundary of the hinterland would be difficult as it is not fixed over space. In most of the cases, hinterland of one port may overlap with that of the other. Covers the western 8s north western states.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
India’s international trade has undergone a sea-change in recent years. Discuss.
Answer:
India has trade relations with all the major trading blocks and all geographical regions of the world. Among the commodities of export, whose share is significant over the last few years till 2010¬11, are agriculture and allied products (10 per cent), ores and minerals (4 per cent), gems and jewellery, chemical and allied products, manufactured goods (12 per cent) and petroleum products (17 per cent). The commodities imported to India include petroleum & coal petroleum products (31 per cent), pearls, precious stones (10 per cent), inorganic chemicals (5.2 per cent), machinery (12.56 per cent). Fertilisers cereals, edible oils and newsprint on other imports. International trade has undergone a sea change in the last fifteen years. Exchange of commodities and goods have been superseded by the exchange of information and knowledge. India has emerged as a software giant at the international level. It is earning large foreign exchange through the export of information technology. .

Question 2.
Describe the changes in composition of India’s exports.
Answer:.
Composition of export of India:

• The percentage share of the agriculture and allied products have declined. There is a decline in the exports of traditional items such as coffee, spices, tea, pulses, etc.
• The share of petroleum and crude products have increased due to rise in petroleum prices and increase in India’s refining capacity.
• The share of ore & minerals and have largely remained constant over the years from 1997- 98 to 2003-04.
• Manufacturing goods are the largest exporting commodities in the year 2003¬04 (75.96%). The percentage share of other commodities has increased due to an increase in fruits, marine products and sugar.
• Engineering goods are the largest commodities on the export list. Crude and petroleum products also occupy a significant place in the list.
• Textile sector could not achieve much inspite of liberal measures taken by government due to competition from China and other Asian countries.

Question 3.
Describe the changes in composition of India’s imports.
Answer:
Composition of India’s imports:

• During 1950-60s the major items of imports were foodgrain because India at that time faced food crisis.
• After 1970s import of foodgrains stop due to Green Revolution.
• Foodgrains were replaced by fertilisers and petroleum.
• Petroleum is the largest imported commodity because it is used as a fuel as well as industrial raw material.
• The capital goods like non-electrical machinery, transport equipment, machines and tools have increased on the import list.
• Special steel alloy, edible oils are also imported.
• The other major items of import include pulse, precious gold and silver, metal ores, scraps, electronic goods, etc.

Question 4.
What are the advantages of sea port? Why are they termed as gateways of International trade?
Answer:

• India is surrounded by sea from three sides and is bestowed with a long coastline.
• Water provides a smooth surface for very cheap transport provided there is no turbulence.
• India has a long traditional of sea-faring and developed many ports with place name suffixed with pattan which mean port. Since waterways is the cheapest means of transport for heavy and bulky goods and it is more favoured for international trading.
• India’s west coast has more seaports than its east coast.
• Availability of indented coastline.
• Early arrivals of British to promote their trade.
• British encouragement to establish and promote ports along the west coast to strengthen connectivity to Europe.
• Opening of suez canal also promotes an encouraged seaports along the west coast.

Question 5.
Write the differences between Major ports and Minor ports.
Answer:

Major Ports	Minor Ports
(i) There are 12 major ports in India.	(i) There are 226 minor ports in India.
(ii) Central government makes the policy and plays regulatory functions.	(ii) State government makes the policy and functions.
(iii) It regulates foreign trade at international level.	(iii) It manages trade at national or inter-state level.
(iv) It handles huge traffic of metric tonnes per year.	(iv) It handles comparatively lesser traffic of metric tonnes per year.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)

Question 1.
Explain the changing pattern of the international trade of India.
Answer:
Change in Export:

• The share of agriculture and allied products has declined.
• Share of petroleum and its products increased.
• Share of mineral ores remained constant.
• The decline in traditional items due to tough competition like jute products.
• Significant growth in the export of engineering and leather goods.

Change in Import:

• Share of food grains import is replaced by petroleum and fertilizers.
• Import of capital goods has increased.
• Import of edible oil and pulses in place of food items.
• Gold and silver import has increased.
• Import of professional instruments has also increased.

Question 2.
Why does India import edible oil and pulses in spite of being an agriculturally rich country?
Answer:
India imports edible oil and pulses in spite of being an agriculturally rich country due to the following reasons:

• More demand due to rapid growth of population.
• Most of the cultivated land is under food crops.
• Per hectare productivity of pulses is low as compared to other crops.
• The ‘package technology’ was not given for the the promotion of pulses & oil seeds production. So their production did not increase the desired amount.
• Risky farming due to high vulnerability.
• Increase in the purchasing power of the individuals.

Question 3.
Mention the measures adopted by the Govt, of India to double its share in the international trade.
Answer:
Following measures are adopted by the government of India to double its share in the international trade:

• Liberalization of imports.
• Reduction in import duties.
• De-licensing and change from process to product patents.

Question 4.
Why has the west coast more seaports than the east coast of India?
Answer:
West sea coast has more ports than east coast because:

• Availability of indented coastline.
• Depth of sea water is relatively more near coast.
• Early arrival of European traders and Arabs etc.
• British encouraged to establish and promote the ports along the west coast to strengthen the connectivity from Europe.
• Opening of Suez Canal also promoted and encouraged the emergence of seaports along the west coast.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Map Based Questions

Question 1.
Label and locate the following on the political map of India:
Kandla, Mumbai, Murmagao, Kochchi, Ennore, Tuticorin, Chennai, Vishakhapatnam, Paradwip, Haldia
Answer:

Question 2.
Locate and label the following on the political map of India.
Ahmedabad, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Guwahati, Delhi, Amritsar, Panji, Kochchi (Kochi), Thiruvananthapuram and Hyderabad.
Answer:

Class 12 Geography Chapter 11 Important Questions

Very Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Which country is the largest trading partner of India? (CBSE 2009)
Answer:
UAE (United Arab Emirates).

Question 2.
Which one of Indian seaport provides port facilities to its landlocked neighbouring countries? Name any one such country. (Delhi 2009)
Answer:
Kolkata, Nepal.

Question 3.
Which export commodity of India has the highest value? (CBSE 2010)
Answer:
Manufacturing goods.

Question 4.
Which import commodity of India has the highest value? (Foreign 2010)
Answer:
Crude petroleum and products.

Question 5.
Which is the principal import commodity of India? . (Delhi 2010)
Answer:
Petroleum and its products.

Question 6.
Name the landlocked major port of India. (Foreign 2010)
OR
Which major sea port on the eastern coast of India has a land locked harbour? (Delhi 2016)
Answer:
Vishakhapatnam.

Question 7.
Name the oldest artificial sea port of India. (CBSE 2011)
Answer:
Chennai sea port.

Question 8.
Which sector of economy accounted for the highest percentage of India’s total value of exports in 2003-2004? (Delhi 2011)
Answer:
Manufactured goods.

Question 9.
Which sea port has been develop to relieve the pressure of Chennai Port. (CBSE 2012)
OR
Name the major seaport which has been developed. to relieve the pressure at Chennai seaport. (Delhi 2016)
Answer:
Ennore/Tuticorin Port.

Question 10.
Name the major sea port located on Hugli river. (CBSE 2013)
Answer:
Kolkata port.

Question 11.
Name the country which is the largest trading partner of India. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
United Arab Emirate (UAE) is the largest trading partner of India.

Question 12.
Name the major seaport which was developed just after independence on the western coast of India. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Kandla Port.

Question 13.
Name the seaport which was constructed to reduce the congestion at Kolkata port. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Haldia Port.

Question 14.
Name the port developed as a satellite port to relieve the pressure at ‘Mumbai’ port. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Jawaharlal Nehru Port.

Question 15.
Name the port which was developed as a satellite port to relieve the pressure at the Mumbai port. (Delhi 2014)
OR
Why was Jawaharlal Nehru Port developed?
Answer:
Jawaharlal Nehru Port at Nhava Sheva was developed as a satellite port to relieve the pressure at the Mumbai port.

Question 16.
Name the two countries which are the largest trading partners of India as per econmic survey report of 2011-12. (A.I. 2016)
Answer:
United Arab Emirates-Largest and Second largest is China.

Question 17.
State the major problem being faced by Kolkata sea port. (CBSE 2018)
Answer:
The major problem being faced by Kolkata seaport is the problem of silt accumulation in Hugli river which provides a link to the sea.

Question 18.
State any two advantages of air transport in the International trade. (CBSE 2018)
Answer:

• Air transport is the fastest means.
• Valuable cargo can be moved rapidly on a world-wide scale.
• It has brought connectivity revolution even reaching inaccessible areas.
• Highly suitable for handling perishable goods over long distances. (Any two points)

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Name the six major sea ports situated on the western coast of India and also write the state in which they are situated respectively? (CBSE 2000)
Answer:
The six major sea ports are:-

1. Jawaharlal Nehru port at Nhava Sheva in Maharashtra.
2. Mumbai in Maharashtra.
3. Kandla in Gujarat.
4. New Mangalore in Karnataka.
5. Marmagao Port in Goa.
6. Kochi in Kerala.

Question 2.
What is the role of sea-ports in the foreign trade of India? Write any three points in this regard. (CBSE 2005)
Answer:
The role of seaports in the foreign trade of India:

1. They act as the gateways of international trade as exports and imports are handled through them.
2. They handle large volumes of domestic as well as overseas trade.
3. They act collection centers of commodities from hinterlands for further shipment to foreign destination.

Question 3.
Explain any three major changes in the export composition of India’s foreign trade since 1960-61. (CBSE 2007)
Answer:

1. Agricultural allied products, 9.9%- cereals, tea, oil cake, cashew nuts, spices, fruits and vegetable.
2. Ores and minerals: 4.0% remained constant over the past years.
3. Manufactured goods, 68.0%-jewellery and gems, ready made garments etc.

Question 4.
Why do the maximum number of air routes converge on the three largest metropolitan cities of India? Write also the name of any two international airport related to these cities. (Foreign 2009)
Answer:
The maximum number of air routes converge on the three largest metropolitan cities of India because:

• It has the advantage of taking the least time for carriage and handling high value or perishable goods over long distances.
• Valuable cargo can be moved rapidly on a world-wide scale. Two international airport related to these cities are New York and London.

Question 5.
Why has Kolkata seaport lost its significance considerably? Give three reasons. (Foreign 2009)
Answer:
Kolkata seaport losts its significance considerably because:

• On account of the diversion of exports to the other ports such as Vishakhapatnam, Paradwip and its satellite port, Haldia.
• It is also confronted with the problem of silt accumulation in the Hugh river which provides a link to the sea.
• Its hinterland covers U.P., Bihar, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Sikkim and the north-eastern states.

Question 6.
“ Most of India’s foreign trade is carried through sea routes”. Explain the statement giving three reasons. (A.I. 2014)
Answer:

• India has long coast. It is suitable for developing ports.
• India has all weather ports.
• India has a good harboring facilities also.
• India centrally located by sea routes.
• It provides cheap transportation.
• Huge load could be transported at one movement.
• India has a long tradition sea faring and developed many ports.

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions Chapter 10 Transport And Communication

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 NCERT Textbook Questions Solved

1. Choose the right answers of the following from the given options:

Question 1.(i)
In how many zones has the Indian Railways system been divided?
(a) 9
(b) 12
(c) 16
(d) 14
Answer:
(c) 16

Question 1.(ii)
Which one of the following is the longest highway of India?
(a) N.H.-l
(b) N.H.-6
(c) N.H.-7
(d) N.H.-8
Answer:
(c) N.H.-7

Question 1.(iii)
On which river and between which two places does the National Water Way No. 1 lie?
(a) The Brahmaputra, Sadiya-Dhubri
(b) The Ganga, Haldia-Allahabad
(c) West Coast Canal, Kottapuram to Kollam
Answer:
(b) The Ganga, Haldia-Allahabad

Question 1.(iv)
In which of the following year, the first radio programme was broadcast?
(a) 1911
(b).1936
(c) 1927
(d) 1923
Answer:
(d) 1923

2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words:

Question 2.(i)
Which activity does transportation convey? Name three major modes of transportation.
Answer:
Transport conveys the basic activity of mobility. Mobility is a basic need of humans which helps in trade and other activities. Transport is instrumental in bringing out about increased mobility. The three major modes of transportation are land, water and air. Land includes roadway, railway and ropeway.

Question 2.(ii)
Discuss advantages and disadvantages of pipeline transportation.
Answer:
Pipeline transportation is a newer development in the field of transportation. Advantages:

• Liquids and gases can be transported easily at low costs. Even solids can be transported in form of sluriy.
• No need of fuel is required. It is an eco friendly method. Gradient plays the main role in transportation of the material.
• Pipelines can be laid in the high altitude, rugged areas, even under the sea.
• Material can be transported between distant areas continuously without aid of human agent carrying it from one place to another.

Disadvantages:

• Cost of laying the pipelines is very high. People cannot be transported.
• Leakage in the pipelines can cause serious disasters especially in case of transportation of material like petroleum.
• Pipelines are very probable target of terrorist attacks; therefore, safety is major issue.
• All solid substances cannot be transported.

Question 2.(iii)
What do you mean by ‘communication?
Answer:
Communication is transmission of facts, words and information using various means of communication. It is disseminating of ideas, facts, information and knowledge through writing, words. Communication has been present since very initial stages of human development. Earlier there were primitive means of communication like beating of drums, sparrows etc. Now with communication revolution modem methods of communication like Internet, mobile telephony are widespread and have made communication over long distances easier and faster.

Question 2.(iv)
Discuss the contribution of Air India and Indian in the air transport of India.
Answer:
Air transport in India made a beginning in 1911 when airmail operation commenced over a little distance of 10 km between Allahabad and Naini. But its real development took place in post-independent period. The air transport in India is managed by two corporations, Air India and Indian Airlines after nationalization. Air India provides international service for both passengers and cargo. In 2005, it carried 12.2 million passengers and 4.8 lakh metric tonnes of cargo. Indian looks after air transport at national level. In 2005, domestic movement involved 24.3 million passengers and 20 lakh metric tonnes of cargo.

The country’s largest state-owned domestic carrier, Indian Airlines dropped the word ‘Airlines’ from its name and is known as ‘Indian’ w.e.f. December 8,2005. The new brand name ‘Indian’ now appears on both sides of the fuselage. The logo on the orange tail depicting ‘IA’ has also been changed. It has been replaced by a new logo which is a partly visible blue wheel and is inspired by the Sun Temple at Konark (Odisha), symbolising timeless motion, convergence and divergence. It also embodies strength as well as trust that has stood the test of time.

3. Answer the following questions in about 150 words:

Question 3.(i)
Which are the chief means of transportation in India? Discuss the factors affecting their development.
Answer:
The important means of transport in India are—Land, air and water. Each mode of transportation contributes to the development of economy. Each provides a strong support for setting up industries and link even the remotest areas. All the means of transport compete and compliment each other.

• Land transport comprises road, rail and pipeline. Use of railways for carrying heavy and bulky goods along with the large number of passengers over long distances has led to the development of a dense network of railways. Within the country the network is relatively less dense in the hilly, forested and desert areas. Roads play an important role in linking the interior areas with the markets and urban centres. Their importance in facilitating door-to- door services over short distances has led to development of a well knit network of roadways.
• Water transport is an ideal means for engaging in international trade through long and indented coastline of India. Inland waterway also links the different regions within the countiy efficiently. It is the cheapest means for bulky cargo.
• Air transport has become very important means of rapid and frequent movement of people and light cargo over long distances. Role of private airlines has made the air transport trickle down to wider sections of economy. Budgets Airlines have changed the aviation scenario in India. Air transport is important in inaccessible areas, during calamities and for rapid connectivity.

Question 3.(ii)
Give a detailed account of the development of railways in India and highlight their importance.
Answer:
Indian railways network is one of the longest in the world. It facilitates the movement of both freight and passengers and contributes to the growth of economy. Indian Railway was introduced in 1853, when a line was constructed from Bombay to Thane covering a distance of 34 km.

It is the largest government undertaking in the countiy. Its network length is 63,221 km. Its very large size puts lots of pressure on a centralized railway management system. Thus, in India, the railway system has been divided into sixteen zones. Indian Railways has launched extensive programme to convert the metre and narrow gauges to broad gauge. Moreover, steam engines have been replaced by diesel and electric engines. This step has increased the speed as well as the haulage capacity.

The replacement of steam engines run by coal has also improved the environment of the stations. Metro rail has revolutionized the urban transport system in Kolkata and Delhi. Replacement of diesel buses by CNG run vehicles along with introduction of metro is a welcome step towards controlling the air pollution in urban centres.

Areas around towns, raw material producing areas and of plantations and other commercial crops, hill stations and cantonment towns were well-connected by railways from the British colonial era. These were mostly developed for the exploitation of resources. After the Independence of the country, railway routes have been extended to other areas too. The most significant development has been the development of Konkan Railway along the western coast providing a direct link between Mumbai and Mangalore.

Railway continues to remain the main means of transport for the masses. Railway network is relatively less dense in the hill states, north eastern states, central parts of India and Rajasthan.

Question 3.(iii)
Describe the role of roads in the economic development of India.
Answer:.
Roads serve as the lifeline of Indian trade. They connect the consumers with producers that is they connect urban and rural centers. Rural centers are producers of agricultural goods which are consumed by them and are transported to urban centers because they do not have production of agricultural commodities. On the other hand urban centers produce consumer products and supply them to the rural areas. Most of the intra national trade of India is carried out through roads. Since roads connect different areas, they help in boosting up of trade by joining the industrial areas with raw material producing areas, consumers with producers.

The government has categorized various road types which are headed by different authorities. The largest bulk of transportation and trade is carried out through national highways which connect major cities, ports and capitals. Following national highways, there are state highways, district roads and village roads which connect smaller administrative units and facilitate economic activity at micro level. Although most of the India’s international trade is carried out through airways and seaways but construction of border roads has helped in increasing the trade with the neighbouring countries thus providing an impetus to the international trade.

Increased connectivity of roads has not only increased trade of major industries but also has helped in establishing small scale and medium scale industries by providing them access to the closest markets. Footloose industries which depend largely on roads, are able to prosper because of the development of roads. Roads have helped in connecting the interiors of the country to the main parts and thus expanding the economy. It was due to the development of roads that British were able to penetrate and exploit the interiors of the country. Roads supplement the ports and airways. Ports and airways are major means of India’s international trade, but to connect the interiors to the ports and airports, a good working connection of roads is must, so that the products which are traded can circulate within the interiors of the country. Therefore roads play a pivoted role in connecting all other means of transportation, since it is the only means of transportation which provides door to door service.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 NCERT Extra Questions

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
What are different means of transportation?
Answer:
There are five different means of transport:

1. Roadways
2. Railways
3. Waterways
4. Airways
5. Pipelines

Question 2.
India is deemed to have one of the world’s largest road network. Why?
Answer:
India has one of the largest road networks in the world with a total length Of 42.3 lakh km according to 2008-9 survey. About 85 per cent of passenger and 70% of freight is carried using road network.

Question 3.
Under which scheme was first modern road network constructed in India?
Answer:
The first serious attempt was made in 1943 when ‘Nagpur Plan’ was drawn. This plan could not be implemented due to lack of coordination among the princely states and British India. After Independence, Twenty-Year Road Plan was introduced in 1961 to improve the conditions of roads in India.

Question 4.
Classify roads on the basis of construction and maintenance.
Answer:
With the objective of construction and maintenance, roads have been classified into: National Highways, State Highways, District Roads and Village Roads.

Question 5.
What is the significance of means of transport?
Answer:

• Transport helps in the transportation of raw materials from farms to industries where they are turned into products which can be consumed.
• Transport helps in the movement of goods from one place to another.
• It is used to transport goods and people to large distances.
• The transportation of goods from the site of production to the market makes them available to the consumers.

Question 6.
What do you understand by Nagpur plan? What were the reasons for its failure?
Answer:

• Road transport in modem sense was very limited in India before World War II. The first attempt was made in 1943 when ‘Nagpur Plan’ was drawn.
• This plan could not be implemented due to lack of coordination among the princely states and British India.

Question 7.
What is State Highways? Write their features.
Answer:
State Highways are constructed and maintained by state governments.
Features:

• They join the state capitals with district headquarters and other important towns.
• These roads are connected to the National Highways.
• These constitute 4% of total road length in the country.

Question 8.
Name the states with highest and lowest density of roads.
Answer:
Highest is Kerala and lowest is Jammu and Kashmir.

Question 9.
What is the average road density of our country?
Answer:
Average road density of India is 142.68 km (2011).

Question 10.
Which is the longest National Highways in India?
Answer:
National Highway 44 links Srinagar to Kanniyakumari (Kanyakumari) is the longest NH in India.

Question 11.
What is the importance of International Highways?
Answer:
The International Highways are meant to promote the harmonious relationship with the neighbouring countries by providing effective links with India 8s connecting people remote area.

Question 12.
Name the two places which connects NH1.
Answer:
Amristsar and Delhi

Question 13.
On which river is NW1 made? Name two places which connect it.
Answer:
Ganga River—Allahabad and Haldia.

Question 14.
Name the two places which connect NW2. Name the river on which NW2 is made.
Answer:
Sadiya and Dhubri. NW2 is made on the Brahmaputra river.

Question 15.
Name the two places which connect NW-3.
Answer:
Kottapuram and Kollam.

Question 16.
Name the first air transport segment in India.
Answer:
Air transport in India made a beginning in 1911 when airmail operation commenced over a little distance of 10km between Allahabad and Naini.

Question 17.
Which means of transport is being used widely in India for trading?
Answer:
Water transport or oceanic routes.

Question 18.
What is the new name of Indian Airlines and when was it given to it?
Answer:
The new name of Indian Airlines is Indian and it was given on 8th December, 2005.

Question 19.
From where has the logo of ‘Indian’ been adopted and what does it signify?
Answer:
The logo of Indian is a partly visible blue wheel and is inspired by The Sun Temple at Konark (Odisha), symbolising timeless; motion convergence and divergence. It also embodies strength as well as trust that has stood the test of time.

Question 20.
Where is famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race (VALLAMKALI) held?
Answer:
The famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race (VALLAMKALI) is held in the backwaters of Kerala.

Question 21.
What services are provided by Air India?
Answer:
Air India provides international air services for both passengers and cargo traffic. It connects all the continents of the world through its services. In 2005, it carried 12.2 million passengers and 4.8 lakh metric tonnes of cargo. About 52 per cent of the total air traffic was handled only at Mumbai and Delhi airports.

Question 22.
What do you know about Pawan Hans?
Answer:
Pawan Hans is the helicopter service operating in hilly areas and is widely used by tourists in north eastern sector. Pawan Hans Limited also provides helicopter services to petroleum sector as well as to tourists.

Question 23.
What is meant by Open Sky Policy?
Answer:
To help the Indian exporters and make their export more competitive, the government had introduced an Open Sky Policy for cargo in April 1992. Under this policy, foreign airlines or association of exporters can bring any freighters to the country.

Question 24.
Name the Asia’s largest cross-country pipelines.
Answer:
Asia’s first cross country pipeline covering a distance of 1,157 km was constructed by Oil India Limited (OIL) from Naharkatiya oilfield in Assam to Barauni refinery in Bihar.

Question 25.
Name a few earlier means of communi-cation.
Answer:

• In earlier times, the messages were delivered by beating the drum or hollow tree trunks, giving indicators through smoke or fire or with the help of fast runners.
• Horses, camels, dogs, birds and other animals were also used to send messages.

Question 26.
What are the electronic media of mass communication?
Answer:
Radio and television.

Question 27.
What are the benefits of TV over radio?
Answer:

• Better recall value when we use the live visual.
• We can both listen and see.

Question 28.
What are the limitations of television?
Answer:

• Everybody does not have an access to television in remote areas.
• Not portable.

Question 29.
What is NRSA? Where is its headquarter?
Answer:
The National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA) at Hyderabad provides facilities for acquisition of data and its processing. These are very useful in the management of natural resources.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain the functions of National Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
Answer:
The National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) was operationalised in 1995. It is an autonomous body under the Ministry of Surface Transport. It is entrusted with the responsibility of development, maintenance and operation of National Highways. This is also the apex body to improve the quality of the roads designated as National Highways.

Question 2.
List some major projects of NHAI.
Answer:
NHAI has taken up some major projects in the country under different phases:

• Golden Quadrilateral: It comprises construction of 5,846 km long 4/6 lane, high density traffic corridor, to connect India’s four big metro cities of Delhi- Mumbai-Chennai-Kolkata. With the construction pf Golden Quadrilateral, the time-distance and cost of movement among the mega cities of India will be considerably minimized.
• North-South Corridors: North-South corridor aims at connecting Srinagar in Jammu and Kashmir with Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu (including Kochi-Salem Spur) with 4,076 km long road.
• East-West Corridor: The East-West Corridor has been planned to connect Silchar in Assam with the port town of Porbandar in Gujarat with 3,640 km of road length.

Question 3.
Explain the functions of Border Roads Organisation.
Answer:
The Border Roads Organisation (BRO) was established in May, 1960.
Functions:

• It aimed at accelerating economic development and strengthening defence preparedness through rapid and coordinated improvement of strategically important roads along the northern and north-eastern boundary of the country.
• Border Road Organisation has completed over 40,450 km of roads by March, 2005.
• Apart from the construction and maintenance of roads in strategically sensitive areas, the BRO also undertakes snow clearance in high altitude areas.

Question 4.
Give the reasons for regional variations of the low density of roads in India.
Answer:
The reasons for low density of roads in India.

Nature of terrain:

• Construction of roads is easy and cheaper in plain areas.
• It is difficult and costly in hilly and plateau are better in plain areas.
• The density and quality of roads is relatively better in plain areas as compared to hilly areas, rainy and forested areas.

Level of economic development:

• Density and quality of roads is high in urban areas.
• It is very low in rural areas.
• Important towns are the nodes of north India.

Question 5.
What do you know about Konkan railway?
OR
What is the significance of Konkan railway?
Answer:

• One of the important achievements of Indian railways has been the construction of Konkan railway in 1998.
• It is 760 km long rail route connecting Roha in Maharashtra to Mangalore in Karnataka.
• It is considered as engineering marvel. It crosses 146 rivers, streams, nearly 2000 bridges and tunnels.
• Asia’s largest tunnel which is nearly 6.5 km long also lies on this route.
• States of Maharashtra, Goa and Karnataka are partners in this undertaking.

Question 6.
What is the importance of air transport?
Answer:

• It is easily accessible to places of uneven topography.
• It is important for transportation of perishable goods.
• It is the fastest means of transport which takes comparatively lesser time to make the passengers reach their destination.
• It is efficient during calamities.
• It has strategic importance also.

Question 7.
What is pipeline and why is it important?
Answer:
Pipeline is the cheapest means of transport as only once the construction has to be done and it has low operational cost. It is important because:

• It is the most convenient and efficient mode of transporting liquids and gases over long distances.
• It solves the problems of loading and unloading of raw materials and finished goods.
• This ensures the uninterrupted supply of raw materials to the refineries and finished products to the consumers.
• It is ideally suited for transport of liquids and gases.
• It can be laid through difficult terrain and underwater also.
• It involves low energy consumption.
• It rules out transhipment losses.

Question 8.
Explain the Super National Highways of India.
Answer:

• Golden Quadrilateral: It comprises construction of 5,846 km long 416 lane, high density traffic corridor to connect India’s four big metro cities of Delhi- Mumbai-Chennai-Kolkata. With the construction of Golden quadrilateral, the time-distance and cost of movement among the mega cities of India will be considerably minimised.
• North-South and East-West Corridors: North-South corridor aims at connecting Srinagar in Jammu & Kashmir with Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu (including Kochi-Salem) with 4,076 km long road. The East-West corridor has been planned to connect Silchar in Assam with the port town of Porbandar in Gujarat with 3,640 km of road length.

Question 9.
What is Internet? What are its uses?
Answer:

Internet is one of the most effective and advanced personal communication system.
Uses:

• It enables the users to establish direct contact e-mail to get access to the world of knowledge and information.
• It is also used for e-commerce and carrying out money transactions.
• The internet is like a huge central warehouse of data, with detailed information on various items.
• It enables us with the basic facilities of direct communication.

Question 10.
What are National Highways? Give its three characteristics.
Answer:
The main roads which are constructed and maintained by the central government are known as National Highways.
Characteristics of National Highways are:

• These roads are meant for inter-state transport and movement of defence men and material in strategic areas.
• These also connect the state capitals, major cities, important ports, railways functions, etc.
• The length of the National Highways constitutes only two per cent of total road length but carry 40 % of road traffic.

Question 11.
What are border roads? How are they important for the country?
Answer:
Roads along the northern and north¬eastern boundary of India are known as border roads. The Border Road Organisation (BRO) was established in May 1960 for accelerating economic development and strengthening defence preparedness through rapid and coordinated improvement and suffers daily necessities to border areas.
Example; Roads in high altitude mountainous terrain joining Chandigarh with Manila. This road runs at an average altitude of 4,270 metres above the mean sea level.

Question 12.
When did air transport begin in India? Explain its present state.
Answer:
Air transport in India made a beginning in 1911 when airmail operation comm¬enced over a little distance of 10 km between Allahabad and Naini. But its real development took place in post¬independent period. The Airport Authority of India is responsible for providing safe, efficient air traffic and aeronautical communication services in the Indian Air Space. The authority manages 126 airports including 11 international, 86 domestic and 29 civil enclaves at defence air fields.

Question 13.
What are the limitations of the pipeline transport?
Answer:

• Pipelines are not flexible.
• The capacity laid cannot be increased.
• The security of pipelines is little difficult.
• The repair of underground pipelines is not easy and leakages cannot be detected easily

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1.
Explain the factors affecting Indian Railways.
Answer:
The pattern of Indian railway network has been influenced by geographical, economic and political factors.
Geographical Factors: The North Indian plain with its levelled land, high density of population and rich agriculture presents the most favourable conditions for the development of railways. However, the presence of a large number of rivers makes it necessary to construct bridges which involve heavy expenditure.

There are practically no railways in the flood plains of many rivers in Bihar and Assam. The plateau region of south India is not as much suitable for railways as the North Plain area. The Himalayan region in the north is almost entirely devoid of railways due to its rugged topography.

Some railway terminals such as Jammu Tawi, Kotdwar, Dehradun, Kathgodam, etc. are found on the foothills. Some narrow gauge railway tracks are found in the Himalayan region. A railway link
between Jammu and Kashmir valley is being planned at a veiy high cost. The sandy areas of Rajasthan are also not much favourable for railways.

There was no railway line between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer till 1966. Similarly, forested areas of Madhya Pradesh and Odisha, deltaic swamps of West Bengal, marshy areas of Rann of Kachchh and hilly tract of Sahyadri are also unfavourable for the development of railways. Sahyadri can only be crossed through gaps like Thalghat, Bhorghat and Palghat to reach coastal trail heads like Mumbai, Vasco-de-Gama, Mangalore and Kochi. Obviously, the railways tend to follow the path of least resistance.

Economic Factors: Railways develop more in the economically advanced areas where the need for railway network is felt more. Conversely, railways bring about economic prosperity to the areas through which they pass. This is because of the economic linkages that we find the highest density of railways near big urban and industrial centres and in areas which are rich in mineral and agricultural resources.

Political and Administrative Factors: The present railway system in India is the legacy of the British rule. The British administration planned the direction and pattern of the railway lines in such a way that they could exploit the valuable raw materials of India for the benefit of their industries and flood the Indian markets with the finished goods from Britain.

Besides, the Britishers wanted to maintain their military supremacy, for which quick movement of troops and arms was necessary and construction of railways became unavoidable. Thus, top priority was given to the big ports of Mumbai, Kolkata and Chennai. These ports were connected with their hinterlands by railway lines to facilitate imports and exports. It is from the ports that the railway network spread to other parts of the country.

Question 2.
What recent steps have been taken for development and modernisation of Indian railways? Why is unification of gauges important? What role does railway network play in economic development of our country?
Answer:
Recent development and modernisation steps taken in Indian railways:

• Extensive programme to convert the metre and narrow gauge to broad gauge.
• The steam engines have been replaced by diesel and electric engines. .
• The new trains have increased speed.
• The environment of the stations have improved. There have been computerised reservations, automatic electronic signals, loading facilities, etc.
• Introduction of metro in Kolkata and Delhi have set an example for other states also.
• Railway routes have been extended to other areas such as Konkan railway between Mumbai and Mangalore.
• Improved passenger services on the trains include AC coaches, pantry services, bedding facilities, etc.

Unification of gauges is important:

• Unification of gauges will bring uniformity across the country.
• It helps in increasing capacity with broad higher speed.
• It provides higher speed at economical rates.
• Reduction in transhipment losses, eliminates wastage of time and money.
• Maintenance of single track is easy and it promotes comfortable travelling.

Contribution of Indian railways to economic development:

• The major bulk commodities transported by railways are coal, food grains, cement and fertilizers.
• The haulage of food grains increased to about four times between 1970-71 to 2004-05. It has now reached upto 44.07 million tons from 15.1 million tons.
• It shows production has substantially increased.
• The transport of fertilizers has increased many times from 4.7 million tons in 1970-71 to 23.7 million tons in 2004-05. It shows improvement in the agricultural sector as it provides the base for agri¬cultural development.
• The transport of coal has increased from 47.9 million tons in 1970-71 to 251.7 million tons in 2004-05. It shows the expansion of railways. Moreover, the consumption of coal has brought major industrial development.

Question 3.
Discuss the growth and role of TV and radio in mass communication.
Answer:
Radio: Radio broadcasting started in India in 1923 by the Radio Club of Bombay. Since then, it gained immense popularity and changed the social-cultural life of people. Government took mode of communication under its control in 1930 under the Indian Broadcasting System. It was changed to All India Radio in 1936 and to Akashwani in 1957 (TV).

Television: TV broadcasting has emerged as the most effective audio-visual medium for disseminating information and educating masses. Initially, the TV services were limited only to the national capital where it began in 1959. After 1972, several other centres became operational. In 1976, TV was delinked from All India Radio (AIR) and got a separate identity as Doordarshan (DD). After INSAT-IA (National Television-DDl) became operational, Common National Programme (CNP) was started for the entire network and its services were extended to the backward and remote rural areas. TV and radio play an important role in mass communication.

• All India Radio broadcasts a variety of programmes related to information, education and entertainment.
• Special news bulletins are also broadcast at specific occasions like session of parliament and state legislatures.
• They are used for the purpose of advertisement of various products.
• They are used to create awareness on government policies and programmes.
• They are also used to create awareness about various diseases and their precautions. In this way they act as public health measures.
• Weather forecasting information, important facts and figures reach to general public only through radio and TV.

Question 4.
Explain the primary and secondary inland waterways of India.
Answer:
India has 14,500 km of navigable waterways, contributing about 1% to the country’s transportation. It comprises rivers, canals, backwaters, creeks, etc. At present, 3,700 km of major rivers are navigable by mechanised flat bottom vessels. For the development, maintenance and regulation of national waterways in the country, the Inland Waterways Authority was set up in 1986.

The authority has declared inland national waterways:

National Waterway 1: Allahabad-Haldia stretch (1,620 km): It is one of the most important waterways in India. It is navigable by mechanical boats up to Patna and by ordinary boats up to Haridwar. It is divided into three parts for developmental purposes:

• Haldia-Farakka (560 km)
• Farakka-Patna (460 km)
• Patna-Allahabad (600 km).

National Waterway 2: Sadiya-Dhubri stretch (891 km): The Brahmaputra is navigable by steamers up to Dibrugarh (1,384 km) which is shared by India and Bangladesh.

National Waterway 3: Kottapuram-Kollam stretch (205 km): It includes 168 km of west coast canal along with Champakarcanal (23 km) and Udyogmandal canal (14 km). Inland Waterways Authority has also identified ten other inland waterways, which could be upgraded. The backwaters (Kadal) of Kerala has special significance in Inland Waterway. It provides cheap means of transport and also attracts a large number of tourists in Kerala. The famous Nehru Trophy Boat Race (VALLAMKALI) is also held in the backwaters.

National Waterway 4: specified stretches of Godavari and Krishna rivers alongwith Kakinada, Puducherry stretch of canals (1078 km).

National Watery-5: Specified streches of Brahmani along with Matai river, delta channels of Mahanadi & Brahmani rivers and East Coast Canals (588 km).

Question 5.
Explain the functions of Oil India Limited (OIL).
Answer:
Oil India Limited (OIL) operates under the administrative set up of the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas. It is engaged in the exploration, production and transportation of crude oil and natural gas. It was incorporated in 1959 as a company.
Functions:

• It constructed Asia’s first cross country pipeline covering a distance of 1,157 km from Naharkatiya oilfield in Assam to Barauni refinery in Bihar.
• It was further extended up to Kanpur in 1966.
• It has also constructed another pipeline in the western region of India of which Ankleshwar-Koyali, Mumbai High- Koyali and Hazira-Vij aipur-Jagdishpur (HVJ) are most important.
• Recently, a 1256 km long pipeline connecting Salaya (Gujarat) with Mathura (U.P.) has been constructed.
• It supplies crude oil from Gujarat to Punjab (Jalandhar) via Mathura.
• OIL is in the process of constructing of 660 km long pipeline from Numaligarh to Siliguri

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)

Question 1.
Why is the density of rural roads very low in hilly, plateau and forested areas?
Answer:
Due to the following factors, the density of rural roads is very low in hilly, plateau and forested areas.

• Technological difficulty in construction
• Low population density.
• Relatively lesser economic activity.
• Costs of construction are relatively higher.
• Settlements are located far away from each other.

Question 2.
“Among all the personal communication systems internet is the most effective and advanced one.” Do you agree with the statement?
Answer:
I agree with the statement because:

• It enables the users to establish direct contact.
• It is widely used in urban areas.
• It acts like a huge central warehouse of data and other information.
• It provides an efficient access to information at relatively low cost.
• It is increasingly used for e-commerce and many transactions.
• It is the most time efficient device.

Question 3.
Inspite of numerous rivers, why are India’s inland waterways poorly developed?
Answer:
Inspite of numerous rivers, India’s inland waterways are poorly developed because:

• Seasonal fluctuations in the volume of water level of most rivers.
• Higher silting in the river bed.
• Reduction in water level due to diversion of water for irrigation.
• Floods and swift currents.
• Tough competition from roads, railways and transport with regard to convenience.
• Lack of mechanised vessels.
• Undulating topography.

Question 4.
Why has the container transport become more popular nowadays?
Answer:
Container transport has become very popular nowadays because:

• It provides door to door service.
• It has reduced transport and delivery time.
• The service is economical both to the railways and its customers.
• Safety and security of product.

Question 5.
How have geographical factors influenced railway network in India?
Answer:
The North Indian plain with its level land, high density of population and rich agriculture presents the most favourable conditions for the development of railways. However, the presence of a largo number of rivers makes it necessary to construct bridges which involve heavy expenditure.

There are practically no railways in the flood plains of many rivers in Bihar and Assam. The plateau region of south India is not as much suitable for railways as the North Plain area. The Himalayan region in the north is almost entirely devoid of railways due to its rugged topography.

Some railway terminals such as Jammu Tawi, Kotdwar, Dehra Dun, Kathgodam, etc. are found on the foothills. Some narrow gauge railway tracks are found in the Himalayan region. A railway link between Jammu and Kashmir valley is being planned at a very high cost. The sandy areas of Rajasthan are also not much favourable for railways.

There was no railway line between Jodhpur and Jaisalmer till 1966. Similarly, forested areas of Madhya Pradesh and Orissa, deltaic swamps of West Bengal, marshy areas of Rann of Kachchh and hilly tract of Sahyadri are also unfavourable for the development of railways. Sahyadri can only be crossed through gaps like Thalghat, Bhorghat and Palghat to reach coastal trail heads like Mumbai, Vasco-de-Gama, Mangalore and Kochi. Obviously, the railways tend to follow the path of least resistance.

Social-Cultural significance of Roads:
Higher road density affects the society and cultural of a region. Kerala’s high density of roads can be linked to it’s highest HDI

ranking in India:
The literacy rate of 94% as children can easily travel to reach schools The infant mortality rate is low, as medical help is easily accessible, due to high road density. Longevity is higher as sick can easily reach the doctors & hospitals. The higher road density, allows people to travel more, thus make them more aware of medical facilities to control population growth & birth rate. Kerala has linear & continuous settlement pattern along the roads, where one village ends & another one begins.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Differentiates

Question 1.
Differentiate Between National Highways and State’ Highways
Answer:

Basis	National Highways	State Highways
Construction	These are constructed and maintained by the central government.	These are constructed and maintained by state govemmet.
Purpose	These are meant for inter­state transport and connect the state capital’s major cities, important ports, railways junctions, etc.	They join the state capitals with district headquarters and other important towns. These roads are connected to the National Highways.
Share in road length and road traffic	They constitute only 2% of total road length but carry 40% of road traffic.	They constitute 4% of total road length in the country.

Question 2.
Differentiate Between District Roads and Rural Roads
Answer:

Basis	District Roads	Rural Roads
Construction	These are constructed and maintained by state government.	These are constructed and maintained by local government.
Purpose	These roads are the connecting link between District Headquarters and the other important nodes in the district.	These roads are vital for providing links in the rural areas.
Share in road length	They account for 14 per cent of the total road length of the country.	About 80 per cent of the total road length in India are categorized as rural roads.

Question 3.
Differentiate Between Meter Gauge, Broad Gauge and Narrow Gauge
Answer:

Basis	Meter Gauge	Broad Gauge	Narrow Gauge
Breadth	The distance between rails is one metre.	The distance between rails in broad gauge is 1.676 metre.	The distance between the rails in this case is 0.762 metre or 0.610 metre.
Share in total route length	It runs over 13,290 km covering 21.02 per cent of the total route length.	The total length of broad gauge lines is 46,807 km which accounts for 74.14 per cent of the total length of rail routes in the country.	Nearly 4.94 per cent of the total length of the Indian Railways is narrow gauge, which accounts for 3,124 km of route length. It is generally confined to hilly areas.

Question 4.
Differentiate Between Air India and Indian Airlines
Answer:

Basis	Air India	Indian Airlines
Service	It provides overseas air transport.	It provides domestic air transport.
Purpose	Air India provides International Air services for both passengers and cargo traffic. It connects all the continents of the world through its services.	It is country’s largest state-owned domestic carrier, Indian Airlines dropped the word ‘Airlines’ from its name and is known as ‘Indian’ w.e.f. December 8, 2005.
Share in air traffic	In 2005, it carried 12.2 million passengers and 4.8 lakh metric tonnes of cargo.	In 2005, domestic movement involved 24.3 million passengers and 20 lakh metric tonnes of cargo.

Question 5.
Differentiate Between Personal Communication and mass communication
Answer:

Basis	Personal Communication	Mass Communication
Purpose	When communication takes place between two or more persons at personal level, i.e. either orally or in writing but the persons interacting have a personal involvement, it is called personal communication.	When communication takes place for public at large or when a means is used to convey a message to many people simultaneously, it is called mass communication.
Means	Telephone, email, letter, fax, oral face to face interaction.	Radio, TV, newspaper, magazines, internet, etc.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Map Based Questions

Question 1.
Locate and label the following on the political map of India.
(i) Tower on north-south and east-west corridors.
(ii) Golden Quadrilaterals
Answer:

Question 2.
Locate and label the following on the political map of India.
Mumbai CST, Kolkata, Hajipur, Bhubaneshwar, New Delhi, Allahabad, Gorakhpur, Maligaon, Jaipur, Chennai, Secunderabad, Kolkata, Bilaspur, Hubli, Mumbai (church gate), Jabalpur.
Answer:

Class 12 Geography Chapter 10 Important Questions

Very Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
What is the main aim behind establishing border road organization in India? (Delhi 2008)
OR
State the main functions of border road organization. (A.1.2013)
Answer:
Border Road Organisation was established for accelerating economic development and strengthening defence through rapid and coordinated improvement of strategically important roads along the northern and north-eastern boundary of the country.

Question 2.
Name the air service which is widely used in the hilly areas of the north¬eastern sector of India. (A.I. 2011)
Answer:
Pawan Hans.

Question 3.
State the main function of ‘National Highways Authority of India’ (NHAI). (A.I. 2013)
Answer:
The main function of National Highways Authority is development maintenance and operation of National Highways.

Question 4.
Define the term ‘road density’. (Delhi 2014)
Answer:
Road density is the length of roads per 100 square km of area.

Question 5.
Why did Sher Shah Suri built the Shahi (Royal) Road? (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Sher Shah built the Shahi (Royal) road to strengthen and consolidate his empire from the Indus Valley to the Sonar Valley in Bengal.

Question 6.
What is the major function of the National Highways Authority of India?
Answer:
Major function of the National Highway Authority of India is: Operation, maintenance and development of National Highways.

Question 7.
Why did Sher Shah Suri built the Shahi (Royal) Road? (CBSE 2018)
Answer:
Sher Shah built the Shahi (Royal) road to strengthen and consolidate his empire from the Indus Valley to the Sonar Valley in Bengal.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Classify satellite system of India into two groups on the basis of configuration and purpose. Explain the main feature of each group. (Delhi 2009)
Answer:
On the basis of configuration and purposes satellite system in India is divided into two types

Indian National Satellite System (INSAT):

• It was established in 1983.
• It is a multi-purpose satellite system for telecommunication, meteorological observation.

Indian Remote Sensing Satellite System (IRS):

• With the launching of IRS-IA in March 1988 from Vaikanour in Russia, it became operational.
• It collects data in several spectral bands and trasmit them to the ground stations for various uses.
• It is useful in the management of natural resources.

Question 2.
‘The density and the quality of roads are better in plains as compared to other regions in India.” Support this statement with examples. (A.I. 2009)
Answer:
The density and the quality of roads are better in plains as compared to other regions in India because:

• Nature of terrain and the level of economic development are the main determinants of density of roads.
• Construction of roads is easy and cheaper in the plain areas while it is difficult and costly in hilly and plateau areas.
• Example; Density of roads in J & K is 10.04 km while in Uttar Pradesh it is 532.27 km with a national average of 125.02 in 2008.

Question 3.
Describe any three advantages of water transport in the world. (A.I. 2013)
Answer:

• It does not require route construction.
• Oceans are linked with each other.
• They are negotiable with ships of various sizes.
• It is much cheaper than other means of transport.
• The friction of water is far less than that of land.
• The energy cost of water transportation is lower.

Question 4.
What do you mean by satellite communication? (A.I. 2014)
Answer:
Communication through artificial satellites launched in space is called satellite communication. It has emerged as a new area in communication technology since the 1970’s after the U.S.A. and former U.S.S.R. pioneered space research. In other words, it is an electronic network of computer which connects million of people across the world. It is the result of digitalisation of information in which the telecommunication is merged with computers.

Question 5.
Explain any three benefits of satellite communication in India. (Delhi, 2014)
Answer:
Three benefits of satellite communication in India are as follows:

• Satellite images can be used for the weather forecast, monitoring of natural calamities, surveillance of border areas, etc.
• It can be used as multi-purpose system for telecommunication, meteorological observation and for various other data and programmes. The IRS satellite system became operational with the launching of IRS-IA in March, 1988 from Vaikanour in Russia.
• The National Remote Sensing Agency (NRSA) at Hyderabad provides facilities for acquisition of data and its processing. These are very useful in the management of natural resources.

Question 6.
Describe any three features of Konkan ; Railway. (Delhi, 2017)
Answer:.
Features of Konkan Railways:

• One of the achievements of Indian Railways.
• It is 760 km. long.
• It crosses 146 rivers, 2000 bridges approximately and 91 tunnels.
• Asia’s largest tunnel lies in this route.
• It connects Roha in Maharashtra to Mangalore in Karnataka.
  (Any three features to be described)

Long Answer Type Questions:

Question 1.
Define the term ‘road density’. Explain with examples the two main determinants of road density in India. (Delhi 2011)
OR
Explain with five suitable examples, how the level of economic development and nature of terrain affect the density of roads in India.(Delhi 2013)
Answer:
Road density is the length of roads per 100 sq. kms of an area. Determinants of road density are level of economic development and nature of terrain.

• Construction of roads is easy and cheaper in the plain areas while it is difficult and costly in hilly and plateaus areas.
• Jammu and Kashmir has only 10.48 km. road density while Uttar Pradesh 532.27.
• The road density is high in most of the northern states and major southern states.
• It is low in the Himalayan region, northeastern region, Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan.
• Not only the density but also the quality of roads is relatively better in plains as compared to roads in high altitude areas, rainy and forested regions.

Question 2.
‘Indian railways brought people of diverse cultures together.” Support this statement with suitable examples. (Delhi 2015)
Answer:
Indian Railways brought people of diverse cultures together as

• It was introduced in 1853, when a line was constructed from Bombay to Thane covering a distance of 34 km.
• Its network is more than 644060 (2011) kms which is spread in different states.
• It connects people of different regions through its sixteen (16) zones.
• It facilitates the movement of both fright and passengers and contributes to the growth of economy.
• People from different languages, customs and food habits could connect with each other through Indian Railways. By this people of different languages and customs meet and a mix culture is developing and India is developing as a “Nation” from “Federation of States.

Question 3.
Examine the role of Inland Waterways Authority of India. Explain why inland water transport is an important mode of transport. (A.1.2016)
Answer:
Inland water is an important mode of transport because:

• It was the chief mode of transport before the advent of railways.
• It contributes about 1% of the country’s transportation.
• It provides cheap means of transport.
• It also attracts large member of tourists.

Question 4.
Explain why rail transport continues to remain the chief mode of transport for the masses in India. (A.I. 2016)
Answer:
Rail transport continues to remain the chief mode of transport for the masses in India because:

• It facilitates the movement of both fright and passengers.
• It contributes to the growth of the economy of the country.
• Indian Railway has convert the metre and narrow gauges to broad gauge.
• It is also the cheap means of transport.
• Metro rail has revolutionized the urban transport system in Kolkata and Delhi.

Question 5.
Explain any five factors responsible for the development of ‘Mumbai-Pune Industrial Region’. (Delhi 2017)
Answer:
Factors responsible for the development of ‘Mumbai-Pune Industrial Region:

• Favorable climatic conditions for the development of cotton textile industries.
• Opening of the Suez Canal providing impetus for its growth.
• Availability of port facility for trade.
• Development of hydro-electricity in Western Ghats.
• Availability of labour.
• Nearness to off-shore oil fields favored the growth of petrochemical industries.
• Growth and development of various industries e.g. engineering goods, pharmaceuticals, chemicals etc.
  (Any five points to be explained)

Question 6.
Classify means of communication on the basis of scale and quality into two categories. Explain any two characteristics of each category. (A.I. 2017)
Answer:
Classification of means of communication on the basis of scale and quality:

• Personal Communication
• Mass Communication

Characteristics:

Personal Communication System:

• Internet is the most effective advanced one and widely used in urban areas.
• It enables the user to establish direct connect through Email to get access to world of knowledge and information.
• It is used for e-commerce and carrying out money transaction.
• It is a huge central warehouse of data, with detailed information on various items. (Letters, Telephone, Fax, Email, Internet, etc).

Mass Communication System:

• Radio broadcasting started in India in 1923 by the Radio Club of Bombay and changed the socio¬cultural life of people.
• Television broadcasting emerged as the most effective-audio-visual medium for information and educating masses.
• Use of satellite and synoptic view of larger area for economic and strategic reasons. (Radio, Television, Cinema, Satellite, News Paper, Magazine and Books, Seminar and Conference, etc).
  ( Any two points )

Question 7.
Describe any five characteristics of National Highways of India. (Delhi 2018)
Answer:
Characteristics of National Highwaysof India:

• Constructed and maintained by the Central Government.
• Meant for inter-state transport.
• Meant for movement of defence men and material in strategic areas.
• They connect the cities in different parts (state capitals, major cities, important ports, railway junctions) of India.
• They constitute 1.7% of total road length and 40% of the road traffic in India.
• NHAI is entrusted with the responsibility of development, maintenance and operation of NH.

Class 12 Geography NCERT Solutions