Indian Geography
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What is land subsidence? Discuss the factors that may have contributed to the subsidence observed in Joshimath, Uttarakhand. (200 words)
Model Answer Land Subsidence Land subsidence refers to the gradual sinking or sudden collapse of the earth's surface due to the removal or displacement of subsurface materials. It can occur naturally due to earthquakes, erosion, or sinkholes, or as a result of human activities like groundwater extraRead more
Model Answer
Land Subsidence
Land subsidence refers to the gradual sinking or sudden collapse of the earth’s surface due to the removal or displacement of subsurface materials. It can occur naturally due to earthquakes, erosion, or sinkholes, or as a result of human activities like groundwater extraction, mining, and infrastructure development.
Factors Contributing to Subsidence in Joshimath, Uttarakhand
In Joshimath, land subsidence is attributed to both natural and anthropogenic factors:
- Built on Ancient Landslide Material: Joshimath is situated on loose sand and stone deposits from an ancient landslide, which lack high load-bearing capacity, making the region vulnerable to subsidence under increasing infrastructure and population pressure.
- Geographic Faults: The region is located along a tectonic fault line where the Indian Plate subducts under the Eurasian Plate, contributing to instability.
- Extreme Weather: Frequent heavy rainfall causes erosion and exacerbates landslides, as seen during the 2013 and 2021 floods.
- Hydroelectric Projects: Construction activities, including tunneling for hydropower projects, have disrupted aquifers, contributing to land subsidence.
- Unplanned Construction: Lack of proper drainage systems and unregulated construction has further aggravated the problem (Source: Indian Institute of Remote Sensing, M.C. Mishra Committee).
See lessWhat are non-metallic minerals? Discuss their uses and distribution across India. (200 words)
Model Answer Non-Metallic Minerals: Uses and Distribution in India Non-metallic minerals do not contain metals and are categorized into fuel and non-fuel minerals. Key examples include coal, petroleum, natural gas, mica, limestone, and marble. Uses of Non-Metallic Minerals: Coal is primarily used foRead more
Model Answer
Non-Metallic Minerals: Uses and Distribution in India
Non-metallic minerals do not contain metals and are categorized into fuel and non-fuel minerals. Key examples include coal, petroleum, natural gas, mica, limestone, and marble.
Uses of Non-Metallic Minerals:
Distribution Across India:
- Coal: Found mainly in the Damodar Valley (Jharia, Raniganj) and coastal regions (Tamil Nadu, Gujarat).
- Petroleum: Primarily in Assam, Gujarat, and the Krishna-Godavari basin.
- Natural Gas: Reserves are abundant in Mumbai High, Cambay basin, and Krishna-Godavari basin.
- Mica: Predominantly in Jharkhand (Koderma-Hazaribagh) and Rajasthan.
- Limestone: Major deposits in Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Andhra Pradesh (Source: Geological Surveys of India).
See lessWhat is tropical monsoon climate? Discuss its distribution and explain the process of its onset in the Indian subcontinent. (200 words)
Model Answer Tropical Monsoon Climate The tropical monsoon climate is marked by a seasonal reversal of winds and corresponding changes in precipitation. It is characterized by: Temperature: Monthly mean temperatures above 18°C, with summer temperatures ranging from 30-45°C and winter temperatures beRead more
Model Answer
Tropical Monsoon Climate
The tropical monsoon climate is marked by a seasonal reversal of winds and corresponding changes in precipitation. It is characterized by:
Distribution
This climate is found in regions of the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia, parts of South America, and northern Australia, notably in countries like India, Burma, Thailand, and Vietnam (Source: Global Climate Distribution).
Onset in the Indian Subcontinent
The Indian monsoon begins in June, driven by factors such as:
The process culminates in rainfall across the subcontinent from June to September.
See lessWhat are local winds? Provide examples and explain how they influence the climate of a region. (200 words)
Model Answer Local Winds Local winds are winds that blow over a small geographical area, typically covering distances from tens to a few hundred kilometers. They are usually short-lived, lasting only several hours to a day, and are influenced by local geographic features like landforms and weather pRead more
Model Answer
Local Winds
Local winds are winds that blow over a small geographical area, typically covering distances from tens to a few hundred kilometers. They are usually short-lived, lasting only several hours to a day, and are influenced by local geographic features like landforms and weather patterns.
Examples of Local Winds and Their Climate Impact
Conclusion
Local winds can significantly affect the climate by altering temperature, humidity, and precipitation patterns, which in turn influences agriculture and daily life.
See lessGiven that around 20% of India's population is projected to be over 60 years old by 2050, do you believe it is the right moment for India to adopt the concept of the 'silver dividend'? What steps should India take to maximize the benefits of this demographic shift? (200 words)
Model Answer India is projected to witness a significant demographic shift by 2050, with around 20% of its population expected to be over 60 years old. This aging population presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly in terms of the concept of the 'Silver Dividend.' With the elderly poRead more
Model Answer
India is projected to witness a significant demographic shift by 2050, with around 20% of its population expected to be over 60 years old. This aging population presents both challenges and opportunities, particularly in terms of the concept of the ‘Silver Dividend.’ With the elderly population set to rise from 153 million to 347 million, India must act now to harness the potential economic benefits that come with this demographic transition.
1. Economic Growth and Increased Savings
One of the primary benefits of the ‘Silver Dividend’ is the potential for economic growth. Studies suggest that tapping into the untapped working capacity of older adults could increase India’s GDP growth rate by 1.5%. Older individuals bring valuable skills and experience, contributing to sectors like education, healthcare, and customer services. Moreover, longer life expectancy leads to increased savings, which can result in greater capital accumulation, providing more resources for investment in the economyfsetting Labor Shortage
Population aging poses a risk of labor shortages, which could hamper economic progress. However, research indicates that increasing the labor force participation rate among older people can help offset this issue. Older adults, if provided the right opportunities, can continue contributing meaningfully to the workforce .
2. Maximize Silver Dividend
Conclusion
In conclusion, India must begin implementmeasures to effectively tap into the ‘Silver Dividend’ and maximize its economic and social potential in the coming decades.
See lessWhat are the factors contributing to India's underperformance in the textile sector in comparison to its competitors? What measures can India take to enhance its competitiveness in this labor-intensive industry? (200 words)
Model Answer Lack of Large-Scale Industries: India's textile sector is dominated by small, informal weaving and processing units. Complex labor laws, weak export contract laws, and challenges in hiring and firing employees deter large-scale investments, reducing the sector’s competitiveness. High PrRead more
Model Answer
Measures to Enhance Competitiveness
Government Initiatives
- The government has implemented schemes like PM MITRA Parks, Production-Linked Incentive (PLI), and the National Technical Textiles Mission to bolster the textile sector. These initiatives aim to meet the export target of $65 billion by 2026 and generate new employment opportunities.
See lessIdentify the main factors that have contributed to the rise of industrial clusters in India. What advantages do businesses derive from being part of these clusters? (200 words)
Model Answer 1. Rich Historical Legacy Industrial clusters in India often have a deep-rooted historical legacy, where traditional artisans and families have been creating products for generations. Over time, this led to the accumulation of expertise in product formation. For instance, the MoradabadRead more
Model Answer
1. Rich Historical Legacy
Industrial clusters in India often have a deep-rooted historical legacy, where traditional artisans and families have been creating products for generations. Over time, this led to the accumulation of expertise in product formation. For instance, the Moradabad brass cluster and the Aligarh lock cluster are prime examples of such legacy-driven industrial hubs.
2. Existence of Large Enterprises
The presence of large enterprises within a region can stimulate the growth of smaller firms, creating a ripple effect that fosters cluster development. A notable example is the Heavy Engineering Fabrication cluster of Trichy and the Rubber cluster of Kottayam, where large industries anchor the growth of numerous smaller enterprises.
3. Supportive Regional Policies
Government policies play a crucial role in the development of industrial clusters. A favorable law and order situation, along with a supportive regulatory framework, can promote cluster growth. The Maharashtra government’s subsidies and grants to the Floriculture cluster in Pune exemplify the positive impact of such policies.
4.Entrepreneurial Dynamism
The entrepreneurial spirit is pivotal to the growth of industrial clusters. For instance, the Diesel Engine and Engineering Cluster in Rajkot began in the 1940s with a few entrepreneurs, and today it includes over 6,000 enterprises, contributing significantly to the regional economy.
Benefits to Enterprises from Operating within Clusters
Clusters foster entrepreneurial activity by lowering the cost of starting new ventures. The Coir Cluster of Alleppey, for instance, has given rise to over 4,500 small enterprises.
Businesses in clusters benefit from collective marketing efforts that help them access larger and more diverse markets. The Hosiery Cluster of Ludhiana, worth 20,000 crore, accounts for over 90% of India’s apparel production.
Industrial clusters enable greater collaboration between businesses and supporting institutions, like research institutes and testing laboratories, facilitating innovation. The Trichy Heavy Engineering Fabrication Cluster, for example, has ties with educational institutes to enhance productivity.
Economies of scale allow businesses in clusters to reduce costs, such as through bulk purchasing and shared distribution channels, resulting in lower operational expenses and increased profits.
Conclusion
In conclusion, India’s industrial clusters offer numerous benefits to enterprises, including cost savings, market access, and networking opportunities, while also being shaped by historical, entrepreneurial, and policy-driven factors. The Ministry of MSME’s Cluster Development approach further promotes the competitiveness and productivity of Micro and Small Enterprises (MSEs).
See lessWhat are the key challenges in milk production in India, and how can India achieve a White Revolution 2.0? (200 words)
Model Answer 1. Feed and Fodder Shortages A major constraint to dairy farming in India is the shortage of quality feed and fodder. This is due to changes in land use patterns, urbanization, and the declining productivity of pasturelands. India faces a 35.6% deficit in green fodder, impacting the nutRead more
Model Answer
1. Feed and Fodder Shortages
A major constraint to dairy farming in India is the shortage of quality feed and fodder. This is due to changes in land use patterns, urbanization, and the declining productivity of pasturelands. India faces a 35.6% deficit in green fodder, impacting the nutrition of livestock.
2. Low Productivity
The productivity of dairy animals in India is low compared to global standards. The milk yield of Indian cows is only two-thirds of the world average. This is mainly due to limited access to quality feed, traditional feeding methods, and inadequate veterinary care.
3 .Poor Animal Healthcare
India’s veterinary infrastructure is underdeveloped, contributing to poor animal health. Over 3.2 million cattle and buffaloes contracted Lumpy Skin Disease in 2022-2023. Additionally, there is a shortage of 55,000 veterinarians in the country, as reported by the National Sample Survey Organization.
4. Inadequate Technological Progress
The dairy sector in India struggles to adopt modern technology due to its unorganized structure. As a result, 3% of milk, equivalent to around 5 million tonnes, gets wasted due to lack of refrigeration and power supply.
Achieving White Revolution 2.0
To boost milk production, India needs to focus on genetic improvement through new breeding technologies. Techniques like sex-sorted semen can increase the likelihood of producing female calves, thus improving productivity.
Reducing dependence on expensive compound cattle feed is essential. Farmers should be encouraged to grow protein-rich, high-yielding green fodder grasses to make livestock feeding more affordable and sustainable.
Strengthening veterinary services by increasing the number of veterinarians and setting up mobile clinics is crucial. Preventive healthcare programs should also be implemented to safeguard livestock from diseases.
Encouraging the use of automated milking machines, milk testing equipment, and data analytics for herd management can significantly improve efficiency and productivity in dairy farming.
Customised financial products are essential to help farmers purchase high-quality livestock, invest in infrastructure, and adopt modern technologies.
By addressing these challenges and implementing these measures, India can successfully embark on White Revolution 2.0, transforming its dairy sector into a more productive, efficient, and sustainable industry.
See lessWhat are the causes of the water crisis in India's major cities like Chennai, Bengaluru, and others? Recommend solutions to address this issue. (200 words)
Model Answer Rising Encroachments Rapid urbanization and population growth have led to extensive encroachments on vacant lands and water bodies. For example, Chennai's Pallikaranai wetlands have shrunk drastically from 15,000 acres in 1954 to just 1,500 acres by 2016. This encroachment hampers naturRead more
Model Answer
Rapid urbanization and population growth have led to extensive encroachments on vacant lands and water bodies. For example, Chennai’s Pallikaranai wetlands have shrunk drastically from 15,000 acres in 1954 to just 1,500 acres by 2016. This encroachment hampers natural water retention and exacerbates the water scarcity issue.
The growth of concrete structures and impermeable surfaces in cities like Bengaluru has significantly reduced groundwater recharge. In Bengaluru, built-up areas grew from 8% in 1973 to over 93% in 2023. This extensive concretisation impedes rainwater infiltration, leading to a steep decline in groundwater levels.
Overuse of groundwater is a critical issue in cities like Chennai, which in 2023 extracted 127.5% of its groundwater resources. The rising demand for water, coupled with insufficient rainfall, leads to the depletion of aquifers.
The irregularity and concentration of rainfall during the monsoon season affect the availability of water. Bengaluru, for instance, faces water scarcity due to weak monsoons and inadequate groundwater recharge.
Untreated sewage contaminates water sources, making them unfit for consumption. Mumbai generates 3,000 million liters per day (MLD) of sewage, but only 2,100 MLD gets treated, leading to polluted water bodies.
Solutions to Address the Water Crisis
- Integrated Water Management
- Decentralized Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs)
- Adoption of Water-Saving Technologies
See lessImplementing restoration projects for lakes, ponds, and wetlands, desilting water bodies, and promoting rainwater harvesting can help recharge groundwater and increase water storage.
Establishing more decentralized sewage treatment plants with proper financing, design optimization, and enforcement of standards will reduce water contamination.
Encouraging the use of water-efficient appliances, such as low-flow showerheads and smart meters, can reduce household water consumption and improve overall water use efficiency.
Investing in these solutions can help mitigate the water crisis in major Indian cities.
Location of Industries
Jute industry is situating in the eastern part of India. Major part subgrouping is highly localized in the West Bengal side and lies mainly in the region adjacent to the Hooghly River. Raw Materials Location: Raw jute is in ample measure in Alluvial plains of Ganga-Brahmaputra Delta in West Bengal,Read more
Jute industry is situating in the eastern part of India. Major part subgrouping is highly localized in the West Bengal side and lies mainly in the region adjacent to the Hooghly River.
Raw Materials Location:
Raw jute is in ample measure in Alluvial plains of Ganga-Brahmaputra Delta in West Bengal, Bihar and Assam. This assists in reducing transport costs since most of these sources of raw material lie close by.
Plentiful Supply of Water:
There is enough water availability as the Hooghly River is supplemented by numbers of branches. At several stages of the raw jute processing like soaking, retting and washing, water is the raw material that is used mainly.
Cheap Labor
The location has abundant population that is cheap and skilled especially in sectors like the jute processing and weaving.
Developed Infrastructure
The availability of an extensive railway, road, and water transport system augments the transportation of raw material, finished products, and to and fro movement of personnel.
Established Market:
Kolkata, in specific has good developed harbour frontage hence a conducive location for export of the jute goods to the world market.
Challenges Faced by the Jute Industry in India:
Competition from Synthetic Substitutes:
Some of the raw material which are produced using jute are being challenged by synthetic substitutes such polypropylene and polyethylene on the basis of cost and what seem to be superior strength.
Declining Demand:
Originally the raw material was used for the production of jute bags and sacks; however, synthetic packaging material has eaten into the market share tremendously.
Technological Upgradation:
Majority of the jute mills situated in India today are technologically worn out and also, reveal low levels of production. Further, improved quality of the products to be produced by incorporating this concept in the argosy manufacturing company will be enhanced while at the same time facing higher production costs. The existence of modern machines and technology indicates that competitiveness to increase would mean upgrading.
Environmental Problem:
Hence the bulk of the pollution can be attributed to water pollution because of retting in jute processing, the necessity is then to adopt methods that are eco-friendly and introduce effective measures concerning pollution control. Diversification is not Enough:
Focused only on a few products, like a jute bag, it stands as a limitation for the trade, and the focus should be laid on new ones like geotextile, jute composites, and jute handicrafts.
Labor Problems
Low wages owing to extremely poor working condition and lack of basic social securities are the major issues faced by the industry with reference to laborers.
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