1. Describe the shape of India.
2. How many states and union territories are there in India?
3. What are the six physical divisions of India?
4. Why is the Indian Ocean named after India?
5. Choose one physical division of India and explain how the geographical features of that division impact the lives of people living there.
Answer (2)
India has a triangular shape and consists of 28 states and 8 union territories, alongside six physical divisions including the Northern Plains. The Indian Ocean is named after India due to its location. In the Northern Plains, the fertile land supports agriculture, impacting the livelihoods of millions of people.
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Shape of India:
India is often described as a peninsula because it is surrounded by water on three sides: the Arabian Sea to the west, the Indian Ocean to the south, and the Bay of Bengal to the east. The overall shape resembles a diamond or a kite, tapering southward towards the Indian Ocean.
States and Union Territories in India:
As of now, India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Each state and Union Territory has its own unique cultural, historical, and geographical significance.
Six Physical Divisions of India:
The Northern Mountains (Himalayas)
The Northern Plains
The Peninsular Plateau
The Indian Desert (Thar Desert)
The Coastal Plains
The Islands
Why is the Indian Ocean named after India?
The Indian Ocean is named after India because of India's central location at the head of the ocean and its lengthy coastline which makes it stand out prominently in the ocean. Historically, India has also been a significant hub for maritime trade and cultural exchange across this ocean, further justifying its name.
Impact of the Geographical Features of the Northern Plains:
The Northern Plains of India, characterized by their fertile soil, have a significant impact on agriculture and, consequently, the livelihoods of people living there. This region, enriched by rivers like the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and their tributaries, supports intensive farming, making it one of the world's most agriculturally productive areas. It supports a dense population due to the availability of water and fertile land, making agriculture the primary occupation. The plains are also conducive to the growth of various crops, which supports food security and contributes to the economy.
