class -9 Natural vegetation and wildlife

https://www.dropbox.com/s/sor4gi2bmhwwe85/Natural%20vegetation%20%20Class%20%20IX_Oct%202015.pdf?dl=0

class 9- climate Chapter Question and Answers

https://www.dropbox.com/s/5bqte0eb3takcre/Class%20IX%20Geo%20%20Climate.docx?dl=0

Class 10 (Mineral and Energy Resources)

https://www.dropbox.com/s/et1pg1mqqihqimd/Notes-class%20x%20%20mineral%20and%20energy%20resources.docx?dl=0

Class 10- Agriculture

AGRICULTURE CLASS X Q. 1. Why India is called an agricultural Country? Ans. (1) Two thirds of its population is engaged in agricultural activities. (ii) Agriculture is a primary activity which produces most of the food that we consume. (iii) It also produces raw material for various industries. (iv) Some agricultural products like tea, coffee, spices, etc. are also exported to get foreign exchange Q2.What is primitive subsistence farming? Ans (i) It is practiced on small patches of land with the help of primitive tools. (ii) This type of farming depends upon monsoon and natural fertility of the soil. (iii) It is also called slash and burn agriculture. Q3.What is ‘slash and bum’ agriculture? Ans(i) In it farmers clear a patch of land and produce cereals and other crops to sustain their family. (ii) When he soil fertility decreases, the farmers shift and clear a fresh patch of land for cultivation. (iii) This type of shifting allows nature to replenish the fertility of the soil through natural processes. Land productivity in this type of agriculture is low as the farmers do not use any modern inputs. Q4.Describe the intensive subsistence farming. Ans(i) This type of farming is practiced in area of high population pressure on land. (ii) It is labour- intensive farming. (iii) In it, high doses of biochemical inputs and irrigation are used for obtaining higher production. Due to law of inheritance, the land-holding size has reduced and the farmers try to get maximum output from the limited land. Q5.What are the main features of commercial farming? Ans (i) In commercial farming they make use of higher doses of modem inputs e.g., high yielding variety (HYV) seeds, chemical fertilizers, insecticides, pesticides, etc. (ii) The degree of commercialization of agriculture varies from one region to another. (iii) e.g., Rice is a commercial crop in Haryana and Punjab, but in Orissa, it is a subsistence crop. Plantation is also a type of commercial crop. Q6.Give main characteristics of plantation farming. Ans(1) In this type of farming, a single crop is grown on a large area. (2) The plantation has an interface of agriculture and industry. (3) Plantations cover large tracts of land, using capital intensive inputs, with the help of migrant labourer. (4) All the produce is used as raw material in respective industries. Q7.Describe the three cropping seasons of India. Ans(1) Rabi Crops: (a) Sown in winters and harvested in summers. (b) Some of the important Rabi crops are wheat barley, peas, gram and mustard. (c) States growing Rabi crops are Punjab, Haryana, Himachal & K Uttarakhand and U.P. (2) Kharif Crops: (a) Grown with the onset of monsoons and harvested in September or October. (b) Important states are: Assam, West Bengal, coastal regions of Orissa, Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, Kerala and Maharashtra. (c) Crops grown during this season are: rice, maize, jowar, bajra, tur, moong, urad, cotton, jute, groundnut arid soyabean. (3) Zaid Season: (a) It falls in between the rabi and kharif seasons. (b) It’s a short season during the summer months. (c) Major crops grown are: watermelon, muskmelon, cucumbers, vegetables and fodder crops. - Q8.Describe the geographical conditions required for the growth of rice. Ans(i) It requires high temperature above 25°C and high humidity with annual rainfall above 100cms. (ii) In the areas of less rainfall, it grows with the help of irrigation. (iii) In Punjab, Haryana and Western Uttar Pradesh rice are grown with the help of irrigation facilities. Q9.Give a brief description of cereal crop wheat. Ans(i) It’s the main food crop of North and North Western part of India. (ii) It’s a rabi crop. (iii) It requires cool growing season and a bright sunshine at the time of ripening. (iv) It requires 50 to 75cms of rainfall annually, evenly distributed over the growing season. (v) The major wheat producing states are Punjab, Haryana, U.P., Bihar, Rajasthan and Parts of M.P. Q10.Which important millets are grown in India? Give a brief description of them. Jowar, Bajra and Ragi are three important millets. Ans(i) Ragi: Ragi is very rich in iron, calcium, arid other micro nutrients arid roughage. It is a crop of dry regions and grows well on red, black, sandy, loamy and shallow black soils. Karnataka is the largest producer followed by Tamil Nadu. (ii) Jowar: It is a rain fed crop mostly grown in the moist areas which hardly needs irrigation. Maharashtra is the largest producer followed by Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh and Madhya Pradesh. (iii) Bajra: It grows well on sandy soils and shallow black soil. Rajasthan is the largest producer of bajra followed by Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Gujarat and Haryana. Q11.What kind of pulses are grown in India and in which cropping season? Ans(i) Pulses are the major source of protein in a vegetarian diet. (ii) Major pulses grown in India are: tur, urad, moong, masur, peas and gram. (iii) Pulses need less moisture and survive even in dry conditions. (iv) They are mostly grown in rotation with other crops. Being leguminous, they regain the fertility of the soil. Q12.Under what conditions coffee is grown and in which states it is grown? Ans(i) Indian coffee is known in the world for its good quality. (ii) The ‘Arabica variety’ brought from Yemen is produce in India. (iii) This variety is in great demand all over d world. (iv) Initially its cultivation was introduced on the Baba Budan Hills and today its cultivation is limited to the Nilgiri in Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Q13. Which fruits are grown in India? Ans: (i) Mangoes: Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Utter Pradesh and West Bengal (ii) Oranges: Nagpur and Cheerapunji. (iii) Bananas: Kerala, Mizoram, Mahrashtra and Tamil Nadu. (iv) Litchi and Guava: U.P, and Bihar. (v) Pineapples: Meghalaya. (vi) Grapes: Andhra Pradesh and Maharashtra. (v) Apple, peas, apricots and walnuts J& K and Himachal Pradesh are in great demand the world over. Q. 14. What do you know about rubber plantation in India? Ans. (I) Rubber is an equational crop hut is also grown in tropical and sub-tropical areas. (ii) It requires moist and humid climate with rainfall of more than 200 cms and temperature above 25°C. (iii) It is grown in Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andaman and Nicobar Islands and Garo Hills of Meghalaya India ranks fifth among the world’s natural rubber producer. Q. 15. What climatic conditions are required for cotton? Ans. (i) Cotton grows well in drier parts of the black cotton soil of the Deccan Plateau. (ii) It requires high temperature, light rainfall or irrigation. (iii) It also requires 210 frost free days and bright sunshine for its growth. It’s a Kharif crop and requires 6 to 8 months to mature. Q.16. Prepare a note on ‘Jute Production in India.’ Ans. (1) Jute is known as the golden fibre. (ii) It grows well on well-drained soils in the flood ls where soils are renewed every year. Qui’ (iii) High temperature is required during the time of growth. (iv) West Bengal, Bihar, Assam, Orissa, and Meghalaya are the major jute producing states. (v) It is used in making gunny bags, mats, ropes, yarn, carpets and other artifacts. Q. 17. What was the need of bringing Techno-institutional reforms? Ans. (i) Agriculture has been practised in India for thousands of years. (ii) Sustained uses of land without some techno-institutional reforms have hindered the pace of agricultural development. (iii) Inspite of development of sources of irrigation, most of the farmers in large parts of the country still depend upon monsoons and natural fertility in order to carry on their agriculture. For a growing population, this poses serious problem, thus demanding techno-institutional reforms. Q. 18. What efforts are made by the government to modernize agriculture? Ans. (1) Government has established an Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) and Agricultural universities to promote agriculture. (ii) Veterinary services and animal breeding centers are opened for healthy cattle. (iii) Efforts are made to develop Horticulture. (iv) Research and development in the field of meteorology and weather forecast, was given priority. (v) Rural Infrastructure was also improved. Q.19. Why are farmers committing suicides in several states of the country? Ans The growth rate of agriculture is decelerating. (i) Today Indian farmers are facing a big challenge from international competition (ii) Our government has reduced public investments in agriculture sector particularly in irrigation, power, rural roads, markets and mechanization. (iii) {iii) Subsidy on fertilizers is decreased leading to increase in the cost of production. (iv) Import duties on agricultural products have reduced. (v) Thus, farmers are withdrawing their investment from agriculture causing a downfall in the employment in agriculture leading to suicides by the farmer. Q. 20. Give the characteristics of crop used both as food and fodder, Ans. (i) It is maize, which is a Kharif crop. (ii) It requires temperature between 21°C to 27°C and grows well in old alluvial suit. (iii) Use of modern inputs such as HYV seeds, fertilizers and irrigation have contributed the increasing production of maize. (iv) Major Maize producing states are: Karnataka, U.P., Bihar Andhra Pradesh Madhya Pradesh. Q. 21. What geographical conditions are required for tea cultivation? Give the major tea producing states also. Ans. Geographical Requirements: (Tea) (i) It is grown well in tropical and subtropical climates with deep and fertile, well drained soil, rich in humus and Organic matter. (ii) Tea bushes require warm and moist frost free climate all through the year. (iii) Frequent showers evenly distributed over the year ensure continuous growth & tender tea leaves. Tea-Producing States: Assam, hills of Darjee1ing, Jalpaiguri, District, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Meghalaya, Andhra Pradesh and Tripura Q. 22. Enlist the various technological arid institutional Reforms are introduced by time Government in the interest of farmers. Ans. Institutional Reforms: (i) Collectivization and consolidation of all small holdings. (ii) Abolition of Zamindari system. (iii) Various other land reforms like ceiling on land holdings were introduced. (iv) Provision for crop insurance against draught, flood or cyclone. (v) Establishment of Grameen Banks and cooperative societies and banks for providing loan to farmers. (vi) Kissan credit cards, personal accidental insurance scheme were also introduced by the Government. (v) Special Weather Bulletins for farmers were introduced in T.V. and Radio. Technological Reforms (i) Green Revolution in agriculture and White Revolution in milk were introduced (ii) Tractors, harvesters, threshers and tube wells, etc. technological devices were introduced. (iii) For better production, fertilizers, insecticides and pesticides were also produced (iv) The government also announced minimum support price, which checks exploitation of farmers by speculators and middleman...

class -10 Federalism

Ch-2 Federalism Q1. What is federalism? Ans: i. Federalism is a system of government in which the power is divided between a central authority and various constituents units of the country. ii. A federation has two levels of government. One is the government for the entire country that is usually responsible for a few subjects of common national interests. iii. The others are government at the level of provinces or states that look after much of the day-to-day administeration of their state. iv. Both these levels of governments enjoy their power independent of the other. Q2. What is unitary form of government? Ans. i. Under the unitary system, either there is only one level of government or the sub units are subordinate to the central government. ii. The central government can pass on orders to the provincial or the local governments. Q3. Mention the key features of federalism. Ans. i. There are two or more levels (or tiers) of government. ii. Different tiers of government govern the same citizen but each tier has its own JURISDICTION in specific matters of legislation, taxation and administration. iii. The jurisdictions of the respective levels of the respective government are specified in the constitution. So the existence and authority of each tier of government is constitutionally guaranteed. iv. The fundamental provisions of the constitution cannot be unliterary changed by one level of government. Such changes require the consent of both the levels of government. v. Courts have the power to interpret the constitution and the powers of different levels of government. The highest court acts as a umpire if dispute arise between different levels of government in the exercise of their respective powers. vi. Sources of revenue for each level of government are clearly specified to ensure its financial autonomy. vii. The federal system has thus dual objectives: to safeguard and promote unity of the country, while at the same time accommodate regional diversity. Q4. What are the different forms of federalism ? Ans. There are two different forms of federation- 1. Coming together federations i. This form involves independent states coming together on their own to form a bigger unit, so that by pooling sovereignty and retaining identity they can increase their security. ii. This type of federalism include the USA, Switzerland and Australia. In the first category of federations, all the constituent states usually have equal power and are strong vis-à-vis the federal government. 2. Holding together federations i. The second form is where a large country decides to divide its power between the constituent states and the national government. ii. India, Spain and Belgium are examples of this kind of ‘ holding together’ federations. iii. In this second category, the central government tends to be more powerful vis-à-vis the states. iv. Very often different constituent units of the federations have unequal powers. Some units are granted special powers. Q5. What makes India a federal country? Ans. i. The Constitution originally provided for a two-tier system of government, the Union Government and the Central Government. Later, a third tier of federalism was added in the form of Panchayats and Municipalities. ii. The Constitution clearly provided a three- fold distribution of legislative powers between the Union Government and the State Governments as Union list, State list and concurrent list. iii. ‘Holding together’ do not give equal powers to its constituent units. Thus all the states in the Union of India do not give equal power. Some states enjoy a special status like Jammu and Kashmir. iv. It is not easy to make changes to this power sharing arrangement. The Parliament cannot on its own change this arrangement. Any change to it has to be first passed by both different process and methods like Simple majority, Specific majority and specific majority with ratification. v. The judiciary plays an important role in overseeing the implementation of constitutional provisions and procedures. In case of any dispute about the division of powers, the High Courts and the Supreme Court make a decision. vi. The Union and State governments have the power to raise resources by levying taxes in order to carry on the government and the responsibilities assigned to each of them. Q6. How constitutional changes are made in federal systems? Ans. i) It is not easy to make changes to this power sharing arrangement ii) Any change to it has to be passed by both houses with two- third majority. iii) The Parliament cannot on its own change this arrangement. iv) Then, it has to be ratified by the legislatures of half of total states. Q7. What is Decentralization? What is rationale for decentralization of power in India? Ans. When power is taken away from Central and State governments and given to local government, it is called decentralization. i) Many states in India are as large as independent countries of Europe. For ex- in terms of population, Uttar Pradesh is bigger than Russia. Many of these States are internally very diverse. ii) The basic idea behind decentralization is that there are a large number of problems and issues which are best settled at the local level. iii) People have better knowledge of problems in their localities. iv) They also have better ideas on where to spend money and how to manage things more efficiently. Q8. Describe the major changes introduced by the government in 1992 to make the third-tier of democracy or local government more powerful and effective. Ans. To make the third-tier of democracy or local government more powerful and effective, the government made following changes through 73rd and 74th amendment:- i) Now it is constitutionally mandatory to hold regular elections to local government bodies. ii) Seats are reserved in the elected bodies and the executive heads of these institutions for the Scheduled Castes, Scheduled tribes and other backward classes. iii) At least one-third of all positions are reserved for women. iv) An independent institution called the State Election Commission has been created in each State to conduct panchayat and municipal elections. v) The State governments are required to share some powers and revenue with local government bodies. The nature of sharing varies from State to State. Q9. Give a brief description of rural, local government of India. OR Give a brief description of Panchayati Raj in India. Ans. i) Rural local government is popularly known by the name panchayati raj. ii) Each village, or a group of villages in some States, has a grampanchayat. iii) This is a council consisting of several ward members, often called panch, and a president or sarpanch. iv) They are directly elected by all the adult population living in that ward or village. v) It is the decision-making body for the entire village. vi) The panchayat works under the overall supervision of the gram sabha. vii) All the voters in the village are its members. Q10. How is Zilla Parishad formed? Ans. i) A few gram panchayats are grouped together to form what is usually called a panchayat samiti or block or mandal. ii) The members of this representative body are elected by all the panchayat members in that area. iii) All the panchayat samitis or mandals in a district together constitute the Zilla (district) Parishad. Q11. Which are the local bodies in urban areas? What is their composition? OR What do you know about local government for the urban areas? Ans. i) Local government bodies exist for urban areas as well. Municipalities are set up in towns. Big cities are constituted into municipal corporations. ii) Both municipalities and municipal corporations are controlled by elected bodies consisting of people’s representatives. iii) Municipal chairperson is the political head of the municipality. In a municipal corporation such an officer is called the mayor. Q12. Describe the achievements of new system of local governments. Ans. i) This new system of local government is the largest experiment in democracy conducted anywhere in the world. ii) There are now about 36 lakh elected representatives in the panchayats and municipalities etc., all over the country. iii) Constitutional status for local government has helped to deepen democracy in our country. iv) It has also increased women’s representation and voice in our democracy. v) There is now uniformity in local bodies across the country. Q13. Mention the problems faced by local government bodies. Ans. i) While elections are held regularly and enthusiastically, gram sabhas are not held regularly. ii) Most state governments have not transferred significant powers to the local governments. States have also not given adequate resources. Q14. Give major ways in brief, how federalism is practiced, strengthened, in India? Ans. Federalism is practiced in the following ways:- i) Linguistic States a) In 1947, the boundaries of several old States of India were changed in order to create new States. b) This was done to ensure that people who spoke the same language lived in the same State. c) Some States were created not on the basis of language but to recognize differences based on culture, ethnicity or geography. d) The formation of linguistic sates have actually made the country, more united. It has also made administration easier. ii) Language Policy a) Our Constitution did not give the status of national language to any one language. Many non-Hindu states demanded use of English as official language and it was accepted. b) Hindi was identified as the official language. But Hindi is the mother tongue of only about 40 per cent of Indians. c) Besides Hindi, there are 21 other languages recognized as Scheduled Languages by the Constitution. d) The flexibility shown by Indian political leaders helped our country avoid the kind of situation that Sri Lanka finds itself in. iii) Centre- State relations a) Earlier, the Central Government would often misuse the Constitution to dismiss the State governments that were controlled by rival parties. This undermined the spirit of federalism. b) All this changed significantly after 1990. This period saw the rise of regional political parties in many states of the country. c) This was also the beginning of the era of COALITION GOVERNMENTS at the Centre. d) If no single party got a clear majority in the Lok Sabha, the major national parties had to enter into an alliance with many parties including several regional parties to form a government called as Coalition government. e) This led to a new culture of power sharing and respect for the autonomy of State Governments. Q15. How legislative being distributed among three-tiers of the government by the Constitution? OR Describe the distribution of power between Centre and State in India. Ans. Legislative powers are divided in the following manner:- 1) Union List It includes subjects of national importance such as defence of the country, foreign affairs, banking, communications and currency. They are included in this list because we need a uniform policy on these matters throughout the country. 2) State List It contains subjects of State and local importance such as police, trade, commerce, agriculture and irrigation. The State Governments alone can make laws relating to the subjects mentioned in the State List. 3) Concurrent List It includes subjects of common interest to both the Union Government as well as the State Governments, such as education, forest, trade unions, marriage, adoption and succession. Both the Union as well as the State Governments can make laws on the subjects mentioned in this list. If their laws conflict with each other, the law made by the Union Government will prevail. 4) Residuary Subjects Subjects like Computer Software that came up after the Constitution was made are included in Residuary Subjects. According to our Constitution, the Union Government has the power to legislate on these “Residuary Subjects” Q16. Describe the special powers or provisions for some states in India. Ans. The Constitution of India does not grant equal powers to all states. Some states enjoy special status as given below:- i) Jammu & Kashmir Under Article 370, Jammu & Kashmir has its own Constitution are not applicable to this state without the approval of the State Assembly. Indians who are not permanent residents of this state cannot buy land or house there. Amendment to the Indian Constitution, under article 368, cannot apply without the concurrent of Jammu & Kashmir government. ii) North eastern and smaller states have been given more representation in Rajya Sabha. iii) North-eastern states such as Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh and Mizoram have a sizeable indigenous tribal population with a distinct history and culture which can be retained under article 371. iv) There are some units of the Indian Union which enjoy very little power .These are areas which are too small to become an independent State but which could not be merged with any of the existing States. These areas, like Chandigarh, or Lakshadweep or the capital city of Delhi, are called Union Territories. These territories do not have the powers of a State. The Central Government has special powers in running these areas. Q17. Write a short note on Panchayat Samiti or Block or Mandal. Ans. i) A few gram Panchayats are grouped together to form a panchayat samiti or block or Mandal. ii) All the Panchayat Samitis or Mandals or Blocks in a district together constitute Zilla Parishad. iii) The members of this representative body(Mandals) are elected by all the Panchayat member in that area. Q18. How India emerged as a federal country? Ans. i) India emerged as an independent nation after a painful and bloody partitions. Soon after independence several princely states became a part of our country. ii) The constitution declared India as a Union of States. iii) Although it did not use the word federation, the Indian Union is based on the principle of federalism.

class 9 - drainage

GEOGRAPHY Class IX Chapter 3 - DRAINAGE Q1. What do you mean by water divide? Give an example. Ans. Any elevated area such as mountains or an upland which separates two drainage basins are called water divide. For example Ambala is the water divide because it divides the Indus & the Ganga drainage system. Q2. Which is the largest river basin in India? Ans. Ganga is the largest river basin in India. Q3. Where do the rivers Indus & Ganga have their origin? Ans. The origin of Indus is in Tibet near Lake Mansarowar. The origin of Ganga is in Gangotri glacier with its two headstreams Alaknanda & Bhagirathi. Q4. Name the two headstreams of the Ganga. Where do they meet to form Ganga? Ans. The two headstreams of Ganga are Alaknanda & Bhagirathi which joins at Devaprayag at Uttrakhand to form Ganga. Q5. Why does the Brahmaputra in its Tibetan part less silt, despite a longer course? Ans.1. Its basin is made up of metamorphic rocks. 2. In Tibet the river carries a smaller volume of water, less silt, it is cold & dry area. Q6.Which two peninsular rivers flow through trough? Ans. Narmada & Tapi are two peninsular rivers flow through trough. Q7. State some economic benefits of rivers & lakes? Ans. Some economic benefits of rivers & lakes are: 1. Besides water Rivers carries sediments, dissolved water & less silt which are essential for agricultural & industrial development. 2. Rivers provides water for irrigation inland, navigation, many industries & domestic purposes. 3. Rivers water is also used for generating hypo electricity. 4. River water is also used for pisci culture & afforestation. 5. Plain surfaced valley of rivers is very fertile & ideal for agricultural operation. Q8. What is Indus water treaty? Ans. Indus water treaty is a treaty between India & Pakistan, according to which India can use only 20% of the total water carried by Indus river system. Haryana & Punjab used it for irrigation purposes. Q9.Discuss the significant differences between Himalayan river & Peninsular river. Himalayan river Peninsular river 1. They are perennial as they rise in the snow covered mountains. 1. They do not rise in snow covered mountains, their flow is dependent on rainfall so they run dry in summers. 2. As they flow in leveled northern plains, they are useful for irrigation & navigation. 2. As they flow on uneven rocky land, are not useful for irrigation & navigation. 3. They bring the fertile alluvium soil & deposit them in the indoor gangetic plains. 3. Since these rivers bring no alluvium so the depositional is quiet negligible. 4. Soil of the gangetic plains being porous. It absorbs lot of rain water which is used as grown water by digging wells, tube wells for irrigation, industrial & domestic purposes. 4. The soil of Deccan plateau is rocky, so it does not absorb water. Canals cannot be dug from them. But dams are build to store flood water. 5. The Himalayas rivers were have courses from their source to the sea & they perform intensive erosional activity. 5. The peninsular rivers have shorter & shallower courses as compare to Himalayan rivers. They also perform less erosional activity. Q10. Compare the east & west flowing rivers of peninsular plateau? West flowing East flowing 1. These rivers flow westward vary swiftly. The Narmada & Tapi flow through the rift valleys. 1. These rivers flow eastward. For example Mahanadi, Krishna & Kaveri. 2. Accept Narmada & Tapi these rivers have small courses. 2. These rivers have long courses, large basins & deep valleys. 3. These rivers do not form deltas. 3. Accept Mahanadi, most of the rivers have their own origin on western ghats. 4. The Narmada & Tapi form estuaries. 4. These rivers form deltas on their mouth. 5. These rivers fall into Arabian sea. 5. These rivers flow down into Bay of Bengal. Q11. Mention the main features of sunderban deltas. Ans. The main features of sunderban deltas are: I. The sunderban delta derived its name from the Sundari trees which well in marshland. II. It is the world’s largest & fastest growing delta. It is also the home of Royal Bengal tiger. Q12. Why South Indian Rivers are not navigable? Ans. South Indian rivers are not navigable because: I. The mountains from where south Indian rivers rise are not snow covered. These rivers are seasonal & dry up in summer. II. These rivers flow in a uneven rocky surface 7 have a steep gradient. III. Several dams have been constructed across the river channels which make them unfit for navigable Q13. What is river pollution? What are the major sources responsible for water pollution of the river? Ans. Untreated sewage of water & huge quantities of Industrial influences which are dumped into the water of rivers & make it polluted. This contamination is called water pollution, which makes water unfit for drinking purpose. SOURCES OF WATER POLLUTION Following are the major sources of water pollution of the rivers:  Untreated sewage of big towns & cities situated on the rivers (Delhi, Kanpur, Varanasi etc.) is developed into the river water.  Heavy load of chemical industrial influence from the big industries are developed into rivers.  Use of chemical fertilizers in the agriculture is on rise. During the rainy season the chemicals flow into the river water & make it contaminated.  Dead bodies of children, ashes of animals are thrown into the river which pollutes the river water.  Polythene bags thrown as waste after use also reach the rivers & choke them. Q14. Which is the largest, natural fresh water Lake in India? Ans. Wular lake is the largest, natural fresh water lake in India. Q15. Name the tributaries that joined Ganga from the north & from its right bank & from the south? Ans. Tributaries that join Ganga from the North – a. Ghaghara b. Gandak c. Kosi Tributaries that join Ganga from right bank – Yamuna Son Tributaries that join Ganga from its South – a. Chambal b. Betwa c. Son Q16. Name the two salt water takes of eastern coast. Ans. Chilika & Pulika are the two salt water lake of eastern coast. Q17. Mention some advantages of lakes? Ans. Some advantages of lakes are – 1) Lakes are of great value to human beings. They also helps to regulate flow of a river. 2) During heavy rainfall, it prevents flooding & during the dry season, it helps to maintain the even flow of water. 3) Lakes can also be used for developing hydel power. 4) They moderate the climatic of surrounding. They also maintain the aquatic ecosystem & enhance natural beauty. 5) They help to develop tourism & provide recreation.

How to make rain gauge

Satyamev Jayate S1 | Episode 10 | Untouchability | Full episode (Hindi)

Satyamev Jayate S1 | Episode 12 | Water | Full Episode (Hindi)

class 10- Power Sharing

CLASS-X CHAPTER-1 POWER SHARING Q.1. Describe the geographical and ethnic composition of Belgium. Ans. The geographical and ethnic composition of Belgium is given below: (a) Geographical composition: (i) Belgium is a small country in Europe. It is smaller in area than the State of Haryana in India. (ii) It has borders with Netherlands, France and Germany. (iii) Its population is little over one crore. It is half of the population of Haryana state. (b) Ethnic composition: (i) 59 percent of the population lives in the Flemish region. They speak Dutch language. (ii) 40 per cent people live in the Wallonia region. They speak French. (iii) Remaining one per cent speak German. (iv) Brussels is the capital of Belgium. Here, 80 percent people speak French and 20 per cent speak Dutch. Thus, Belgium is a country of diversities based on languages. Dutch-speaking people are in majority in the country but in minority in the capital city of Brussels. Q.2. Describe the geographical and ethnic composition of Sri Lanka. Ans. The geographical and ethnic composition of Sri Lanka is given below: (a) Geographical composition: Sri Lanka is an island nation. (b) Ethnic composition: (i) Its population is about 2 crore. (ii) The major social groups are the Sinhala-speakers (74 per cent) and Tamil-speakers (18 per cent). (iii) Tamil-speakers are further divided into two groups — Sri Lankan Tamils and Indian Tamils. (iv) Sri Lankan Tamils are the natives of Sri Lanka. The Indian Tamils’ forefathers migrated from India as plantation workers during colonial period. (v) Sri Lankan Tamils live in the north and east of the country. (vi) There are different religions in Sri Lanka, namely. Buddhism, Hinduism. Islam and Christianity. Thus, there are different social groups, different languages and religions in Sri Lanka. Q.3. What is Majoritarianism? Describe the majoritarian measures taken by the leaders of the Sinhala community to establish their supremacy. What were its results? Or How did The Sri Lankan Tamils struggle for their demands? Ans. (a) Majoritarianism is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority. (b) The Sinhala community took the following majoritarian measures to establish their supremacy. (i) ln 1956, Sinhala was recognized as the only official language. (ii) Preferential policies favouring Sinhala applicants for university positions and government jobs were followed. (iii) Under new constitution, it was stated that the state shall protect and foster Buddhism. (c) Results: (i) These measures increased the feeling of alienation among the Sri Lankan Tamils. The relations between the Sinhala and Tamil communities became worse. They felt that they were being denied equal political rights and were discriminated in government jobs and other opportunities. (ii) The Sri Lankan Tamils started struggle with following objects—recognition of Tamil as official language, regional autonomy or formation of Eelam in the northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka, equality of opportunity in education and jobs. (iii) By 1980’s several political organizations were formed demanding an independent Tamil Eelam in northern and eastern parts of Sri Lanka. The distrust between the two communities turned into widespread conflict. It ultimately turned into a civil war. As a result of it, thousands of people of both the communities have been killed. Although Sri Lanka has an excellent record of economic development education and health, yet the civil war has caused a terrible setback to the social, cultural and economic life of the country Q.4. Describe the path of accommodation adopted in Belgium. What were its consequences? Ans. (a) Main features of the path of accommodation adopted by Belgian leaders were as given below: (i) Dutch and French-speaking ministers shall be equal in the Central Government. (ii) Some special laws require the support of majority of members from each linguistic group. No single community not even majority community (Dutch- speaking) can make decisions unilaterally. (iii) The state governments are not subordinate to the Central Government. Many powers of the Central Government have been given to State Governments. (iv) There is a separate government in Brussels, the capital of Belgium. Both the communities i.e., French-speaking and Dutch-speaking have equal representation in the Brussels government. (v) A third government which is called “community government” is elected by people belonging to one language community— Dutch, French and German-speaking — no matter where they live. The community government has power regarding cultural, educational and language-related issues. Thus, the Belgian model is based on the principle of accommodation and reciprocity. To accommodate each other there is equal representation in the Central Government as well as in the Brussels Government (b) Consequences : The system is complicated but useful. It has avoided conflicts between the two main communities and a possible division of the country on linguistic lines. It was why the European Union has selected Brussels as its headquarters. Q.5. How the composition of the capital city of Brussels is different from Belgium as a country? Ans. In Belgium, the composition of different communities is as given below: (i) Dutch-speaking — 59 per cent (ii) French-speaking — 40 per cent (iii) German-speaking — 01 per cent On the other hand, the composition of Brussels is as follows (i) French-speaking — 80 per cent (ii) Dutch-speaking — 20 per cent Thus, Dutch-speaking people are in majority in the country but they are in minority in the capital city of Brussels. On the other hand, French-speaking people are in minority in the country but they are in majority in the capital city of Brussels. This composition of different communities has led to the acceptance of principle of accommodation in Belgium. Q.6.What do you learn from the principles followed in Belgium and Sri Lanka i.e., Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka and accommodation in Belgium? Ans. We learn the following lessons from the principles of Majoritarianism and accommodation followed in Sri Lanka and Belgium: (i) In Belgium, the leaders respected the feelings and interests of all communities and were successful in maintaining the unity of the country. They recognized the existence of regional differences and cultural diversities. They took various steps such as amendments to the constitution in order to work out an arrangement that would enable everyone to live together within the same country the arrangements such as equal number of ministers of Dutch and French speaking people has worked successfully. (ii) On the other hand, majority community in Sri Lanka tried to force its dominance over other communities. It has brought the country nearer to a civil war and unity of the country is threatened. This shows the path of accommodation is better than that of Majoritarianism and power sharing must be followed. Q.7. Give Prudential and Moral reasons in favour of power sharing. Ans. (i) Prudential Reasons They stress that power sharing will bring out better customer. (a) They feel that power-sharing is good because it helps to reduce the possibility of conflict between social groups. (b) Power sharing is a good way to ensure the stability of political order. (ii) Moral Reasons They emphasize the very act of power sharing as valuable. (a) They feel that power sharing is the very spirit of democracy. A democratic rule involves sharing powers with those affected by its exercise, and who have to live with its effects. (b) So a legitimate government is one where citizens, through participation, acquire a role in the system. Q. 8 How Majoritarianism in Sri Lanka was practiced? Ans. (i) Sri Lanka emerged as an independent nation in 1948. The leaders of the Sinhala community sought to secure dominance over government by virtue of their majority. (ii) As a result, the democratically elected government adopted Majoritarianism measures to establish Sinhala’s supremacy. (iii) In 1954 an act was passed to recognize Sinhala, as the only official language, thus disregarding Tamil. (iv) The government followed policies that favoured Sinhala applicants for university positions and government jobs. (v) With a new constitution, Buddhism was adopted as a state religion. Q9. What factors led to civil war in Sri Lanka? Ans. (i) Measures taken in Majoritarianism gradually increased the feeling of alienation among Sri Lankan Tamils. (ii) They feel that the constitution and government policies denied them equal political rights, discriminated against then in getting jobs and other opportunities and ignored their interests. (iii) As a result the relations between Sinhalas and Tamil communities got strained over time. (iv) The Sri Lankan Tamils launched parties and struggles for the recognition of Tamil as an official language, regional autonomy and equality of opportunities in getting education and jobs. (v) By 1980’s several political organizations were formed demanding an independent Tamil Elam (state) in northern and north-eastern parts of Sri Lanka. (vi) The distrust between the two communities turned into widespread conflict. It soon turned into a civil war. As a result thousands of people of both the communities have been killed. Q.10. How Belgian government solved its ethnic problem? Ans. In Belgium leaders recognized the existence of regiona1differencs and i1tural diversities. In the following manner Belgian government accommodated their diverse ethnic population: (i)Constitution says that number of Dutch and French speaking ministers shall he equal in the Central government. Thus no single community can make decisions unilaterally. (ii) Many powers of the central government have been given to state government of the two regions of the country. The State governments are not subordinate to the Central government. (iii) Brussels has a separate government in which both the communities have equal representation. (iv) There is a third kind of government, called ‘Community Government’. This government is elected by people belonging to one language community — Dutch, French and German speaking— no matter where they live. This government has the power regarding cultural, educational and language related issues. These arrangements helped to avoid civic strife between the two major communities and a possible division of the country on linguistic lines. Q.11 What are the different forms of power sharing in modern democracies? Give an example of each of them. Ans. (i) Power shared among different organs of the government. (a) It is called horizontal distribution of power. (b) Here the power is shared in legislature, executive and judiciary. (c) It allows different organs of the government placed at the same level to exercise different powers. (d) ln this kind of government each organ checks the others. This results in a balance of VI among various institutions. (e) This arrangement is called’ a system of checks and balances. e.g. India. (ii) Power is shared among governments at different levels (a) It is also called Vertical distribution of power. (b) There is a government at the central level and the government at the state level also. (c) This kind of government is also called as federal division of power or federal government. (d) Here subjects or their functions are divided and they work at their own levels within their own limits. e.g. — India. (iii) Power shared among different social groups (a) It is practiced when power is shared in religious and linguistic groups. (b) In some countries socially weaker sections and women are represented in the legislatures and administration. (c) In India there is a system of reserved constituencies, to give space in the government and administration to diverse social groups. (d) This method is used to give minority communities a fair share in power. (iv) Power is shared in political parties, pressure groups and movements (a) In a democracy, the citizens must have freedom to choose various contenders for power. (b) In contemporary democracy this takes place in the form of competition among different parties. Such competition ensures that power does not remain in one hand. (c) Sometimes the power is shared among various political parties, which is called coalition government. (d) In a democracy, we find interest groups of traders, businessmen, industrialists, farmers and industrial workers. They also have a share in governmental powers, either through participation or bringing influence on the decision making process. Q. 12. What are the main principles of democracy? Ans. (i) One basic principle of democracy is that people are the source of all political power. (ii) In a democracy people rule themselves through institution of self-governance. (iii) In democracy due respect is given to diverse groups and views that exist in a society. (iv) Everyone has a voice in the shaping of public policies. Q.13. Why some Tamils are called Indian Tamils? Ans. They are called Indian Tamils because their forefathers had migrated from India as plantation workers during the colonial period. Q.14. What is Majoritarianism? Ans. It is a belief that the majority community should be able to rule a country in whichever way it wants, by disregarding the wishes and needs of the minority. Q.15. What do you understand by civil war? Ans. Civil war is a violent conflict between opposing groups within a country that becomes so intense that it appears like a war. Q.16. Explain the concept of “community government” in Belgium. Ans. Community government is elected by people belonging to one language community i.e., Dutch, French and German and has power regarding cultural, educational and language-related issues. Q.17. Explain the principle of accommodation as followed in Belgium. Ans. Under this arrangement, the Belgian leaders recognized the existence of differences and cultural diversities and respected the feelings and interests of all communities and regions and made mutually acceptable arrangements for sharing power. Q.18. What is prudential? Ans. It is based on prudence, or on careful calculation of gains and losses. Q.11 What are the different forms of power sharing in modern democracies? Ans. Four-- Among different organs of government; among governments at different levels; Among different social groups; and Among political parties, pressure groups and movements

CLASS -IX GEOGRAPHY CHAPTER-1 (INDIA-SIZE AND LOCATION)

CHAPTER 01 India - Size and Location Main Facts :- 1. Location – Entirely lies in Northern Hemisphere. 2. Latitudinal extent -804’ N and 360 7’N . 3. Longitudinal extent – 680 7’E and 97025’E . 4. Southern most point –Indira point. 5. Land frontier -15200 km . 6. Coast line -7516.6 km . 7. Total geographical area -3.28 million sq km . 8. %age of total world area – 2.4% . 9. Position in the world according to size –India is 7th largest large country after Russia ,Canada ,USA ,China ,Brazil ,Australia . 10. North to south distance -3214 km . 11. East to west distance -2933 km . 12. Tropic of cancer -23030’N . 13. Standard meridian -82030’. 14. Indian main land –It refers to the country stretch of land mass from Jammu &Kashmir to Kannyakumari and from Gujarat to Arunachal Pradesh . 15. INDIAN Union –It refers to the federation of India comprising 29 states and 7 union territories . 16. Land locked – a term often used for states and countries completely surrounded by land . 17. Suez canal –Opened in 1869 India s distance from Europe has been reduced by 7000 km . Q1 Name the group of islands lying in Arabian sea ? Ans. Lakshadweep islands . Q2 Name the countries which are larger than India ? Ans. Russia Canada USA ,China ,Brazil ,Australia . Q3 Which island group of India lies to its south ? Ans. Andaman and Nicobar island . Q4 Which island countries are our southern neighbors’? Ans. Sri Lanka and Maldives . Q5 The sun rises two hours earlier in Arunachal Pradesh as compared to Gujarat in the west but the watches show the same time .How does this happen? Ans. The earth takes 24hours to complete one rotation (3600)on its axis In other words the Earth rotates at a pace of 150per hour . As a longitudinal extent of India is about 300 longitudes ‘ the sun rises two hours earlier in the eastern most part of India i.e… Arunachal Pradesh than in western most part i.e. Gujarat but the watches show same time throughout the country .Every country observe its standard time otherwise there will be chaos and confusion . Q6 The central location of India at the head of Indian ocean is considered of great significance .Why ? Ans 1 Some thickly populated countries of world like china Japan south east Asia lies very close to us this enables to established trade an cultural relations with these countries. 2 Due to central location India occupies a strategic position and commercially favorable locations in respect of Africa Asia Australia . 3 India is also connected with Europe as well as North and South America though both the routes of Cape of good hopes and Suez canal . 4 Busy air route also passes through India connecting east south –east Asia on one hand and Europe and America on the other . Q7 Name the factors which make India a great country ? Ans. 1) loafty mountains and mighty rivers . 2) Rich natural economic and human resources. 3) Old rich unique civilizations and culture. 4) Large size of country . Q8 India has a important position on the globe .How? Ans. 01 India is situated in the realm of South Asia. 02 It is centrally located in relation to Asia Australia and Europe 03 It is more or less in triangular shape . Q9 Name two oceanic routes that connect India with Europe ? Ans. Suez canal and Cape of good hope . Q10 Give reason .Why? A) Ahmadabad will see sun over head twice in a year Ans. The sun shines overhead at noon twice a year at all the places which are situated between the equator and the Tropic of cancer , In the Northern hemisphere since Ahmadabad fall with in this limit, it sees the sun over head twice in the year . B) India is often referred to as Sub-continent ? Ans. India has all the characteristics which it sub –continent .It is separated from the rest of Asia by the Himalayas in the north and the three seas –Arabian sea , Bay of Bengal ,Indian ocean in south. C) The latitudinal and longitudinal extend of India is 300 but north- south extent is bigger than East –West extent .why? Ans. The latitudinal and longitudinal extent of India is 300 but in the terms of km the average distance of 10 latitude is about 111km which remains same every where but the distance of 10 longitude is about 111km at the equator and become zero at the poles .The east west distance is measured between 240and250 N latitude where the average distance of 10 longitude is about 100km .in km the latitudinal extent is 29X111=3200KM and longitudinal extent is 29X100=2900KM .Therefore there is difference of 300km in that . Q11 Why is 82030”E selected as standard meridian of India ? Ans. The earth in its own rotation covers 150of longitude in one hour .So, the place located on the different longitudes has different local times .In order to have a uniform system of finding time , world has been divided into 24 time zones .Each time zone is chosen standard meridian which must be in the multiple of 150or71/2 .Since 82030”E is a central longitude of India .It is selected as standard meridian and local time is IST of whole country . IST is 51/2 hours ahead of greenwhich mean time . Q12 What is latitudinal and longitudinal extent of India .Explain its importance? Ans. 1) Latitudinal extent influence duration of day and night . 2) Longitudinal extent influences time. 3) It gives at us understanding of climate and weather in different regions. 4) Latitudes and longitudes help to understand and locate the geographical location on glob pattern. Q14 India strategic location on the head of Indian ocean has helped her in a establishing land and many time contacts with the out side world in the ancient and medieval times. Explain? Ans. 01) In ancient time and medieval times the land and the seas played Important role in establishing contacts with the outside world . The central and strategic location of India on the head of India ocean was a great advantage .Countries of East Africa West Asia and South-East Asia could be reached through routes .Hence India , established close cultural and commercial contact with the countries. 02) The ancient silk route passed through India connected to East with West . 03) The interaction with the peoples of other countries and exchange of ideas and goods dates back of ancient time. 04) The ideas of Upnishads , the Ramayan the Mahabharta the stories of Panchtantra the Indian numerals and the decimal system could reach various parts of globe. 05) The spices Muslins and other merchandise were taken from India to different countries. 06) On the other hand the influences of Greek sculpture and the architectural styles of domes and minarets from West Asia can be seen in different parts of countries .

Class X- GEOGRAPHY CHAPTER -1 Resources and Development

RESOURCES AND DEVELOPMENT CHAPTER-1 CLASS-X Q1. Explain the following diagram. Ans. (i) Human Being interact with nature. (ii) They use technology to transform material Available in our environment into resources. (iii) They create institutions to accelerate their Resource development. Q2.Differentiate between Renewable and Non-Renewable resources. RENEWABLE NON- RENEWABLE 1.They can be renewed or reproduced. 1. They occur over a very long geological time. 2. They can be used over the years again and again. 2. They get exhausted once used and cannot be used again. 3. They are abundantly available. 3. They are available in limited quantity. 4. For eg. Solar and wind energy, water , forests and wildlife etc. 4. For eg. Fossil Fuels and other minerals. Q3. What problems do human beings face with the indiscriminate use of resources? Ans. (i) Depletion of resources for resources for satisfying the greed of few individuals. (ii) Accumulation of resources in few hands leading to the division of society into two segments – haves and haves not. Q4. Classify the resources on the basis of status of development. Ans. Resources on the basis of status of development are:- (i) Potential Resources: (a) Resources which are found in a region but have not been utilized. (b) Western parts of the India particularly Rajasthan and Gujarat have potential for the development of wind and solar energy, but so far these have not been developed properly. (ii) Developed resources: (a) Reserves which are surveyed and their quality and quantity have been determined for utilization. (b) The development of resources depends on technology and level of their feasibility. (iii) Stocks: (a) Materials in the environment which have the potential to satisfy human needs but human beings do not have the appropriate technology to access them. (b) Water is a compound of two inflammable gases and oxygen, which can be used as a rich source of energy. But we do not have the required technical ‘know-how’ to use them for this purpose, hence, it can be considered as stock. (iv) Reserves: (a) It can be put into use with help of existing technical ‘know-how’ but their use has not been started. (b) These can be used for creating future requirement. (c) Use of rivers water for hydro-electricity. Q5. What is the need of resource planning in India? Explain your answers with the help of examples. Ans. Resources planning is necessary in a country like India, which has enormous diversity in the availability of resource. Needs: (i) There are regions which are rich in certain types of resource but are deficient in some other resources. (ii) There are some regions which are self-sufficient and there are some regions which have acute shortage of some vital resources. Examples: (i)The state of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh and M.P. are rich in minerals and coal deposits. (ii) Arunachal Pradesh has abundant water resources but lacks in infrastructural development. (iii) The state of Rajasthan has enough solar energy and wind energy but lacks in water resources. (iv) The cold desert of Ladakh has very rich cultural heritage but is deficient in water, infrastructures and some vital minerals. This calls for a balanced resource planning at the national, state, regional and local levels. Q6. What is the need of equitable distribution of resources? Ans. (i) It is essential for a sustained quality of life and global piece. (ii) If the present trend of resource depletion by a few individuals and countries continues, the future of our planet is in danger. (iii) Therefore, resource planning is essential for sustainable existence of all forms of life. Q7. What were Gandhi’s views on conservation? Ans. Gandhiji were very apt in voicing his concern about resource conservation. (i) He said there is enough for everybody’s need and not for anybody’s greed. (ii) He placed the greedy and selfish individuals and exploitative nature of the modern technology as the root cause for the resource depletion at the global level. (iii)He was against the mass production and wanted to replace it with the production by the masses. Q8. What is the Importance of land? Ans. We live on land , perform different economic activities on land and we use it in different ways: (i) Land is a natural resource of utmost importance. (ii) It supports natural vegetation, wildlife, human life and transport and communication systems. Q9. “India is a land of varied relief features”, elucidate your answers with the importance of these features. Ans. India’s main relief features are as following: (i) Plains: About 43% of the land area is plains. It provides facilities for agriculture and industry. (ii)Mountains: It accounts for 30%of the total surface area of the country. It ensures perennial flow of some rivers and also provides facilities for tourism and ecological aspects. (iii)Plateaus: About 27% of the area of the country is the plateau region. It possess rich reserves of minerals fossil fuels and forests. Q10.What efforts were made for resource planning in the first five year plan? Ans. (i) The availability of resources is a necessary condition for the development of any region . But we are still managing the cattle population in India by preparing fodder for them. (ii) There are many regions in our country which are economically backward. Whereas there are some regions which have poor resource base but economically developed . (iii) Resources can contribute to development only when they are accompanied by appropriate technological development. (iv) In India development or resource development resource development does not only mean the availability of resource but also the technology, quality of human resources and the historical experiences of the people. Q11.Describe the land use pattern of India. Ans. (i) Pasture Land:The land under permanent pasture is very low and is further decreasing .But we are still managing the cattle population in India by preparing fodder for them. (ii) Net Sown Area (NSA): It is about 54% in India. It includes the current fallow land,in which the cost of cultivation is high due to its poor quality . The pattern of net sown area varies from region to region. It is about 80% of the total area in Punjab and Haryana and less than 10% in Arunachal Pradesh , Mizoram, Manipur and Andaman and Nicobar islands. (iii) Forest Area: It is far lower than desired 33% of the geographical area. It is considered essential for maintaining ecological balance. like settlements, roads, railways, industry, etc. Q12. What are the causes of land degradation? What are the ways to solve this problem? Ans. Causes of land degradation : (i) Mining sites are abandoned after excavation work is done, leaving deep scars of over burdening .In states like Odisha, Jharkhand ,M.P. ,Chhattisgarh ,deforestation due to mining have caused severe land degradation. (ii) Over grazing in states like Gujarat , Rajasthan , M.P. , and Maharashtra is one of the main reasons behind land degradation. (iii) Mineral Processing like grinding of limestone for cement industry and calcite and soapstone for ceramic industry generate huge quantities of dust in the atmosphere . It stops the infiltration of water in the soil. (iv) Industrial effluents as wastes have become a major source of land pollution in many parts of our country. (v) Over- Irrigation and water logging leads to increased salinity and alkalinity in the states of Punjab , Haryana , western U.P. , leading to land degradation. Ways to check the Land Degradation: (i) Afforestation and Proper Management of grazing can help to check land degradation. (ii) Planting of shelter belts help in checking the sand causing land degradation near the deserts. (iii) Over grazing can be avoided and can be checked. (iv) Stabilization of sand dunes by growing thorny bushes can also check the land degradation. (v) Proper management of Waste land can be done. (vi) Control on mining activities, so that mining should not affect the degradation of the land by refilling the scars on it. (vii) Proper discharge and disposal of industrial effluents and wastes after treatment can reduce land and water degradation in industrial areas. Q13. What is soil erosion? What are the main causes of soil erosion? Ans. Denudation of soil cover and subsequent washing down is known as soil erosion. Causes of soil erosion: (i) Due to human activities like deforestation, over grazing, construction and mining ,etc. (ii) Natural forces like wind, glacier and water leads to soil erosion. (iii) The running water cuts through clayey soils and make deep channels known as gullies. The land becomes unfit for cultivation, this process is called gully erosion and the land is called bad land and ravines in Chambal basin. (iv)Sometimes water flows as sheet over large areas down a slope. It leads to washing of top soil. This process is called sleet erosion. (v) Wind blows loose soil off flat or sloping land, called as wind erosion. (vi) Soil erosion is also caused due to defective methods of farming. Q14.What are the various methods of soil conservation? Ans. Methods of soil conservation: (i) Contour Ploughing: Ploughing along the contour lines can check the flow of water down the slopes. It is called contour ploughing. It can be practiced on the hills. (ii)Terrace cultivation: Steps can be cut on the slopes making terraces. It restricts soil erosion. It is practiced in western and central Himalayas . (iii)Strip Cropping: Large fields can be divided into strips. Strips of grass are left to grow between the crops. This breaks up the forces of wind. This method is called Strip Cropping. (iv)Planting of shelter belts: Planting lines of trees to create shelter also checks the soil erosion. Rows of such trees are called Shelter Belts. These shelter belts have contributed significantly to the stabilization of sand dunes and in stabilizing desert in western India. Q15.Describe features of alluvial and black soils. Name the places where these are found in India. Ans. These features of the soils are explained as follow: (i) Alluvial Soils:(a)Features: (i) The alluvial soils consist of sand , silt and clay. (ii) These soils contain adequate proportion of potash , phosphoric acid and lime. (iii) These soils are ideal for the growth of sugarcane , paddy , wheat , and other cereal crops.(iv) Soils in the drier areas are more alkaline and need proper treatment and irrigation. (v) These soils are of two types- old alluvial soil known as bangar and new alluvial soil known as khadar. (b) Places: These soils are found in the entire northern plains , Rajasthan , Gujarat ( a narrow corridor) , eastern coastal plains particularly in the deltas of the Mahanadi , the Godavari , the Krishna and the Kaveri Rivers. (ii) Black soils:(a) Features: (i) These soils are black in colour. (ii) These soils are known as regur soils also. (iii) They can hold the moisture. (iv) They are made of clayey material. (v) these soils are ideal for growing cotton and is known as black cotton soil. (vi) they are rich in soil nutrients such as calcium carbonate, magnesium , potash and lime. (vii) They are poor in phosphoric contents. (viii) They develop deep cracks during hot weather. (ix) These soils become sticky when wet. (b) Places: It is found in Deccan trap( basalt) region spread over northwest Deccan plateau and is made up of lava flows. They cover the plateaus of Maharashtra ,Saurashtra , malwa , Madhya Pradesh and Chattisgarh , and extent in the south east direction along the Godavari and Krishna valleys. Q16. Describe the features of red and yellow soils and laterite soils, Mention the places where they are found in India. Ans. (i) Red and yellow soils: (a) Features (i) These soils develop reddish colour due to the diffusion of iron in crystalline and metamorphic rocks. It looks yellow in hydrated form. (ii) They are highly porous and fertile whet they are finely grained and deep. (b) Places: They are found in parts of Odisha ,Chattisgarh , southern parts of the middle Ganga plain and along the piedmont zone of western ghats. (ii) Laterite soils: (a) Features (i) Humus content of the soil is slow. (ii) They lack in elements of fertility and are low value for crop production. (iii) They are composed of little clay and much gravel of red sandstones. (iv) They are suitable for cultivation with manures and fertilization. (b) Places : They are found in Karnataka, Kerala , Tamil Nadu , Madhya Pradesh and hilly areas of Odisha and Assam. Q17.Describe the features of arid soils and Forest areas. Mention the places where they are found in India. Ans. (i)Arid Soils: (a) Features (i) They range from red to brown in colour. (ii) They are generally sandy in texture and saline in nature. (iii) In some areas , the soil contains high percentage of soluble salts and lacks in organic matter.(iv) Soil lacks in humus and moisture. (v) The lower horizons of this soil are occupied by kankar. (vi) These soils can become cultivable if irrigation facilities are made available as has been in the case of western Rajasthan. (b) Places: These soils are found in arid areas of Rajasthan , Punjab and Haryana. (ii) Forest Soils:(a) Features: (i) They are found in mountainous area. (ii) They are loamy and silty in valley slides and coarse grained in the upper slopes.(iii) In the snow covered areas of the Himalayas they are acidic with low humus content. Q18. Give the importance of soil. Explain factors responsible for soil formation. Ans. (a) Soil is the most renewable natural resource. It is the medium of plant growth and supports different types of living organisms on the Earth . (b) The soil is a living system .It takes millions to form soil up t a few centimeter in depth. Important factors responsible for the soil formation are as follows: (i) Rocks: Parent rock or the bed rock on which the soils are formed , disintegrate and decompose under the process of weathering and erosion. (ii) Climate: It determines the rate of weathering and the type of vegetation. (iii) Slope: It decides the accumulation of soils. (iv) Various forces of nature such as change in temperature , actions of running water, wind and glaciers , activities of decomposers etc. contribute to the formation of soil. (v) Chemical and organic changes too play their in the formation of soil. Q19. Classify the resources on the basis of ownership. Ans. On the basis of ownership resources are classified as: (i) Individual resources. (a) They are owned privately by individuals. (b) Many farmers own land which is allotted to them by the government against the payment of resource. (c) Plantation, pasture lands, etc., are some examples of individual resource. (ii) Community owned resources. (a) These resources are used by all the members of the community. (b) Village commons, burial grounds, public parks, picnic spot, playground, etc. are accessible to all the people living there. (iii) National resources: (a) Technically all the resources in a nation belong to the nation . (b) All the minerals , water resources, forests, wildlife, land within the political boundaries are all national resources. (iv) International Resources: (a) These are international institutions which regulate some resources. (b) The oceanic resources beyond the 200 nmi of the exclusive economic zone belong to open ocean and no individual country can utilize these without the concurrence of these international institutions.

CLASS-10 REVISION ASSIGNMENT

CLASS -9 POPULATION

CLASS IX

IMPORTANT TERMS AND CONCEPTS

POPULATION

v  Age composition refers to the three broad age groups: (i) Children below the working age (below 15 years) (ii) Person in the working age (15 to 59 years) and (iii) Old person (above the working age 59 years).

v  Agriculture is the practice of cultivating the soil in order to produce crops.

v  Anemic is the person who suffers from anaemia (pale and weak person – having too low red blood cells in their blood).

v  Animal Husbandry refers to the care, management and breeding of animals.

v  Consumers are those organisms in all the tropic levels, with the exception of the producer. These include herbivores, carnivores, omnivores and parasites.

v  Census is the official count or survey of population.

v  Demography is the scientific study of population characteristics.

v  Dependency ratio is the ratio between the economically working population and the dependent population.

v  Density of population means the average number of persons living per unit area , i.e. in a sq. mile or a sq. km.

v  Fishery is the occupation or industry of catching or rearing fish.

v  Forestry is the science of practice of planting, managing and caring of forests.

v  Industrialization is the process of establishing industries and increasing the number of people in the manufacture of goods in a country or a region.

v  Infant mortality rate refers to the number of infants dying under one year of age per thousand births in a year.

v  Infrastructure is the framework of communication network, health centres, administration and power supply necessary for economic development.

v  Life expectancy refers to the average number of years which an individual can expect to live in a given society, normally derived from the national life table.

v  Literacy is the ability to read and write.

v  Literacy rate means the number of literate people per thousand. It is expressed in percentage.

v  Malnutrition refers to lack of proper nutrition, caused by not having enough to eat, eating enough of the right things or unable to use the food eaten.

v  Migration is the movement of people from one place to another.

v  Nutritionist is the person who is an expert on the relationship between food and the way it affects our health.

v  Optimum population is the theoretically perfect situation where the population can develop its resources to the greatest extent, and achieve maximum output while enjoying the highest possible standard of living.

v  Occupational structure refers to the distribution of its people according to different occupations.

v  Population is the total number of a specific group of people living in an area at a particular time.

v  Primary activities include agriculture, animal husbandry, forestry, fishery, etc.

v  Producers refer to an organism who can get energy from the sun and transform it by photosynthesis into food.

v  Secondary activities refer to manufacturing industries.

v  Population culture is the mixture of castes, language and religion of different people of India.

v  Productive population is the people engaged in some or the other meaning for occupation for earning their livelihood.

v  Sex ratio means the number of women per thousand men.

v  Urbanization is the process of increasing concentration of people in towns. This is an increase in the percentage and in the number of people residing in urban settlements.

v  Working population is the population engaged in some useful occupation for earning their living and contributing to a productive economic activity.

v  Water borne diseases are diseases transported by water i.e. diseases communicated or propagated by water.

v  Year of great divide refers to the year 1921, after which India witnessed a period of increasing population growth.

2.    Answer the following questions briefly:

(i) Why is the rate of population growth in India declining since 1981?

A. The rate of population growth in India is declining since1981 because of the following reasons :

·         Since 1981, the rate of growth started declining gradually as the Birth Rate declined rapidly.

·         Efforts of birth control and better medical services also led to this trend.

·         Rising literacy rate, late marriages, general awakening in the people about the benefits of small families, etc. also contributed to it.

(ii) Discuss the major components of population growth.

A.  The major components of population growth are as follows :

Birth Rate: It is the number of live births per thousand persons in a year. It is the major                    component of growth because in India, Birth Rates have always been higher than Death Rates.

Death Rate: it is the number of deaths per thousand persons in a year. Fast declining in Death Rates is the major cause of population growth. Till 1980, high Birth Rates and declining Death Rates led to higher rates of population growth. Since 1981, Birth Rates have started declining resulting in a gradual decline in the rate of population growth.

Migration: This is the third component of population growth. Migration is the movement of people across regions and territories. Migration can be internal or international.

·         Internal migration does not change the size of population, but influences the distribution of population within the nation.

·         In our country, most migrations have been from rural areas to urban areas because of poverty and unemployment in rural areas.

(iii) Define age structure, Death Rate and Birth Rate.

a)      Age Structure: It refers to the distribution of population of the country among different age groups. It helps estimate the size of working population and dependent population. There are three age groups:

§  Children (0-14 years): They are economically unproductive and need to be provided with food, clothing, education and medical care.

§  Adults (15-59 years): They are economically productive and biologically reproductive. They comprise the working population. They can be economically productive. They need to be provided medical care.

§  Aged (60 years and above): They can be economically productive though they may have retired. They may be working voluntarily but they are not available for employment through recruitment.

b)      Birth Rate: It is the number of live births per thousand people in a year.

c)        Death Rate: It is the number of deaths per thousand people in a year.

(iv)  How is migration a determinant of population change?

A. Migration is certainly a determinant of the population change in the following ways:

·         Migration not only changes the population size but also the population composition in the terms of urban and rural population and in terms of age and sex composition.

·         In India, the rural-urban migration has led to a steady increase in the percentage of population in cities and towns.

·         In India urban population has increased from 17.29 percent of the total population in 1951 to 27.78 percent in 2001.

·         There has been a significant increase in the number of million plus from 23 to 35 in just one decade 1991-2001.

·         There are two major factors of migration- International migration and Domestic migration.

International migration takes place when the residents of a country move to another country. It can take two forms.

Ø  Immigration, where the foreign residents come to India. It increases the population of a country.

Ø  Emigration, where the Indians move to foreign countries. It decreases the population of a country.

Domestic Migration takes place where people move from one region of the country to another region. It can take place due to two sets of factors:

Ø  Push factor, like (i) the low level of agricultural income, (ii) fragmentation of agricultural lands, (iii) tenant farming etc.

Ø  Pull factor, like (i) industrialization, (ii) improvement in transportation, (iii) improved communications and (iv) higher educational facilities in urban areas.

(v) Distinguish between population growth and population change.

A. Population Growth: Population growth refers to the number of persons added each year or each       decade to a given population. India’s population has been steadily increasing from 361 million in 1951      to 1028 million in 2001.

Population Change: There are three main processes of change: birth rate, death rate and migration.                      

Ø  Birth rate is the major results in the decrease of population.

Ø  Death rate results in the decrease of population.

Ø  Migration is of mainly two kinds – internal and international. Internal migration does not change the size of the population but the international migration certainly can change the size of population.

(vi) What is the relation between occupational structure and development?

A. The occupational structure of a country refers to the distribution of its people according to different occupations. There are three types of activities in which people are mostly engaged.

§  Primary activities: These include agriculture, animal husbandry, forestry, fishery, etc. they are primary because their production is carried out with the help of nature.

§  Secondary activities: Manufacturing industries are known as secondary activities.

§  Tertiary activities: Transport, communication, bank services, insurance, consultative services, etc. are called tertiary sector.

§  There is a close relationship between development of economy and occupational structure.

§  The higher the proportion of population of a country engaged in secondary and tertiary activities, the higher is the income of the people, as in the USA, Japan, etc.

§  The higher the dependence of population on agriculture or other primary activities result in lower level of income of the people, as in India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, etc.

§  The proportion of population dependent on agriculture in our country is 64 percent and on secondary and tertiary sector is around 13 to 20 percent respectively.

§  However, there has been a gradual occupational shift in favour of secondary and secondary sectors because of growing industrialization and urbanization during the last five decades.

(vii) What are the advantages of having a healthy population?

A.                  The advantages are as follow:

§  Health is an important component of the development process. Healthy people make the nation strong and developed. They produce, create and consume much more than the weak and unhealthy people.

§  Healthy people are an asset to the nation whereas the diseased and weak people are a burden on the nation.

§  Healthy population decreases the dependence ration.

§  Only the healthy population can make full use of natural resources.

§  A healthy population can bring laurels to the nation by its winning spree in different games and sports.

§  A healthy and well educated population will prove the political power for development in this millennium.

§  Our people are weak, undernourished and suffering from various ailments. That is one major factor of our backwardness. This is an area of serious concern. Though the government is doing its best to improve the health status of the people, but there is much more to be done to improve the health of the people.

(viii) What are the significant features of the National Population Policy 2000?

A.  Recognizing that the planning of families would enhance individual health and welfare, the Government of India was the first in the world t o initiate the comprehensive Family Planning Programme in 1951.

The Family Welfare Programme has sought to promote, on a voluntary basis, responsible and planned      parenthood. The National Population Policy 2000 is a culmination of years of planned efforts.

Significant Features of the National Population Policy (NPP)

1)      The NPP 2000 provides a political framework for imparting free and compulsory school education up to 14 years of age.

2)      It aims at meeting the needs of the rapidly growing adolescents (10-19 years of age).

3)      It laid emphasis on the Family Welfare Programme and planning of families.

4)      Reducing infant mortality rate to below 30 per 1000 live births.

5)      Achieving universal immunization of children against all vaccine preventable diseases.

6)      Promoting delayed marriage for girls.

7)      Making family welfare a people centered programme.

(ix) How is population the pivotal element in geography?

A. Population is the pivotal element in geography because it is the point of reference from which all       other elements are observed and from which they derive significance and meaning.

(x) What are the three major aspects of primary concerns of the population?

A. The major aspects are:-

§  Population size and distribution.

§  Characteristics of population.

§  Population growth and processes of population change.

(xi) Which is the most populous state of India and which is the least populous state of India?

A. Uttar Pradesh with 16% of the country’s population is the most populous whereas Sikkim is the least populous.

(xii) Why north Indian Plain is thickly populated?

A. North Indian Plain is thickly populated because:

1)      The soil of this region is leveled, flat and fertile.

2)      There are large numbers of factories in these areas.

3)      The climate of this region is quite congenial.

4)      Means of transport and communication are well developed.

(xii) What is sex ratio? Give two reasons for unfavorable sex ratio in India?

A. The number of women per thousand men is called sex ratio. The following are the reasons for unfavorable sex ratio in India:

1)      Female children are less cared than male children.

2)      Women have great risk to their lives at the time of their delivery.

(xiii) What makes West Bengal the most thickly populated state in India? State three reasons.

A. The reasons are:

1)      West Bengal receives a large amount of rainfall. The Ganga River also provides large irrigation facilities.

2)      This area is flat and has very fertile alluvial soils which produce a lot to support a large population.

3)      There are many agro-based and metal based industries which provide a work to a large number of population.

(xiv) What measures should be taken to control the growth of population?

A. To control the growth of population we suggest the following measures:

1)      Rapid economic growth and development: The place of growth rate both in agricultural and industrial sector should be accelerated. Faster economic growth will open new avenues for employment. This will generate income for the common man. As a result, their standard of income will go up and they will go up and they will realize the need of a small family.

2)      Spread of literacy especially among women: As literacy and education levels spread, people come out of homes to join the work force. This will ultimately result in the fall of fertility.

3)      Adoption of small family norms: Spread of medical facilities will result in lower fertility. Small family awareness campaign along with incentives can motivate the people to cut the size of their families.

(xv) Why are adolescents identified as a special group?

A.  Adolescents are identified as a special group in the NPP 2000 for the following questions;

1)      They have been identified as one of the ‘undeserved population groups because they do not have adequate access to affordable reproductive and health care services.

2)      Adolescents have a high caloric intake requirement and malnutrition seriously impairs their health.

3)      Their special requirements include providing supplements, counseling and enforcing the Child Marriage Restraint Act, 1976.

4)      People are nation’s most important resources. A healthy, well educated population is the potential power for the development in this millennium. Adolescents are the backbone of the nation.

(xvi) A large population has both economic advantages and disadvantages. Justify.

A.                                                                     Advantages

1)      In certain respects a large population is an asset to economic development and growth.

2)      It provides an adequate labour force.

3)      Hundreds of people can be trained in all kinds of skills at all levels.

4)      A huge population provides a ready domestic market for all sort of goods. This encourages entrepreneurs to produce on large scale.

5)      A large population enables a country to compete in an international market.

                                                                       Disadvantages

1)      National income gets disturbed among a large number of people. As a result, per capita income comes down.

2)      Rapid population growth puts heavy burden on the agricultural sectors. This reduces productivity in agriculture.

3)      A large population is also responsible for malnutrition, weak health, widespread diseases, low education standard, less civic amenities, over crowding, slums, even famines and starvation.

4)      It puts heavy pressure on our limited resources like coal, petroleum, forests, water, land and this is the main cause of our poverty, disease and hunger.

(xvii) Point out the geographical factors which influence the population distribution in India.

A. The following are the main factors:

1)      Relief features: The northern plains, coastal plains and river valleys are thickly populated areas whereas mountain areas, deserts and forests of N.E India are thinly populated.

2)      Climate: The hot deserts of Thar, hot parts of Deccan plateau and cold regions of Himalayas are thinly populated. In rest of India the temperatures are moderate and so the population is thick there. Rainless Rajasthan deserts and hilly areas of Western Ghats and N.E. India are thinly populated.

3)      Natural resources: The regions of India with rich soil and minerals are thickly populated . Indo-Gangetic plains, rich in soil and Damodar River Valley, rich in minerals are thickly populated.

4)      Means of transport and communication: The northern plains with network of roads and railways and coastal plains with sea routes are thickly populated regions.

5)      Industrial areas: Areas which are industrially developed are thickly populated. Industrial towns like Kanpur, Faridabad, Ahmadabad, Mumbai, Kolkata, etc. are thickly populated.

6)      Political stability and peace: The regions where governments are stable and there is peace and calm and respect for law are thickly populated.