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Tag: Geography

  • Chapter 6: Population, Class 9th, Geography, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Choose the right answer from the four alternatives given below:

    (i) Migrations change the number, distribution and composition of the population in:
    (a) The area of departure
    (b) The area of arrival
    (c) Both the area of departure and arrival
    (d) None of the above
    Answer: (c) Both the area of departure and arrival

    (ii) A large proportion of children in a population is a result of:
    (a) High birth rates
    (b) High life expectancies
    (c) High death rates
    (d) More married couples
    Answer: (a) High birth rates

    (iii) The magnitude of population growth refers to:
    (a) Total population of an area
    (b) Number of persons added each year/decade
    (c) Rate at which population increases
    (d) Number of females per 1000 males
    Answer: (b) Number of persons added each year/decade

    (iv) According to the Census, a “literate” person is one who:
    (a) Can read and write his/her name
    (b) Can read and write any language
    (c) Is 7 years old and can read and write any language with understanding
    (d) Knows the 3 R’s (Reading, Writing, Arithmetic)
    Answer: (c)

    Q2. Answer briefly:

    (i) Why is the rate of population growth in India declining since 1981?
    → Because birth rates have been declining gradually due to family planning, awareness, better healthcare, and improved literacy.

    (ii) Discuss the major components of population growth.
    → Birth rate, death rate, and migration. Birth and death determine natural increase, while migration affects distribution and composition.

    (iii) Define age structure, death rate and birth rate.
    → Age structure: Proportion of different age groups in population.
    Birth rate: Live births per 1000 persons per year.
    Death rate: Deaths per 1000 persons per year.

    (iv) How is migration a determinant factor of population change?
    → Migration changes size, composition, and distribution of population. Internal migration redistributes people; international migration alters population size.

    Q3. Distinguish between population growth and population change.

    • Growth: Increase in number of people.

    • Change: Includes growth plus changes in distribution, composition, and migration.

    Q4. Relation between occupational structure and development.
    → Higher proportion in secondary/tertiary = more developed economy. Primary sector dominance = less development.

    Q5. Advantages of a healthy population.
    → Greater productivity, better quality of life, lower healthcare costs, improved economic growth.

    Q6. Significant features of National Population Policy 2000.
    → Universal free education up to 14 years, reduced infant mortality, universal immunisation, delayed marriage of girls, voluntary family welfare programs.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Describe the size and distribution of India’s population.
    India’s population in 2011 was 1.21 billion, about 17% of the world’s population, spread over 3.28 million sq km. This makes India the second most populous country. Population distribution is highly uneven. Uttar Pradesh has 199 million people, the highest among states, while Sikkim and Lakshadweep have less than a million. Half of India’s population lives in just five states: Uttar Pradesh, Maharashtra, Bihar, West Bengal, and Andhra Pradesh. Population density is 382 persons/sq km on average, but varies from 1,102 in Bihar to only 17 in Arunachal Pradesh. Fertile plains and coastal regions are densely populated, while deserts, mountains, and forests are sparsely populated. This unevenness shows how geography influences human settlement.

    Q2. Discuss population growth trends in India since 1951.
    In 1951, India had 361 million people. Since then, population has increased steadily. Growth accelerated from 1951 to 1981, with rates peaking at 2.2% per year due to high birth rates and declining death rates. From 1981 onwards, growth rate declined gradually as fertility declined, but absolute increase remained high due to a large base population. For example, in the 1990s alone, 182 million people were added despite falling growth rates. By 2011, population reached 1.21 billion, and by 2023 India overtook China as the most populous nation. This shows that even with slower growth, the absolute additions remain large because of the sheer population base.

    Q3. Explain the role of migration in population change in India.
    Migration significantly affects population distribution and composition. Internal migration in India is mainly rural-to-urban due to push factors like poverty and unemployment and pull factors like jobs and better facilities in cities. This increases urbanisation; urban population grew from 17% in 1951 to over 31% in 2011, and continues rising. Migration also changes age and sex composition: men often migrate first, leaving women behind, while in cities, working-age groups dominate. International migration has also shaped India—large-scale emigration to Gulf countries and Western nations brings remittances, while immigration from neighbouring countries like Nepal or Bangladesh adds to diversity. Thus, migration redistributes population and impacts economy and society.

    Q4. Why is the adolescent population important for India?
    Adolescents (10–19 years) form one-fifth of India’s population. They are the future workforce and hold the key to economic growth. Proper nutrition and education are vital for them. However, many adolescents, especially girls, suffer from anaemia, malnutrition, and lack of healthcare. If neglected, this segment can become a burden instead of a resource. The government aims to improve adolescent health through literacy, awareness, and nutrition programs. Skilled, healthy adolescents can contribute to innovation, productivity, and nation-building. Hence, investment in this group ensures long-term development and prosperity for India.

    Q5. What are the objectives of National Population Policy 2000? Why is it significant?
    The NPP 2000 provides a comprehensive framework for family welfare and population stabilisation. Its key objectives include: universal free education up to 14 years, reducing infant mortality below 30 per 1000, universal immunisation of children, promoting delayed marriage for girls, voluntary family planning, and making reproductive healthcare accessible. The policy recognises that smaller, healthier families improve quality of life. It also focuses on adolescent health, raising awareness among girls, and ensuring nutrition and education. The significance of NPP lies in balancing population growth with sustainable development. By empowering individuals to plan families voluntarily, it links health, education, and gender equality with demographic goals.

    MCQs

    1. India’s population in 2011 was:
      (a) 1.02 billion
      (b) 1.21 billion
      (c) 1.31 billion
      (d) 1.11 billion
      Answer: (b)

    2. India’s share of world population is about:
      (a) 10%
      (b) 12%
      (c) 17%
      (d) 20%
      Answer: (c)

    3. The most populous state in 2011:
      (a) Bihar
      (b) Uttar Pradesh
      (c) Maharashtra
      (d) West Bengal
      Answer: (b)

    4. Least populated state in 2011:
      (a) Goa
      (b) Sikkim
      (c) Manipur
      (d) Tripura
      Answer: (b)

    5. Population density of India in 2011:
      (a) 250/sq km
      (b) 350/sq km
      (c) 382/sq km
      (d) 400/sq km
      Answer: (c)

    6. Highest density state in 2011:
      (a) West Bengal
      (b) Bihar
      (c) Kerala
      (d) UP
      Answer: (b)

    7. Lowest density state:
      (a) Sikkim
      (b) Arunachal Pradesh
      (c) Mizoram
      (d) Nagaland
      Answer: (b)

    8. Census is conducted every:
      (a) 5 years
      (b) 10 years
      (c) 15 years
      (d) 20 years
      Answer: (b)

    9. First complete census in India:
      (a) 1857
      (b) 1872
      (c) 1881
      (d) 1901
      Answer: (c)

    10. Absolute increase in population means:
      (a) Total population
      (b) Number added during a period
      (c) Growth rate
      (d) Density
      Answer: (b)

    11. Growth rate of population is measured in:
      (a) % per decade
      (b) % per annum
      (c) Total headcount
      (d) Births per year
      Answer: (b)

    12. Birth rate means:
      (a) Births per 100 persons
      (b) Births per 1000 persons
      (c) Children per family
      (d) None
      Answer: (b)

    13. Death rate means:
      (a) Deaths per 100 persons
      (b) Deaths per 1000 persons
      (c) Life expectancy
      (d) Mortality ratio
      Answer: (b)

    14. Rural-urban migration in India is mainly due to:
      (a) Cultural reasons
      (b) Poverty & unemployment in villages
      (c) Religious reasons
      (d) Government policy
      Answer: (b)

    15. India overtook China in population in:
      (a) 2019
      (b) 2020
      (c) 2023
      (d) 2025
      Answer: (c)

    16. Adolescent population is defined as ages:
      (a) 5–15 years
      (b) 10–19 years
      (c) 12–20 years
      (d) 15–25 years
      Answer: (b)

    17. Percentage of adolescent population in India:
      (a) 10%
      (b) 15%
      (c) 20%
      (d) 25%
      Answer: (c)

    18. National Population Policy was adopted in:
      (a) 1952
      (b) 1980
      (c) 1991
      (d) 2000
      Answer: (d)

    19. NPP 2000 aims to reduce infant mortality rate below:
      (a) 40 per 1000
      (b) 35 per 1000
      (c) 30 per 1000
      (d) 25 per 1000
      Answer: (c)

    20. Which factor does NOT directly affect population growth?
      (a) Birth rate
      (b) Death rate
      (c) Migration
      (d) Rainfall
      Answer: (d)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. India’s population in 2011 was 1.21 billion.

    2. Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state.

    3. Sikkim has the least population among states.

    4. Population density of India in 2011 was 382 persons per sq km.

    5. The highest density state is Bihar.

    6. The lowest density state is Arunachal Pradesh.

    7. First complete census in India was held in 1881.

    8. Absolute increase is the number of people added in a decade.

    9. Growth rate is measured in percent per annum.

    10. The National Population Policy was adopted in 2000.

  • Chapter 5: Natural Vegetation and Wildlife, Class 9th, Geography, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Choose the right answer:

    (i) To which type of vegetation does rubber belong?
    (a) Tundra
    (b) Tidal
    (c) Himalayan
    (d) Tropical Evergreen
    Answer: (d) Tropical Evergreen

    (ii) Cinchona trees are found in areas of rainfall more than:
    (a) 100 cm
    (b) 50 cm
    (c) 70 cm
    (d) Less than 50 cm
    Answer: (a) 100 cm

    (iii) In which state is the Simlipal bio-reserve located?
    (a) Punjab
    (b) Delhi
    (c) Odisha
    (d) West Bengal
    Answer: (c) Odisha

    (iv) Which one of the following bio-reserves is not in the world network?
    (a) Manas
    (b) Nilgiri
    (c) Gulf of Mannar
    (d) Panna
    Answer: (d) Panna

    Q2. Answer briefly:

    (i) What is a bio-reserve? Give two examples.
    → A protected area where flora, fauna, and ecosystems are conserved. Examples: Nanda Devi, Nilgiri.

    (ii) Name two animals found in tropical and montane vegetation.
    → Tropical: Elephant, tiger. Montane: Yak, snow leopard.

    Q3. Distinguish between:

    (i) Flora and Fauna

    • Flora: Plants of a region.

    • Fauna: Animals of a region.

    (ii) Tropical Evergreen and Deciduous forests

    • Evergreen: Found in >200 cm rainfall, trees shed leaves at different times, always green.

    • Deciduous: Found in 70–200 cm rainfall, trees shed leaves in dry summer, dominant in India.

    Q4. Types of vegetation in India; describe vegetation of high altitudes.
    → Five types: Tropical evergreen, tropical deciduous, thorny forests, montane forests, mangroves.

    • High altitudes (Montane forests): Vegetation changes with altitude. Up to 2000 m: broadleaf trees (oak, chestnut). Between 1500–3000 m: conifers (pine, deodar, cedar). Above 3600 m: alpine grasslands and shrubs, merging into tundra with mosses and lichens.

    Q5. Why are some plants and animals endangered in India?
    → Hunting, deforestation, pollution, industrialisation, expansion of agriculture, and introduction of alien species have led to habitat loss. Overexploitation disturbs ecosystems, making many species endangered or extinct.

    Q6. Why does India have a rich heritage of flora and fauna?
    → Due to varied relief (mountains, plateaus, coasts), different soils, climatic diversity, monsoon influence, and long evolutionary history. Together these factors give India one of the richest biodiversities in the world.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Describe the major types of vegetation in India.
    India has five major vegetation types. Tropical Evergreen Forests are found in areas with over 200 cm rainfall, such as Western Ghats and Andamans, with trees like ebony and mahogany. Tropical Deciduous Forests are the most widespread, found in 70–200 cm rainfall zones, with teak, sal, and shisham. Tropical Thorn Forests grow in areas with less than 70 cm rainfall, such as Rajasthan, with cacti and acacia. Montane Forests change with altitude: oak and chestnut up to 2000 m, conifers up to 3000 m, and alpine vegetation above. Mangrove Forests are found in coastal deltas, with trees like sundari. This variety makes India’s vegetation diverse and rich.

    Q2. Explain the importance of forests and wildlife for human beings.
    Forests and wildlife are vital for ecological balance and human survival. Forests provide oxygen, purify air, regulate climate, prevent soil erosion, and conserve water. They are also a source of timber, fuel, fodder, and medicinal plants. Wildlife maintains the food chain, supports pollination, and enriches biodiversity. Animals like cows, buffaloes, and camels provide milk, draught power, and transport. Fish and birds provide food, while insects help pollinate crops. Loss of forests and wildlife disturbs ecosystems, causing floods, droughts, and climate change. Thus, their conservation is essential for present and future generations.

    Q3. Discuss the Montane forests and their fauna.
    Montane forests develop in mountainous regions where temperature decreases with altitude. Between 1000–2000 m, wet temperate broadleaf trees like oak and chestnut grow. Between 1500–3000 m, coniferous forests with pine, cedar, and deodar dominate. Above 3600 m, alpine vegetation with shrubs, grasses, mosses, and lichens is found. These zones are also grazing grounds for nomads like Gujjars. Fauna here include snow leopard, yak, Tibetan antelope, red panda, ibex, and wild sheep, adapted to cold climates. This gradual change from tropical to tundra vegetation makes montane forests unique.

    Q4. What measures has India taken to conserve flora and fauna?
    India has implemented several conservation measures. The Wildlife Protection Act (1972) created National Parks, Sanctuaries, and Biosphere Reserves. Today, there are 106 National Parks and 573 sanctuaries. Projects like Project Tiger, Project Rhino, and Project Elephant protect specific species. India has 18 biosphere reserves, 12 of which are in UNESCO’s world network (e.g., Sundarbans, Nanda Devi). Botanical gardens receive support, and awareness campaigns encourage afforestation and wildlife protection. Such measures aim to protect endangered species, restore ecosystems, and conserve biodiversity for sustainable development.

    Q5. Why is biodiversity conservation necessary?
    Biodiversity conservation is necessary because every species plays a role in ecosystems. Plants provide food, oxygen, and medicine. Animals maintain ecological balance by controlling populations of other species and aiding pollination. Humans depend on biodiversity for agriculture, resources, and livelihood. Loss of species causes imbalance, leading to floods, droughts, and climate change. India’s 1,300 endangered plants and many threatened animals show urgent need for conservation. Protecting biodiversity ensures food security, ecological stability, and sustainable development for future generations.

    MCQs

    1. Natural vegetation refers to:
      (a) Cultivated plants
      (b) Virgin plants growing naturally
      (c) Botanical gardens
      (d) Crops and orchards
      Answer: (b)

    2. Flora means:
      (a) Animal species
      (b) Plant species
      (c) Soil type
      (d) Climate
      Answer: (b)

    3. Fauna means:
      (a) Animals of a region
      (b) Trees of a region
      (c) Rivers of a region
      (d) Minerals of a region
      Answer: (a)

    4. Evergreen forests are found in rainfall above:
      (a) 70 cm
      (b) 100 cm
      (c) 200 cm
      (d) 50 cm
      Answer: (c)

    5. Teak is dominant in:
      (a) Evergreen forests
      (b) Thorn forests
      (c) Moist deciduous forests
      (d) Mangroves
      Answer: (c)

    6. Dry deciduous forests found in:
      (a) 200–100 cm rainfall
      (b) 70–200 cm rainfall
      (c) 100–70 cm rainfall
      (d) <50 cm rainfall
      Answer: (c)

    7. Thorn forests grow in:
      (a) >200 cm rainfall
      (b) <70 cm rainfall
      (c) 100–200 cm rainfall
      (d) Coastal areas
      Answer: (b)

    8. Sundari tree is found in:
      (a) Western Ghats
      (b) Ganga delta
      (c) Thar Desert
      (d) Himalayas
      Answer: (b)

    9. Largest mangrove forest in India:
      (a) Malabar Coast
      (b) Sunderbans
      (c) Lakshadweep
      (d) Andamans
      Answer: (b)

    10. Royal Bengal Tiger found in:
      (a) Gir Forest
      (b) Sunderbans
      (c) Rajasthan
      (d) Nilgiris
      Answer: (b)

    11. Asiatic lion found in:
      (a) Kaziranga
      (b) Gir Forest
      (c) Sundarbans
      (d) Periyar
      Answer: (b)

    12. One-horned rhinoceros found in:
      (a) Kerala
      (b) Assam
      (c) Rajasthan
      (d) Gujarat
      Answer: (b)

    13. India’s only active volcano:
      (a) Narcondam
      (b) Barren Island
      (c) Lakshadweep
      (d) Car Nicobar
      Answer: (b)

    14. “Project Tiger” launched in:
      (a) 1962
      (b) 1972
      (c) 1980
      (d) 1992
      Answer: (b)

    15. Number of National Parks in India (approx):
      (a) 106
      (b) 573
      (c) 28
      (d) 18
      Answer: (a)

    16. Medicinal plant for blood pressure:
      (a) Neem
      (b) Sarpagandha
      (c) Arjun
      (d) Tulsi
      Answer: (b)

    17. Biosphere reserves in UNESCO list:
      (a) 5
      (b) 8
      (c) 12
      (d) 18
      Answer: (c)

    18. Migratory bird “Siberian Crane” visits:
      (a) Rajasthan
      (b) Rann of Kachchh
      (c) Kerala
      (d) Arunachal Pradesh
      Answer: (b)

    19. Cold desert biosphere reserve is in:
      (a) Rajasthan
      (b) Ladakh
      (c) Gujarat
      (d) Himachal Pradesh
      Answer: (b)

    20. Wildlife Protection Act passed in:
      (a) 1952
      (b) 1972
      (c) 1982
      (d) 1992
      Answer: (b)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. Virgin vegetation left undisturbed is called natural vegetation.

    2. Plants of a region are called flora.

    3. Animals of a region are called fauna.

    4. India has about 47,000 plant species.

    5. Tropical Evergreen forests remain green throughout the year.

    6. The most widespread forests in India are tropical deciduous.

    7. The only home of Asiatic lions is Gir forest in Gujarat.

    8. One-horned rhinoceros lives in Assam and West Bengal.

    9. The Sundarbans mangroves are famous for the Royal Bengal Tiger.

    10. The Wildlife Protection Act was passed in 1972.

  • Chapter 4: Climate, Class 9th, Geography, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Choose the correct answer:

    (i) Which one of the following places receives the highest rainfall in the world?
    (a) Silchar
    (b) Mawsynram
    (c) Cherrapunji
    (d) Guwahati
    Answer: (b) Mawsynram

    (ii) The wind blowing in the northern plains in summers is known as:
    (a) Kaal Baisakhi
    (b) Loo
    (c) Trade Winds
    (d) None of the above
    Answer: (b) Loo

    (iii) Monsoon arrives in India approximately in:
    (a) Early May
    (b) Early July
    (c) Early June
    (d) Early August
    Answer: (c) Early June

    (iv) Which one of the following characterises the cold weather season in India?
    (a) Warm days and warm nights
    (b) Warm days and cold nights
    (c) Cool days and cold nights
    (d) Cold days and warm nights
    Answer: (c) Cool days and cold nights

    Q2. Answer briefly:

    (i) Controls affecting climate of India → Latitude, altitude, pressure & winds, distance from sea, ocean currents, relief.

    (ii) Why monsoon type of climate? → Seasonal reversal of winds; India’s unique location, Himalayas blocking cold winds, ITCZ shifts.

    (iii) Highest diurnal range of temperature? → Thar Desert (hot days, cold nights) because of arid conditions.

    (iv) Which winds bring rainfall along Malabar coast? → South-West Monsoon winds.

    (v) Define monsoon. What is “break” in monsoon? → Monsoon = seasonal reversal of winds. Break = wet/dry spells during rainy season.

    (vi) Why monsoon as unifying bond? → Despite diversity, agriculture, festivals, life, economy revolve around rains across India.

    Q3. Why rainfall decreases east to west in Northern India?
    → Monsoon winds from Bay of Bengal shed most moisture in east; progressively less as they move westward.

    Q4. Give reasons:

    (i) Seasonal reversal of winds → Differential heating of land and sea, ITCZ shift.
    (ii) Rainfall concentrated in few months → Southwest monsoon dominates June–Sept.
    (iii) Tamil Nadu coast gets winter rain → Retreating monsoon + NE monsoon winds.
    (iv) Eastern coast deltas struck by cyclones → Low-pressure systems from Bay of Bengal.
    (v) Rajasthan, Gujarat, leeward Ghats drought-prone → Located in rain shadow / far from monsoon path.

    Q5. Regional variations in climate of India:

    • Jaisalmer: hot desert, <10 cm rain.

    • Shillong: heavy rain (400+ cm).

    • Thiruvananthapuram: equable, coastal.

    • Drass/Leh: extreme cold.

    • Gujarat, MP: hot summers.

    Q6. Cold weather season conditions:

    • Nov–Feb. Temp falls, clear skies, cool days, cold nights.

    • NE trade winds prevail.

    • Western disturbances cause winter rain in north, snowfall in Himalayas.

    • “Mahawat” rain important for rabi crops.

    Q7. Characteristics & effects of monsoon rainfall:

    • Seasonal reversal, June–Sept.

    • Irregular, with breaks.

    • Uneven spatial distribution.

    • Excess = floods, deficit = droughts.

    • Vital for agriculture, economy, festivals.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Explain the factors affecting India’s climate.
    Answer: Latitude (Tropic of Cancer divides), Altitude (Himalayas vs coast), Pressure & Winds (monsoon system), Distance from sea (continentality), Ocean currents (warming/cooling), Relief (rain shadow, windward rainfall).

    Q2. Describe the four seasons of India.
    Answer:

    • Winter (Nov–Feb) – Cold, NE monsoon, western disturbances.

    • Summer (Mar–May) – High temp, loo, dust storms, mango showers.

    • Advancing Monsoon (Jun–Sept) – SW monsoon, heavy rain, floods.

    • Retreating Monsoon (Oct–Nov) – Monsoon withdrawal, cyclones in east coast, October heat.

    Q3. “Monsoon is a unifying bond.” Explain.
    Answer: Despite diverse climates, agriculture, food habits, festivals, crops, river systems, economy—all revolve around monsoons. They bind India by setting agricultural calendar.

    Q4. Discuss regional variations in temperature & rainfall in India with examples.
    Answer: Rajasthan 50°C vs Drass –45°C; Thar diurnal variation vs Kerala equable climate; Mawsynram 400 cm vs Jaisalmer <10 cm; Tamil Nadu winter rain vs Punjab winter rain (western disturbances).

    Q5. Characteristics & significance of monsoon rainfall.
    Answer: Monsoon rainfall is seasonal, irregular, uncertain, unevenly distributed. It sustains Indian agriculture, hydroelectricity, transport, biodiversity, and festivals, but also causes floods and droughts.

    MCQs

    1. Climate refers to weather conditions over:
      (a) A short period
      (b) A long period (30+ years)
      (c) One week
      (d) A day
      Answer: (b)

    2. The Tropic of Cancer passes through:
      (a) Middle of India
      (b) Northernmost tip
      (c) Southernmost tip
      (d) Only coastal areas
      Answer: (a)

    3. Cold winds from Central Asia don’t reach India because:
      (a) Deserts block them
      (b) Himalayas block them
      (c) Monsoon winds stop them
      (d) ITCZ shifts
      Answer: (b)

    4. Seasonal reversal of wind is called:
      (a) Westerlies
      (b) Trade winds
      (c) Monsoon
      (d) Cyclone
      Answer: (c)

    5. The “loo” is a:
      (a) Winter wind
      (b) Cold breeze
      (c) Hot, dry wind in summer
      (d) Sea breeze
      Answer: (c)

    6. Kaal Baisakhi occurs in:
      (a) Punjab
      (b) West Bengal
      (c) Rajasthan
      (d) Tamil Nadu
      Answer: (b)

    7. Mango showers occur in:
      (a) Kerala & Karnataka
      (b) Rajasthan
      (c) Punjab
      (d) Gujarat
      Answer: (a)

    8. Retreating monsoon occurs in:
      (a) June–Sept
      (b) Oct–Nov
      (c) Mar–May
      (d) Dec–Jan
      Answer: (b)

    9. Tamil Nadu gets rainfall in winter due to:
      (a) Western disturbances
      (b) Retreating NE monsoon
      (c) Cyclones only
      (d) Local thunderstorms
      Answer: (b)

    10. Western disturbances bring rain to:
      (a) Tamil Nadu coast
      (b) Rajasthan
      (c) Northern plains in winter
      (d) Kerala
      Answer: (c)

    11. Mawsynram is in:
      (a) Meghalaya
      (b) Mizoram
      (c) Tripura
      (d) Assam
      Answer: (a)

    12. Monsoon enters India first at:
      (a) Kerala
      (b) Tamil Nadu
      (c) Gujarat
      (d) Odisha
      Answer: (a)

    13. October heat refers to:
      (a) Very hot May–June winds
      (b) Oppressive weather in Oct after rains
      (c) Heat waves in March
      (d) Cyclone season
      Answer: (b)

    14. Break in monsoon means:
      (a) Monsoon ends
      (b) Monsoon delayed
      (c) Wet and dry spells during rains
      (d) No rain for a year
      Answer: (c)

    15. The region with lowest rainfall in India:
      (a) Western Rajasthan & Leh
      (b) Assam
      (c) Kerala
      (d) Meghalaya
      Answer: (a)

    16. Highest diurnal temperature range in India:
      (a) Kerala
      (b) Andaman & Nicobar
      (c) Thar Desert
      (d) Meghalaya
      Answer: (c)

    17. Rainfall decreases from east to west because:
      (a) Himalayas block it
      (b) Winds lose moisture westwards
      (c) Ocean currents deflect
      (d) Cyclones push rain eastwards
      Answer: (b)

    18. Which is NOT a control of climate?
      (a) Latitude
      (b) Altitude
      (c) Distance from moon
      (d) Relief
      Answer: (c)

    19. Western Ghats receive heavy rainfall because:
      (a) Leeward side effect
      (b) Orographic rainfall on windward side
      (c) Retreating monsoon
      (d) Winter rains
      Answer: (b)

    20. Cyclones in retreating monsoon often hit:
      (a) Gujarat coast
      (b) Godavari–Krishna–Kaveri deltas
      (c) Punjab plains
      (d) Himalayas
      Answer: (b)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. Climate refers to average conditions over 30+ years.

    2. The word monsoon comes from Arabic word ‘mausim’ meaning season.

    3. Himalayas block cold winds from Central Asia.

    4. The hot, dry summer winds in north India are called loo.

    5. Local thunderstorms in Bengal are called Kaal Baisakhi.

    6. Pre-monsoon showers in south India are called mango showers.

    7. The wettest place in the world is Mawsynram.

    8. The retreating monsoon occurs in October–November.

    9. Winter rains in north India are caused by western disturbances.

    10. Monsoon is called a unifying bond of India.

  • Chapter 3: Drainage, Class 9th, Geography, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. Choose the right answer:
    (i) Wular Lake is in → (d) Jammu & Kashmir
    (ii) Narmada source → (c) Amarkantak
    (iii) Salt water lake → (a) Sambhar
    (iv) Longest Peninsular river → (c) Godavari
    (v) River flowing in rift valley → (d) Tapi

    Q2. Answer briefly:

    (i) What is a water divide?
    → An elevated area separating two drainage basins. Example: Ambala between Indus & Ganga basins.

    (ii) Largest river basin in India?
    → The Ganga basin.

    (iii) Origin of Indus & Ganga?
    → Indus – Tibet near Mansarovar.
    Ganga – Gangotri Glacier (Bhagirathi).

    (iv) Two headstreams of Ganga? Where do they meet?
    → Bhagirathi and Alaknanda. They meet at Devaprayag.

    (v) Why does Brahmaputra carry less silt in Tibet?
    → Tibet is dry and cold, with little rainfall → less water, less silt.

    (vi) Two Peninsular rivers flowing through troughs?
    → Narmada and Tapi.

    (vii) Economic benefits of rivers and lakes?
    → Irrigation, drinking water, hydropower, fisheries, navigation, tourism, soil fertility, climate moderation.

    Q3. Classify lakes (Natural / Human-made):

    • Natural: Wular, Dal, Nainital, Bhimtal, Loktak, Barapani, Chilika, Sambhar, Pulicat, Kolleru.

    • Human-made: Gobind Sagar, Rana Pratap Sagar, Nizam Sagar, Nagarjuna Sagar, Hirakud.

    Q4. Difference between Himalayan and Peninsular rivers:

    • Himalayan: Perennial, long, deep valleys, depositional features (deltas, meanders, oxbow lakes).

    • Peninsular: Seasonal, short, flow in plateaus, shallow valleys, estuaries (west-flowing), smaller deltas (east-flowing).

    Q5. Compare east- and west-flowing rivers of Peninsular India:

    • East-flowing (Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri): Flow into Bay of Bengal, form deltas, longer courses.

    • West-flowing (Narmada, Tapi): Flow into Arabian Sea, form estuaries, shorter courses, swift flow.

    Q6. Why are rivers important for India’s economy?
    → They provide irrigation, hydroelectricity, transport, fisheries, tourism, fertile soil, drinking water. Most Indian agriculture depends on rivers, making them the lifeline of the economy.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Describe the Himalayan river systems.
    → Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra. Long, perennial, joined by tributaries. Indus (2,900 km) with Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, Satluj. Ganga (2,500 km) with Yamuna, Ghaghara, Gandak, Kosi, Chambal, Betwa, Son. Brahmaputra (Tsangpo in Tibet, Jamuna in Bangladesh) causes floods, forms Majuli island.

    Q2. Explain the Peninsular river systems.
    → Shorter, seasonal, most flow eastwards into Bay of Bengal forming deltas (Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri). West-flowing Narmada & Tapi form estuaries. Other west-flowing: Sabarmati, Mahi, Periyar. Their basins are smaller than Himalayan rivers.

    Q3. Write a note on lakes in India.
    → Natural (Dal, Nainital, Chilika, Wular, Sambhar) and man-made (Bhakra Nangal – Gobind Sagar, Hirakud, Nagarjuna Sagar). Lakes regulate river flow, prevent floods, help irrigation, hydropower, fisheries, recreation, tourism, and biodiversity.

    Q4. Role of rivers in Indian economy.
    → Rivers provide irrigation (agriculture), hydropower (electricity), navigation (transport), tourism (boating, pilgrimages), fishing, and fertile soil for crops. Major cities developed on rivers (Delhi – Yamuna, Kolkata – Hooghly, Varanasi – Ganga).

    Q5. Causes and effects of river pollution in India.
    → Causes: sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff, religious practices. Effects: unsafe water, fish death, ecosystem damage, health hazards. Example: Ganga pollution led to Ganga Action Plan & NRCP.

    MCQs

    • The largest river basin in India is:
      (a) Indus
      (b) Ganga
      (c) Brahmaputra
      (d) Godavari
      Answer: (b) Ganga

    • The Indus River originates near:
      (a) Mt. Everest
      (b) Mt. Kailash
      (c) Lake Mansarovar
      (d) Amarkantak
      Answer: (c) Lake Mansarovar

    • Bhagirathi and Alaknanda meet to form the Ganga at:
      (a) Haridwar
      (b) Devaprayag
      (c) Allahabad
      (d) Rishikesh
      Answer: (b) Devaprayag

    • The Yamuna meets the Ganga at:
      (a) Varanasi
      (b) Haridwar
      (c) Allahabad (Prayagraj)
      (d) Kanpur
      Answer: (c) Allahabad (Prayagraj)

    • The Brahmaputra is known in Tibet as:
      (a) Tsangpo
      (b) Jamuna
      (c) Dihang
      (d) Lohit
      Answer: (a) Tsangpo

    • The world’s largest delta is:
      (a) Mekong Delta
      (b) Amazon Delta
      (c) Mississippi Delta
      (d) Sundarbans Delta
      Answer: (d) Sundarbans Delta

    • The Narmada river rises from:
      (a) Satpura Hills
      (b) Amarkantak Hills
      (c) Western Ghats
      (d) Himalayas
      Answer: (b) Amarkantak Hills

    • The Tapi river originates from:
      (a) Aravali Hills
      (b) Himalayas
      (c) Satpura Ranges
      (d) Vindhya Ranges
      Answer: (c) Satpura Ranges

    • The Godavari is also called:
      (a) Dakshin Ganga
      (b) Krishna of the South
      (c) Peninsular Lifeline
      (d) Bharat Ganga
      Answer: (a) Dakshin Ganga

    • The largest saltwater lake in India is:
      (a) Sambhar Lake
      (b) Chilika Lake
      (c) Pulicat Lake
      (d) Wular Lake
      Answer: (b) Chilika Lake

    • The Sambhar Lake is located in:
      (a) Uttar Pradesh
      (b) Madhya Pradesh
      (c) Rajasthan
      (d) Gujarat
      Answer: (c) Rajasthan

    • The Wular Lake is situated in:
      (a) Himachal Pradesh
      (b) Jammu & Kashmir
      (c) Assam
      (d) Kerala
      Answer: (b) Jammu & Kashmir

    • The Shivasamudram waterfall is formed by:
      (a) Krishna River
      (b) Godavari River
      (c) Kaveri River
      (d) Mahanadi River
      Answer: (c) Kaveri River

    • The longest Peninsular river is:
      (a) Mahanadi
      (b) Krishna
      (c) Godavari
      (d) Kaveri
      Answer: (c) Godavari

    • The Narmada and Tapi rivers flow into the:
      (a) Bay of Bengal
      (b) Arabian Sea
      (c) Indian Ocean
      (d) Red Sea
      Answer: (b) Arabian Sea

    • The river known as the “Sorrow of Bihar” is:
      (a) Kosi
      (b) Damodar
      (c) Gandak
      (d) Ghaghara
      Answer: (a) Kosi

    • The river known as the “Sorrow of Bengal” is:
      (a) Damodar
      (b) Mahananda
      (c) Subarnarekha
      (d) Hooghly
      Answer: (a) Damodar

    • Majuli, the world’s largest riverine island, is formed by:
      (a) Ganga
      (b) Brahmaputra
      (c) Godavari
      (d) Yamuna
      Answer: (b) Brahmaputra

    • The Indira Gandhi Canal gets its water mainly from:
      (a) Yamuna
      (b) Sutlej
      (c) Beas
      (d) Ravi
      Answer: (b) Sutlej

    • The Hirakud Dam is built on the:
      (a) Godavari River
      (b) Krishna River
      (c) Narmada River
      (d) Mahanadi River
      Answer: (d) Mahanadi

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. The area drained by a river system is called a drainage basin.

    2. Elevated area separating basins is a water divide.

    3. Indus Water Treaty (1960) allows India to use 20% of Indus water.

    4. The Ganga’s headwaters are Bhagirathi and Alaknanda.

    5. The Brahmaputra is called Jamuna in Bangladesh.

    6. The Sundarbans delta is home of the Royal Bengal Tiger.

    7. Narmada flows through a rift valley.

    8. The Godavari is also known as Dakshin Ganga.

    9. Wular Lake was formed by tectonic activity.

    10. The National River Conservation Plan began in 1995.

  • Chapter 1: India – Size and Location, Class 9th, Geography, NCERT

    NCERT Questions & Answers

    Q1. The Tropic of Cancer does not pass through:
    (a) Rajasthan (b) Odisha (c) Chhattisgarh (d) Tripura
    Answer: (b) Odisha

    Q2. The easternmost longitude of India is:
    (a) 97°25′E (b) 68°7′E (c) 77°6′E (d) 82°32′E
    Answer: (a) 97°25′E

    Q3. Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal and Sikkim have common frontiers with:
    (a) China (b) Bhutan (c) Nepal (d) Myanmar
    Answer: (c) Nepal

    Q4. If you visit Kavaratti, which Union Territory will you go to?
    (a) Puducherry (b) Lakshadweep (c) Andaman and Nicobar (d) Daman and Diu
    Answer: (b) Lakshadweep

    Q5. My friend hails from a country which does not share land boundary with India. Identify the country.
    (a) Bhutan (b) Tajikistan (c) Bangladesh (d) Nepal
    Answer: (b) Tajikistan

    Q6. Name the group of islands lying in the Arabian Sea.
    → Lakshadweep Islands.

    Q7. Name the countries which are larger than India.
    → Russia, Canada, USA, China, Brazil, Australia.

    Q8. Which island group of India lies to its south-east?
    → Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

    Q9. Which island countries are our southern neighbours?
    → Sri Lanka and Maldives.

    Q10. Why does the sun rise two hours earlier in Arunachal Pradesh than Gujarat but watches show the same time?
    → Because of India’s great longitudinal extent (30°). To avoid confusion, 82°30′E (near Mirzapur, UP) is taken as the Standard Meridian, and one uniform IST is followed.

    Q11. Why is India’s central location at the head of the Indian Ocean significant?
    → It gives India a strategic advantage for trade and cultural exchange with West Asia, Africa, and Europe (from west coast) and with Southeast Asia and East Asia (from east coast). India’s location makes it a central hub of ocean routes.

    Long Answer Questions

    Q1. Explain the size and extent of India.
    Answer: India has an area of 3.28 million sq. km, about 2.4% of world’s land area, making it the seventh largest country. The mainland stretches between latitudes 8°4′N and 37°6′N and longitudes 68°7′E and 97°25′E. Its north-south extent is 3,214 km and east-west extent is 2,933 km. India has a land boundary of 15,200 km and coastline of 7,516.6 km. The Tropic of Cancer (23°30′N) divides the country into almost two halves.

    Q2. Describe India’s neighbours and its political boundaries.
    Answer: India shares boundaries with Pakistan and Afghanistan (northwest), China, Nepal, Bhutan (north), and Bangladesh and Myanmar (east). Across the sea, India’s neighbours are Sri Lanka and Maldives. In South Asia, India occupies a central position with 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Its vast boundary connects it politically, economically, and culturally with neighbouring countries.

    Q3. How has India’s central location helped in establishing cultural and trade contacts?
    Answer: India’s location between East and West Asia made it a crossroads of trade and culture. Ancient land routes across mountain passes helped exchange of goods, like spices, muslin, and ideas like numerals and the decimal system. Sea routes via the Indian Ocean linked India with Southeast Asia, Africa, and Europe. India influenced and absorbed cultures such as Greek sculpture and West Asian architectural styles, making it a centre of interaction.

    Q4. Discuss the importance of Standard Meridian of India.
    Answer: India’s vast longitudinal spread (30°) causes time differences of about 2 hours between Arunachal Pradesh and Gujarat. To avoid confusion, 82°30′E longitude (through Mirzapur, UP) is chosen as the Standard Meridian. It ensures uniformity of time across India and is called Indian Standard Time (IST). Without it, time differences would disrupt communication, travel, and administration.

    Q5. Explain how India’s geographical features influence its contacts with the world.
    Answer: The Himalayas in the north provide a natural barrier but also mountain passes for ancient contacts. The long coastline facilitated maritime trade. India’s peninsular location makes it project into the Indian Ocean, linking West Asia, Africa, and Europe with Southeast Asia and East Asia. This strategic location allowed India to play a major role in global trade, culture, and history.

    MCQs

    1. India’s total area is:
      (a) 2.4 million sq. km (b) 3.28 million sq. km (c) 4.5 million sq. km (d) 5.2 million sq. km
      Answer: (b)

    2. India is the ___ largest country in the world.
      (a) 5th (b) 6th (c) 7th (d) 8th
      Answer: (c)

    3. India accounts for about ___ of world’s land area.
      (a) 1.8% (b) 2.4% (c) 3.2% (d) 4%
      Answer: (b)

    4. India’s latitudinal extent is:
      (a) 8°4′N to 37°6′N (b) 6°4′N to 36°6′N (c) 10°N to 38°N (d) 9°N to 37°N
      Answer: (a)

    5. India’s longitudinal extent is:
      (a) 68°7′E to 97°25′E (b) 65°E to 95°E (c) 70°E to 98°E (d) 60°E to 95°E
      Answer: (a)

    6. India’s north-south extent is about:
      (a) 2,933 km (b) 3,214 km (c) 2,500 km (d) 3,500 km
      Answer: (b)

    7. India’s east-west extent is about:
      (a) 2,500 km (b) 3,000 km (c) 2,933 km (d) 3,214 km
      Answer: (c)

    8. India’s land boundary length:
      (a) 12,000 km (b) 13,500 km (c) 15,200 km (d) 16,000 km
      Answer: (c)

    9. India’s coastline length:
      (a) 5,216 km (b) 6,500 km (c) 7,516.6 km (d) 8,200 km
      Answer: (c)

    10. Southernmost point of India is:
      (a) Kanyakumari (b) Indira Point (c) Minicoy (d) Palk Strait
      Answer: (b)

    11. Indira Point submerged during:
      (a) Cyclone 1999 (b) Tsunami 2004 (c) Flood 2013 (d) Earthquake 2015
      Answer: (b)

    12. India’s Standard Meridian is:
      (a) 82°30′E (b) 68°7′E (c) 97°25′E (d) 77°6′E
      Answer: (a)

    13. Which city does Standard Meridian pass through?
      (a) Delhi (b) Allahabad (c) Mirzapur (d) Lucknow
      Answer: (c)

    14. Which sea lies west of India?
      (a) Bay of Bengal (b) Arabian Sea (c) Red Sea (d) Caspian Sea
      Answer: (b)

    15. Which sea lies east of India?
      (a) Mediterranean (b) Caspian (c) Bay of Bengal (d) Red Sea
      Answer: (c)

    16. Sri Lanka is separated from India by:
      (a) Gulf of Khambhat (b) Palk Strait (c) Gulf of Mannar (d) Both b & c
      Answer: (d)

    17. Maldives lie to the:
      (a) South of Lakshadweep (b) East of Andamans (c) North of Kanyakumari (d) West of Sri Lanka
      Answer: (a)

    18. India’s central location helped spread:
      (a) Greek numerals (b) Indian numerals & decimal system (c) Roman architecture (d) Chinese language
      Answer: (b)

    19. The Suez Canal reduced India–Europe distance by:
      (a) 5,000 km (b) 6,000 km (c) 7,000 km (d) 8,000 km
      Answer: (c)

    20. How many states and Union Territories does India have?
      (a) 28 states, 8 UTs (b) 29 states, 7 UTs (c) 27 states, 9 UTs (d) 30 states, 6 UTs
      Answer: (a)

    Fill in the Blanks

    1. India’s total area is 3.28 million sq. km.

    2. India is the 7th largest country in the world.

    3. The Tropic of Cancer (23°30′N) divides India into two halves.

    4. The southernmost point of India is Indira Point.

    5. Indira Point submerged in 2004 Tsunami.

    6. India’s north-south extent is 3,214 km.

    7. India’s east-west extent is 2,933 km.

    8. The Standard Meridian of India is 82°30′E.

    9. Sri Lanka is separated from India by the Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar.

    10. India shares land boundaries with 7 countries.