Class 10 Geography ch1 Resources and Development
1. Multiple Choice Questions
(i) Which one of the following is the main cause of land degradation in Punjab?
→ (c) Over irrigation
(ii) In which one of the following states is terrace cultivation practised?
→ (d) Uttarakhand
(iii) In which of the following states black soil is predominantly found?
→ (b) Maharashtra
2. Answer the following questions in about 30 words
(i) Name three states having black soil and the crop which is mainly grown in it.
→ Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh have black soil. The main crop grown in this soil is cotton.
(ii) What type of soil is found in the river deltas of the eastern coast? Give three main features of this type of soil.
→ Alluvial soil is found in the river deltas.
- It is very fertile.
- Rich in potash and lime.
- Ideal for crops like paddy and wheat.
(iii) What steps can be taken to control soil erosion in the hilly areas?
→
- Contour ploughing
- Terrace farming
- Planting shelter belts of trees and grass
(i) Explain land use pattern in India and why has the land under forest not increased much since 1960–61?
India has a total geographical area of 3.28 million sq. km. Land in India is used for various purposes like forests, agriculture, pastures, industries, roads, buildings, etc. About 43% of land is plains, 30% is mountainous, and 27% is plateau region. These physical features affect how land is used.
Since 1960–61, the land under forests has not increased much because of population growth, urbanisation, and the expansion of agriculture and industries. More land is being used for non-agricultural activities like roads, houses, and industries. Although the National Forest Policy of 1952 aimed for 33% forest area, the actual percentage is still lower. Lack of strong efforts in afforestation is another reason for slow growth in forest area.
(ii) How have technical and economic development led to more consumption of resources?
Technical and economic development have led to more use of natural resources. With modern technology, machines are used in farming, factories, and transport. These machines need fuel, electricity, and water, which increases resource use.
In agriculture, use of chemical fertilisers, modern irrigation, and large equipment needs more water and energy. In industries, development increases demand for raw materials like minerals, wood, and fossil fuels. Economic growth leads to more buildings, vehicles, and products. People also want a higher standard of living, which leads to greater use of electricity, fuel, and land.
Thus, technical and economic progress has helped improve life but has also caused overuse and depletion of natural resources, leading to environmental problems.