NCERT Notes Class 9 Geography: Chapter 1: India – Size and Location

Last Updated : 03 May, 2024

NCERT Notes Class 9 Geography: Geography Class 9 Notes is a crucial subject in the Social Science curriculum that requires students to have a thorough understanding of Physical Geography. The subject demands a strong foundation in conceptual knowledge and an ability to analyze and interpret geographical data. These notes provide a comprehensive summary of the key topics, aiding students in better comprehension of the subject matter.

Our Geography Notes Class 9 serves as a valuable resource to enhance your problem-solving skills and prepare for your Social Science Class 12 exams. By utilizing our detailed notes, you can develop a strong foundation in Geography and improve your problem-solving skills.

Location

India is situated in the Northern Hemisphere, with its mainland extending between latitudes 8°4’N and 37°6’N, and longitudes 68°7’E and 97°25’E. The Tropic of Cancer, located at 23°30’N, divides the country into roughly two equal parts. In addition to the mainland, India also includes the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal to the southeast, and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea to the southwest.

Young Fold

India has a landmass covering approximately 3.28 million square kilometers, which accounts for about 2.4 percent of the world’s total geographical area. Ranked seventh in terms of land area globally, India is bordered by Young Fold mountains in the northwest, north, and northeast. As one moves south of approximately 22° north latitude, the landmass begins to taper towards the Indian Ocean, dividing it into the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east. Despite a latitudinal and longitudinal extent of about 30°, India’s east-west extent appears smaller compared to its north-south extent.

Standard Meridian of India passing through Mirzapur (in Uttar Pradesh) at 82°30’E is considered the standard time for the entire country. The latitudinal extent also affects the duration of day and night as one moves from south to north.

India and the World

India’s geographical location between East and West Asia positions it as a pivotal point for trade and cultural exchange. As a southward extension of the Asian continent, India benefits from trans-Indian Ocean routes that connect Europe in the West with East Asia, granting it a strategic central location.

The Deccan Peninsula, jutting into the Indian Ocean, facilitates close contact with West Asia, Africa, and Europe from the western coast, and with Southeast and East Asia from the eastern coast. India’s extensive coastline on the Indian Ocean underscores its prominent position in the region, meriting the naming of an ocean after it.

While India’s maritime contacts are significant, its land routes have even deeper historical roots, predating maritime interactions. Mountain passes in the north have historically provided passages for ancient travelers, fostering the exchange of ideas and commodities across regions.

This exchange has facilitated the dissemination of cultural and intellectual achievements such as the Upanishads, the Ramayana, and the stories of Panchtantra, as well as mathematical concepts like Indian numerals and the decimal system. Indian merchandise like spices and muslin found their way to distant lands, while influences from Greek sculpture and architectural styles from West Asia left their mark on Indian soil.

India’s Neighbours

India shares its land boundaries with various neighboring countries:

In the northwest, India shares borders with Pakistan and Afghanistan.
In the north, India shares borders with China (Tibet), Nepal, and Bhutan.
In the east, India shares borders with Myanmar and Bangladesh.

India’s southern neighbors across the sea are the island countries of Sri Lanka and Maldives.

These geographical links have historical significance, fostering strong connections and interactions between India and its neighboring countries.

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