What is South Asia?| Class 12 Political Science Notes

Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3: Chapter 3 in Political Science is a very important chapter for Class 12th Board exams. These notes are designed to help students understand the fundamental concepts of Political Science and build a strong foundation for their future studies.

They help you understand what South Asia is all about. You’ll learn about the countries it includes and why it’s such an important region. These notes will make it easier for you to study for your exams and understand the world around you better.

What is South Asia?

In South Asia, the tension and excitement of an India-Pakistan cricket match reflect the broader dynamics of the region. South Asia typically includes countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. The natural barriers of the Himalayas in the north and the Indian Ocean in the south contribute to the region’s linguistic, social, and cultural diversity.

While Afghanistan and Myanmar are sometimes included, China is not part of the region. South Asia embodies diversity yet shares a geopolitical space. Political systems vary across the region; while Sri Lanka and India have sustained democracies, Pakistan and Bangladesh have experienced both civilian and military rule. Nepal transitioned to a democratic republic in 2008.

Bhutan and the Maldives also moved towards democracy, indicating a growing acceptance of democratic norms in the region. Despite challenges, there is widespread support for democracy among citizens, transcending wealth and religion, and expanding the global understanding of democracy.

Diverse Political Systems

South Asia hosts various political systems

• Sri Lanka and India have maintained successful democracies since gaining independence.
• Bangladesh has remained a democracy since the end of the Cold War.
• Pakistan has experienced both civilian and military rule, with frequent interruptions to democracy.
• Nepal transitioned from a constitutional monarchy to democracy following a popular uprising in 2006.
• Bhutan is moving towards a multi-party democracy.
• The Maldives transitioned from a sultanate to a republic with a presidential system of government in 1968.

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FAQs on Class 12 Political Science Notes Chapter 3 What is South Asia?

What is South Asia?

South Asia refers to a subcontinent located in the southern part of Asia. It includes countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. Geographically, it is bordered by the Himalayas to the north and the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal to the south, west, and east respectively.

What are the boundaries of South Asia?

South Asia is bordered by the Himalayas to the north and the Indian Ocean, Arabian Sea, and Bay of Bengal to the south, west, and east respectively. The boundaries are hazy in the east and west, with Afghanistan and Myanmar often included in discussions of the region.

How does South Asia’s geographical location influence its distinctiveness?

South Asia’s geographical location, with natural boundaries like the Himalayas in the north and the Indian Ocean surrounding it, contributes to its distinctiveness. These geographic features have shaped the region’s cultural, linguistic, and social characteristics over time.

What countries are included in discussions of South Asia?

Discussions of South Asia usually include countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka. These countries form the core of the South Asian subcontinent and share historical, cultural, and geopolitical ties.

How do the natural barriers of South Asia influence its cultural distinctiveness?

The natural barriers, such as the Himalayas and the Indian Ocean, create an insular environment that has led to the development of diverse languages, cultures, and social practices within the region.

What are some common characteristics of South Asian countries?

South Asian countries share common historical, cultural, and political experiences. They have faced similar challenges related to colonialism, independence struggles, and development issues.