Geography EM
Geography EM
Geography EM
GEOGRAPHY
PHYSIOGRAPHY
● ‘Physiography’ of an area is the outcome of structure, process and the stage of development.
● The land of India is characterized by great diversity in its physical features.
● The north has a vast expanse of rugged topography consisting of a series of mountain ranges
with varied peaks, beautiful valleys and deep gorges.
● The south consists of stable table land with highly dissected plateaus, denuded rocks and
developed series of scarps.
● In between these two lies the vast north Indian plain.
Based on these macro variations, India can be divided into the following physiographic divisions:
(1) The Northern and North- eastern Mountains
(2) The Northern Plain
(3) The Peninsular Plateau
(4) The Indian Desert
(5) The Coastal Plains
(6) The Islands
Regional Variations
The Himalayas exhibit significant regional variations based on relief, alignment of ranges, and other
geomorphological features:
● Relief: The topography varies from broad and gentle slopes to steep and rugged terrains.
● Alignment of Ranges: The orientation of the ranges changes as one moves from the
northwestern to the northeastern regions, affecting climate, vegetation, and human activities.
● Geomorphological Features: Different regions have distinct features such as valleys, plateaus,
and high peaks, contributing to the diverse landscape of the Himalayas.
Climatic, Drainage, and Cultural Divides
● Climatic Divide: The Himalayas influence the climate of the Indian subcontinent by acting as
a barrier to the cold winds from Central Asia and affecting the monsoon patterns.
● Drainage Divide: The range acts as a watershed, with major rivers like the Ganges, Yamuna,
and Brahmaputra originating from these mountains and flowing into different directions.
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● Cultural Divide: The Himalayas separate various cultural zones within India and influence the
traditional practices, languages, and lifestyles of the people living in these regions.
Northeastern Hills
The Northeastern hills include a series of mountain ranges and hills that are less prominent than the
central Himalayas but are significant for their biodiversity and unique cultural aspects.
● Key Areas: Includes the Khasi, Jaintia, and Naga Hills in Meghalaya; the Mizo Hills in
Mizoram; and parts of the Karbi Anglong region in Assam.
● Features: Known for their rich biodiversity, including numerous endemic species of plants and
animals. The region is also home to various indigenous tribes with distinct cultural practices.
A. Kashmir or Northwestern Himalayas
● The Kashmir or Northwestern Himalayas are a prominent and diverse region known for their
distinctive geographic features, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. This area encompasses a
series of important mountain ranges, valleys, and lakes, contributing significantly to the region's
ecological and cultural landscape.
1. Major Mountain Ranges
Karakoram Range:
● Location: Forms part of the northern boundary of the Kashmir region.
● Features: Includes some of the highest peaks in the world, such as K2 (Mount Godwin-
Austen). It is also known for its extensive glaciers, including the Baltoro Glacier.
Ladakh Range:
● Location: Lies to the north of the Indus River.
● Features: This range is characterized by its arid, high-altitude desert terrain and is known
for its stark, rugged beauty.
Zaskar Range:
● Location: Situated between the Great Himalayas and the Ladakh Range.
● Features: Known for its remote, rugged terrain and unique geological formations.
Pir Panjal Range:
● Location: Lies to the south of the Great Himalayas, forming a natural barrier between the
Kashmir Valley and the plains of India.
● Features: This range is known for its lush green slopes and is home to several important
mountain passes.
B. The Himachal and Uttarakhand Himalayas
● This region, lying between the Ravi River in the west and the Kali River in the east, showcases
a remarkable array of geographical features and is pivotal in understanding the Himalayan
range's diverse physiography. It is distinguished by its varied topography, significant river
systems, and important hill stations.
1. Major River Systems
● Indus River System:
○ Ravi River: Originates in the Chamba region and flows into Pakistan.
○ Beas River: Flows from the Himalayas through Himachal Pradesh and Punjab.
○ Satluj River: Originates in Tibet, flows through Himachal Pradesh, and merges with
the Indus River in Pakistan.
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● Ganga River System:
○ Yamuna River: Originates from the Yamunotri Glacier in Uttarakhand and flows into
the Ganges.
○ Ghaghara River: Also known as the Karnali, it originates in Tibet and flows through
Nepal and India before joining the Ganges.
2. Major Mountain Ranges
● Great Himalayas:
○ Location: The northernmost range in this region, known for its high peaks and rugged
terrain.
○ Features: Includes notable peaks and valleys and is crucial for understanding the
topography of the higher elevations.
● Lesser Himalayas:
○ Dhaoladhar Range (Himachal Pradesh): Known for its scenic beauty and distinct flora
and fauna.
○ Nitibha Range (Uttarakhand): Characterized by its intermediate altitude and lush green
landscapes.
● Shiwalik Range:
○ Location: The southernmost range in this section, known for its foothill terrain and 'dun'
formations.
○ Features: Includes important physiographic features and contributes to the regional
biodiversity.
C. The Darjeeling and Sikkim Himalayas
● This region, situated between the Nepal Himalayas to the west and Bhutan Himalayas to the
east, is known for its distinct features and rich biodiversity.
1. Major Features
● Kanchenjunga:
○ Location: The highest peak in this region and the third highest in the world.
○ Features: A prominent peak in the Sikkim Himalayas, contributing to the region's
majestic landscape.
● Rivers:
○ Tista River: Known for its fast flow and vital role in the region’s ecology.
2. Inhabitants and Settlements
● Lepcha Tribes:
○ Location: Inhabit the higher reaches of the region.
○ Culture: Known for their distinct cultural practices and traditional lifestyles.
● Darjeeling: Known for its tea plantations, introduced during the British colonial period
due to favorable climatic conditions.
● Tea Plantations: Developed due to the region’s moderate slope, thick soil cover, and well-
distributed rainfall.
3. Physiographic Features
● Duar Formations: The duar regions are flat, low-lying areas that are significant for
agriculture, particularly tea cultivation.
1. Dendritic – The drainage system resembling the branches of a tree is known as dendritic. For
example, the rivers of the northern plains.
2. Radial – When the rivers originate from a hill and flow in all directions, the drainage pattern
is known as radial. For example, rivers originating from the Amarkantak range.
3. Trellis – When the primary tributaries of a river flow parallel to each other and secondary
tributaries join them at right angles, the pattern is known as trellis.
4. Centripetal – When the rivers discharge their waters from all directions in a lake or depression,
the pattern is known as centripetal.
Different Drainage Systems of India
● The Indian drainage system can be grouped into two based on the discharge of water
(orientation to the sea).
1. The Arabian Sea drainage
2. The Bay of Bengal drainage
● These two drainage systems are separated from each other through the Delhi ridge, the Aravallis
and the Sahyadris.
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● About 77% of the drainage is oriented towards the Bay of Bengal while 23% discharge their
water into the Arabian Sea.
● On the basis of mode of origin, nature and characteristics, the Indian drainage may be classified
into the Himalayan drainage and the Peninsular drainage.
● The Himalayan and the Peninsular rivers originate from the two major physiographic regions
of India and are different from each other in many ways.
A. The Himalayan rivers
● Most of the Himalayan rivers are perennial and have water throughout the year. These rivers
receive water from rain as well as from melted snow from the lofty mountains.
● These rivers pass through the giant gorges carved out by the erosional activity carried on
simultaneously with the uplift of the Himalayas. Besides deep gorges, these rivers also form
V-shaped valleys, rapids and waterfalls in their mountainous course (upper course).
● In the middle and the lower courses (plains), these rivers form meanders, oxbow lakes and
many other depositional features in their floodplains. These rivers have the tendency to
shift their courses frequently e.g, river Kosi (“sorrow of Bihar”), is known for changing its
course frequently. The river carries a huge quantity of sediments from its upper reaches and
deposits it in the plains. The course gets blocked and consequently, the river changes its
course.
B. The Peninsular rivers
● The Peninsular drainage system is older than the Himalayan one.
● Most of the Peninsular rivers are seasonal, as their flow depends largely on the rainfall of
the region.
● The Peninsular rivers have shorter and shallower courses as compared to the Himalayan
rivers.
● Most of the major Peninsular rivers, except Narmada and Tapi, flow towards the Bay of
Bengal (west to east). The Chambal, the Sindh, the Betwa, the Ken and the Son originating
in the northern part of the Peninsula belong to the Ganga river system. The other important
rivers of the Peninsular drainage are the Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna and the
Kaveri.
● The Western Ghats act as a water divide between the major Peninsular rivers, discharging
their water in the Bay of Bengal and the small rivulets joining the Arabian Sea.
Jhelum ● Origin – Spring at Verinag, in the south-eastern part of Kashmir valley, at the
foothills of Pir Panjal.
● Course – It flows through Srinagar and enters Wular Lake before entering
Pakistan through a deep narrow gorge. At Jhang (Pakistan) it joins Chenab.
Tamas River ● Its source is Tamakund in the Kaimur Range (Madhya Pradesh). It joins
Ganga at Sirsa (Uttar Pradesh).
Son/Sone River ● It is the second-largest southern tributary of the Ganga (first being the
Yamuna river).
● It originates near Amarkantak Hill, (Madhya Pradesh) near the Narmada
river and joins the Ganga near Patna in Bihar.
Punpun River ● It originates from the Chotanagpur Plateau region of Palamu district in
Jharkhand.
● It joins the Ganga at Fatwah (Patna).
Gomti River ● The Gomti is a monsoon and groundwater-fed river which originates from
Gomat Taal (Fulhaar Jheel) near Pilibhit district (Uttar Pradesh).
● Kaithi, Ghazipur (Uttar Pradesh) is the place where the river Gomti and
the Ganga meet.
● The Markandey Mahadev temple is at the confluence of the Gomti and
the Ganga.
Gandhak River ● It originates at the Nhubine Himal Glacier in the Mustang region of the
Nepal border.
● It is one of the major rivers of Nepal and is known as Kali Gandaki. In
Nepal, the river is also known as Narayani and Sapt-Gandhaki.
● The Gandhaki river merges with the Ganga at Patna (Bihar).
Mahananda River ● The river rises in the Darjeeling hills of West Bengal. It flows southwards
through the fertile agricultural area of Bihar and enters into West Bengal.
It then flows in the southeast direction into Bangladesh. The river joins
the Ganga at Godagari Ghat (Bangladesh).
● It is the easternmost tributary of the Ganga river.
● The Mahanadi was called “the sorrow of Orissa”, however, the construction of the Hirakud
Dam has helped to keep the river well in control.
Godavari
Krishna
Kaveri/Cauvery
● The river originates in the Brahmagiri range of the Western Ghats, Kogadu district in Karnataka.
● The river flows through the states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu.
● The length of the river is about 800 km and the river basin is shared by three states and a Union
Territory – Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala and Puducherry.
● The river Kaveri makes the second biggest waterfall in India known as Shivasamudram Falls.
The power generated from the falls is supplied to Mysore, Bengaluru and the Kolar Gold Field.
● The drainage basin of the river receives rainfall during the summer monsoon as well as during
the retreating and winter monsoon and therefore, the river carries water throughout the year
with comparatively less fluctuation than the other Peninsular rivers.
● Its important tributaries are the Kabini, Bhavani, Amravati and Hemavati.
East Flowing Small rivers
● The Subarnrekha, Baitarani, Brahmani, Vamsadhara, Penner, Palar and Vaigai are small east-
flowing rivers.
○ An easterly jet stream flows over the southern part of the peninsula in June and has a
maximum speed of 90 km/hr. In August it is confined to 15°N latitude and in September
up to 22°N. These easterly jet streams do not extend to the north of 30°N latitude in the
upper atmosphere.
INDIAN MONSOON
● The monsoons are experienced in the tropical area roughly between 20°N and 20°S.
● The following facts help in understanding the mechanism of the monsoons in India
● The differential heating and cooling of land and water (land heats up and cools down faster than
water) creates a pressure difference. The movement is from high pressure to low pressure.
● The ITCZ positions itself over the Ganga plain in summer (normally 5°N of the equator) and is
called the monsoon trough.
● There is a high-pressure area, east of Madagascar, approximately at 20°S over the Indian Ocean.
The position and intensity of this high-pressure area affect the Indian monsoon.
● During summer, the Tibetan plateau heats up intensely, develops low pressure over it at about
9 km above sea level and results in strong vertical air currents.
● The movement of westerly jet streams and tropical easterly jet streams also influence the
monsoon of India.
Southern Oscillations and El-Nino
● The change in the pressure conditions over the southern oceans also affect the monsoon.
● Normally when the tropical eastern south Pacific Ocean experiences high pressure, the tropical
eastern Indian Ocean has low pressure over it.
● But in certain years, there is a reversal in the pressure conditions and the eastern Indian Ocean
has high pressure in comparison to the eastern Pacific ocean.
● This periodic change in pressure conditions is called Southern Oscillations (SO).
● The pressure difference over Tahiti (Pacific Ocean, 18°S/149°W) and Darwin in northern
Australia (Indian Ocean, 12°30´S/131°E) predict the intensity of monsoons.
● If the pressure difference is negative, it indicates below average and late monsoons.
● South Oscillations is the precursor to the occurrence of an El-Nino phenomenon which is the
development of a warm ocean current along the coast of Peru (in the eastern Pacific) as a
temporary replacement of the cold Peruvian current.
● El-Nino is a Spanish word meaning “the child” and refers to the baby Christ as this current
starts flowing during Christmas. This El Nino phenomenon leads to an increase in sea surface
temperature and therefore, weakened trade winds in the region.
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● El-Nino is used in India for forecasting long-range monsoon rainfall. In 1990-91, there was a
wild El-Nino event and the onset of southwest monsoon was delayed over most parts of the
country ranging from 5-12 days.
Based on Koppen’s climatic scheme, India can be divided into eight climatic regions
Amw Tropical monsoon with short dry West coast of India, south of Goa.
season
Cwg Monsoon with dry winters Ganga plain, eastern Rajasthan, northern
Madhya Pradesh, most of north-east India.
● As mentioned before, there are eight types of soils categorized by ICAR but some Indian Soils
like – Karewa soil, Sub-Montane Soil, Snowfield, Grey/Brown Soil are all subtypes of main
Indian Soil.
1. Alluvial Soil
● Alluvial soils are widespread in the northern plains and river valleys.
● It covers about 40% of the total land area of the country.
● These soils are mainly derived from the debris brought down from the Himalayas.
● In the Peninsular region, they are found in deltas of the east coast and in the river valleys.
● The color of the alluvial soil varies from light grey to ash grey.
● The alluvial soil varies in nature from sandy loam to clay.
● Black soil is also known as “Regur Soil” or the “Black Cotton Soil”.
● It covers about 15% of the total land area of the country.
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● It covers most of the Deccan Plateau – parts of Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Gujarat, Andhra
Pradesh and some parts of Tamil Nadu. In the upper reaches of the Godavari and Krishna, and
the north-western part of the Deccan Plateau, the black soil is very deep.
● The colour of these soils varies from deep black to grey.
● The black soils are generally clayey, deep and impermeable. They swell greatly and become
sticky when wet in the rainy season. In the dry season, the moisture evaporates, the soil shrinks
and develops wide cracks.
● Black soils are rich in iron, lime, aluminium, magnesium and also contain potassium. However,
these soils are deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus and organic matter.
● Cotton, pulses, millets, castor, tobacco, sugarcane, citrus fruits, linseed, etc. are mainly
cultivated in black soil.
4. Desert Soil
● Also known as arid soil, it accounts for over 4.42 % of the total land area of the country.
● The colour ranges from red to brown.
● Desert soils are sandy to gravelly in texture, have low moisture content and low water-retaining
capacity.
● These soils are saline in nature and in certain regions, the salt content is so high that common
salt is obtained by evaporating water.
● These soils have normal phosphate content but are deficient in nitrogen.
● Due to increased calcium content in the lower horizons of the soil, there is the formation of
‘kankar’ layers. These kankar layers restrict the penetration of water and as such when water is
made available through irrigation, the soil moisture is readily available for sustainable plant
growth.
● Desert soils are profoundly found in western Rajasthan and contain little humus and organic
matter.
5. Laterite Soil
6. Mountain Soil
Land Degradation
● The process in which the value of the biophysical environment is affected by a combination of
humankind and natural hazards is called land degradation.
● Land degradation is a serious issue that affects the environment and has an indirect impact on
food production. The continued degradation of land leads to a decline in the productivity of the
land capacity of vegetation.
Causes Of Land Degradation
A. Deforestation:
● Forest is very important for maintaining the fertility of the soil.
● Roots of trees hold on to soil thus preventing washing away of soil by rain, flood, or
wind.
B. Overgrazing:
● Farmers take their cattle and livestock for grazing, but they mostly don’t do rotation.
● Due to this the grass and another type of vegetation do not get a chance to grow thus
causing land degradation.
C. Water-logging:
● In the agriculture field when proper irrigation is not done or maintenance the drainage
system lacks, then excessive waterlogging can happen.
● If this happens then the surface water and the groundwater gets mixed which will bring
salt from the groundwater level, thus ruining the fertility of the land.
D. Desertification:
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● In arid, dry sub-humid, and semi-arid regions due to natural and human activities
desertification happens. Desertification is when land becomes desert-like.
E. Soil erosion:
● When the wind and water cause the displacement or washes away the top layer of soil
it is called soil erosion.
● The loss of the top layer of soil causes degradation of the quality of land, then it will
not be able to provide minerals to plants.
● It will reduce the crop yielding potential of land, the groundwater level will go down,
and can cause sinkholes.
Water Resources
● Definition: Natural resources of water that are potentially useful for humans, such as sources
of drinking water or irrigation water.
● Composition:
○ Salt Water: 97% of Earth's water.
○ Freshwater: 3% of Earth's water; over two-thirds of this is frozen in glaciers and polar
ice caps.
○ Remaining Freshwater: Mainly groundwater; a small fraction is found above ground or
in the air.
● Sources:
○ Natural: Includes surface water, under river flow, groundwater, and frozen water.
○ Artificial: Includes treated wastewater (wastewater reuse) and desalinated seawater.
● Human Uses: Agricultural, industrial, household, recreational, and environmental activities.
● Threats: Water scarcity, water pollution, water conflict, and climate change.
● Renewability: Freshwater is renewable, but groundwater depletion is a concern, particularly in
Asia, South America, and North America.
A. Ferrous Minerals
● Ferrous minerals such as iron ore, manganese, chromite, etc., provide a strong base for the
development of metallurgical industries.
Iron Ore
● India has the largest reserve of iron ore in Asia.
● The two main types of ore found in India are haematite and magnetite which have great demand
in the international market due to its superior quality.
● The iron ore mines occur in close proximity to the coal fields in the North-Eastern plateau
region of India which adds to their advantage.
● About 95 per cent of total reserves of iron ore is located in the States of Odisha, Jharkhand,
Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Goa, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Tamil Nadu.
● In Odisha:
Non-Metallic Minerals
● Mica is the important non-metallic minerals produced in India. The other minerals extracted for
local consumption are limestone, dolomite and phosphate.
Mica
● It is mainly used in the electrical and electronic industries.
● Properties: It can be split into very thin sheets which are tough and flexible.
● Producing Areas: Jharkhand, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Rajasthan followed by Tamil
Nadu, West Bengal, and Madhya Pradesh.
○ In Jharkhand, high quality mica is obtained in a belt extending over a distance of about
150 km, in length and about 22 km, in width in lower Hazaribagh plateau.
○ In Andhra Pradesh, Nellore district produces the best quality mica.
○ In Rajasthan, the mica belt extends for about 320 kms from Jaipur to Bhilwara and
around Udaipur.
● Mica deposits also occur in Mysore and Hasan districts of Karnataka, Coimbatore,
Tiruchirapalli, Madurai and Kanyakumari in Tamil Nadu, Alleppey in Kerala, Ratnagiri in
Maharashtra, Purulia and Bankura in West Bengal.
Conclusion The Deccan Trap region's rich tapestry of natural resources presents
immense opportunities for economic development. However,
realizing this potential requires overcoming significant
environmental and logistical challenges. Sustainable and innovative
approaches are essential for harnessing these resources, ensuring both
economic growth and ecological balance.
Q.2) Compare the causes of landslides in the Himalayan region with those in the
Western Ghats
Introduction Landslides, representing a significant form of mass wasting, pose
notable challenges in regions like the Himalayas and the Western
Ghats due to their distinct topographical and geological settings.
Understanding the specific causes in each region is essential for
effective management and mitigation strategies.
Conclusion The analysis shows that landslides in the Himalayas and Western
Ghats are influenced by geology, terrain, and human actions, but
differ in intensity and causes. Sustainable development, compliance
with Kasturirangan, Madhav Gadgil reports, and NDMA guidelines
are crucial for reducing landslide risks in these regions.
Q.4) Evaluate the geothermal energy resource potential across India's geothermal
provinces and analyze the obstacles to harnessing this renewable energy source
fully.
Introduction As the world grapples with an energy crisis, India's geothermal
energy resources offer a beacon of hope for sustainable energy
solutions. Despite the significant potential of these resources, various
challenges have thwarted their complete utilization.
Source:
https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Figure1-Map-showing-the-
geothermal-provinces-of-India_fig3_264879083
Geothermal Energy Resources in India:
Himalayan Geothermal Province:
Northwest Sub-province: Includes Jammu and Kashmir,
Himachal Pradesh, and Uttarakhand, showcasing high-
altitude geothermal resources.
Northeast Sub-province: Features Sikkim's thermal springs,
highlighting localized geothermal energy potential.
Non-orogenic Geothermal Provinces:
Cambay Graben: This Gujarat province reveals geothermal
energy prospects within its structural confines.
Son-Narmada-Tapi Graben: Spanning Madhya Pradesh,
Maharashtra, and Gujarat, it offers potential for direct heat
applications.
West Coast: Encompasses Maharashtra and Kerala,
indicating geothermal potential linked to geological faults and
volcanic activities.
Damodar Valley: In Jharkhand and West Bengal, showcases
potential within the graben structure.
Mahanadi Valley: Located in Odisha, with fault zones
indicating geothermal energy opportunities.
Godavari Valley: Covers Maharashtra and Andhra Pradesh,
presenting geothermal prospects in faulted zones.
North Indian Peninsular & East Indian: Regions including
Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West
Bengal exhibit thermal springs and potential for direct heat
applications.
South Indian: Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka, and Andhra
Q.5) "Analyze the impacts of El Niño and its role within the El Niño-Southern
Oscillation (ENSO) system on global agricultural and economic activities. Discuss
the influence of other climatic phenomena in conjunction with El Niño."
Introduction El Niño, a significant climate phenomenon characterized by the
periodic warming of ocean currents along the coast of Peru, plays a
crucial role within the larger El Niño-Southern Oscillation (ENSO)
system. This system, comprising the warm phase (El Niño), cool
phase (La Niña), and their atmospheric component (Southern
Oscillation), significantly impacts global weather patterns,
agriculture, and economies.
Q.6) Discuss the significance of the Chota Nagpur plateau as a storehouse of minerals
in India, highlighting the major minerals found in the region and their
distribution.
Introduction The Chota Nagpur plateau in India is renowned for its
abundant mineral resources, making it a crucial industrial
region in the country.
The plateau is divided into three physical divisions:
Ranchi Plateau, Hazaribagh Plateau, and Kodarma Plateau. It
is known as the "storehouse of minerals" due to its vast mineral
deposits.
Q.7) Analyze the factors contributing to the degradation of the Aravalli Range and its
implications for the surrounding regions.
Introduction The Aravalli Range is a prominent mountain range in
western India, spanning across the states of Gujarat, Rajasthan,
Haryana, and Delhi. Over the years, the Aravalli Range has
faced significant degradation due to a variety of factors.
Q.8) Compare the origin and weather condition associated with the tropical and
temperate cyclones.
Introduction Tropical cyclones and temperate cyclones are two
distinct types of cyclonic systems that occur in different regions
of the Earth. While both cyclones involve low-pressure systems
and intense weather conditions, they have different origins and
associated weather patterns.
Q.9) Marine resources are economically very significant. Discuss citing suitable
examples.
Introduction Marine resources, both physical and biological, play a
significant role in the economy. These resources, found in seas
and oceans, offer various economic opportunities and benefits.
Q.10) What are the primary factors influencing the formation and movement of
monsoon systems in the Indian subcontinent?
Introduction The Indian subcontinent experiences a unique and
significant weather phenomenon known as the monsoon. The
monsoon plays a crucial role in shaping the climate and
influencing various aspects of life in the region.
● This type of distinction in the cropping season does not exist in southern parts of India.
The temperature is high enough to grow tropical crops during any period in the year
provided the soil moisture is available. Therefore, in this region the same crops can be
grown thrice in an agricultural year.
TYPES OF FARMING
On the basis of the main source of moisture for crops, the farming can be classified as irrigated
and rainfed (barani).
There is difference in the nature of irrigated farming, as well as based on the objective of
irrigation, i.e., protective, or productive.
FOOD GRAINS
● These crops occupy about two-third of total cropped area in the country.
● Food grains are dominant crops in all parts of India whether they have subsistence or
commercial agricultural economy.
● On the basis of the structure of grain the food grains are classified as cereals and pulses.
Cereals:
● They occupy about 54 per cent of total cropped area in India.
● India produces about 11 per cent cereals of the world and ranks third in production after
China and U.S.A.
● India produces a variety of cereals, which are classified as fine grains (rice, wheat) and
coarse grains (jowar, bajra, maize, ragi), etc.
Rice
● Rice is a staple food for the overwhelming majority of population in India.
● Though, it is considered to be a crop of tropical humid areas, it has about 3,000 varieties
which are grown in different Agro-climatic regions.
● These are successfully grown from sea level to about 2,000 m altitude and from humid
areas in eastern India to dry but irrigated areas of Punjab, Haryana, western U.P. and
northern Rajasthan.
● In southern states and West Bengal, the climatic conditions allow the cultivation of two
or three crops of rice in an agricultural year.
● In West Bengal farmers grow three crops of rice called ‘aus’, ‘aman’ and ‘boro’.
FIBER CROPS
● These crops provide us fiber for preparing cloth, bags, sacks and a number of other
items. Cotton and jute are two main fiber crops grown in India.
Cotton
● Cotton is a tropical crop grown in kharif season in semi-arid areas of the country.
● India grows short staple (Indian) cotton and long staple (American) cotton called
‘narma’ in north-western parts of India.
● Cotton requires clear sky during flowering stage.
● India ranks second in the world in the production of cotton after China.
● Cotton Growing areas in India:
○ Parts of Punjab, Haryana and northern Rajasthan in north-west.
○ Gujarat and Maharashtra in the west.
○ Plateaus of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu in south.
● Leading Producers: Gujarat, Maharashtra and Telangana .
● Per hectare output of cotton is high under irrigated conditions in north-western region
of India.
● Its yield is very low in Maharashtra where it is grown under rainfed conditions.
Jute
● Jute is used for making coarse cloth, bags, sacks, and decorative items.
● It is a cash crop in West Bengal and adjoining eastern parts of India.
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● At present, India produces about three-fifth of jute production of the world.
● West Bengal accounts for about three-fourth of the production in the country.
● Bihar and Assam are other jute growing areas.
● This crop accounts for only about 0.5 per cent of total cropped area in India.
● Other Crops: Sugarcane, tea and coffee are other important crops grown in India.
Sugarcane
● Sugarcane is a crop of tropical areas. Under rainfed conditions, it is cultivated in sub-
humid and humid climates. But it is largely an irrigated crop in India.
● In Indo-Gangetic plain, its cultivation is largely concentrated in Uttar Pradesh.
● Sugarcane growing area in western India is spread over Maharashtra and Gujarat.
● In southern India, it is cultivated in irrigated tracts of Karnataka, Tamil Nadu,
Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh.
● It accounts for about 19 per cent of the world production of sugarcane. But it occupies
only 2.4 per cent of total cropped area in the country.
● Uttar Pradesh produces about two-fifth of sugarcane of the country.
● Maharashtra, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, and Andhra Pradesh are other leading producers
of this crop where yield level of sugarcane is high.
● Its yield is low in northern India.
Tea
● Tea is a plantation crop used as beverage.
● Black tea leaves are fermented whereas green tea leaves are unfermented.
● Tea leaves have rich content of caffeine and tannin.
● It is an indigenous crop of hills in northern China.
● Conditions: It is grown over undulating topography of hilly areas and well drained soils
in humid and sub-humid tropics and sub-tropics.
● In India:
○ Tea plantation started in 1840s in Brahmaputra valley of Assam which still is a
major tea growing area in the country.
○ Later on, its plantation was introduced in the sub-Himalayan region of West Bengal
(Darjeeling, Jalpaiguri and Cooch Behar districts).
○ Tea is also cultivated on the lower slopes of Nilgiri and Cardamom hills in Western
Ghats.
● India is a leading producer of tea and accounts for about 21.1 per cent of total
production in the world 2016.
● India’s share in the international market of tea has declined substantially. It ranks
second among tea exporting countries in the world after China (2016).
● Assam accounts for about 53.2 per cent of the total cropped area and contributes more
than half of total production of tea in the country. West Bengal and Tamil Nadu are the
other leading producers of tea.
GREEN REVOLUTION
What is the Green Revolution?
● The Green Revolution refers to a period when agriculture in many developing countries
was transformed by the introduction of high-yielding varieties (HYVs) of seeds,
especially for staple crops like wheat and rice. It involved the adoption of modern
agricultural practices, including the use of chemical fertilizers, pesticides, and advanced
irrigation methods, leading to a significant increase in food production.
Aim of the Green Revolution
● The primary aim of the Green Revolution was to address food scarcity and hunger by
increasing agricultural productivity. Launched in the 1960s, the initiative aimed to make
countries like India self-sufficient in food production, thereby reducing dependency on
imports and preventing famines. The long-term goals included modernization of
agriculture, enhancement of rural development, and stimulation of industrial growth
linked to agriculture.
Initiation and Implementation
● The Green Revolution was spearheaded by agronomists like Norman Borlaug, known
as the "Father of the Green Revolution," and in India by M.S. Swaminathan. It was
funded by the Indian government, international agencies, and foundations such as the
Ford and Rockefeller Foundations. The revolution began with the introduction of HYV
seeds, coupled with improved irrigation techniques and increased use of fertilizers and
pesticides.
Positive Impacts
1. Increase in Crop Production: The Green Revolution led to a dramatic increase in crop
yields, particularly for wheat and rice. This made India one of the world's leading
agricultural producers.
2. Self-Sufficiency: India transitioned from a food-deficient nation to a self-sufficient one,
with reduced grain imports and the ability to export surplus food grains during favorable
years.
3. Economic Benefits for Farmers: Farmers saw significant increases in income due to
higher productivity. Large landowners particularly benefited from the ability to invest
in advanced agricultural inputs and machinery.
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4. Industrial Growth: The need for agricultural machinery, fertilizers, pesticides, and
other inputs stimulated industrial growth. The demand for tractors, harvesters, and
irrigation equipment surged, contributing to the industrialization of rural areas.
5. Employment Opportunities: The Green Revolution generated employment both in the
agricultural sector and related industries. Increased farm activities and the need for
maintenance of agricultural machinery provided more job opportunities.
Government Support and Ongoing Programs
● The Indian government has continued to support the principles of the Green Revolution
through various schemes and programs. Key initiatives include the Krishonnati Yojana
and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojna, which promote aspects of the Green Revolution such
as plant breeding, irrigation development, and the use of agrochemicals. Programs like
the National Food Security Mission and the National Mission for Sustainable
Agriculture aim to sustain and enhance the gains achieved during the Green Revolution.
Issues with Chemical Fertilizers
● While the Green Revolution greatly increased food production, it also led to the overuse
of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, which caused soil degradation and environmental
damage. To address these issues, the Indian government promotes balanced and
integrated nutrient management, encouraging the use of organic fertilizers alongside
chemical ones. Programs like the Paramparagat Krishi Vikas Yojana and the Mission
Organic Value Chain for the North East Region aim to promote sustainable farming
practices.
Negative Impacts
1. Environmental Degradation: Intensive use of chemical inputs led to soil degradation,
water pollution, and loss of biodiversity. The excessive use of water-intensive crops
also depleted groundwater levels.
2. Health Hazards: The widespread use of chemical pesticides and fertilizers has been
linked to health problems among farmers and rural communities, including cancer and
other chronic illnesses.
3. Regional Disparities: The benefits of the Green Revolution were not evenly
distributed. States like Punjab, Haryana, and Western Uttar Pradesh saw significant
gains, while regions such as Eastern India and arid areas received fewer benefits,
exacerbating regional inequalities.
4. Exclusion of Non-Food Crops: The focus on staple crops like wheat and rice meant
that other crops, including pulses, oilseeds, and commercial crops, were largely
neglected. This limited the overall agricultural diversity and resilience.
The Evergreen Revolution
In response to the environmental and social challenges posed by the Green Revolution, Dr.
M.S. Swaminathan proposed the concept of the Evergreen Revolution. This approach aims to
increase agricultural productivity in ways that are environmentally safe, economically viable,
and socially sustainable. It integrates ecological principles with technological advancements to
promote sustainable agricultural development.
Industries
Classification of Industries
● Industries can be classified on the basis of raw materials, size and ownership.
1. Based on Raw Material – Industries classified based on the type of raw material they
use. For example – Agro based industries use plant and animal based products as their
raw materials. Marine based industries use products from the sea and oceans as raw
materials, etc.
2. Based on Size – Industries classified based on the amount of capital invested, number
of people employed and the volume of production. Based on size, industries can be
classified into small scale and large scale industries. For example – Production of
automobiles and heavy machinery are large scale industries. They produce large
volumes of products, Investment of capital is higher and the technology used is superior
while Cottage and household industries are small scale industries where the products
are manufactured by hand and use a lesser amount of capital and technology.
3. Based on Ownership – based on the ownership industries can be divided into
● Private sector – owned and operated by individuals or a group of individuals
Growth of Population
● It is the change in the number of people living in a particular area between two points
of time. Its rate is expressed in percentage.
● Population growth has two components:
○ Natural Growth: It is analyzed by assessing the crude birth and death rates.
○ Induced Growth: They are explained by the volume of inward and outward
movement of people in any given area.
● The decadal and annual growth rates of population in India are both very high and
steadily increasing over time. The annual growth rate of India’s population is 1.64 per
cent (2011).
● The growth rate of population in India over the last one century has been caused by
annual birth rate and death rate and rate of migration and thereby shows different trends.
Four Distinct Phases of Growth in India
Phase One
● The period from 1901-1921 is referred to as a period of stagnant or stationary phase of
growth of India’s population, since in this period growth rate was very low, even
recording a negative growth rate during 1911-1921.
● Both the birth rate and death rate were high keeping the rate of increase low.
○ Reasons: Poor health and medical services, illiteracy of people at large and
inefficient distribution system of food and other basic necessities.
Phase Two
● The decades 1921-1951 are referred to as the period of steady population growth.
● An overall improvement in health and sanitation brought down the mortality rate.
● Better transport and communication system improved distribution system.
Population Composition
● It is a distinct field of study within-population geography with a vast coverage of
analysis of age and sex, place of residence, ethnic characteristics, tribes, language,
religion, etc.
Rural-Urban Composition
● Composition of population by their respective places of residence is an important
indicator of social and economic characteristics. It is very significant in countries like
India as 68.8 per cent of its total population lives in village (2011).
● India has 640,867 villages according to the Census 2011 out of which 597,608 (93.2
per cent) are inhabited villages.
● States like Bihar and Sikkim have very high percentage of rural population.
● Goa and Maharashtra have only little over half of their total population residing in
villages.
● The Union Territories have smaller proportion of rural population, except Dadra and
Nagar Haveli (53.38 per cent).
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● Variation of size of villages: It is less than 200 persons in the hill states of north-eastern
India, Western Rajasthan and Rann of Kuchchh and as high as 17 thousand persons in
the states of Kerala and in parts of Maharashtra.
● The proportion of urban population(31.16 per cent) in India is quite low but it is
showing a much faster rate of growth over the decades.
● The growth rate of urban population has accelerated due to enhanced economic
development and improvement in health and hygienic conditions.
● It is noticed that in almost all the states and UTs, there has been a considerable increase
of urban population.
● The rural-urban migration is conspicuous in the case of urban areas along the main road
links and railroads in the North Indian Plains, the industrial areas around Kolkata,
Mumbai, Bengaluru – Mysuru, Madurai – Coimbatore, Ahmedabad – Surat, Delhi –
Kanpur and Ludhiana – Jalandhar.
● Low Degree of Urbanisation: In the agriculturally stagnant parts of the middle and
lower Ganga Plains, Telangana, non-irrigated Western Rajasthan, remote hilly, tribal
areas of northeast, along the flood prone areas of Peninsular India and along eastern
part of Madhya Pradesh.
Linguistic Composition
● According to Grierson (Linguistic Survey of India, 1903 – 1928), there were 179
languages and as many as 544 dialects in the country.
● In the context of modern India, there are about 22 scheduled languages and a number
of non-scheduled languages.
● Among the Scheduled Languages:
○ The speakers of Hindi have the highest percentage.
○ The smallest language groups are Sanskrit, Bodo and Manipuri speakers (2011).
Religious Composition
● The spatial distribution of religious communities in India shows that there is uneven
distribution of people of different religions in different states and districts.
Religious Communities of India, 2011
● Hindus are distributed as a major group in many states (ranging from 70-90 per cent
and above) except the districts of states along Indo-Bangladesh border, Indo-Pak
border, Jammu & Kashmir, Hill States of North-East and in scattered areas of Deccan
Plateau and Ganga Plain.
● Muslims, the largest religious minority, are concentrated in Jammu & Kashmir, certain
districts of West Bengal and Kerala, many districts of Uttar Pradesh, in and around
Delhi and in Lakshadweep. They form a majority in Kashmir valley and Lakshadweep.
● Christian population is distributed mostly in rural areas of the country. The main
concentration is observed along the Western coast around Goa, Kerala and also in the
hill states of Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Chotanagpur area and Hills of Manipur.
● Sikhs are mostly concentrated in relatively small areas of the country, particularly in
the states of Punjab, Haryana, and Delhi.
● The United Nation population fund highlights two interesting facts about the
demographic dividend in India:
● The latest updates regarding the demographic dividend in India have been listed here,
which are such as India is the country with the youngest population in the world. The
median age in India is 28.4 years by 2022.
● In China and the USA, it will be 37, 45 in Western Europe, and 49 in Japan. Check out
the other updates pertaining to the demographic dividend as enlisted here-
● The total fertility rate plays a major role in increasing the working-age population in
India.
● The total fertility rate has halved from 1990 till now. However, there are significant
differences between states, with Delhi, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu having lower total
fertility rates of up to 1.5, whereas Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, and Uttar Pradesh have
higher total fertility rates of up to 2.5.
● The schemes like Atmanirbhar Bharat, Make in India, and Startup India are helping to
utilize the potential of India’s demographic dividend.
Urban Settlements
● Unlike rural settlements, urban settlements are generally compact and larger in size.
They are engaged in a variety of non- agricultural, economic and administrative
functions.
● As mentioned earlier, cities are functionally linked to rural areas around them. Thus,
exchange of goods and services is performed sometimes directly and sometimes
through a series of market towns and cities.
URBANIZATION IN INDIA
Urbanization refers to the population shift from rural to urban areas, the corresponding decrease
in the proportion of people living in rural areas, and the ways in which societies adapt to this
change.
Causes of Urbanisation:
● Natural increase of population: It occurs when the number of births exceeds the
number of deaths.
● Rural to urban migration: It is driven by pull factors (that attract people to urban
areas) and push factors (that drive people away from the rural areas).
Employment opportunities, educational institutions and urban lifestyle are the main pull
factors.Poor living conditions, lack of educational and economic opportunities and poor
health care facilities are the main push factors.
● Global Urbanization: The most urbanized regions include Northern America (with
82% of its population living in urban areas (as of 2018)), Latin America and the
Caribbean (81%), Europe (74%) and Oceania (68%).
● The level of urbanization in Asia is now approximately 50%.
● Africa remains mostly rural, with 43% of its population living in urban areas.
Urbanization in India
Urbanization Prospects:
● The World Urbanization Prospects, 2018 report produced by the UN Department of
Economic and Social Affairs (UN DESA) notes that future increases in the size of the
world’s urban population are expected to be highly concentrated in just a few countries.
State-wise Scenario:
Q.2) Examine the contribution of animal husbandry to global greenhouse gas emissions
and assess the impact of climate change on the livestock sector. Also, suggest
mitigation and adaptation strategies to address the challenges posed by these
interactions.
Introduction Animal husbandry plays a crucial role in contributing to global
greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions through various activities, ranging
from enteric fermentation to supply chain transportation.
Concurrently, climate change poses significant challenges to the
livestock sector, affecting water availability, feed crop yield, and
animal productivity.
Q.4) Assess the merits and demerits of the river interlinking project in India,
considering its economic, environmental, and political implications.
Introduction The river interlinking project in India proposes to connect surplus
river basins with deficit ones to mitigate droughts, floods, and
enhance navigation. While the project promises numerous benefits, it
also faces significant challenges.
Q.5) "Analyze the regional disparities in the impact of the Green Revolution in India,
with a focus on the Eastern region. Discuss the phases of the Green Revolution and
its socio-economic effects, including the challenges encountered."
Introduction Despite possessing fertile soil and ample water, the Eastern region of
India largely missed out on the Green Revolution's benefits, which
transformed agriculture in parts of Northern India. This disparity can
be attributed to various institutional, financial, and technological
factors.
Conclusion The Green Revolution enhanced India's agriculture and food security
but also deepened regional and socio-economic differences.
Remedying these disparities necessitates targeted policies that
embrace local needs, sustainable farming, and fair access to
agricultural advancements.
Q.6) Discuss the ecological and economic challenges of river linking in India.
Introduction River linking, also known as interlinking of rivers, is a proposed
water management strategy in India that aims to transfer water
from surplus river basins to water-deficient regions. While this
ambitious project has garnered attention for its potential to
address water scarcity and support agriculture, it also presents
significant challenges, both ecological and economic, that need
to be considered.
Q.9) Discuss different factors affecting the location of Iron and steel industries in India.
Introduction The iron and steel industry are a vital sector in the Indian economy,
contributing significantly to its industrial development and
economic growth. The location of iron and steel industries in India
is influenced by a range of factors, including:
Body 1. Raw materials: Most of the large integrated steel plants are
located close to the source of raw materials, as they use large
quantities of heavy and weight losing raw materials. Eg:
Concentration of iron and steel industry in Chota Nagpur region
is due to the presence of iron ore in this region. TISCO at
Jamshedpur gets coal from Jharia coalfields, and iron ore,
limestone, dolomite and manganese from Odisha and
Chhattisgarh.
2. Markets: Since the products in iron & steel industries are heavy
& bulky, transportation cost is high. Therefore nearness to
market is important, especially for mini steel plants access to
nearby markets is most important in order to minimize
transportation cost. TISCO in Jamshedpur is nearer to Kolkata
which provided a large market. Visakhapatnam steel plant
located near the coast has excellent import-export facility.
3. Labour: Availability of cheap labour is also important. Most of
the plants in Chota Nagpur region find abundant supply of cheap
labour in the region.
Q.10) Critically analyse the positive and negative impacts of green revolution in India.
Body Although the Green Revolution had several benefits, it had a gloomy
side too that affected both the environment and society.
Some of the negative effects of the Green Revolution are stated
below:
1. The excessive utilization or application of fertilizers, herbicides
and pesticides adversely hampered the environmental
equilibrium due to increased pollution.
2. The new toxic materials added to the soil and plants polluted the
soil and water around the fields.
Conclusion The negative impacts of the Green Revolution highlight the need
for a sustainable and equitable agricultural development strategy
that balances productivity and environmental concerns, and
ensures that the benefits of agricultural growth are shared by all.
Climate of Telangana
• Telangana has the most favourable climate for human life. It has moderate climatic
conditions. Days and nights have almost equal length.
• Telangana is located in Northern hemisphere. So it is considered to be located in
Tropical zone. The climate of- Telangana is classified as Tropical monsoon climate.
• The Deccan plateau is extended at a high altitude from sea level. This region
experiences hot summer in May and cold in winter.
•Northern Telangana features 'Humid subtropical climate' whereas Southern Telangana
has Semi arid climate.
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• According to Koppen climatic classification, Telangana state has a Semi Arid or Humid
Subtropical climate in India. The average rainfall in Telangana is 906 mm.
• The summer extends from March to June.
• During this period. thunderstorms and strong wind gusts occur due to Cumulonimbus
clouds. It is called Convectional rainfall. The local people call them destroying rains,
unseasonal rains or Avakal pani.
• Heat waves typically occur in the second and third weeks of May during summer.
Highest temperature in the state is recorded at Ramagundam in Peddapalli district.
• Lowest temperature is recorded during winter in Medak and Adilabad.
• Highest average temperature of the state is 42 degree Celsius in summer while the
average lowest temperature is 29-12 degree Celsius in winter. Normally, heat is intense
in the month of May.
• Places where highest temperature is recorded in Telangana- Ramagundam,
Kothagudem.
• Place where lowest temperature is recorded in Telangana- Adilabad
The Indian Meteorological Department classifies four climatological seasons in India.
They are:
1. Winter (December to February)
2. Summer (March to May)
3. South West Monsoon Period or Rainy Season (June to September)
4. Monsoon Retreating Period (October to November)
WINDS
• According to famous meteorologist (Roy) two types of winds flox in Telangana. They
are:
1.South West winds/ Humid winds
2. North East winds/ Dry winds
North East Monsoon Period:
• The transition period between October rainy season and dry winter season is called the
Retrezíng South West Monsoon period.
• During this period, rainfall occurs due to Cyclones.
• The normal rainfall in this period is 126,mm (or) 129 mm
• Hyderabad receives maximum rainfall and erstwhile Karimnagar district receives
lowest rainfall due to North East winds, In all, Adilabad receives highest rainfall and
erstwhile Mahabubnagar receives lowest rainfall in Telangana state.
• Sileru basin is identified as the highest rainfall receiving area of Telangana.
• During winter, tropical continental air travels through the Deccan plateau and reaches
the south of Bay of Bengal.
• It becomes a tropical sea breeze. As Telangana is far from the sea, tropical climate
prevail over the state with weak high pressure conditions
Branches of Godavari
Gowthami- Northern branch: Falls into Bay of Bengal at Yanam.
Vasista- Middle branch. Falls into Bay of Bengal at Antarvedi.
Vynatheya- Southern branch. Falls into Bay of Bengal at Komarigpatnam.
Tulya- Falls into Bay of Bengal at Bendamuflanka.
Bharadwaja- Falls into Bay of Bengal at Bendamtlanka.
• Kousika and Atreya branches join Tulya and Bharadwaja branches and flow as a single
branch and fall into Bay of Bengal at Bendamurlanka. The delta region formed between
CGowtami and Vasista is Konaseema. Konaseem is called as the Garden of Andhra
Pradesh.
• The districts on the left side of Godavari are Nirmal, Mancherial.
• The districts on the right side of Godavari are Nizamabad, Jagtial, Peddapalli,
Jayashanka Bhupalapally, Mulugu, Bhadradri Kothgudem.
Tributaries of Godavari
• Pravara (Maharashtra)
• Manjeera (Telangana)
• Peddavagu (Telangana)
• Indravati (Telangana)
• Sabari (Telangana)
• Manair (Telangana)
• Pranahita (Telangana)
• Purna (Maharashtra)
• Penganaga (Telangana)
• Wardha (Telangana)
• Wainganga (Telangana)
• Kinnerasani (Telangana)
• Sileru (A.P)
• Taliperu (A.P)
The tributaries that join Godavari from Right side:
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1. Manair
2. Peddavagu
3. Manjeera
4. Kinnerasani
5. Moola
6. Pravara
Total catchment area is 16.14%.
The tributaries that join Godavari from Left side:
1. Purna
2. Sileru
3. Sabafi
4. Indraxati
5. Pranahita
6. Wainganga
7. Penganga
8. Dudhna
9. Kaddam
• Total catchment area is 59.7%.
• The first tributary that joins Godavari in Telangana is Manjeera (at Kandakurthi)
• The last tributary that joins Godavari in Telangana is Sabari (before Kunavarm)
TRIBUTARIES OF GODAVARI
Manjeera
• It is the first tributary of Godavari in Telangana. Manjeera, a non perennial river is a
main tributary of Godavari.
• Manjeera river is called as Manjra' in Maharashtra. It is also known as Halsi.
• Manjeera river originates at Jamkhed hill (Patoda taluka of Beed district) in Balaghat
range in Maharashtra. It passes through Maharashtra and Karnataka and enters
Telangana near Narayankhed in Sangareddy district. It flows through Medak district
and Nizam Sagar Project in Kamareddy district.
• Later it cuts across Nizamabad district and falls into Godavari at Kandakurthi (Triveni
Sangamam- Manjeera, Godavari, Haridra rivers). It is the longest and main tributary of
Godavari.
• Tributaries of Manjeera river: Kakivaagu, Nallavaagu, Koulas nala, Haldi, Lendi,
Karanga, Tirna, Gharni, Manyad.
• Manjeera river flows through the states of - Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana
• The length of Manjeera river is 724 Km.
• Total catchment area of Manjeera river is 30,844 Sq Km.
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• It is the main resource of drinking water för the districts of Sangaréddy and Medak.
• Manjeera Wild life Sanctuary is located in Manjeera basin.
• Famous temple located in the Manjeera basin- Edupayala Vanadurga temple.
Projects constructed on Manjeera river-
1. Nizamsagar Project
2. Singur Project
Nizam Sagar Project:
• Nizam Sagar Project is built açross Manjeera river between Atchampet and Vangapalli
villages in NizamSagar mandal of Kamąreddy district.
• It was constructed between 1923- 1931 during the rule of the 7th Nizam Mir Osman
Ali Khan.
• Objective: To provide drinking water to Hyderabad city.
Singur Project
• It is also known as Mogili Gundla Baga Reddy Singur Project.
• It has been constructed across Manjira River near Singur village in Pulkal Mandal of
Sangareddy district.
• It is primarily intended to provide drinking water to the twin cities of Hyderábad and
Secunderabad.
Pranahita River
• The largest tributary of the Godavari is the Pranahita with about three rivers namely
Penganga, Waingapga and Wardhá combine to form Pranahitą.
• These three rivers flow through Gadchiroli district of Maharashtra and merge at
Tammidikatti in Komaram Bheem Asifabad district of Telangana to t 34.87 coverage of
drainage area. form Pranahita river(Asifabad valley is located between Godavari and
Pranahita rivers.
• Pranahita river facilitates inland water transport between Gadchiroli and Kaleswaram.
• Pranahita river flows through the districts of Komaram Bheem Asifabad, Mancherial
and Jayashankar Bhupalapally in Telangana.
• This river flows 113 Kms along the border ofTelangana and Maharashtra states and falls
into the river Godavari at Kaleshwaram in Jayashankar Bhupalpally district. Penganga
river from the right, Wardha river from the middle and Wainganga from the left fall into
Pranahita river.
• This river basin is spread in the şouthern slope ofVidarbha and Satpura. Pranahita
Hydro electric Project is located nearKouthala (Sirpur KagajNagar) on the border of
Telangana and Maharashtra states.
• The basin of Pranahita river, the 7th Largest river basin in India is spread in 1,09,078
Sq Kms. This river flows towards the south like the other rivers ofDeccan plateau.
• The river basin of Pranahaita is a hub of rich biodiversity with thick forests, flora and
fauna.
2. KRISHNA RIVER
• Total basin area- 2,58,948 Sq Km.
• Total length- 1401 Km
• Length of Krishna river in both Telangana and A.P 612 Km
• The source of river Krishna is located near Mahabaleshwar (Maharashtra) in Western
Ghats.
• It is the 4h largest river in the Country and 2nd largest river in South India.
• The meeting place where river Krishna joins with its four tributaries in Satara district
is known as Preeti Sangam/ Lovers meeting point.
• Krishna river flows through the states of Maharashtra and Karnataka and enters
Telangana at Tangadi village in Maktal taluk of Narayanpet district.
SOILS OF TELANGANA
• The loose surface material of the Earth is called Soil. The study of soil is called
Pedology or Edaphology.
• The study of the origin and formation of soil is known as Pedogenesis.
• The study of nature of soils is called Lithology.
• Soils are formed as a result of Weathering of rocks and minerals by physical and
chemical processes.
• Weathering involves disintegration and decomposition of rocks and minerals.
• Soil constitutes the upper layer of the Earth's crust, comprising weathered rock particles
and organic matter. Its formation is influenced by various factors:
• Parent Material: The original rock from which soil develops.
• Relief/Topography: The landscape features like slope and elevation affecting soil
formation.
• Climate: Temperature, precipitation, and other climatic factors impacting soil
development.
• Natural Vegetation & Biological Factors: Plant growth and microbial activity
influencing soil characteristics.
• Time: The duration over which soil-forming processes occur, contributing to soil
maturity and complexity.
• Earth Day- 22 April
• World Wetlands day- 2 February
• World Soil Day- 5 December
• The Ph of soil favorable for agriculture: 6.5- 7.5.
• The substance formed due to weathering of rocks is known as Soil.
• Telangana contains various soil types extending from highly fertile alluvial soils to
infertile sand soils.
• Even though there are irregular peneplains in the state, red soils, black soils and laterite
soils are present. Telangana mainly consists of Red soils, Alluvial Soils, Black soils and
Laterite soils.
Problem of Soils:
Soil degradation in India presents several challenges:
1. Soil Erosion:
Soil loss due to natural forces like wind and water exceeds replenishment rates.
Agricultural productivity and the economy are adversely affected.
2. Nutrient Deficiency:
Indian soils lack nitrogen and phosphorus, especially in certain regions.
Long-term imbalanced fertilizer use exacerbates nutrient imbalances.
3. Desertification:
Arid and semi-arid regions experience desert-like conditions due to factors like
overgrazing and deforestation.
Potential consequences include increased wind erosion and drought frequency.
4. Waterlogging:
Flat depressions hinder surface water drainage, causing waterlogging.
Over-irrigation exacerbates the problem, leading to reduced productivity.
Conservation of Soil:
Soil conservation methods encompass various approaches:
1. Afforestation:
Cease deforestation and promote tree planting to increase forest cover, aiming for
33% of total land, with specific targets for different regions.
2. Overgrazing Control:
Implement measures to limit overgrazing by designating separate grazing areas and
monitoring grazing practices.
3. Agricultural Practices Modification:
Adopt diversified practices like crop rotation and leguminous plant cultivation to
maintain soil fertility.
Implement strip cropping and no-till farming to minimize soil erosion and
maximize land productivity.
4. Contour Ploughing:
Plough along the natural contours of hills to create ridges and furrows that slow
water flow and reduce erosion.
5. Shifting Cultivation Regulation:
Encourage tribal communities to transition to settled agriculture by providing land
and resources.
6. Terrace Farming:
Construct terraces on hill slopes to create level areas, reducing erosion and
conserving soil.
7. Windbreaks Establishment:
Plant dense rows of trees to protect agricultural fields from wind erosion,
particularly using evergreen species.
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8. Salinity Management:
Utilize humic acids to mitigate soil salinity by fixing ions and preventing salt
buildup.
Plant salt-tolerant species to lower water tables and decrease surface salt
accumulation.
9. Natural Fertilizer Use:
Replace chemical fertilizers with natural alternatives like livestock manure and
organic matter to replenish soil nutrients sustainably.
FORESTS OF TELANGANA
• The word 'Forest' derives from the Latin word Fores'. It means 'outdoor or outside or
the land outside the village'. It is a village border, uncultivated land or uninhabited land
or an area of unenclosed countryside.
• Forest is a large tract of land covered with naturally grown trees and underbrush or a
natural area densely covered with trees. The territory that is specified under the Forest
Act is known as Forest.
• Forests are renewable natural resources.
• They contribute substantially to the economic development of a country. So these are
considered as National property.
• Forests are known as the lungs of the Earth because they purity the al a is breathed by
the living organism.
Definitions of forests
• Forests are generally known as the natural flora that is unaffected by humans.
• The first forest policy in India was announced by the British in 1894 based on the
recommendations of Dr. Dietrich Brandis.
• National Forest Policy 1952 drafted after independence aims to maintain a minimum
of33% of the total land area of the Country under forest or tree cover.
• The policy's goal is to maintain 60% of the area under forest and tree cover in the hills
and mountainous regions and to maintain 20% of the area and 10 million hectares of
area under forest and tree cover in the plains.
• Eastern and Western Ghats have 50%, Deccan Plateau has 18% and Gangetic Plains
have 7.5% of the total forest area of India.
• Social forestry was proposed by the National Commission on Agriculture in 1976.
• Social forestry programme was proposed in the 5th Five year plan (1976) and it was
implemented in the 6th Five year plan (1980-85).
• National Forest Policy 1988 is also known as the Revised National Forest Policy.
• According to National Forest Policy 1988, the area under forest and tree cover in the
hills and mountainous regions was increased to 66%.
• A new National Environmental Policy was formulated in 2006.
2. How does Telangana's geographical location on the Deccan Plateau influence its
climate, specifically in terms of seasonal variations, temperature extremes, and
rainfall patterns?
Introduction Telangana's geographical position on the Deccan Plateau significantly
influences its climatic conditions, contributing to a diverse range of
weather patterns. This state, nestled in the Northern Hemisphere's
tropical zone, experiences variations ranging from humid subtropical
in the north to semi-arid in the south, manifesting distinct seasonal
fluctuations, temperature extremes, and rainfall patterns.
3. Elucidate the significance of soil types and their distribution in Telangana for
sustainable agricultural practices. Suggest measures for Soil conservation
Introduction Soil in Telangana is as diverse as its landscape, ranging from nutrient-
rich black soils to the iron-oxide laden red soils. This diversity not
only dictates the agricultural capability of the region but also
necessitates focused conservation efforts to sustain and enhance
productivity.
4. Discuss the benefits of solar power and assess the features of Telangana State's
Solar Policy 2015 on renewable energy initiatives and environmental
sustainability.
Introduction Harnessing solar energy, an abundant and eco-friendly resource, has
become a priority for Telangana, leveraging over 300 sunny days
annually. The state's Solar Policy 2015 is a testament to its
commitment to promoting solar power as a cornerstone of its energy
strategy.
Telangana plateau
Telangana is predominantly located on an elevated portion
of the Deccan Plateau. This plateau is made up of ancient
rocks like gneisses, horn blendes, and biotites.
The western and southwestern areas of the plateau are higher
in elevation, gradually sloping down towards the east and
northeast. This sloping terrain influences the direction of
rivers, causing them to flow primarily from west to east.
The region comprises various geographic features, including
Hill tracts: Satmala, Nirmal, Bhainsa-Nirmal
Plateaus: Bhainsa-Nirmal, Devarakonda, Kodangal-Koilkonda
Plains: Bheemgal, Narayankhed-Andole
Hills: Sirnapalli ranges, Rachakonda Hills (Hyderabad), Shabad
hills, and Koil hills
The primary rivers in the region flowing through Hyderabad are the
Musi and Manjira. Additionally, the area is characterized by diverse
soil types, including deep black soil, red sandy soil, and laterite soil.
Several districts are located within this region, including Adilabad,
Nizamabad, Medak, Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and
Mahabubnagar.
Godavari Basin
The Godavari River Basin region is characterized by a
unique geological composition. It is primarily made up of
Carboniferous rocks, ancient Archean Gneisses, and
Gondwana rocks. These geological features contribute to the
formation of vast, fertile plains like the Karimnagar-
Peddapalli plain, Metpalli-Jagtial plain, Parkal plain, and the
expansive Khammam-Madira-Kalluru-Kothagudem plain.
These plains, with their fertile soils, are highly suitable for
agriculture.
The eastern boundary of the region is marked by the Eastern
Ghats mountain range. This range includes features like the
Rekapalle Hills and the Eastern Ghat Granulite Belt,
Krishna Piedmont :
The Krishna River and its tributaries and distributaries make this
area ideal for farming.
This area's primary soil type is red sandy soil.
It is madeup of Archean Gneisses and Granites
This region includes the Krishna-Dindi Forest Tract, the
Nalgonda-Miryalaguda Plateau, and the Bhongir-Ramanapet
Plateau
This area is home to hills like Yadadri's Ramagiri Hills and
Nandagiri Hills near Nalgonda
This area is covered with dry deciduous scrub woods
Krishna piedmont includes the regions of Wanaparthy,
Suryapet, Yadadri, Miryalaguda, Devarakonda, and
Nalgonda.
Climate Influence
The physiography of Telangana contributes to its semi-arid
climate, with hot and dry conditions prevailing for most of
the year. The plateau experiences high temperatures during
summers, with the average maximum reaching 40 to 43°C in
May. Winters are relatively mild, and the region receives an
average annual rainfall of about 906 mm, primarily from the
Southwest monsoon23. This climate pattern affects water
availability and agricultural cycles.
Agricultural Influence
Agriculture in Telangana is largely dependent on the
monsoon rains and river irrigation. The presence of major
rivers and their tributaries allows for irrigation, which
supports agriculture, particularly in the fertile river valleys.
However, the arid zones and variability in rainfall lead to
reliance on irrigation projects and affect the choice of crops,
Socio-Economic Influence
The physiography and climate of Telangana have a direct
impact on the socio-economic development of the region.
The availability of water resources from rivers has led to the
establishment of hydroelectric power plants and irrigation
projects, which in turn support industrial and agricultural
development. Urbanization patterns are also influenced,
with cities like Hyderabad becoming hubs for technology
and industry due to their strategic location on the plateau
8. Analyze the characteristics and distribution of soil types in Telangana and discuss
their significance for the state’s agriculture?
Introduction Soils are a vital component of the ecosystem, providing support to
plants, serving as a medium for nutrient exchange, and contributing
to the overall health of the environment. In Telangana, a diverse
range of soils is present, each with unique characteristics and
agricultural suitability.
Laterite Soils
Laterite soils in Telangana are a result of intense leaching
caused by tropical rains. These soils typically develop in
areas characterized by high temperatures and substantial
rainfall, approximately around 200 cm annually.
Nature:
Laterite soils are known for their poor organic matter
content, deficiency in nitrogen, phosphate, and calcium,
while being rich in iron oxide and potash.
Distribution:
2% of Geographical area of the state covered with laterite
soils . . .Sangareddy , Vikarabad districts contain these types
of soils
Crops :
Despite their less fertile nature, crops like ginger, potato,
mango, and tamarind can be successfully grown in these
soils.
Salt-Affected Soils:
Salt-affected soils are inherently infertile and pose
challenges for agricultural productivity. These soils are
notably present in certain regions of Telangana, including
parts of Rangareddy, Nizamabad, and Medak districts within
the state.
Alluvial Soils:
Approximately 1% of Telangana's geographical area is
covered by alluvial soils, primarily located along river belts.
These fertile soils can be found in specific areas of Medak,
Nalgonda, and Suryapet districts in the state.
Conclusion The diverse soil types present in Telangana play a crucial role in
shaping agricultural practices and productivity across different
regions of the state. Understanding the characteristics and
distributions of mixed black and red soils alongside laterite soils is
essential for farmers to make informed decisions regarding crop
selection and cultivation techniques to optimize agricultural output
effectively.
10. Discuss the river systems of Telangana, their characteristics and the inter-state
water disputes involving these rivers.
Introduction Telangana is home to several major river systems that play a crucial
role in the state's economy, agriculture, and ecology. These rivers
have distinct characteristics and have been the subject of inter-state
water disputes.
Irrigation
• Gross irrigated area of Telangana (2014-15) - 25.29 lakh hectares
• Gross irrigated area of Telangana (2015-1 6) - 20.27 lakh hectares
• The gross irrigated area was decreased by 19.85%i.e 5.02 lakh hectares in 2015-16
when compared to 2014-1s
• Net irrigated area ofTelangana (2014-15) -17.26 lakh hectares.
• Net irrigated area ofTelangana (2015-16) -14.86 lakh hectares
• The net irrigated area decreased by 13,90% i.e. 2.40 lakh hectares in 2015-16 when
compared to 2014-15.
Sources of Irrigation
• Wells are main source of irrigation in the State, irrigating abou(84% the total net
irrigated area in 2014-lD. The share of canal and tank irrigation is confined to mere 10
percent and 4 percent respectively. The tankane irrigation shows a declining trend over
the years and the well irrigation shows a faster growth rate.
• The well irrigation which was 16 percent in 1955-56 was increased to 37% in 1985-86
and further increased to. 81% in 2015-16. The tank irrigation was three times higher
than the well and canal irrigation in 1955-56. Over a period of time, it has declined
significantly. In the year 1955-56 the percentage share of tank irrigation was 64% which
declined to 28% in 1985-86 and further to 8% in 2012-13. This is a clear indicator of
deliberate neglect of thousands of tanks in the Telangana area during the United Andhra
Pradesh state.
• High dependency on wells has adverse effects on cost of cultivation and groundwater
levels. Therefore there is a need to increase tank and canal irrigation sources in the
State. Hence, the Government ofTelanganahas launched Mission Kakatiya' to revive
and rejuvenate tank irrigation.
• In 2018-19, the highest net area sown was reported in Nalgonda đistrict with 3.78 lakh
hectares, followed by Khammam with 2.64 lakh hectares.
• Top ten districts account for almost 50% of the total net sown area.
• Three districts namely Nagarkurnool,Sangareddy, Adilabad along with Nalgonda and
Khammam districts have net area sown of more than 2 lakh hectares in cach district.
• 8 districts viz. Siddipet, Suryapet, Vikarabad, Nizamabad, Nirmal, Rangareddy,
Jogulamba Gadwal and Kamareddy have a net area sown between 1.5 - 2 lakh hectares.
PRODUCTIVITY OF AGRICULTURE
• Agriculture productivity refers to the quantity of crops produced per unit of land.
• India's agricultural productivity remains significantly lower compared to countries like
China and the USA, with an average of 3075 Kg/ha in 2018, slightly below the global
average of 3200kg/ha.
• Factors such as fertilizer usage, irrigation methods, and rainfall patterns contribute to
variations in productivity.
• Regions that underwent the Green Revolution, along with Tamil Nadu, Kerala, West
Bengal, and Maharashtra, tend to exhibit higher productivity levels.
• Productivity decline in the Gangetic plain is attributed to land fragmentation resulting
from smaller landholdings.
• Major challenges impacting agricultural productivity include shrinking land sizes,
reliance on monsoon rains, limited access to irrigation, imbalanced soil nutrient
management leading to soil fertility loss, uneven adoption of modern technology across
regions, inadequate access to formal credit, limited government procurement of food
grains, and insufficient provision of remunerative prices to farmers.
Crop Seasons
• Agriculture seasons have been classified into three categories based on Crop duration.
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• Kharif: (South- West monsoon season) June- October.
• Crop duration- 5 months.
• Main crops- Rice, Sorghum (Zowar), Maize, Pearl millet (Bajra), Finger millet (Ragi),
Groundnut, Coton. Sugarcane, Tobacco.
Rabi: November- February. Crop duration-4 months
• Main crops- Wheat, Sorghum, Pulses, beans, Soya beans, Chili
• Zaid: March to May (summer crop) Crop duration-3 months
• Main crops- Rice, Muskmelon, Water melon, vegetables, Maize etc. Telangana
Geography
• The Agriculture Department has issued orders directing departments concerned to
replace the terms Kharif and Rabi in their official communication with Vanakalam
(rainy season) and Yasangi (summer season) respectively.
Mission Kakatiya:
Mission Kakatiya is a tank restoration and rejuvenation program in Telangana aimed at
enhancing agricultural income for small and marginal farmers by developing minor irrigation
infrastructure and restoring tanks spread across all 31 districts.
• Launched on March 12, 2015, by Chief Minister Sri K. Chandrashekhar Rao in
Sadashiva Nagar Village, the program is named in honor of the Kakatiya rulers known
for developing numerous irrigation tanks.
• The objective is to restore 9,306 tanks annually (20% of total) with a goal of restoring
all 46,531 tanks within 5 years, aiming to bring 10 lakh acres of land under command
without further water allocation.
• Restoration efforts include desilting tank beds, repairing sluices and weirs,
strengthening tank bunds, and ensuring water flow through feeder channels.
• The ongoing third phase of Mission Kakatiya focuses on these restoration activities.
• Beneficiaries of the program include all citizens, with anticipated benefits such as
improved groundwater table, reduced power consumption in agriculture, higher crop
yields, livestock growth, and overall rural economic rejuvenation.
Canal Irrigation
• Canal irrigation in Telangana involves the distribution of water from rivers or reservoirs
through a network of canals to irrigate agricultural land. Here's an account of canal
irrigation in Telangana:
1. Major Canal Systems:
• Telangana has several major canal systems that serve as lifelines for agriculture in the
region. Some of the prominent canal systems include:
A. Nagarjuna Sagar Canal:
• This canal originates from the Nagarjuna Sagar Dam on the Krishna River and
serves the districts of Nalgonda, Khammam, and parts of Warangal. It is one of the
largest canal systems in Telangana, providing irrigation water to a vast agricultural
area.
B. Sriram Sagar Canal:
Well Irrigation
• Well irrigation, also known as groundwater irrigation, is a common practice in
Telangana, particularly in areas where surface water sources are limited or unreliable.
Groundwater Depletion
Groundwater depletion is a significant issue in Telangana, driven by various factors such as
excessive pumping for irrigation, industrial use, and urbanization. Here's an account of
groundwater depletion in Telangana:
1. Overexploitation for Agriculture:
• Agriculture is the primary consumer of groundwater in Telangana, accounting for a
substantial portion of total groundwater extraction. Farmers rely heavily on
groundwater for irrigation, particularly in areas with limited access to surface water
sources or unreliable rainfall.
2. Unregulated Extraction:
• Historically, groundwater extraction in Telangana has been largely unregulated, leading
to overexploitation of aquifers in many regions. The proliferation of bore wells and the
use of high-capacity pumps have contributed to the rapid depletion of groundwater
levels, especially in areas with intensive agricultural activity.
3. Declining Water Tables:
• Groundwater levels in Telangana have been declining steadily over the years due to
excessive pumping and inadequate recharge. In some areas, water tables have
plummeted to alarming depths, making it increasingly challenging for farmers to access
water for irrigation.
4. Impact on Agriculture:
• Groundwater depletion has adverse effects on agriculture, including reduced crop
yields, increased costs of pumping, and deterioration of soil health. Farmers often resort
to deeper and costlier borewells to access groundwater, exacerbating the problem
further.
5. Impact on Environment:
• Groundwater depletion can have serious environmental consequences, such as land
subsidence, saltwater intrusion in coastal areas, and degradation of aquatic ecosystems.
Depletion of groundwater also reduces baseflow to rivers and streams, affecting their
ecological health and biodiversity.
6. Urbanization and Industrialization:
• Rapid urbanization and industrialization in Telangana have increased the demand for
groundwater for drinking water supply, industrial processes, and construction activities.
This further exacerbates the strain on already stressed aquifers, leading to accelerated
groundwater depletion.
7. Government Initiatives:
• Recognizing the severity of the groundwater depletion problem, the government of
Telangana has initiated various measures to address the issue. These include:
INDUSTRIES OF TELANGANA
• There are four key industrial economic sectors: the primary sector, largely raw material
extraction industries such as mining and farming; the secondary sector, involving
refining, construction, and manufacturing the tertiary sector, which deals with services
(such as law and medicine) and distribution of manufactured goods and the quaternary
sector, a relatively new type of knowledge industry focusing on technological research,
design and development such as computer programming, and biochemistry.
• Industrialization will be the key strategy followed for economic growth and
development for Telangana, the 29th State of the country. People of the new State have
very high expectations from the Telangana State Government for creating jobs for the
youth, promote development of backward areas, maximize growth opportunities by
optimum utilization of the available resources, harness the talents and skills of the
people and usher prosperity in every household. Industrialization holds the potential for
fulfilling all the dreams and aspirations of the people of Telangana.
• The vision for industrialization of Telangana is "Research to Innovation; Innovation to
Industry; Industry to Prosperity". The industrial policy framework will be driven by the
slogan "In Telangana—Innovate, Incubate, Incorporate". The policy framework intends
to provide a business regulatory environment where doing business would be as easy
as shaking hands. Innovation and technology will drive the industries of the State.
• Inspections will be streamlined to eliminate random checks without cause. Instead, a
structured system will be developed where each industrial unit is inspected once every
3 to 4 years, with the inspection cycle predetermined.
• Any random inspections will require explicit written permission from the department
head to ensure accountability.
• Maximum facilitation will involve an efficient system that goes beyond the typical
single-window approach. Self-certification will be encouraged, and automatic renewals
will be introduced.
PHARMACEUTICAL INDUSTRY
• Hyderabad is renowned as the capital of bulk drugs and vaccines in India. Hyderabad
is the Pharma Capital of India, with over 600 life sciences companies having a
combined value ofUSD 50 billion and contributing SS% of India's pharmaceuticals
production.
• Hyderabad is also home to India's largest bio cluster, Genome valley, housing abóut
200 companies. Pharmaceutical Across Different States (LEADS) index, and 2nd
among landlockedstátes.
• Pharmaceutical products are the largest exported items from the state, accounting For
approximately one-third of all exports. The state is also successfully diversifying its
export basket, with rapid growth in sectors such as plastic and paper products.
• Pharmaceuticals comprise the largest commodity export off the state, averaging over
30% of the total merchandise exports since 2015-16. In Order to support the sector, the
Government has sanctioned the Hyderabad Pharma City Project.
• On completion, it is expected to be the world's largest pharmaceutical cluster, with a
potential investment of Rs.64,000 crore and employment to over 4.2 lakh individuals.
• The first Pharmaceutical Regulatory Academy in India is being established at Mucherla
village in Rangareddy district.
Indian Drugs and Pharmaceuticals Limited ( I.D.P.L)
• IDPL has six plants across India. One among them was established at Balanagar,
Hyderabad. The IDPL was commissioned in 1967 and manufactured a wide range of
47 bulk synthetic drugs like Vitamins Sulphas, Chloroquine, Methyldopa, Analgesics
etc.
• Now, a National Institute of Pharmaceutical Education & Research (NIPER)' has been
set-up on 19th October, 2007 at IDPL Research Center.
Hetero Drugs (1993)
• Hetero is one of India's leading generic pharmaceutical companies and the world's
largest producer of antiretroviral drugs for the treatment of HIV/AIDS. The company
is globally recognized for its strengths in Research and Development, manufacturing
and commercialization of a wide range of products.
• It has more than 21,000 employees and annual revenue of more than 2000 crores.
• Hetero Drugs started its retail pharmacy chain named Hetero with its first store in
Hyderabad and established more than 300 stores within a short period.
Aurobindo Pharma
• This pharma company headquartered at Hitech city in Hyderabad was established by
P.V. Ramprasad Reddy and K. Nityananda Reddy in 1986.
• Aurobindo pharma commenced operations in 1988-89.
I.T. INDUSTRY
• The IT exports from Hyderabad (Telangana) stood second in the country in FY 2019-
20. There are 1500 IT companies in Hyderabad.
Employment in IT Sector in Telangana
• Employment generated by the IT sector in the state grew at 7.2% compared to the all-
India average growth of 4.9%. The state's share in national IT employment grew from
13.1% in (2018-19) to 12- (2019-20),
• The state 's overall share of India's IT employment growth for 2019-20 was 19.1%.
• Second ICT Policy (2021-2026) of Telangana aims to scale the exports from this sector
from Rs. 1.45 lal crore in 2020-21 to Rs. 3 lakh crore by 2026. In doing so, it targets
increasing the employment in the IT sector from 6.3 lakh to 10 lakh by the year 2026.
• The IT Sector of Hyderabad has its origins in Mythrivanam in the 1990s. Later, IT Hub
was started in Madhane in 1992. IT parks are located at Madhapur, Gachibowli,
Nanakramguda and other places. The largest office of Google outside USA and
Microsoft India Development Center are located at Hyderabad Telangana government's
IT dept. won NASSCOM's 'AI Game changer' award' for implementing the "Crowd
Monitoring using Al".
ITIR (Information Technology Investment Region)
• The Government of India approved the Information Technology Investment Region
(ITIR) project for Hyderabad in/2013.
• It was designed for the development of the IT industry by attracting global investments.
ITIR was aimed at attracting an investment of Rs 2.19 trillion ($44 billion) in the IT,
ITES and electronics sectors and providing direct employment to 15 lakh persons and
indirect employment to 53 lakh persons. ITIR would boost direct revenue to Rs
3,10,849 crores, investment capacity in IT sector to Rs 2,19,440 crores and IT exports
to Rs 2,35,000 crores.
• Telangana IT & C minister K.T.R informed the Assembly on 21 Sep 2019 that the
central government had shelved the ITIR project.
Gaming and Animation
HANDICRAFTS OF TELANGANA
• Handicrafts of Telangana include Silver cross Dyeing, Bidar handlooms, Laces- Braids,
toys, playing items, Bronze, Brass and Copper crafts and Beads and Pearls
industries.Telangana handicrafts have a unique place in handicrafts of India. Some of
them have been explained below:
Pembarthi Metal Crafts
• Metalworking has been a practiced art in India since the time of the Indus Valley
Civilization. The discovery of artefacts like the Dancing Girl statue illustrates the
It may be noted that the allocated to various projects are not apportioned state wise but
reflect the cost of the project
• In Telangana State, the road assets of R&B Dept. comprises of 24,245 kms of road
length with 3,152 kms of State Highways, 12,079 kms of Major District Roads, and
9,014 kms of Other District Roads. 16 National Highways are passing through the State
of Telangana covering a length of 2,690 kms, out of which 868 kms are with National
Highways Authority of India (NHAI).
• Ministry of Road Transport, Highways and Shipping, Government of India provides
complete financial support for the development and maintenance of National Highways
under the control of the department.
Mancherial-Wankidi NH 363 56 90
DISTRICT ROADS
• District roads in Telangana play a crucial role in connecting various towns, villages,
and remote areas within each district.
• These roads are maintained by the respective district administrations and serve as vital
links for transportation, commerce, and access to essential services. Here's an overview
of the district roads system in Telangana:
1. Administration:
• District roads in Telangana are managed and maintained by the District Rural
Development Agency (DRDA) and the respective district administrations. These roads
are essential for rural development and connectivity.
2. Connectivity:
• District roads connect major towns, villages, agricultural areas, markets, educational
institutions, healthcare facilities, and other important destinations within each district.
They provide access to essential services and promote socio-economic development in
rural areas.
3. Length and Classification:
Telangana plateau
Telangana is predominantly located on an elevated portion
of the Deccan Plateau. This plateau is made up of ancient
rocks like gneisses, horn blendes, and biotites.
The western and southwestern areas of the plateau are higher
in elevation, gradually sloping down towards the east and
northeast. This sloping terrain influences the direction of
rivers, causing them to flow primarily from west to east.
The region comprises various geographic features, including
Hill tracts: Satmala, Nirmal, Bhainsa-Nirmal
Plateaus: Bhainsa-Nirmal, Devarakonda, Kodangal-Koilkonda
Plains: Bheemgal, Narayankhed-Andole
Hills: Sirnapalli ranges, Rachakonda Hills (Hyderabad), Shabad
hills, and Koil hills
The primary rivers in the region flowing through Hyderabad are the
Musi and Manjira. Additionally, the area is characterized by diverse
soil types, including deep black soil, red sandy soil, and laterite soil.
Several districts are located within this region, including Adilabad,
Nizamabad, Medak, Hyderabad, Rangareddy, and
Mahabubnagar.
Godavari Basin
The Godavari River Basin region is characterized by a
unique geological composition. It is primarily made up of
Carboniferous rocks, ancient Archean Gneisses, and
Gondwana rocks. These geological features contribute to the
formation of vast, fertile plains like the Karimnagar-
Peddapalli plain, Metpalli-Jagtial plain, Parkal plain, and the
expansive Khammam-Madira-Kalluru-Kothagudem plain.
These plains, with their fertile soils, are highly suitable for
agriculture.
Krishna Piedmont :
The Krishna River and its tributaries and distributaries make this
area ideal for farming.
This area's primary soil type is red sandy soil.
It is madeup of Archean Gneisses and Granites
This region includes the Krishna-Dindi Forest Tract, the
Nalgonda-Miryalaguda Plateau, and the Bhongir-
Ramanapet Plateau
This area is home to hills like Yadadri's Ramagiri Hills and
Nandagiri Hills near Nalgonda
This area is covered with dry deciduous scrub woods
Krishna piedmont includes the regions of Wanaparthy,
Suryapet, Yadadri, Miryalaguda, Devarakonda, and
Nalgonda.
Climate Influence
The physiography of Telangana contributes to its semi-arid
climate, with hot and dry conditions prevailing for most of
the year. The plateau experiences high temperatures during
summers, with the average maximum reaching 40 to 43°C in
May. Winters are relatively mild, and the region receives an
average annual rainfall of about 906 mm, primarily from the
Southwest monsoon23. This climate pattern affects water
availability and agricultural cycles.
Agricultural Influence
Socio-Economic Influence
The physiography and climate of Telangana have a direct
impact on the socio-economic development of the region.
The availability of water resources from rivers has led to the
establishment of hydroelectric power plants and irrigation
projects, which in turn support industrial and agricultural
development. Urbanization patterns are also influenced,
with cities like Hyderabad becoming hubs for technology
and industry due to their strategic location on the plateau
Introduction The Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations
defines agro-climatic regions as land units that are climatically
suitable for specific crops and cultivars.
These regions are based on geographical characteristics such as
rainfall, temperature, soil type, and water availability.
Q.3) Analyse the objectives and impact of Mission Kakatiya, a tank restoration and
rejuvenation program in Telangana, on the state's agricultural sector and water
management practices."
Micro-Irrigation Promotion:
The government promotes micro-irrigation techniques such
as drip and sprinkler irrigation to improve water use
efficiency in agriculture.
Subsidies and incentives are provided to farmers to adopt
micro-irrigation practices, thereby reducing water wastage
and increasing crop yields
Q.5) What factors influence the siting of industries? Provide a concise overview of the
industrial distribution in Telangana and the state's efforts to promote industrial
development."
Metal Handicrafts:
Pembarthi Metal Craft (2010) is known for its exquisite
brassware, which includes beautifully crafted plates, bowls,
and other decorative items. This craft has a rich history and
is traditionally known for its intricate designs and patterns
Karimnagar Silver Filigree (2007) is a delicate form of
metalwork made with silver. Artisans in Karimnagar create
intricate designs by twisting thin silver wire into delicate
loops, which are then soldered together to form various
objects like jewelry, utensils, and decorative items
Q.9) The Kaleshwaram Lift Irrigation System (KLIS) is considered to be one of the
world’s largest multi-purpose projects. Explain the design of the project and its
significance in the development of Telangana.
First step is to The question is about the design of KLIS and its
understand the significance in development.
demand of the The directive word is Explain.
question
Clearly describe the various components of the project and write
about its importance.
Q.10) Recently, India has emerged as the world’s largest producer and consumer of sugar
and the world’s 2nd largest exporter, due to the record production of more than
5000 Lakh Metric Tons (LMT) of sugarcane. In this context, examine the
distribution, prospects and challenges of sugar industry in Telangana.
State profile
• Formed as the 29th State of India, Telangana came into being on the 2nd of June, 2014.
The State has an area of 1,12,077 sq. Km. and has a population of 3,50,03,674 (2011
Census).
• The Telangana region was part of the Hyderabad state from 17th September 1948 to 1st
November 1956, until it was merged with Andhra State to form Andhra Pradesh.
• After decades of movement for a separate State, Telangana was created by passing the
AP State Reorganization Bill in both houses of Parliament.
• Telangana is surrounded by Maharashtra and Chhattisgarh in the North, Karnataka in
the West and Andhra Pradesh in the South and East directions. Major cities of the State
include Hyderabad, Warangal, Nizamabad, Nalgonda, Khammam and Karimnagar.
• Demography refers to the statistical study of human populations – their size,
composition and distribution across space – and the process through which populations
change.
• Knowledge on the demographic patterns of the state provides insights to the
Government to develop effective programmes and policies.
• It also helps the Government design strategic and targeted policy interventions to
address the persistent challenges faced by the vulnerable social groups in the state.
Telangana Statistics
Items Quantity
Districts 33
Revenue Divisions 74
Towns 141
Municipal Corporations 13
Household size 4
Key Highlights
Total Population
The total population of Telangana as of 2011 was 3,50,03,674. This was nearly 2.89%
of the population of India in 2011.
Density of Population:
Gender-wise population
• Of the total population in Telangana in 2011, 1,73,92,041 are females and 1,76,11,633
are males.
• The share of females and males in the total population of the state is 49.69% and 50.31%
respectively.
• The sex ratio (the number of females per thousand males) of the state is 988.
• The sex ratio among the districts varies from 950 to 1046 with a median value of 996.
Three districts; Suryapet, Mahabubabad and Hanumakonda, have a sex ratio of 996.
• Rangareddy, with a sex ratio of 950, has the lowest sex ratio in the state.
Population Density
About Tribes
According to the Imperial Gazetteer of India, a tribe is a collection of families
bearing a common name, speaking a common dialect, and occupying or professing
to occupy a common territory. India is known as a Melting pot of tribes and races.
After Africa, India has the second largest concentration of tribal population in the
world. As per the 2011 Census, the tribal population constitutes about 8.9% of the
total population in India.
Scheduled Tribes (STs)
The term 'Scheduled Tribes' first appeared in the Constitution of India. Article 366
(25) defined scheduled tribes as "such tribes or tribal communities or parts of or
groups within such tribes or tribal communities as are deemed under Article 342 to
Tribes in Telangana
• As per Census 2011, Tribal Population in Telangana is 31.78 Lakhs and constitutes 9%
of the total population of the state Considering the importance of tribal development
and related matters the Government of India set up a separate Ministry of Tribal Affairs
in 1999.
• In 2021, Government of India declared 15th November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas to
honour the tribal freedom fighters and for commemorating their contribution to India's
freedom struggle and cultural heritage.
Here's an account of the distribution of tribal population in Telangana:
1. Tribal Groups:
• Telangana is home to several tribal communities, each with its own unique culture,
language, and traditions. Some of the prominent tribal groups in Telangana include the
Gonds, Lambadas (Banjaras), Kolams, Thotis, Yerukalas, Koyas, and Chenchus.
2. Geographical Distribution:
• Tribal communities in Telangana are primarily concentrated in the hilly and forested
regions of the state, particularly in districts bordering Maharashtra, Chhattisgarh, and
Andhra Pradesh. Adilabad, Khammam, Bhadradri Kothagudem, and Mahabubabad are
among the districts with significant tribal populations.
3. Adilabad District:
• Adilabad district in northern Telangana has the highest concentration of tribal
population in the state. The district is home to various tribal communities, including the
Gonds, Kolams, and Thotis. Many tribal villages in Adilabad are located in remote and
inaccessible areas, contributing to their socio-economic marginalization.
4. Khammam District:
Tribal areas in Telangana face a myriad of challenges that impact the socio-economic
development and well-being of tribal communities. Here's an account of some of the key
problems faced by tribal areas in Telangana:
1. Poverty and Marginalization:
• Tribal communities in Telangana often experience high levels of poverty and
marginalization. Limited access to education, healthcare, and employment
opportunities exacerbates their socio-economic vulnerabilities.
2. Lack of Basic Amenities:
• The government of Telangana has implemented several policies and programs aimed at
promoting the socio-economic development and welfare of tribal communities in the
state. Here's an account of some of the key policies for Tribal Area Development in
Telangana:
Education
Livelihood
Pradhan Mantri Janjatiya Vikas Mission (PM-JJVM)
Venture Capital Fund for STs
Logistics and Marketing of tribal products in North
East Support to NSTFDC
• Ministry of Tribal Affairs, Government of India administers The Scheduled Tribes And
Other Traditional Forest Dwellers (Recognition Of Forest Rights) Act, (in short FRA),
2006.
• The FRA, 2006 has provisions for recognition and vesting of forest rights and
occupation in forest land in forest dwelling Scheduled Tribes (FDSTs) and other
traditional forest dwellers (OTFDs).
• As per FRA and rules made thereunder, the responsibility for implementation of the
Act lies with State Governments/UT Administrations.
• As on June, 2023, a total of 45,54,603 claims 43,68,025 individual and 1,86,578
community) have been filed under FRA 2006 and 23,12,041 titles (22,01,842 individual
and 1,10,199 community) have been distributed to the extent of 1,77,90,056 acres
(47,56,040 acres for individual and 1,30,34,016 acres for community) of forest land.
• Ministry of Tribal Affairs provides necessary support to the States / UTs for
implementation of FRA as and when asked for. Joint Communication has been issued
by Secretaries of Ministry of Tribal Affairs and Ministry of Environment, Forest and
Climate Change for implementation of the FRA, 2006 .
4. Special Development Funds:
• The government allocates special funds and budgetary provisions for the development
of tribal areas in Telangana. These funds are utilized for infrastructure development,
provision of basic amenities, livelihood support, and other development initiatives in
tribal communities.
5. Education Initiatives:
• Several initiatives are undertaken to improve educational outcomes among tribal
children and youth. These include the establishment of residential schools (Gurukul
schools) for tribal students, scholarships and stipends for students from tribal
communities, and efforts to enhance the quality of education in tribal areas.
6. Healthcare Services:
• With the declaration ( of 15th November as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas ) the birth
anniversary of Bhagwan Birsa Munda as Janjatiya Gaurav Divas on 15th November,
iconic week celebrations from 15th to 22nd November took place throughout the nation
• Hon'ble President Smt. Droupadi Murmu, paid floral tributes at the statue of Bhagwan
Birsa Munda in Ulihatu, Jharkhand, his birthplace
• Hon'ble Vice President Shri Jagdeep Dhankar offered floral tributes to the statue of
Bhagwan Birsa Munda in the Parliament premises
• Hon'ble Prime Minister in a special video message said that the nation is moving with
the energy of ‘Panch Praan’ to realize the dreams of Bhagwan Birsa Munda
• Hon'ble Union Minister of Tribal Affairs, Shri Arjun Munda, Minister of State for Tribal
Affairs, Smt. Renuka Singh & Minister of State for Tribal Affairs and Jal Shakti, Shri
Bishweswar Tudu, Parliamentarians and other dignitaries participated in the Jan Jatiya
Gaurav Divas celebrations.
Urbanization in Telangana
• Different strategies have had India after independence rapidly urbanizing and many
cities, towns have come into existence and everyday new areas are coming under the
grasp of urbanization.
• Urbanization has been an engine of inclusive economic growth. Urban agglomerations
propel economic growth by bringing together interrelated industries in one
geographical area, promoting positive externalities and reducing transaction costs,
leading to new vistas of opportunities, especially for rural migrates.
• With this urbanization India is also facing different challenges which are of diverse
nature.
• The state of Telangana is one of the fast-urbanizing states in the country, along with the
rapid economic transformation.
• The urban centers have become epicenters for industrial and services-oriented business
activity, robust transportation, civic facilities and availability of skilled workforce.
• Hyderabad alone accounts for a lion’s share of the state’s urban population which has
become a growth center for the state.
• The city of Hyderabad is being recognised as a true cosmopolitan city for being an
accommodating city despite the existence of varied cultures.
Steps by government
The Government of Telangana has undertaken various initiatives for strengthening the
infrastructure and to make cities and towns more inclusive.
1. The state government has initiated the ‘Telangana Municipal Development Project’
(TMDP) with an objective of preparing the Master Plan for 20 Urban Local Bodies
(ULBs) with the financial assistance of the World Bank. The preparation of GIS Base
Maps for 37 ULBs in Phase-I and 22 ULBs in Phase-II are in process.
2. The government has initiated the Support to Urban Street Vendors (SUSV) scheme for
identification, issue of ID cards, vending certificates, financial inclusion, and social
security for street vendors. Until now, 67,294 street vendors have been identified, out
of whom 63,361 have been issued identity cards. The survey has been completed in 66
ULBs.
3. With an objective to provide shelters for the urban homeless, the government initiated
the Shelter for Urban Homeless programme. Till now, 25 shelters are functioning in the
state providing accommodation to 1,163 homeless people. It is proposed to construct
such shelters in 50 government hospitals for patient attendants and recovering patients.
4. The Mission for Elimination of Poverty in Municipal Areas (MEPMA) has been
actively involved in implementation of poverty alleviation programmes through
programmes like Deendayal Antyodaya Yojana--National Urban Livelihood Mission
(DAY-NULM), employment through skills training and placement, self-employment
programmes, Vaddi Leni Runalu, (Loans without any interest) etc. Until 2017 end, 1.46
lakh SHGs were formed in urban areas under the aegis of MEPMA. During the year
2017- 18, Rs. 716.41 crore were provided to 18,132 Self Help Groups (SHGs).
5. In order to ensure that cities and towns in Telangana become totally clean, sanitized,
healthy and livable for all citizens, Swachh Telangana Vajrostavam was observed from
25 September to 2 October, 2014. The special focus of the campaign was on hygienic
and affordable sanitation for the urban poor and women. One of the key initiatives of
the Government of Telangana is to achieve 100 percent sanitation in urban areas.
Massive public awareness through an intensive campaign on cleanliness was conducted
during the Swachh Telangana Vajrostavam.
• Hyderabad, once known as Bhagyanagar' was estab- lished around A.D 1591 by
Mohammad Quli-Quth- Shah the 5h ruler ofQutb- Shahi dynasty. The city was
established at eight (8) kilometers distance to the East of Golconda fort and South of
Musi River. Since then, the city of Hyderabad, witnessed the rule of subsequent rulers
of Qutb- Shahis', the Mughals and successive heirs of Asaf Jha reign till the accession
of Hyderabad state into the independent Indian Union in the year 1948.
• Hyderabad, also known as the City of Pearis'. functioned as the civil capital during the
Qutb- Shahi Ruler. The city had rich resemblances of survey- ing capital since from the
tenure of Nizam Ali Khan Asaf Jah II for Asaf Jahi dynasty (1763 1948), through the
independent Indian state of Hyderabad (1948 to 1956). to the erstwhile-state of Andhra
Pradesh (1956 to 2014) to the newly formed state of Telangana (Since 2014). The city,
indeed, consists of two cities in it, Hyderabad and its twin Secunderabad together
known as twin cities,offer a fascinating panorama of the past with richly blended
geography that include physical, cultural, industrial and economic landscape with
historic-spatio-temporal changes spanning over 425 years.
Nomenclature of Hyderabad
• The nomenclature of the city attracts a wide ranging speculations as some believed the
city was established by the name of ruler s beloved wife, Bhagyamathi, some would
argue that it is not Bhagynagar but to imply that the e city of Bhags meaningt gardens.
However the name Hyderabad', larly known at global level for its multifaceted of then
Qutb-Shahi was Bhagyanagar outlook.
Evolution of Hyderabad City
• Though the city of Hyderabad was formally es- tablished around A.D. 1591, during the
reign of Outb-Shahis, the historical city takes its origins in the famous Golconda
fortress which, once was a citadel constructed by Kakatiya rulers dur- ing 13th century'.
Since then it has undergone various changes and developments in a distinct phase wise
manner while it transformed from a citadel to fortress town, from fortress to a walled
city, modem city, Metropolis, and finally as an emerging Global Mega City.
Fort City of Golconda Phase/ The Early Qutb-Shahi Phase (From 13" Century to
A.D.1591)
• It is imperative to know about the origin and early history of fortress city. Golconda
which paved the way for its future form that is 'the City of Pearls'. Hyderabad. It was
during the famous Kakatiya Emperor Ganapatideva's rule a mud fort was built for the
first time over a hill called 'Mankal' now known as Golconda, a towering granitic rock
that measures about 150-300 meters above the vale. Hence, in fact, the present
cOsmopolitan city of Hyderabad started its journey as a cita- del from 13mCentuiy of
Medieval period in the Indian History.
• Later, during the reign of Mahmood Shah III (around A.D. 1463) the thirteenth king of
the Bahmani dynasty (of Ahmednagar), Baharul Turk of Hemadan, Sultan Quli was
appointed to quell an internal struggle that erupted in Telangana region and to govern
the area from the fortress. During the rule of Mahmood Shah IV (around A.D. 1482)
Sultan Quli assumed as Amir of the Bahmani Empire and, was awarded with thẹ title
of Qutb-ul-Mulk and the Jagir of Golconda. In A.D. 1512 Qutb-ul-Mulk declared
independence from the disintegrated & already weakened Bahmani kingdom, started
Qutb- Shahi rule, and made Golconda fort as capital city because of its defense strategic
location and it stood on the trade route from the port of Masulipatnam /of the eastern
coast to Aurangabad, a great military & trade center.
• By A.D. 1576, the fortress town became very congested and there was no scope for
further expansion within its expanse. Hence Nobles and higher officials started
constructing their palaces on the banks of the river Musi. Anticipating the future growth
of the city eastwards or to the South of River Musi, Sultan Tbrahim Qutb-Shah has laid
a milestone in the history of Hyderabad when he had abridge (Purana Phul) constructed
in A.D. 1573 over the river where it flows to a narrow length and the bridge paved way
for the future city of Hyderabad. Therefore this phase may be also treated as pre-
Hyderabad phase.
• The city of Hyderabad, founded in the year 1591 by Mohammed Quli Qutub Shah,
offers a fascinating panorama of the past, with a rich mix of cultural and historical
traditions spanning over 400 years. It is one of the fastest-growing cities of India and
emerged as a strong industrial, commercial and technology center, and at the same time
it gives glimpses of past splendor and the legacy of its old history.
• Hyderabad is also known as the City of Pearls and one of the IT power hubs of the
country. The city is known for world-class educational institutions, hospitals, a highly
skilled workforce, historical monuments, ancient religious places, museums, art
galleries, cinema halls, concert venues, convention centers, restaurants, shopping
centers, sports facilities, amusement facilities, organized events, parks, green areas, etc.
Hyderabad has now become one of the global IT centers in the world, with the presence
of a large number of Multinational Companies (MNCs) such as Google, Microsoft,
TCS, etc., and is emerging as the pharma capital of India. The city is also known as an
educational and medical hub, with the presence of reputed institutions, engineering
colleges and affordable hospital networks.
• This paradigm of development has opened up investment, employment and livelihood
opportunities to people across the country. This city has an efficient and reliable
physical infrastructure with a strong public transport network like the Hyderabad
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Metro, Outer Ring Road (ORR) and a large fleet of Green Buses. The growth and
development of Hyderabad as a global city is contributing significantly to the prosperity
of the State and to the overall economy of the country.
• The Outer Ring Road, officially as, Jawaharlal Nehru Outer Ring Road and abbreviated
as, O.R.R., is a 158-kilometer (98 mi), eight-lane ring road expressway encircling
Hyderabad, capital of the Indian state of Telangana. The expressway is designed for
speeds up to 100 kilometers per hour (62 mph), which later increased to 120 kilometers
per hour (75 mph).
• A large part, 124 kilometers (77 mi) (covering urban nodes viz. Hi- Tech city,
Nanakramguda Financial District, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, IKP Knowledge
park, Hardware Park, Telangana State Police Academy, Singapore Financial District,
and Games village) of the 158 kilometers (98 mi) was opened by December 2012.
• It gives easy connectivity between NH 44, NH 65, NH 161, NH 765 and NH 163 from
Hyderabad to Vijayawada and Warangal as well as state highways leading to
VikarabadNagarjuna Sagar and Karimnagar /Mancherial.
• The Outer Ring Road also helps in reducing the travel time from Rajiv Gandhi
International Airport to cities like Nizamabad & Adilabad as it connects to NH44. The
expressway is fenced and 33 radial roads connect it with the Inner Ring Road,and the
upcoming Regional Ring Road.
• Initially this project was taken up by HUDA (Hyderabad Urban Development
Authority), through its internal funding without political intervention of the state
government. In December 2022, Government of Telangana Planned to monetise the
outer ring road through the toll-operate-transfer (TOT) model and generate revenues
and called for tenders.
Land acquisition
• The First Phase land required was 750 acres (3.0 km2), out of which the private land
acquired was 500 acres (2.0 km2). The land required for Second Phase is about 5,500
acres (22 km2), of which the Govt. land is about 1,000 acres (4.0 km2). The estimated
Cost of Acquisition was ₹250 Crores.
Traffic studies
Hyderabad Metro
• Citizen mobility plays an important role in the development of a metropolis and
Hyderabad is no exception. Hyderabad Metro Rail (HMR) is an initiative to meet the
growing needs of transportation in Hyderabad.
• Based on the Mass Rapid Transit System (MRTS), the Metro Rail Project will reduce
traffic congestion across Hyderabad, lower pollution levels and improve the ‘livability
index’ of Hyderabad.
• This ambitious Project was awarded to Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
Mecca Masjid
• Makkah Masjid or Mecca Masjid, is a congregational mosque in Hyderabad, India. It
is the largest mosque in the city, and one of the largest mosques in the country, with a
capacity of 10,000 people. The mosque was built during the 17th century, and is a state-
protected monument. It serves as the primary mosque for the Old City of
Hyderabad,and is located close to the historic landmarks of Charminar, Chowmahalla
Palace and Laad Bazaar.
• Muhammad Qutb Shah, the sixth ruler of the Qutb Shahi dynasty, commissioned bricks
to be made from the soil brought from Mecca, the holiest site of Islam, and used them
in the construction of the central arch of the mosque, thus giving the mosque its name.
• The complex was put by UNESCO on its "tentative list" to become a World Heritage
Site in 2014, with others in the region, under the name Monuments and Forts of the
Deccan Sultanate (despite there being a number of different sultanates)
Hyderabad Culture
The culture of Hyderabad is a diverse one. Not only does it have an amalgamation of different
cultures, Hyderabad boasts of a rich cultural heritage too. Being ruled by the Asaf Jahi
dynasty, it came to be known as the “city of Nizams”. As this dynasty crumpled, the Mughals
took over and brought about a sea change in the cultural outlook of the people. Today
Hyderabad flourishes in its rich cultural history.
• The contemporary world sees this city as a blend of unique cultures with a touch of
modern lifestyle. In general, Hyderabadi people are regarded as very friendly and
hospitable. As a matter of fact, generosity is the other name of the Hyderabadis. They
take immense pleasure and pride in conversing in their local, characteristic and
vibrant Hyderabadi language, which is a mix of Urdu, Hindi, and Telugu. The
Charminar
• The Charminar is a monument located in Hyderabad, Telangana, India. Constructed in
1591, the landmark is a symbol of Hyderabad and officially incorporated in the emblem
of Telangana.
• The Charminar's long history includes the existence of a mosque on its top floor for
more than 425 years. While both historically and religiously significant, it is also known
for its popular and busy local markets surrounding the structure, and has become one
of the most frequented tourist attractions in Hyderabad.
• Charminar is also a site of numerous festival celebrations, such as Eid-ul-adha and Eid
al-Fitr,as it is adjacent to the city's main mosque, the Makkah Masjid.
• The Charminar is situated on the east bank of Musi River.To the west lies the Laad
Bazaar, and to the southwest lies the richly ornamented Makkah Masjid.It is listed as
an archaeological and architectural treasure on the official list of monuments prepared
by the Archaeological Survey of India.
• The English name is a translation and combination of the Urdu words chār and minar
or meenar, translating to "Four Pillars"; the towers are ornate minarets attached and
supported by four grand arches.
High Court
• The High Court stands on the south bank of the River Musi. This is one of the finest
buildings in the city, built in red and white stones in Saracenic style, by Nizam VII Mir
Osman Ali Khan the ruler of the princely state of Hyderabad.
• The plan of the High Court was drawn up by Shankar Lal of Jaipur and the local
engineer who executed the design was Mehar Ali Fazil. Its chief engineer was Nawab
Khan Bahadur Mirza Akbar Baig. The construction started on 15 April 1915 and was
completed on 31 March 1919. On 20 April 1920, the High Court building was
inaugurated by the seventh Nizam Mir Osman Ali Khan.
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• While digging the foundation for the High Court, ruins of the Qutb Shahi Palaces,
namely Hina Mahal and Nadi Mahal were unearthed. The High Court looks beautiful
and impressive from the Naya Pul Bridge at sunset.
• After its construction, a silver model of the High Court with a silver key was presented
to the Nizam VII Mir Osman Ali Khan by the Judiciary during the Silver Jubilee
Celebrations in 1936. The facsimile of the buildings was perfectly carved in a thick
sheet of silver weighing about 300 kg. The model is now in the Nizam's Museum in
Purani Haveli.
• The main building of the High Court was constructed in the year 1919 by the then
Nizam's Government accommodating six judges besides accommodation for the office
staff, record rooms, and Advocates' Hall.
• Nizamia Observatory
• Nizamia observatory is an optical observatory built by Nawab Zafar Jung Bahadur
member of the House of Paigah and Amir of the Khurshid Jahi estate and established
by Mahbub Ali Khan, Asaf Jah VI - the 6th Nizam of Kingdom of Hyderabad in 1901.
It participated in the Carte du Ciel making 463,542 observations. It boasted of an 8"
Cooke Astrograph and a 15" Grubb refractor telescope.
FESTIVALS
• Hyderabad emerged as the foremost centre of culture in India with the decline of the
Mughal Empire. After the fall of Delhi in 1857, the migration of performing artists
to the city particularly from the north and west of the Indian subcontinent, under the
patronage of the Nizam, enriched the cultural milieu. This migration resulted in a
mingling of North and South Indian languages, cultures and religions, which has
since led to a co-existence of Hindu and Muslim traditions, for which the city has
become noted. A further consequence of this north-south mix is that both Telugu and
Urdu are official languages of Telangana.
• The mixing of religions has also resulted in many festivals being celebrated in
Hyderabad such as Ganesh Chaturthi ( Khairtabad Ganesh is one of the tallest Lord
Ganesh Idol installed at Khairtabad, Hyderabad, India ), Diwali and Bonalu of Hindu
tradition and Eid ul-Fitr and Eid al-Adha by Muslims. Traditional Hyderabadi garb
also reveals a mix of Muslim and South Asian influences with men wearing sherwani
and kurta– paijama and women wearing khara dupatta and salwar kameez. Muslim
women also commonly wear burqas and hijabs in public. In addition to the traditional
Indian and Muslim garments, increasing exposure to western cultures has led to a rise
in the wearing of western style clothing among youths.
• It was founded by Nawab Zafar Yar JungBahadur, a rich Nobleman member of the
Paigah Nobility and an astronomer and the Amir of the Khursheed Jahi Paigah in
Hyderabad in 1901 when he bought a 6-inch telescope from England. He installed it in
Phisal Banda Palace, Hyderabad (Now Deccan Medical College and Owaisi Hospital).
ARTS
• Hyderabad has continued with these traditions in its annual Hyderabad Literary
Festival, held since 2010, showcasing the city’s literary and cultural creativity.
Organisations engaged in the advancement of literature include the Sahitya Akademi,
the Urdu Academy, the Telugu Academy, the National Council for Promotion of Urdu
Language, the Comparative Literature Association of India, and the Andhra
Saraswata Parishad. Literary development is further aided by state institutions such
as the State Central Library, the largest public library in the state which was
established in 1891, and other major libraries including the Sri Krishna Devaraya
Andhra Bhasha Nilayam, the British Library and the Sundarayya Vignana Kendram.
South Indian music and dances such as the Kuchipudi and Kathakali styles are
• The red color of the temple is due to the usage of sandstone (around 600 tonnes were
brought from Odisha which is being used to build this whole architecture) and around
60 stone carvers got the blessing to carve this temple.
• There are shrines dedicated to Lakshmi, along with Shiva, Ganesh, Hanuman and
Navagrahas. The amorous sculptures are also found outside the temple to ward off evil
spirits. The sanctum sanctorum houses Lord Jagannath along with his siblings, Lord
Balabhadra and Devi Subhadra.
Raymond's tomb
• Raymond's tomb is the tomb of Michel Joachim Marie Raymond, a French general in
the army of 2nd Nizam - Nizam Ali Khan, Asaf Jah II.
• The tomb, located in Hyderabad, India is a black granite tombstone, conical, about 7
meters high and it has the initials JR on it. The pavilion was built by the Nizam and
collapsed in October 2001 in heavy rain.
Rashtrapati Nilayam
• Rashtrapati Nilayam (literally the "President's House") formerly known as Residency
House is the official winter retreat of the President of India located in Hyderabad,
Telangana.
• Rashtrapati Nilayam was officially opened to the public in March 2023, allowing
visitors to explore its vast grounds, thematic gardens, and architectural marvels.
• The President stays here for at least two weeks during their winter sojourn visit and
conducts official business.
• It is also used as a guest house for visiting dignitaries. It is located in Bollaram in
Secunderabad, a neighborhood of Hyderabad.
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• Originally called the Residency House, it was constructed in 1860 by Nizam Nazir-ud-
Dowla.It became the country house of the British Resident at Secunderabad. After the
Hyderabad state's integration into the Indian Union (Read Operation Polo) in 1948, it
became the President's retreat and used as the Southern Sojourn.
• The decision to open the estate to the general public marked a significant step in making
India's presidential history more accessible and engaging for a wider audience.
Salarjung Museum
• The Salar Jung Museum is an art museum located at Dar-ul-Shifa, on the southern bank
of the Musi River in the city of Hyderabad, Telangana, India.
• It is one of the notable National Museums of India.
• Originally a private art collection of the Salar Jung family, it was endowed to the nation
after the death of Salar Jung III.
• It was inaugurated on 16 December 1951.
• It has a collection of sculptures, paintings, carvings, textiles, manuscripts, ceramics,
metallic artifacts, carpets, clocks, and furniture from Japan, China, Burma, Nepal, India,
Persia, Egypt, Europe, and North America.
• It is one of the largest museums in the world.
Handicrafts
• The region is well known for its Golconda and Hyderabad painting styles which are
branches of Deccani painting. Developed during the 16th century, the Golconda style
is a native style blending foreign techniques and bears some similarity to the
Vijayanagara paintings of neighbouring Mysore. Significant use of luminous gold
and white colours is generally found in the Golconda style. The Hyderabad style
originated in the 17th century under the Nizams. Highly influenced by Mughal
painting, this style makes use of bright colours and mostly depicts regional landscape,
culture, costumes and jewellery.
• Cuisine Hyderabadi cuisine comprises a broad repertoire of rice, wheat and meat
dishes and theskilled use of various spices. Hyderabadi biryani and Hyderabadi
haleem, with their blend of Mughlai and Arab cuisines,have become iconic dishes of
India. Hyderabadi cuisine is highly influenced by Mughlai and to some extent by
French, Arabic, Turkish, Iranian and native Telugu and Marathwada cuisines. Other
popular native dishes include nihari, chakna, baghara baingan and the desserts qubani
ka meetha, double ka meetha and kaddu ki kheer (a sweet porridge made with sweet
gourd).
PALACES IN HYDERABAD
Q.2) Elucidate the geographical factors responsible for variation in population density
in Telangana
Introduction Population density, the number of people per unit area, varies across
Telangana due to several geographical factors that influence
settlement patterns, economic activities, and resource availability.
Q.3) Discuss the impact of coal-based power plants on the environment of Telangana
and its mitigative measures
Mitigative Measures:
Adopting Cleaner Technologies: Investing in cleaner coal
technologies, such as fluidized bed combustion and high-
efficiency plants, can reduce air pollutant emissions.
Additionally, implementing flue-gas desulfurization (FGD)
systems can capture sulfur oxides from emissions.
Promoting Renewable Energy Sources: Transitioning
towards renewable energy sources like solar, wind, and
Metal Handicrafts:
Pembarthi Metal Craft (2010) is known for its exquisite
brassware, which includes beautifully crafted plates, bowls,
and other decorative items. This craft has a rich history and
is traditionally known for its intricate designs and patterns
Karimnagar Silver Filigree (2007) is a delicate form of
metalwork made with silver. Artisans in Karimnagar create
intricate designs by twisting thin silver wire into delicate
loops, which are then soldered together to form various
objects like jewelry, utensils, and decorative items
Q.5) Explore the current state of tourism in Telangana and analyze the efforts
undertaken to develop this sector in the state.
Q.7) Explain the impact of the Hyderabad Metro Rail Project on urban mobility and
environmental sustainability in Hyderabad, with a focus on its unique features and
advantages.
Introduction The Hyderabad Metro Rail Project, embarked upon as the world's
largest mass transit endeavor in a Public-Private Partnership (PPP)
model, epitomizes a monumental shift in urban mobility and
environmental sustainability in Hyderabad. This project not only
facilitates efficient urban transportation but also significantly
contributes to the reduction of the city's carbon footprint through its
eco-friendly operations.
Q.8) Evaluate the effectiveness of the Telangana Electric Vehicle Policy (2020-2030) in
promoting sustainable transportation and reducing carbon emissions in the state.