In Chapter 1: Geographical Diversity of India, students will explore the rich variety of land-forms that make up our nation — including mountains, plateaus, plains, coasts, deserts, and islands.
India is a land of stunning contrasts and vibrant landscapes. From the snow-capped peaks of the mighty Himalayas to the sun-baked sands of the Thar Desert, from the fertile Gangetic Plains to the lush hills of the Northeast, the geographical diversity of India is truly remarkable. This diversity not only shapes the physical features of our country but also influences the way we live, work, dress, and grow food. Each region has its own unique climate, vegetation, culture, and resources, which contribute to India’s identity as a “mini-continent” within Asia.
This chapter lays the foundation for understanding how geography affects people’s lives, how regions are interlinked, and why it’s important to conserve our natural environment. Through fascinating facts, maps, pictures, and activities, learners will discover how India’s physical features have shaped its history, civilizations, and cultural heritage over thousands of years.
Geographical Diversity of India class 7 Worksheet
Make learning fun and effective with our free downloadable worksheet for Chapter 1: Geographical Diversity of India. Packed with engaging activities, MCQs, fill in the blanks, map-based tasks, and revision questions — it’s the perfect companion for students, parents, and teachers!
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Geographical Diversity of India Notes
Introduction
- India is the 7th largest country in the world and part of the Asian continent.
- It is known for its geographical diversity, with mountains, plains, plateaus, deserts, coastal regions, and islands.
- These diverse features influence India’s climate, culture, vegetation, economy, and lifestyle.
Major Physical Features of India
- The Himalayas – Natural barrier in the north, source of major rivers.
- Gangetic Plains – Fertile land, dense population, agriculture hub.
- Thar Desert – Arid region with unique flora, fauna, and water conservation practices.
- Aravalli Hills – Ancient mountain range, natural barrier to desert expansion.
- Peninsular Plateau – Rich in minerals and forests, divided by Western and Eastern Ghats.
- Coastal Plains – Eastern and Western coastlines with deltas and estuaries.
- Islands – Andaman & Nicobar (Bay of Bengal) and Lakshadweep (Arabian Sea).
Importance of Geography
- Determines population distribution, farming, economy, transport, and cultural diversity.
- Influences regional climate, vegetation, and human settlements.
Geographical Diversity of India class 7 Question Answer
Q1. What are two important geographical features of India and why are they important?
Ans:
– The Himalayas – Provide water through rivers, act as a climate barrier, and are rich in biodiversity.
– The Gangetic Plains – Highly fertile, support dense population and agriculture.
Q2. Why is the southern part of India called a Peninsular Plateau?
Ans: Because it is surrounded by water on three sides (Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean), and consists of an elevated, flat region known as a plateau.
Q3. What would India look like without the Himalayas?
Ans: Without the Himalayas, India would have been more exposed to cold winds from Central Asia, resulting in a colder and drier climate. The major rivers that originate from the Himalayas would also not exist.
Q4. Why is India called a mini-continent?
Ans: India is called a mini-continent because of its variety in land-forms, climate, vegetation, culture, and biodiversity.
Q5. How does geography unite people in India?
Ans: Geography has encouraged adaptation and interdependence among different regions, leading to a shared heritage and cultural unity despite diversity.
Q6. What is the meaning of the word ‘Himalaya’?
Ans: The word ‘Himalaya’ comes from Sanskrit — ‘Hima’ means snow and ‘Alaya’ means abode. So, Himalaya means ‘Abode of Snow’.
Q7. Name the three ranges of the Himalayas. Describe them briefly.
Ans:
– Himadri (Greater Himalayas): Highest and most rugged, includes peaks like Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.
– Himachal (Middle Himalayas): Moderate climate, rich biodiversity, human settlements like Shimla and Darjeeling.
– Shivalik (Outer Himalayas): Lowest range with dense forests and rolling hills.
Q8. What is a cold desert? Where is it found in India?
Ans: A cold desert is a dry area with very low temperatures and little rainfall.
In India, the cold desert is in Ladakh, where temperatures can drop below –30°C.
Class 7 Social Science Chapter 1 Fill in the Blanks
- India is the __________ largest country in the world.
- The Himalayas are also known as the __________ of Asia.
- The __________ Desert is located in western India.
- The __________ Plateau lies between the Western and Eastern Ghats.
- The longest mountain range in India is the __________.
Class 7 Social Science Chapter 1 MCQ’s
Q1. Which of these rivers originates from the Himalayas?
a) Godavari
b) Krishna
c) Ganga
d) Kaveri
Q2. Which region is known as the ‘abode of snow’?
a) Aravallis
b) Thar Desert
c) Himalayas
d) Eastern Ghats
Q3. What is the capital city located in the Gangetic Plains?
a) Mumbai
b) Delhi
c) Chennai
d) Bengaluru
Q4. The Lakshadweep Islands are made of:
a) Volcanic rocks
b) Coral
c) Granite
d) Limestone
Q5. Which river forms a delta in the east coast of India?
a) Narmada
b) Godavari
c) Tapti
d) Yamuna