Examine the transport and communication networks
in India, their importance in boosting trade, and how they act
as the lifelines of India’s economy.

Chapter 7: Lifelines of National Economy

Class 10 NCERT Geography: Contemporary India-II |
Questions Answers

Updated for 2024-2025 Exams

 

Q.1(i) Which
two of the following extreme locations are connected by the East-West
Corridor? 

Ans. (b)
Silchar and Porbandar

 

Q.1(ii) Which
mode of transportation reduces trans-shipment losses and delays? 

Ans. (c)
Pipeline

 

Q.1(iii) Which
one of the following states is not connected with the H.V.J. pipeline? 

Ans. (b)
Maharashtra

 

Q.1(iv) Which
one of the following ports is the deepest land-locked and well-protected port
along the east coast? 

Ans. (d)
Vishakhapatnam

 

Q.1(v) Which
one of the following is the most important mode of transportation in
India? 

Ans. (b)
Railways

 

Q.1(vi) Which
one of the following terms is used to describe trade between two or more
countries? 

Ans. (b)
International trade

 

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Q.2(i) State
any three merits of roadways. 

Ans. 

1. Road
construction costs are much lower than railway lines. 

2. Roads can
traverse difficult terrains like mountains and uneven land. 

3. Road
transport is economical for short distances and provides door-to-door service.

 

Q.2(ii) Where
and why is rail transport the most convenient means of transportation? 

Ans. Rail
transport is most convenient in the northern plains due to its vast level land,
dense population, and rich agricultural resources, making it ideal for
connecting people and transporting goods over long distances.

 

Q.2(iii) What
is the significance of border roads? 

Ans. Border
roads are crucial for the defense of a country, providing access to remote
areas and improving the accessibility and economic development of border
regions. They are maintained by the Border Roads Organisation (BRO).

 

Q.2(iv) What is
meant by trade? What is the difference between international and local
trade? 

Ans. Trade
refers to the exchange of goods and services. International trade occurs
between countries, while local trade is confined to a specific area such as
cities or villages within the same country.

 

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Q.3(i) Why are
the means of transportation and communication called the lifelines of a nation
and its economy? 

Ans.
Transportation and communication are called the lifelines of a nation because
they facilitate the movement of goods and services, people, and information
across regions, enabling economic activities to thrive. Efficient transport and
communication systems help industries by ensuring raw materials reach
production sites and finished products reach markets. They also contribute to
social and cultural integration by connecting people from different regions. A
well-connected transport network enhances trade, both domestically and
internationally, which boosts the economy. Without these systems, economic
development would be severely hampered as it depends on the seamless movement
of resources, people, and information.

 

Q.3(ii) Write a
note on the changing nature of international trade in the last fifteen
years. 

Ans. Over the
last fifteen years, international trade has evolved significantly.
Globalization, advancements in technology, and improved transportation networks
have accelerated trade between countries. E-commerce has emerged as a major
player, allowing businesses to trade goods and services digitally across
borders. India has increasingly exported services like information technology,
becoming a global leader in software exports. Moreover, the country has
diversified its trade portfolio, exporting agricultural products, chemicals,
and textiles, while importing crude oil, electronics, and machinery. Trade
agreements and partnerships have opened new markets, leading to a rise in
foreign investments. However, trade tensions, tariffs, and the recent impacts
of the COVID-19 pandemic have also reshaped global trade patterns.

 

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 Quiz Drive

1. Northern terminal
of the North-South Corridor: Srinagar 

2. The
headquarters of the Southern Railway Zone: Chennai 

3. The rail
gauge with a track width of 1.676 m: Broad Gauge 

4. A Riverine
Port: Kolkata 

5. Busiest
railway junction in Northern India: Mughalsarai Junction