ThinkRankIndia: Size and Location
Overview
This chapter introduces India’s location, size, and spatial extent. It explains how latitude and longitude influence climate, time, and regional diversity, and why India’s position in the Indian Ocean makes it strategically and economically important.
Learning Objectives
- Describe India’s latitudinal and longitudinal extent
- Explain the significance of the Tropic of Cancer
- Understand how location affects trade routes and time zones
Key Concepts
Latitudinal Extent and Climate
India stretches from the tropical zone in the south to the subtropical zone in the north. This north-south extent creates variations in temperature, monsoon patterns, and vegetation.
Longitudinal Extent and Time
Because India spans many longitudes, sunrise and sunset times vary widely. To avoid multiple local times, India follows one standard time based on 82.5°E.
Tropic of Cancer
The Tropic of Cancer divides India into near-equal halves and marks the transition between tropical and subtropical climates.
Central Location in the Indian Ocean
India’s central position gives it access to major sea routes linking Europe, Africa, and Southeast Asia, making it a maritime and trade hub.
Land and Water Extent
India’s land boundary and long coastline shape trade, defense, and cultural exchange through land and sea routes.
Neighbourhood and Borders
India shares land borders with several countries and has a long coastline. This shapes its security concerns, trade relations, and cultural exchanges.
Key Terms
Examples
Time Difference Across India
Arunachal Pradesh sees sunrise earlier than Gujarat due to longitudinal spread, even though both follow the same IST.
Maritime Significance
Ports on the west and east coasts enable trade with the Middle East, Africa, and Southeast Asia.
Quick Check
- Why is the Tropic of Cancer significant for India?
- How does longitude affect time?
- Why is India’s location considered strategic?