The NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Social Science Geography Chapter 7 Lifelines of National Economy discusses the significance of transportation and communication as vital components of a national economy. This chapter primarily focuses on transportation, which holds great importance for the examination. Students will explore various aspects such as roadways, railways, pipelines, waterways, seaports, and airways. Towards the end, the chapter also touches upon the topic of communication. Upon completing the chapter, students will encounter exercise questions designed to reinforce their understanding. To assist them in their studies, we have provided comprehensive NCERT Solutions for Class 10 Geography Social Science Chapter 7. These solutions offer answers to all the exercise questions, aiding students in their learning process.
1 . Multiple choice questions.
(i) Which two of the following extreme locations are connected by the east-west corridor?
(a) Mumbai and Nagpur
(b) Silchar and Porbandar
(c) Mumbai and Kolkata
(d) Nagpur and Siligudi
Ans. Silchar and Porbandar
(ii) Which mode of transportation reduces trans-shipment losses and delays?
(a) Railways
(b) Roadways
(c) Pipeline
(d) Waterways
Ans. Pipeline
(iii) Which one of the following states is not connected with the H.V.J. pipeline?
(a) Madhya Pradesh
(b) Maharashtra
(c) Gujarat
(d) Uttar Pradesh
Ans. Maharashtra
(iv) Which one of the following ports is the deepest land-locked and well-protected port along the east coast?
(a) Chennai
(b) Paradwip
(c) Tuticorin
(d) Vishakhapatnam
Ans. Vishakhapatnam
(v) Which one of the following is the most important modes of transportation in India?
(a) Pipeline
(b) Railways
(c) Roadways
(d) Airways
Ans. Railways
(vi) Which one of the following terms is used to describe trade between two or more countries?
(a) Internal trade
(b) International trade
(c) External trade
(d) Local trade
Ans. International trade
2 . Answer the following questions in about 30 words.
(i) State any three merits of roadways.
Ans. Three merits of roadways are-
Cost-effective construction: The construction cost of roads is significantly lower compared to that of railway lines. This makes road transportation a more financially feasible option for connecting various locations.
Economical for short distances: Road transport proves to be economical when it comes to transporting a small number of individuals or a relatively lesser amount of goods over shorter distances. It provides a convenient and cost-effective solution for local transportation needs.
Versatile terrain coverage: Roads have the ability to navigate through diverse and uneven topography. They can traverse through dissected and undulating landscapes more easily compared to other modes of transportation. This flexibility allows for greater connectivity and accessibility across different regions.
(ii) Where and why is rail transport the most convenient means of transportation?
Ans. Rail transport proves to be the most suitable and convenient means of transportation in the northern plains, effectively connecting the region and contributing to its economic development.
Level terrain: The northern plains are characterized by vast stretches of level land, which is ideal for the construction and operation of railways.
High population density: The northern plains have a dense population, with numerous towns, cities, and agricultural regions.
Rich agricultural resources: The northern plains are known for their fertile soils and abundant agricultural resources.
(iii) What is the significance of the border roads?
Ans. Border roads hold immense strategic significance, as they enhance accessibility in the border areas of a country, particularly in regions characterized by challenging terrain. These roads have played a crucial role in improving connectivity, fostering economic development, and facilitating the overall progress of these remote areas.
By providing reliable transportation infrastructure in areas with difficult terrain, border roads have enabled better access to essential services, resources, and markets. They have enhanced connectivity between remote communities and mainstream economic centers, opening up opportunities for trade, tourism, and investment. Additionally, these roads have facilitated the efficient movement of goods, including agricultural products and other essential commodities, stimulating economic growth and improving the quality of life for local residents.
Border roads play a vital role in promoting accessibility, economic development, and national security in challenging border regions. Their construction and maintenance contribute significantly to the overall progress and well-being of these areas, fostering growth, prosperity, and stability.
(iv) What is meant by trade? What is the difference between international and local trade?
Ans. Trade refers to the exchange of goods, services, or commodities between two or more parties. It involves buying and selling activities where goods are transferred from producers or suppliers to consumers or buyers in exchange for payment or other goods/services of value.
Local trade: Local trade, also known as domestic trade, refers to the buying and selling of goods and services within the borders of a particular country. It involves economic transactions conducted between individuals, businesses, or organizations operating within the same country.
International trade: International trade involves the exchange of goods and services between countries. It refers to economic transactions that occur across national borders, involving imports (goods and services brought into a country) and exports (goods and services sold to other countries).
3 . Answer the following questions in about 120 words.
(i) Why are the means of transportation and communication called the lifelines of a nation and its economy?
Ans. Transportation and communication are often referred to as the lifelines of a nation and its economy due to their crucial role in facilitating rapid development. Despite India’s vast size, diverse population, and linguistic and socio-cultural diversity, it has established extensive connectivity with the rest of the world. This has been made possible through various modes of transportation and communication such as railways, airways, waterways, newspapers, radio, cinema, television, and the internet.
These means of transportation and communication have contributed significantly to India’s socio-economic progress in numerous ways. They have facilitated the movement of people, goods, and services, enhancing trade and economic activities both domestically and internationally. Additionally, they have played a vital role in connecting different regions within the country, fostering cultural exchange, promoting tourism, and enabling the flow of ideas and information.
(ii) Write a note on the changing nature of the international trade in the last fifteen years.
Ans. International trade refers to the exchange of goods, services, and information between countries. Over the past fifteen years, international trade has undergone significant transformations. While the exchange of goods and commodities remains important, there has been a notable shift towards the exchange of information and knowledge.
For instance, India has emerged as a prominent player in the global software industry, earning substantial foreign exchange through the export of information technology services. This exemplifies the changing dynamics of international trade, where the exchange of intellectual property and digital services plays a crucial role alongside traditional goods.
The conduct of international trade is influenced by various factors, including the relationships between countries and external elements such as duties and tariffs imposed on the transportation of goods. Additionally, the last fifteen years have witnessed the emergence of different trade blocs, which have significantly impacted the practices and patterns of international trade. These trade blocs, characterized by regional integration and cooperation, have reshaped the landscape of international trade and introduced new dynamics and regulations.