SEBA Class 10 Social Science Geography Chapter 4 Geography of Assam

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SEBA Class 10 Social Science Geography Chapter 4 Geography of Assam

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Geography of Assam

GEOGRAPHY

1. Write briefly about Assam’s land area, population and population density with necessary data.

Ans: Assam, one of the key states in North-East India, covers a total land area of approximately 78,438 square kilometers, which accounts for 2.4% of India’s total area. According to the Census of India 2011, the total population of Assam was 3.12 crore (31.2 million). With this population and land area, the population density of Assam stood at around 398 persons per square kilometer. Assam is geographically significant as it connects the entire North-Eastern region to mainland India through a narrow land corridor and is thus known as the gateway of North-East India.

2. Briefly mention how the literacy rate of Assam is increasing.

Ans: According to the 2001 Census data, the literacy rate in Assam was 63.25%. By the 2011 Census, it had risen to 72.19%, marking an increase of nearly 9 percentage points over a decade. This reflects a significant improvement in the state’s educational development.

3. How many first class and second class towns are there in Assam as per 2011 census data?

Ans: Assam had a total of 7 First Class Towns (population 1,00,000 or more) and 6 Second Class Towns (population between 50,000 to 99,999). Guwahati was the largest first class town with a population of 9,68,549, followed by Silchar and Dibrugarh. Among the second class towns, Dhubri was the most populous with 65,756, followed by Diphu. Urbanization in Assam has been steadily increasing, reflected in the growing number of towns and urban population.

4. Describe the trend of population growth in Assam during 1901-2011.

Ans: The population of Assam has shown a dynamic and fluctuating trend during the period from 1901 to 2011. In 1901, the population of Assam was 32.89 lakh (3,289,680), which was 1.38% of India’s total population. From that point onwards, the population steadily increased over the decades.

Early Period (1901–1941):

Between 1901 and 1941, Assam’s population more than doubled, reaching 66.94 lakh (6,694,790) in 1941, constituting 2.10% of the total Indian population. 

The decadal growth rates during this period were:

1901–1911: 16.99%

1911–1921: 20.48%

1921–1931: 19.90%

1931–1941: 20.40%

Post-Independence Period (1951–2011):

After India’s independence, Assam witnessed a sharp increase in population growth, particularly in the decades:

1951–1961: 34.98%

1961–1971: 34.95%

This steep rise can be attributed to high birth rates and large-scale migration, especially due to the partition and political instability in neighboring regions.

However, from 1971 onwards, the growth rate began to decline gradually:

1971–1981: (decline begins)

1981–1991: further decline

1991–2001: continues to fall

2001–2011: the decline becomes more visible

This decline in the population growth rate is mainly due to decreasing birth rates and increased control on illegal migration, especially from Bangladesh, supported by growing awareness and government initiatives.

5. Analyse the geographical region-wise distribution of population in Assam.

Ans: (i) Brahmaputra Valley Region:

This region houses nearly 85% of Assam’s population, with a density of 470 persons per sq km (2011 census). Its high population is due to favorable climate, plain topography, and good communication. It’s divided into three sub-regions:

Upper Brahmaputra Valley: 21% of the population, density 305 persons per sq km.

Middle Brahmaputra Valley: 27% of the population, density 595 persons per sq km.

Lower Brahmaputra Valley: 36% of the population, density 558 persons per sq km.

(ii) Barak Valley Region: This region holds 11% of the population, with a density of 524 persons per sq km. Fertile soil and good infrastructure contribute to its high population concentration.

(iii) Hill Region: Comprising Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao districts, this region holds 3.75% of the population, with a density of 76 persons per sq km, due to challenging terrain and sparse settlements.

6. Briefly discuss the causes responsible for variation in the distribution of Assam’s population with suitable examples.

Ans: According to the 2011 Census, Assam had a population of 31 million with a density of 398 persons per sq km. About 85% of the population lives in the Brahmaputra Valley, 11% in the Barak Valley, and 3.75% in the Hill region (Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao). Population density varies by region: Brahmaputra Valley has 470 persons/sq km, Barak Valley 524 persons/sq km, and the Hill region 76 persons/sq km. These variations are mainly due to climatic conditions, topography, economic development, transport and communication facilities, and resource availability. The Brahmaputra and Barak Valleys have higher densities due to fertile land, agriculture, and good transport networks, while the Hill region has sparse population due to tough terrain. Kamrup (Metro) has the highest density (2010 persons/sq km) and Dima Hasao the lowest (44 persons/sq km), highlighting how better facilities attract more population.

7. Mention the districts of Assam which have highest population and density and lowest population and density as per 2011 census data.

Ans: According to the 2011 Census, Nagaon district stands out as the most populous district in Assam, recording a total population of 2,826,006 individuals. On the other hand, Dima Hasao district ranks as the least populated, with a population of only 213,529.

In terms of population density, Kamrup Metropolitan district holds the highest position with 2,010 persons per square kilometer, making it the most densely populated area in the state. In contrast, Dima Hasao once again records the lowest density, with just 44 persons per square kilometer.

8. Analyse briefly the causes responsible for growth of population in Assam.

Ans: Causes for the Growth of Population in Assam:

(i) Natural Causes: The decline in death rates and rise in birth rates have contributed to Assam’s population growth. Improved medical facilities, better living standards, and economic development over the decades have lowered mortality and maintained a high birth rate. These rates are now nearly aligned with the national averages.

(ii) Migration: Migration is a major factor behind Assam’s abnormal population growth. Although migration started around 1826, it intensified in the early 1900s. A significant influx occurred during the Partition with Hindu refugees arriving from East Pakistan. Between 1951 and 2001, continuous migration from Bangladesh led to Assam’s population growing by 232%, compared to the national growth rate of 185%. In recent years, migration has slightly decreased.

9. Mention the different human migration streams sequentially coming to Assam since the ancient times to the present.

Ans: The following are the various human migration streams that have sequentially arrived in Assam from ancient times to the present day:

(i) Austric Group: The first wave was of the Austric people, who came from Southeast Asia. The Khasis and Jaintias (of Meghalaya) belong to this group. Some settled in Karbi Anglong, Dima Hasao, and Cachar.

(ii) Mongoloid Group: The second wave consisted of the Mongoloid Tibeto-Burman-speaking people. They came from Central Asia and include all major tribal groups of Assam (such as the Bodo, Mishing, Rabha, Karbi, Dimasa, Garo, etc.).

(iii) Aryans: The Aryans belonged to the Caucasoid race. They migrated to the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys, bringing with them Vedic culture. Communities like the Kalitas, Kayasthas, and Brahmins are part of this group.

(iv) Muslim Soldiers: In the 13th century, Muslim soldiers under the leadership of Muhammad bin Bakhtiyar Khilji came to Assam. Some settled here, leading to the growth of the Muslim community.

(v) Ahoms: In 1228, the Ahom people (of Mongoloid origin) migrated from the Shan plateau of Myanmar. They established a kingdom in Upper Assam and ruled for nearly 600 years.

(vi) British Period Migration: During British rule, people were brought from Bengal, Bihar, Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Nepal. Tribal people from Chotanagpur were brought to work in the tea gardens.

(vii) Migration from Bangladesh: In the late 19th century and after 1947, Muslim and Hindu refugees migrated from East Bengal (now Bangladesh). This migration continues even today.

(viii) Inter-State Migration: For economic, social, and educational reasons, people from Rajasthan, Punjab, Bihar, West Bengal, and Manipur have settled in Assam.

10. Give the ethnic identity of the Ahoms.

Ans: The Ahoms, belonging to the Mongoloid racial group, migrated to Assam in the 13th century. Under the leadership of Sukaphaa, a group of Ahoms arrived in Assam in 1228, crossing the Patkai Hills from the Shan Plateau of northern Myanmar. They initially settled in Upper Assam and gradually extended their control over a large part of the region. The Ahoms ruled Assam for nearly 600 years, significantly shaping the society, culture, and political structure of the state. Their influence left a lasting impact on Assamese religion, society, and culture. Today, a major section of the Assamese population is descended from the Ahoms. They are predominantly found in the districts of Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Sivasagar, Jorhat, Golaghat, Lakhimpur, Dhubri, Morigaon, Nagaon, and Sonitpur.

11. Briefly state how the transport system of Assam has been helping the state’s economy.

Ans: The transport system plays a crucial role in Assam’s economic development by connecting different regions and facilitating the exchange of resources, knowledge, and culture. Assam, rich in natural resources like tea, oil, and natural gas, relies on an efficient network of roadways, railways, waterways, and airways to develop its agriculture, industry, and trade sectors. As the gateway to the Northeast, Assam’s transport system not only supports its own economy but also serves as a lifeline for neighboring states. It enables the import of essential goods and the export of local products, thus significantly boosting the state’s economy and linking it with the rest of India.

12. Write a short note on water transport in Assam.

Ans: Assam’s water transport mainly depends on its rich inland waterways, with the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers and their tributaries contributing 32% of India’s water resources. The 891 km stretch of the Brahmaputra (Sadiya to Dhubri) was declared the country’s second National Waterway in 1988, and the 121 km stretch of the Barak river became the sixth National Waterway in 2013. 

These waterways are crucial for the economic development of the northeast.

The Central Inland Waterways Corporation and the Directorate of Inland Water Transport manage Assam’s ferry services. Pandu (near Guwahati) is the main port, and there are around 96 ferry services operating on the Brahmaputra, Barak, and their tributaries, along with private ferries and bhoot-bhooty services.

13. Mention five major causes which are regarded as hindrance to the development of transport system of Assam.

Ans: Assam has excellent potential for developing an efficient transport system, but several factors have acted as major obstacles. 

The main causes for the underdevelopment of the transport system in Assam are:

(i) Challenging Topography: The varied geographical features of Assam  hills, plateaus, plains, floodplains, and wetlands make the expansion and maintenance of transport networks difficult.

(ii) Limited Connectivity with the Rest of India: Assam is linked to mainland India through a narrow corridor (the Siliguri Corridor), which restricts the expansion of transport routes and increases vulnerability.

(iii) Unsuitable Soil and Climatic Conditions: Many areas have soil unsuitable for durable road construction. Moreover, heavy rainfall frequently damages roads, which are often built without modern technology.

(iv) Lack of Industrial Growth: An underdeveloped transport system hampers industrial growth, and conversely, the lack of industries reduces demand for better transport infrastructure.

(v) Neglect of the Tourism Sector: Insufficient promotion of the tourism sector has resulted in missed opportunities for expanding and modernizing the transport system.

14. What do you mean by the term ‘resource’? What are the major natural resources of Assam?

Ans: Resources are materials that directly or indirectly fulfill human needs and wants. Natural resources are those that are created by nature without human involvement.

Assam is rich in natural resources. The land here is mainly made up of alluvial soils brought by the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers. These soils are highly fertile and support the cultivation of crops like rice, jute, pulses, and vegetables. The older alluvial soils in the higher plains are also suitable for growing rice and tea. According to 2009–10 data, about 35% of Assam’s land is used for cultivation.

Although deforestation has reduced forest cover due to population pressure, Assam still remains rich in forest resources. It has various types of tropical forests that are home to valuable trees like Nahar, Cham, Bamboo, and others. These forests provide timber, firewood, fruits, medicinal plants, and more. Assam’s forests are also habitats for many animals like the one-horned rhinoceros, elephants, tigers, and deer. About 34% of the state’s land area is under forest cover, and 72% of these are reserved forests. Assam has 5 national parks and 20 wildlife sanctuaries.

Assam is also rich in mineral resources, though they have not been fully utilized because of difficult terrain and environmental challenges. Important minerals found here include petroleum, natural gas, coal, and limestone. Major oilfields are located in Digboi, Naharkatia, and Geleki. Coal is found in regions like Makum and Jaipur, and limestone is mainly found in the hill districts of Karbi Anglong and Dima Hasao. Other minerals such as iron ore, feldspar, quartz, and clay are also present.

Water resources are another major asset of Assam. The presence of the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers, along with their tributaries and the state’s high rainfall, has blessed Assam with abundant surface and groundwater resources. Assam holds nearly one-third of India’s total water resources and supports a wide variety of fish and aquatic plants through its wetlands and marshes.

15. Name the major oil fields of Assam.

Ans: The major oil fields of Assam are Digboi, Naharkatia, Moran-Hugrijan, Rudrasagar, Lakowa, Geleki, Borhola, and Amaguri.

16. Write briefly about the water resources of Assam.

Ans: Assam, known as the land of rivers, has abundant water resources, with the Brahmaputra and Barak rivers and their tributaries accounting for 32% of India’s total water resources. These rivers serve as major waterways, supporting the state’s inland water transport system. The Brahmaputra (891 km) was declared the second National Waterway in 1988, while the Barak river (121 km) became the sixth National Waterway in 2013. This water transport system plays a vital role in Assam’s economy, offering a cheap means for transporting goods and passengers, especially to areas lacking road connectivity.

17. What are the causes responsible for degradation of Assam’s natural resources?

Ans: The degradation of Assam’s natural resources is mainly due to human activities. Rapid population growth has increased the demand for settlements and food crops, leading to the clearing of forests, filling of wetlands, and overuse of agricultural lands. Unsustainable land use has caused soil erosion, fertility loss, and pollution. The expansion of agriculture by converting forests and wetlands, along with the excessive use of chemical fertilizers, has further harmed the environment. Unscientific mining for transport, industry, and energy needs is exhausting mineral resources. Moreover, unplanned urbanisation and industrialisation have led to severe air, water, and land pollution. Overall, irrational and unsustainable exploitation of resources has greatly accelerated their degradation.

18. How has the growing population of Assam put impact on the natural resources?

Ans: Assam is blessed with abundant natural resources like land, forests, minerals, and water. However, due to the ever-increasing population, these resources are depleting at a fast pace. The growing population has created a huge demand for human settlements, leading to large-scale deforestation, filling of wetlands, and occupation of fertile agricultural lands. This has caused serious environmental degradation, with forests, wetlands, and marshy areas rapidly disappearing. Furthermore, to meet the rising food requirements, agricultural activities have expanded into forested and wetland areas. The intensive use of chemical fertilizers to boost crop production has led to a decline in soil fertility and contributed to soil pollution, worsening the situation further.

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