1.3 - Asia: India
Key physical features and biomes of India
India, located in South Asia, spans over 3.2 million km² and is home to a diverse range of physical landscapes and biomes. Its geography includes towering mountains, extensive river systems, vast deserts, and lush tropical regions, shaping the country's climate and ecosystems.
Major physical features of India
- Himalayas - Forming the northern border, these are the world's highest mountains, acting as a natural barrier and influencing weather patterns.
- Ganges River - Stretching over 2,700 km, this river is vital for agriculture and supports millions of people across northern India.
- Brahmaputra River - Extending approximately 2,850 km, it flows through northeastern India, contributing to fertile floodplains.
- Thar Desert - Located in the northwest, this hot desert region experiences extreme aridity and sparse vegetation.
Dominant biomes across India
India's climate is predominantly tropical, leading to a variety of biomes that are shaped by regional temperature and rainfall patterns.
| Biome | Characteristics | Key Locations |
|---|---|---|
| Tropical rainforest | Hot and humid with heavy rainfall; features a dense canopy layer, lower tree layer, and sparse undergrowth due to limited light. Plants have thick, waxy, pointed leaves to shed water. | Southern and northeastern regions |
| Savanna grassland | Experiences distinct wet and dry seasons; supports grasses and scattered trees. | Central and southern areas, e.g., near Bangalore |
| Hot desert | Extremely dry with minimal vegetation; adapted plants like cacti survive here. | Northwest, in the Thar Desert |
| Mountains | High altitudes with cooler temperatures; vegetation varies with elevation. | Northern border, Himalayas |
Historically, tropical rainforests covered larger areas of India, but much has been cleared for timber and agricultural land use, reducing their extent significantly.
Population characteristics and growth in India
India is one of the most populous countries globally, with a population exceeding 1.3 billion. Its demographic profile and growth patterns reflect both opportunities and challenges for development.
Demographic features of India's population
- Population size - Over 1.3 billion people, making it the second-largest population in the world.
- Youthful population - Approximately 27% of the population is under 15 years old, indicating a large young demographic.
- Population growth - The population is increasing steadily due to a high birth rate of around 21 per 1,000 people per year and a low death rate of about 5 per 1,000 people per year.
- Life expectancy - Average life expectancy stands at roughly 71 years, which is relatively low compared to more developed nations.
- Literacy rate - About 73% of the population is literate, reflecting progress in education but also highlighting gaps in access.
Urbanisation trends and major cities in India
Despite its vast population, India remains predominantly rural, though urban areas are expanding rapidly due to migration and economic opportunities. This shift influences living conditions and infrastructure development.
Patterns of urbanisation in India
India has a predominantly rural population, with only about 36% of the population residing in urban areas. However, towns and cities are expanding quickly due to migration from rural areas, driven by the search for better employment prospects.
Major urban centres:
- New Delhi - The capital city, a political and administrative centre.
- Mumbai - A major financial hub with a population exceeding 22 million.
- Bangalore - Known for technology and innovation, with a population of over 15 million.
This urbanisation trend poses challenges such as overcrowding and strain on infrastructure, while also driving economic growth in key cities.
Economic development and challenges in India
India is classified as a newly industrialised country (NIC), indicating a transition from a primarily agricultural economy to one with growing industrial and service sectors. However, economic disparities and poverty remain significant issues.
Economic profile of India
- Economic size - India boasts the seventh-largest economy in the world by gross national income (GNI).
- GNI per head - Despite a large economy, the average income is low at approximately $2,100 US per year due to the vast population.
- Key industries - Agriculture remains crucial, with over 42% of the population reliant on farming for income. The textiles industry also plays a major role in providing livelihoods.
- Economic growth - Between 2015 and 2020, India's GNI grew by an average of 6.8% annually, reflecting rapid wealth accumulation.
Economic challenges facing India
- Wealth inequality - Economic gains are unevenly distributed, with around 19% of the population living below the poverty line as of recent estimates.
- Housing and sanitation issues - Many individuals, both in urban and rural areas, lack access to adequate housing and sanitation facilities, exacerbating health and social problems.
India's status as an NIC highlights its ongoing development, with significant strides in economic growth tempered by challenges in equitable distribution and infrastructure provision.