Class 9 Social Geography Chapter 4 Geography of Assam
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Part II: Geography
Geography of Assam
Lesson-Based Questions &Answers
Short Answer Type Questions
1. How many physiographic divisions does Assam have, and what are they?
Ans: Assam has four physiographic divisions, namely:
(a) Brahmaputra Valley
(b) Barak Valley
(c) Karbi Plateau and
(d) Barail and the southern hill ranges.
2. How many physiographic regions are there in the Brahmaputra Valley, and what are they?
Ans: The Brahmaputra Valley has four physiographic regions:
(a) Northern foothill region
(b) Plains on the north and south banks of the Brahmaputra
(c) Floodplains and char-chapori (riverine island) regions of the Brahmaputra and
(d) Southern foothill region.
3. Write the names of four tributaries each of the north and south banks of the Brahmaputra.
Ans: The four tributaries on the north bank of the Brahmaputra are: Beki, Kaladia, Barnadi, and Pagladiya. On the other hand, the four tributaries on the south bank are: Kopili, Burhidihing, Dhansiri, and Dikhou.
4. Give a brief description of the plains of the Brahmaputra.
Ans: The Brahmaputra plains refer to the flat lands on both sides of the Brahmaputra River. The soil of these plains is very fertile. A large quantity of food grains, vegetables, and pulses are produced in this region. During the rainy season, the Brahmaputra and its tributaries flood the valley. As a result, silt is deposited, making the soil extremely fertile and suitable for the cultivation of various crops.
5. Give a brief description of the floodplain region of the Brahmaputra.
Ans: Assam is known as a riverine land. The plains on both sides of the Brahmaputra River are flooded every year during the rainy season; therefore, this region is called the floodplain. These floodplains are suitable for agriculture. Crops such as rice, jute, wheat, and pulses are abundantly grown here.
6. Write about the geographical location of Majuli.
Ans: Majuli is one of the largest river islands in the world, located in the middle of the Brahmaputra River. It lies in Jorhat district of Assam. Its area is 422 square kilometers. Its population is 1.68 lakh. Floods and erosion are causing significant damage to this island. This island is famous for its Satriyaculture.
7. Briefly describe the boundaries and characteristics of the Barak Valley.
Ans: The Barak Valley is located in the southern part of Assam. To its north lie the Meghalaya Plateau and the Barail ranges of North Cachar Hills. To the east are the hills of Manipur, to the south the Mizo Hills, and to the west, Bangladesh. The soil of the Barak Valley is fertile. A large amount of rice, evergreen vegetation, betel nut and leaf, and pulses are produced here. The length of this valley is 225 kilometers.
8. Briefly describe the boundaries and characteristics of the Karbi Plateau.
Ans: The Karbi Plateau is divided into two parts by the Kopili Valley in the east and west. The eastern part includes the Rengma Hills and extends to Diphu and Bokajan subdivisions of Karbi Anglong district. The western part includes the Hamren subdivision. The plateau slopes from southwest to northeast. Its average height above sea level is about 900 meters.
9. Briefly describe the characteristics of the Barail and southern hill ranges.
Ans: The Barail hills connect the Naga Hills in the east with the Meghalaya Plateau in the west and divide the North Cachar Hills into two parts. The northern slope of this region falls under the Barak Valley. Rice cultivation is good in this region, and in some areas, shifting cultivation (jhum) is also practiced.
10. Under which type of climate does Assam fall? Briefly describe its features.
Ans: Assam falls under the tropical monsoon climate of the northeastern part of India. It receives heavy rainfall during summer, and winters are relatively dry. The climate has high humidity and comparatively moderate temperatures. Due to the presence of forests, hills, and rivers, the weather varies from place to place.
11. What is the main cause of rainfall in Assam during summer?
Ans: Assam receives heavy rainfall in summer mainly due to monsoon winds. The southwest monsoon winds carry moisture from the Arabian Sea and, after striking the Himalayas and Meghalaya hills, cause heavy rainfall. The climate has a high degree of humidity.
12. Briefly discuss the geographical factors influencing the climate of Assam.
Ans: Geographically, Assam falls under the monsoon climate. Due to variations in topography, the climate differs from region to region. Seasonal changes in air pressure over northwest India also influence Assam’s climate. During summer, a low-pressure area develops locally over the plains of Assam.
13. How many main seasons are there in Assam? Briefly write about the distribution of temperature and rainfall.
Ans: Assam experiences six seasons: summer, monsoon, autumn, pre-winter (hemanta), winter, and spring. Temperature and rainfall vary from season to season. Heavy rainfall occurs during summer and monsoon due to monsoon winds. Autumn has almost no rainfall with clear skies. Slight rainfall occurs during pre-winter and winter due to retreating monsoon winds. Spring is mostly dry but receives some rainfall. Winters are short, while summers experience increased heat.
14. Name the places with the highest and lowest rainfall in Assam and state the amount.
Ans: The place with the highest rainfall in Assam is Lakhimpur, receiving an average of 336 cm annually. The place with the lowest rainfall is Lumding, receiving about 129 cm annually.
15. Why does rainfall not occur equally in all parts of Assam?
Ans: Assam is a state full of rivers, hills, forests, and uneven terrain. These physical features influence weather and climate. For example, during summer, monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal cause heavy rainfall in the Himalayan foothills and Meghalaya, while in winter, rainfall is very low in most parts of Assam. Thus, due to variations in natural conditions, rainfall is not uniform everywhere.
16. Briefly write about the spatial distribution of rainfall in Assam.
Ans: See answer to question no. 15 above.
17. Briefly describe the types of soils found in Assam.
Ans: The soils of Assam are divided into four types: alluvial soil, piedmont soil, hill soil, and lateritic (gravelly) soil. Alluvial soil is widely found in the Brahmaputra and Barak valleys and is very fertile. It is of two types: new alluvial and old alluvial. Piedmont soil is found in the foothill regions of the Himalayas and consists of mixed rocks, sand, and clay. Hill soil is found in the southern hilly regions and varies in fertility. It contains nitrogen and organic matter. It is of two types: red sandy soil and red loamy soil, formed mainly by weathering of rocks. Gravelly soil is found in parts of Dima Hasao and southern Karbi Plateau and is usually blackish and sandy in structure.
18. What are the causes of soil degradation in Assam?
Ans: Soil degradation in Assam is caused by both natural and human factors. Natural factors include soil erosion on hill slopes, floods, river currents, and erosion. Human causes include:
(a) Deforestation leading to soil erosion
(b) Shifting cultivation in hilly areas
(c) Use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides
(d) Artificial water blockage causing soil weakening and erosion
19. What is the present population of Assam?
Ans: According to the 2011 Census, the population of Assam is 31.16million.
20. Into how many types can the forests of Assam be divided?
Ans: The forests of Assam can be divided into five types:
(a) Tropical evergreen forest
(b) Tropical semi-evergreen forest
(c) Riverine forest
(d) Tropical moist deciduous forest
(e) Tropical dry deciduous forest
21. What is meant by rainforest? Write the characteristics of the rainforests of Assam.
Ans: Forests found in areas receiving annual rainfall of 300 cm or more are called rainforests. Rainforests of Assam have three layers:
(a) Tall trees
(b) Medium height trees
(c) Shrubs and small vegetation.
These forests are mainly found in the Himalayan foothills, near Arunachal Pradesh, and along the Meghalaya border.
22. Briefly write about the importance and present crisis of riverine forests.
Ans: Riverine forests are found in the moist areas along rivers and wetlands in Assam. These forests are very important. They contain tall trees as well as grasses and shrubs. Major trees include Som, Uriam, Ajar, and others. Examples include Kaziranga, Dibru-Saikhowa, Pobitora, and Orang. These forests provide valuable timber, medicinal plants, and fodder. They also prevent riverbank erosion, reduce pollution, maintain ecological balance, and help regulate rainfall.
23. Write the location and area of Kaziranga National Park.
Ans: Kaziranga National Park is located in Golaghat, Nagaon, and Sonitpur districts of Assam. Its area is 858.98 square kilometers.
24. Write the names and locations of national parks in Assam.
Ans:
Kaziranga National Park – Golaghat, Nagaon, and Sonitpur districts.
Manas National Park – Chirang and Baksa districts
Orang National Park – Udalguri and Sonitpur districts
Nameri National Park – Sonitpur district
Dibru-Saikhowa National Park – Dibrugarh and Tinsukia districts
25. How do wildlife sanctuaries maintain ecological balance?
Ans: Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks play an important role in maintaining ecological balance. These protected forests provide habitats for animals like elephants, tigers, rhinoceroses, deer, monkeys, buffaloes, and various birds. They protect these species from extinction. They are also rich in valuable trees such as Sal, Teak, Gamari, and others. These trees prevent soil erosion and help regulate carbon dioxide levels while supplying oxygen necessary for life.
Thus, forests help maintain ecological balance.
26. Write about the changes in the administrative divisions of Assam after Independence.
Ans: After Independence, there have been many changes in the administrative divisions of Assam. During British rule, Assam included Meghalaya, Nagaland, and Sylhet of present-day Bangladesh. At that time, Assam had 11districts, and its capital was Shillong. After Independence, Nagaland was separated in 1963, Meghalaya in 1970, and Mizoram in 1971 from Assam. The capital of Assam was also shifted from Shillong to Dispur in Guwahati. After independence, the number of districts in Assam has increased to 33.
27. How many districts are there in Assam at present? Write the names of the districts and their headquarters.
Ans: At present, Assam has 33 districts. The names of the districts and their headquarters are given below:
| No. | District | Headquarters |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Barpeta | Barpeta |
| 2 | Dhubri | Dhubri |
| 3 | Chirang | Kajalgaon |
| 4 | Bongaigaon | Bongaigaon |
| 5 | Kokrajhar | Kokrajhar |
| 6 | Goalpara | Goalpara |
| 7 | Nalbari | Nalbari |
| 8 | Baksa | Mushalpur |
| 9 | Kamrup | Amingaon |
| 10 | Kamrup Metropolitan | Guwahati |
| 11 | Darrang | Mangaldai |
| 12 | Udalguri | Udalguri |
| 13 | Sonitpur | Tezpur |
| 14 | Lakhimpur | North Lakhimpur |
| 15 | Dhemaji | Dhemaji |
| 16 | Nagaon | Nagaon |
| 17 | Morigaon | Morigaon |
| 18 | Golaghat | Golaghat |
| 19 | Jorhat | Jorhat |
| 20 | Sivasagar | Sivasagar |
| 21 | Dibrugarh | Dibrugarh |
| 22 | Tinsukia | Tinsukia |
| 23 | Karbi Anglong | Diphu |
| 24 | Dima Hasao | Haflong |
| 25 | Karimganj | Karimganj |
| 26 | Cachar | Silchar |
| 27 | Hailakandi | Hailakandi |
| 28 | Charaideo | Sonari |
| 29 | Majuli | Garamur |
| 30 | Biswanath | Biswanath Chariali |
| 31 | South Salmara-Mankachar | Hatsingimari |
| 32 | Hojai | Hojai |
| 33 | West Karbi Anglong | Hamren |
28. What is the total area of Assam? Where is its capital located? Which are the largest and smallest districts by area?
Ans: The total area of Assam is 78,438 square kilometers. Its capital is located at Dispur in Guwahati. In terms of area, the largest district is Karbi Anglong, and the smallest district is Kamrup Metropolitan.
29. According to the 2011 Census, what is the population of Assam? Name the largest and smallest districts by population.
Ans: According to the 2011 Census, the population of Assam is 31.16million. In terms of population, Nagaon district has the highest population with 2.8 million, and the smallest district is Dima Hasao with a population of 2.1 lakh.
30. Write short notes:
(a) Assam and Monsoon Climate
Ans: Assam falls under the tropical monsoon climate. It is influenced by the southwest monsoon in summer and the northeast monsoon in winter. It receives heavy rainfall in summer, while winters remain dry.
(b) Southwest Monsoon Winds
Ans: During summer, southwest monsoon winds blow over Assam. Due to these winds, heavy rainfall occurs during June, July, and August every year.
(c) Northeast Monsoon Winds
Ans: During winter, especially in October and November, Assam is influenced by northeast monsoon winds. These winds bring winter season, and fog is common during nights and early mornings.
(d) Rainy Season of Assam
Ans: The rainy season in Assam generally lasts from June to September. This period is usually warm, and due to the southwest monsoon winds, heavy rainfall occurs.
(e) Pre-Monsoon Season of Assam
Ans: The pre-monsoon season in Assam refers to the period from March to May. During this time, mornings are moderately warm, afternoons are hot, and nights also feel warm. Occasional rainfall occurs at night.
(f) Spatial Distribution of Rainfall in Assam
Ans: The spatial variation of rainfall in Assam is significant. Higher rainfall occurs in hilly areas and foothills. Upper Assam districts like Tinsukia, Dibrugarh, Dhemaji, Lakhimpur, and Sivasagar, as well as lower Assam districts like Kokrajhar, Dhubri, Karimganj, and Hailakandi, receive more than 250 cm of rainfall annually.
(g) Administrative Division of Assam
Ans: For administrative convenience, Assam is divided into several districts. Each district is further divided into subdivisions. At present, Assam has 33 districts. The head of a district is called the Deputy Commissioner, and the head of a subdivision is called the Sub-Divisional Officer.
(h) BTAD
Ans: The full form of BTAD is Bodoland Territorial Area District. It was formed in 2003 by combining four districts of Assam: Kokrajhar, Chirang, Baksa, and Udalguri. In this region, autonomy has been granted to the Bodotribal people.
Additional Questions and Answers
1. What is meant by shifting cultivation (jhum cultivation)?
Ans: The cultivation practiced temporarily on sloping hill sides by clearing forests and tilling the soil with simple tools is called jhum cultivation.
2. Name a foreign country located to the north of Assam.
Ans: Bhutan.
3. When was Meghalaya separated from Assam?
Ans: In 1970.
4. How many wildlife sanctuaries are there in Assam?
Ans: 18.
5. What is the name of the largest city in Northeast India?
Ans: Guwahati.
6. What are deciduous plants?
Ans: Plants that shed their leaves during winter are called deciduous plants.
7. What is the average annual rainfall in Assam?
Ans: 200 cm.
Multiple Choice Questions (MCQs)
1. How many physiographic divisions does Assam have?
(a) Three
(b) Four
(c) Five
(d) Six
Ans: (b)
2. Which is the largest river of Assam?
(a) Barak
(b) Brahmaputra
(c) Subansiri
(d) Dhansiri
Ans: (b)
3. Which valley is located in southern Assam?
(a) Brahmaputra Valley
(b) Barak Valley
(c) Imphal Valley
(d) Teesta Valley
Ans: (b)
4. Which plateau is found in Assam?
(a) Malwa Plateau
(b) Karbi Plateau
(c) Deccan Plateau
(d) Chotanagpur Plateau
Ans: (b)
5. Which type of climate does Assam have?
(a) Desert climate
(b) Tropical monsoon climate
(c) Polar climate
(d) Mediterranean climate
Ans: (b)
6. Which season brings heavy rainfall in Assam?
(a) Winter
(b) Summer
(c) Monsoon
(d) Spring
Ans: (c)
7. Which river forms Majuli island?
(a) Barak
(b) Ganga
(c) Brahmaputra
(d) Yamuna
Ans: (c)
8. Which soil is most common in Assam’s plains?
(a) Black soil
(b) Red soil
(c) Alluvial soil
(d) Laterite soil
Ans: (c)
9. Which district is the largest in Assam by area?
(a) Dibrugarh
(b) Nagaon
(c) Karbi Anglong
(d) Kamrup
Ans: (c)
10. Which is the smallest district in Assam by area?
(a) Hojai
(b) Kamrup Metropolitan
(c) Nalbari
(d) Barpeta
Ans: (b)
11. Which national park is famous for one-horned rhinoceros?
(a) Manas
(b) Orang
(c) Kaziranga
(d) Nameri
Ans: (c)
12. Which is the capital of Assam?
(a) Shillong
(b) Guwahati
(c) Dispur
(d) Silchar
Ans: (c)
13. Which wind causes rainfall in Assam?
(a) Trade winds
(b) Monsoon winds
(c) Westerlies
(d) Polar winds
Ans: (b)
14. Which type of forest is found along river banks in Assam?
(a) Evergreen forest
(b) Deciduous forest
(c) Riverine forest
(d) Thorn forest
Ans: (c)
15. Which crop is mainly grown in Assam?
(a) Wheat
(b) Rice
(c) Maize
(d) Barley
Ans: (b)
16. Which is a major tributary of Brahmaputra?
(a) Yamuna
(b) Kosi
(c) Subansiri
(d) Godavari
Ans: (c)
17. Which hill range is found in southern Assam?
(a) Himalayas
(b) Aravalli
(c) Barail Range
(d) Vindhya
Ans: (c)
18. Which place in Assam receives highest rainfall?
(a) Guwahati
(b) Lakhimpur
(c) Silchar
(d) Jorhat
Ans: (b)
19. Which is the main occupation of people in Assam?
(a) Industry
(b) Agriculture
(c) Trade
(d) Fishing
Ans: (b)
20. Which foreign country lies to the north of Assam?
(a) Nepal
(b) Bhutan
(c) China
(d) Bangladesh
Ans: (b)
21. Which physiographic division of Assam is most prone to floods?
(a) Karbi Plateau
(b) Barail Hills
(c) Brahmaputra Valley
(d) Meghalaya Plateau
Ans: (c)
22. Which factor mainly influences the climate variation in Assam?
(a) Longitude
(b) Soil type
(c) Topography
(d) Population
Ans: (c)
23. Which type of soil is found in foothill regions of Assam?
(a) Alluvial soil
(b) Piedmont soil
(c) Black soil
(d) Red soil
Ans: (b)
24. Which district of Assam has the highest population according to the 2011 Census?
(a) Kamrup
(b) Dibrugarh
(c) Nagaon
(d) Jorhat
Ans: (c)
25. Which natural factor causes soil erosion in Assam?
(a) Industrialization
(b) Floods
(c) Urbanization
(d) Mining
Ans: (b)
26. Which forest type is found in areas with rainfall above 300 cm?
(a) Thorn forest
(b) Deciduous forest
(c) Rainforest
(d) Grassland
Ans: (c)
27. Which region of Assam is divided by the Kopili River?
(a) Barak Valley
(b) Karbi Plateau
(c) Brahmaputra Valley
(d) Barail Hills
Ans: (b)
28. Which is the main reason for formation of floodplains in Assam?
(a) Wind erosion
(b) River deposition
(c) Volcanic activity
(d) Glacial movement
Ans: (b)
29. Which season in Assam is known for clear skies and almost no rainfall?
(a) Summer
(b) Monsoon
(c) Autumn
(d) Spring
Ans: (c)
30. Which administrative change occurred after independence in Assam?
(a) Formation of new rivers
(b) Separation of states like Nagaland and Meghalaya
(c) Change in climate
(d) Increase in rainfall
Ans: (b)
