SOLUTIONS
2022 BOARD EXAM
CBSE CLASS 12-HUMANITIES GEOGRAPHY Board Paper 2022 — Set 1
2022
GEOGRAPHY
CLASS 12-HUMANITIES
CBSE EXAMINATION PAPER-2022
GEOGRAPHY
(Solved)
General Instructions :
Read the following instructions carefully and follow them :
- This question paper contains 6 questions. All questions are compulsory.
- This question paper is divided into 3 sections.
- Section A – questions number 1 to 1 are case based questions
- Section B – questions number 2 to 4 are short answer
- Section C – questions number 5 to 6 are long answer
- There is no overall choice given in the question paper. However, an internal choice has been provided in few questions.
- Use of calculator is NOT allowed.
Section A
Question 1.
Read the following source and answer the questions that follow :
The concept of development is dynamic and has evolved during the second half of twentieth century. In the post World War II era, the concept of development was synonymous to economic growth which is measured in terms of temporal increase in Gross National Product (GNP) and per capita income/per capita consumption. But, even the countries having high economic growth, experienced speedy rise in poverty because of its unequal distribution. So, in 1970s, the phrases such as redistribution with growth and growth and equity were incorporated in the definition of development. While dealing with the questions related to redistribution and equity, it was realised that the concept of development cannot be restricted to the economic sphere alone. It also includes the issues such as improving the well-being and living standard of people, availing of the health, education and equality of opportunity and ensuring political and civil rights. By 1980s, development emerged as a concept encapsulating wide-spread improvement in social as well as material well-being of all in a society.
(1) Explain the meaning of 'Multidimensional concept of development'.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The 'Multidimensional concept of development' refers to an understanding of development that goes beyond mere economic growth measured by metrics like Gross National Product (GNP) and per capita income. It encompasses a variety of factors that contribute to the overall well-being of individuals and society. This includes improving the living standards, access to health care and education, ensuring equality of opportunity, and protecting political and civil rights. In the 1970s, it became evident that simple economic indicators did not adequately reflect the situation of many countries, where even economic growth was accompanied by rising poverty due to inequality in wealth distribution. Consequently, development began to be seen as a positive transformation that is holistic and integrates social, economic, and environmental considerations. By the 1980s, development had evolved into a comprehensive concept aimed at improving the social and material well-being of all members of society, highlighting the interconnectedness of economic, social, and environmental factors in the pursuit of progress.
Key Points: Economic growth alone is inadequate; focus on inequality; improvement of well-being; access to health and education; political and civil rights; holistic transformation; encapsulation of social and material well-being.
(2) Define the term 'sustainable development'.
[1 Marks]
Answer: Sustainable development is a holistic concept that emphasizes the need for positive, irreversible transformation in the economy, society, and environment, ensuring that current development meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. This concept emerged in response to the growing awareness of environmental issues and the realization that economic growth alone cannot ensure the well-being of society if it leads to environmental degradation and social inequalities. Sustainable development aims to balance economic growth, social equity, and environmental protection, advocating for a development process that enhances the quality of life for all, promotes health and education, and guarantees civil rights.
Key Points: holistic concept-economic growth-social equality-environmental protection-quality of life-education-health-civil rights
(3) Explain the difference between 'growth' and 'development'.
[1 Marks]
Answer: The concepts of 'growth' and 'development' often lead to confusion, yet they hold distinct meanings in the context of economics and societal well-being. 'Growth' refers to a quantitative increase in a country's economic output, typically measured by metrics such as Gross National Product (GNP) or per capita income. It is a value-neutral term; while it indicates an increase in economic activity, it does not provide insight into the distribution of wealth or the overall well-being of the population. For instance, a country may experience significant economic growth, yet a significant portion of its population could still live in poverty due to unequal distribution of resources. \n\nOn the other hand, 'development' entails a qualitative transformation in a society that emphasizes not just economic indicators but also the improvement of living standards, access to education and healthcare, and the promotion of equity and rights among its citizens. The shift in understanding towards development in the 1970s highlighted the importance of redistribution and equity alongside growth, emphasizing that sustainable progress must address both economic and social dimensions. Overall, while growth can occur without development, true development is contingent upon equitable growth that benefits all sections of society, thereby indicating that the two concepts, although related, are not synonymous.
Key Points: Growth is quantitative, value-neutral; Development is qualitative, value-positive; Growth does not guarantee equitable distribution; Development includes social well-being; Economic growth can coexist with poverty.
Section B
Question 2.
[2 Marks]
Why is ‘access to market’ essential for setting up industries in the world ? Explain.
Answer: Access to market is vital for setting up industries as it directly influences their profitability and sustainability. A market is defined not only by the presence of consumers but also by their purchasing power, allowing industries to sell their products. In areas with dense populations, like developed regions of Europe and North America, the potential customer base is large, promoting industrial growth. Conversely, remote areas with few people represent small markets, making them less viable for industries. Furthermore, industries that cater to global markets, like aircraft and arms manufacturing, require strategic locations that maximize access to potential buyers worldwide. Ultimately, without a reliable market, industries struggle to thrive, as the absence of demand limits production and economic viability.
Question 3.
[2 Marks]
“Tertiary activities includes both production and exchange.” Support the statement.
Answer: Tertiary activities encompass both the production and exchange of services, which are crucial for the economy. Production in this context refers to the provision of services that are consumed rather than tangible goods. For instance, professionals like plumbers and electricians offer essential services that do not yield physical products, yet are invaluable. Additionally, tertiary activities facilitate exchange through trade, transport, and communication, helping to connect producers and consumers. This exchange reduces distance barriers and enhances economic interactions. Thus, while tertiary activities may not handle raw materials like secondary sectors, they are vital in providing and exchanging services, significantly contributing to the economy’s overall functioning.
Question 4.
[2 Marks]
Mention any four features of the ‘South-Western Plateau Region’ mineral belt of India.
Answer: The South-Western Plateau Region of India is characterized by several notable features. First, it is rich in mineral resources, particularly ferrous metals such as iron ore, which are fundamental for the iron and steel industry. Second, this region includes vital mineral deposits of manganese, bauxite, and coal, supporting various industries. Third, the geography of the area comprises plateaus and hilly terrains, facilitating easier extraction of these minerals. Lastly, it spans across Karnataka, Goa, and parts of Tamil Nadu and Kerala, highlighting its economic significance in mineral extraction.
Section C
Question 5.
How are pollutants from human activities responsible for water pollution? Explain with examples.
[5 Marks]
Answer: Human activities have a profound impact on water quality, leading to significant water pollution. Key sources of these pollutants include industrial discharges, agricultural runoff, and improper waste disposal. For instance, untreated industrial waste released into rivers often contains heavy metals like lead and mercury, which can be toxic to aquatic life and accumulate in the food chain. Agricultural runoff frequently carries fertilizers and pesticides, resulting in nutrient overloads that cause eutrophication, leading to algae blooms that deplete oxygen levels and harm aquatic organisms. Additionally, sewage and human excreta can introduce harmful pathogens and bacteria into water bodies, resulting in health risks for humans and animals. These pollutants not only degrade the ecological balance of aquatic systems but also jeopardize human health and drinking water supplies, illustrating the urgent need for sustainable practices and proper waste management.
Question 6.
[5 Marks]
Define the term ‘trans-continental railways’. Describe the main characteristics of trans-Siberian railway.
Answer: Trans-continental railways are extensive railway networks that traverse a continent, linking its farthest geographical points. These railways were developed primarily for economic and political purposes, facilitating efficient transportation of goods and passengers across vast distances. One of the most significant examples is the Trans-Siberian Railway, which stretches approximately 9,332 kilometers from St. Petersburg in the west to Vladivostok in the east. This railway crosses major geographical features, including the Ural Mountains and significant rivers such as the Ob and Yenisei. It is fully electrified, making it one of the longest double-tracked railways globally. This vital route has significantly contributed to the integration of Russia's Asian regions with West European markets, promoting economic development. Key stops along the route include major cities like Moscow, Ufa, and Irkutsk, which serve as critical trade and cultural centers. Additionally, the Trans-Siberian Railway has vital connections to other regions, enhancing its importance as a transcontinental link.
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