INDIA-SIZE AND LOCATION

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India:Location

• Latitude and Longitude: India is positioned between approximately 8°4’N to 37°6’N latitude and 68°7’E to 97°25’E longitude. This vast stretch across latitudinal and longitudinal lines contributes to the country’s diverse climate and landscapes.
• Tropic of Cancer: The Tropic of Cancer, a significant circle of latitude, passes through the central part of India. This demarcation, situated around 23.5°N, marks the northernmost point where the sun appears directly overhead at least once a year. The Tropic of Cancer influences India’s climate zones, with the northern regions experiencing distinct seasons.
• Neighbouring Countries: India shares its borders with several countries, contributing to its geopolitical importance. To the northwest, there’s Pakistan; to the north are China and Nepal; Bhutan lies to the northeast; and Bangladesh and Myanmar are to the east. These diverse neighbors bring about a rich tapestry of cultures and historical interactions.
• Strategic Maritime Position: Beyond land borders, India’s southern peninsula extends into the Indian Ocean. This strategic maritime position enhances its trade routes and geopolitical significance. The Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east further shape India’s maritime boundaries.

India:Size

• Size and Global Ranking:
  • India’s total land area accounts for approximately 2.4% of the world’s geographical area, making it the 7th largest country globally.
• Land and Maritime Boundaries:
  • India shares a substantial land boundary of about 15,200 km, connecting with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, and Myanmar.
  • The total length of the coastline, encompassing the mainland, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Lakshadweep, stretches over 7,516.6 km. This extensive coastline provides India with access to the Arabian Sea in the west and the Bay of Bengal in the east.
• Geographical Features:
  • Bounded by mountains in the northwest, north, and northeast, India begins to taper south of approximately 22° north latitude. This tapering extends towards the Indian Ocean, forming the Arabian Sea to the west and the Bay of Bengal to the east.
• Standard Meridian and Time:
  • The Standard Meridian of India is situated at 82°30’E, passing through Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.
  • This meridian is the reference for India’s standard time, providing a unified time system across the country.

India and the World

• Central Location and Global Connectivity: India’s central position between East and West Asia has historically facilitated significant trade and cultural exchanges. The trans-Indian Ocean routes have been vital in connecting India with countries in Europe to the West and East Asia. This strategic location has made India a crucial player in the historical tapestry of global interactions.
• Indian Ocean Coastline: India boasts an extensive coastline along the Indian Ocean, unparalleled by any other country. This geographical feature has been pivotal in shaping India’s maritime history, trade relationships, and cultural exchanges. The Indian Ocean has served as a conduit for the exchange of goods, ideas, and cultures between India and the rest of the world.
• Historical Trade and Cultural Exchanges: Throughout history, India has been a hub for trade and cultural diffusion. Valuable commodities like spices and muslin were exported from India to various countries, showcasing the country’s economic significance on the global stage. Simultaneously, India absorbed influences from different parts of the world, evident in elements like Greek sculpture and architectural styles from West Asia.
• Cultural Impact: The influence of Greek sculpture, as well as architectural styles such as domes and minarets from West Asia, has left a lasting imprint on various aspects of Indian culture. This blending of influences reflects the dynamic nature of India’s engagement with the world, creating a unique and diverse cultural landscape.

India and Its Neighbours

• Northwest Boundaries: India’s northwest borders are shared with Pakistan and Afghanistan. This region has witnessed historical and geopolitical significance, influencing regional dynamics and diplomatic relations. The boundaries with Pakistan, in particular, have shaped India’s history and continue to impact the contemporary geopolitical landscape.
• Northern Boundaries: The northern boundaries of India extend to China (specifically Tibet), Nepal, and Bhutan. This vast stretch includes the towering Himalayan mountain range, a geographical feature that not only delineates borders but also has cultural, environmental, and strategic implications. The northern frontiers have been focal points for discussions on regional stability and cooperation.
• Eastern Boundaries: India shares its eastern boundaries with Myanmar and Bangladesh. These borders play a crucial role in regional trade, cultural exchanges, and diplomatic relations. The northeastern states of India, in proximity to these borders, have unique cultural diversity influenced by interactions with Myanmar, Bangladesh, and Southeast Asia.