Here I am going to provide you CBSE Class 9 Geography Notes Chapter 1 - India – Size and Location. You can also Download PDF of these notes. India is a vast country located in South Asia, occupying a strategic position in the Eastern Hemisphere. It ranks seventh in area and second in population. Its location influences climate, trade, and culture. Bordered by oceans and nations, India holds geopolitical importance and connects ancient and modern civilizations. By going through India – Size and Location Class 9 Notes you will acquire a better command on this chapter. So, use these notes and do your best!!
Introduction
India is one of the most ancient civilizations in the world. Over the centuries, it has grown into a vast country with a rich cultural heritage, geographic diversity, and strong global presence. Its location and size have played a significant role in shaping its historical trade, climate patterns, cultural influences, and geopolitical relations.
Location of India
➤ Latitudinal & Longitudinal Extent:
- Latitude: 8°4'N to 37°6'N
- Longitude: 68°7'E to 97°25'E
- The Tropic of Cancer (23°30'N) divides the country almost into two equal halves.
- Southernmost point: Indira Point (6°45'N) in Great Nicobar Island.
➤ Time Difference Across India:
- The easternmost and westernmost points have a time difference of almost 2 hours.
- Despite this, India follows a single time zone: Indian Standard Time (IST), based on 82°30'E longitude (near Mirzapur, Uttar Pradesh).
➤ India’s Position on the Globe:
- Lies in Northern Hemisphere and Eastern Hemisphere.
- Centrally located between East and West Asia.
- Close to major international sea routes of the Indian Ocean.
Size of India
- Total Area: ~3.28 million sq km (7th largest in the world).
- Occupies about 2.4% of the world’s land area.
- Land Boundary: 15,200 km
- Coastline: 7,516.6 km (including Andaman-Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands).
- North to South: 3,214 km | East to West: 2,933 km
- Population: 2nd most populous after China (~17% of world population)
Fun Fact: If India had two time zones, it could affect train timetables, TV broadcasts, and administrative coordination — which is why a unified IST is maintained.
India’s Neighbours
➤ Land Neighbours:
- Pakistan (west)
- Afghanistan (northwest)
- China, Nepal, Bhutan (north)
- Bangladesh, Myanmar (east)
➤ Maritime Neighbours:
- Sri Lanka – separated by Palk Strait & Gulf of Mannar
- Maldives – southwest of Lakshadweep in Arabian Sea
📌 Note: India shares the longest land border with Bangladesh (4,096 km).
India and the World
➤ Maritime Position:
- India’s southern peninsula projects into the Indian Ocean.
- Helps India maintain strategic control over trade and military routes.
➤ Historical Trade Routes:
- Land trade routes like the Silk Route connected India with Central Asia, Europe, and Far East.
- Sea trade routes linked Indian spices, textiles, and knowledge with Arabia, Rome, and Southeast Asia.
➤ Cultural Influence:
- India's contributions in math, philosophy, and religion (zero, Buddhism, Hinduism) spread globally via trade and pilgrimage.
Importance of Location for India
- Strategic Gateway: Between East and West
- Economic Advantage: Trade with Africa, Europe, East Asia
- Defense: Strong sea/naval position
- Climate Impact: Affects monsoon due to location near equator, Himalayas, oceans
Keywords & Definitions
| Term | Meaning |
|---|---|
| IST | Indian Standard Time (based on 82°30'E) |
| Mainland | The large landmass excluding islands |
| Peninsula | Land surrounded by water on three sides |
| Tropic of Cancer | Imaginary line dividing tropical & subtropical zones |
| Maritime | Related to the sea and navigation |
