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ICSE CLASS X — GEOGRAPHY (HCG Paper 2)

HIGH-PROBABILITY PREDICTION PAPER FOR 13 MARCH 2026

Maximum Marks: 80 Time allowed: Two hours

Answers to this Paper must be written on the paper provided separately. You will not be allowed to write during the first 15 minutes. This time is to be spent in reading the question paper. The time given at the head of this Paper is the time allowed for writing the answers.

Attempt all questions from Section A and any four questions from Section B. The intended marks for questions or parts of questions are given in brackets [ ].

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SECTION A (40 Marks)

Attempt all questions from this Section.

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Question 1 — Topographical Map Study

Study the extract of the Survey of India topographical map sheet provided (Map Extract: A coastal region with a fishing village).

[20]

The map extract covers a coastal area at a scale of 2 cm to 1 km (1:50,000). The area shown lies between Eastings 32 to 40 and Northings 18 to 26. Key features visible on the map include: - A coastline running along the western edge with a sandy beach and creek - A fishing village named "Devpur" located at grid square 3521, with scattered huts and a jetty - A metalled road running NE-SW connecting Devpur to the town of "Khandala" in grid square 3824 - A perennial river (the "Ghod Nadi") entering from the east at grid square 3923 and draining into the sea at 3320 - Contour lines showing a gentle slope rising from the coast (sea level) to 100 metres near Khandala - Mangrove vegetation along the creek near grid square 3420 - A temple (marked with the conventional sign) at grid square 3622 - A causeway across the river at grid square 3722 - Coconut plantations scattered in grid squares 3521 and 3621 - A lighthouse marked at grid square 3219

(a) Give the six-figure grid reference for: - (i) The temple [1] - (ii) The lighthouse [1]

(b) What is the direction of Khandala from Devpur? [1]

(c) Calculate the area of the map extract in square kilometres. [2]

(d) Measure the distance in kilometres along the metalled road from Devpur to Khandala. (Students should assume the road length along the path is approximately 7.4 cm on the map.) [2]

(e) Name any two conventional signs or symbols visible on the map extract. [1]

(f) What type of drainage pattern is formed by the Ghod Nadi and its tributaries? Give a reason for your answer. [2]

(g) What type of settlement pattern is observed in Devpur? Give a reason for your answer. [2]

(h) What is the main occupation of the people living in Devpur? Give two evidences from the map to support your answer. [2]

(i) Draw a cross-section from grid reference 3218 to 3824 and mark the following: - (i) The coastline - (ii) The river - (iii) Khandala

Also calculate the vertical exaggeration if the horizontal scale is 2 cm = 1 km and the vertical scale is 2 cm = 100 m. [6]

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Question 2 — Map Work

On the outline map of India provided: [10]

Mark and label the following:

(a) The Malabar Coast [1]

(b) The river Godavari [1]

(c) The Thar Desert [1]

(d) Laterite soil region in Kerala [1]

(e) The Western Ghats [1]

(f) Hirakud Dam [1]

(g) Kolkata — a major port city [1]

(h) Tropical evergreen forests in Assam [1]

(i) Bhilai steel plant [1]

(j) The Konkan Railway [1]

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Question 3 — Short Answer Questions

Answer briefly: [10]

(a) Differentiate between alluvial soil and black soil on the basis of their formation. [2]

(b) What is "rainwater harvesting"? State one method of rainwater harvesting practised in urban areas. [2]

(c) Name two states in India where coffee is grown. State one geographical condition required for the growth of coffee. [2]

(d) What is the "Golden Quadrilateral"? Name any two cities connected by it. [2]

(e) Give a reason why solar energy has great potential in India. Name one state where solar energy is being harnessed on a large scale. [2]

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SECTION B (40 Marks)

Attempt any four questions from this Section.

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Question 4 — Climate of India [10]

(a) (i) Name the two branches of the South-West Monsoon. [1] (ii) Explain why the Arabian Sea branch of the South-West Monsoon brings heavy rainfall to the western coast of India but very little to the Deccan Plateau. [2]

(b) Study the climatic data given below for a station in India and answer the questions that follow: [4]

Month	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Temp (°C)	24.5	25.2	27.3	28.8	30.1	28.4	27.0	26.8	27.2	27.8	26.5	25.0
Rainfall (mm)	25	10	5	18	45	350	620	510	280	170	65	30

(i) Calculate the total annual rainfall of the station. (ii) Calculate the annual range of temperature. (iii) Which season receives the maximum rainfall? Name the wind system responsible. (iv) Identify whether this station is likely to be on the western coast or in the interior of India. Give one reason.

(c) Explain the role of jet streams in influencing the onset and withdrawal of the Indian monsoon. [3]

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Question 5 — Soil Resources [10]

(a) (i) What is soil erosion? [1] (ii) Explain any two causes of soil erosion in India. [2] (iii) Suggest two methods of soil conservation suitable for hilly regions. [2]

(b) Differentiate between red soil and laterite soil on the basis of: [3] - (i) Formation - (ii) Colour and composition - (iii) Distribution in India (name one state each)

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Black soil is ideal for the cultivation of cotton. - (ii) Alluvial soil is the most widely spread and important soil of India.

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Question 6 — Natural Vegetation and Water Resources [10]

(a) (i) What are tropical deciduous forests? [1] (ii) Differentiate between tropical moist deciduous forests and tropical dry deciduous forests on the basis of rainfall received and one example of tree species found in each. [2] (iii) Why are tropical deciduous forests commercially the most important forests in India? [1]

(b) (i) What is "social forestry"? State two objectives of social forestry programmes. [2]

(c) (i) Name any two multipurpose river valley projects in India. State the rivers on which they are built. [2] (ii) Why are multipurpose river valley projects called the "temples of modern India"? [2]

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Question 7 — Minerals and Energy Resources [10]

(a) (i) Name the two types of iron ore found in India. [1] (ii) State two differences between hematite and magnetite. [2] (iii) Name two leading iron ore producing states in India. [1]

(b) (i) Differentiate between conventional and non-conventional sources of energy. Give one example of each. [2] (ii) What is nuclear energy? Name two nuclear power stations in India and the states where they are located. [2]

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Non-conventional sources of energy are gaining importance in India. - (ii) Petroleum is called "liquid gold."

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Question 8 — Agriculture [10]

(a) (i) What is "intensive farming"? [1] (ii) State three geographical conditions required for the growth of rice. [3] (iii) Name two important rice-producing states in India. [1]

(b) (i) Compare the geographical conditions required for the growth of tea and coffee under the following heads: [3] - Temperature - Rainfall - Soil type

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Sugarcane cultivation is shifting from northern India to southern India. - (ii) Jute is mainly grown in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta region.

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Question 9 — Manufacturing Industries [10]

(a) (i) Name two agro-based industries and two mineral-based industries in India. [2] (ii) State four factors that influence the location of industries. [2]

(b) With reference to the cotton textile industry in India: [3] - (i) Name two important centres of cotton textile industry in India. - (ii) Why is Mumbai called the "Manchester of India"? - (iii) State one problem faced by the cotton textile industry in India today.

(c) With reference to the iron and steel industry: [3] - (i) Name any two integrated steel plants in India and the states where they are located. - (ii) Why was TISCO (Tata Iron and Steel Company) set up at Jamshedpur? Give two reasons related to the availability of raw materials.

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Question 10 — Transport and Waste Management [10]

(a) (i) Name the four types of roads in India based on their construction and maintenance. [2] (ii) What is the National Highway Development Project (NHDP)? Name any two components of NHDP. [2]

(b) With reference to Indian Railways: [3] - (i) Name the three gauges used in the Indian railway system. - (ii) State two advantages of railways as a means of transport. - (iii) Why is the "Uni-gauge" project important?

(c) (i) What is e-waste? Name two items that contribute to e-waste. [1] (ii) Differentiate between biodegradable and non-biodegradable waste. Give one example of each. [2]

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ANSWER KEY

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Question 1 — Topographical Map Study

(a) Six-figure grid references: [2] - (i) Temple: 362224 (The temple is located approximately in the centre of grid square 3622. The six-figure reference is obtained by subdividing the grid square into tenths — approximately Easting 362, Northing 224.) - (ii) Lighthouse: 321192 (Located approximately at Easting 321, Northing 192 within grid square 3219.)

(b) Direction of Khandala from Devpur: North-East (NE) [1]

(c) Area of the map extract: [2] - The map covers Eastings 32 to 40 = 8 grid squares horizontally. - Northings 18 to 26 = 8 grid squares vertically. - At a scale of 2 cm = 1 km, each grid square on the map represents 1 km x 1 km = 1 sq. km. - However, at 1:50,000, each grid square (2 cm x 2 cm on map) = 1 km x 1 km. - Total area = 8 x 8 = 64 sq. km

(d) Distance along the metalled road: [2] - Road length on the map = 7.4 cm (given). - Scale: 2 cm = 1 km. - Actual distance = 7.4 / 2 = 3.7 km

(e) Two conventional signs visible: [1] - Temple (shown with a conventional sign) - Lighthouse - (Also acceptable: metalled road, causeway, mangrove vegetation, jetty)

(f) Drainage pattern: [2] - Dendritic (tree-like) drainage pattern. - Reason: The Ghod Nadi and its tributaries join at acute angles, resembling the branches of a tree. This pattern develops in regions where the underlying rock is of uniform resistance (e.g., alluvial plains or gently sloping coastal areas).

(g) Settlement pattern: [2] - Nucleated (compact) settlement pattern in Devpur. - Reason: The huts and dwellings are clustered closely together near the coast and the jetty, indicating a compact settlement. This is common in fishing villages where people settle close to their source of livelihood (the sea).

(h) Main occupation: [2] - Fishing is the main occupation of the people of Devpur. - Evidence 1: The presence of a jetty indicates that boats are used for fishing. - Evidence 2: The village is located along the coastline with access to the sea, which is a natural fishing ground. (Also acceptable: coconut plantation suggests agriculture as a secondary occupation.)

(i) Cross-section from 3218 to 3824: [6] - The cross-section should show: - Starting at the coast (0 m/sea level) at grid reference 3218. - The coastline marked near the starting point. - A gentle rise in elevation moving eastward. - The river (Ghod Nadi) shown as a dip/depression in the cross-section (approximately at grid reference 3521-3622). - A gradual rise to approximately 100 m near Khandala at 3824. - Khandala marked at the highest point on the right side of the cross-section. - Vertical Exaggeration (V.E.): - Horizontal scale: 2 cm = 1 km = 1000 m → 1 cm = 500 m - Vertical scale: 2 cm = 100 m → 1 cm = 50 m - V.E. = Horizontal scale / Vertical scale = 500 / 50 = 10 times

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Question 2 — Map Work

(a) Malabar Coast — Mark along the south-western coast of India (Kerala coast, from Goa to Kanyakumari). [1]

(b) River Godavari — Mark the river originating near Nashik (Trimbakeshwar) in Maharashtra and flowing south-eastward to drain into the Bay of Bengal in Andhra Pradesh. [1]

(c) Thar Desert — Mark in the western part of Rajasthan, extending into parts of Gujarat and bordering Pakistan. [1]

(d) Laterite soil in Kerala — Shade/label the region along the Western Ghats in Kerala. [1]

(e) Western Ghats — Mark the mountain range running along the western coast from the Tapi valley in the north to Kanyakumari in the south. [1]

(f) Hirakud Dam — Mark on the Mahanadi river in Odisha (near Sambalpur). [1]

(g) Kolkata — Mark on the eastern coast of India in West Bengal, on the banks of the Hooghly river. [1]

(h) Tropical evergreen forests in Assam — Shade/label the north-eastern region around the Brahmaputra valley and hills of Assam. [1]

(i) Bhilai steel plant — Mark in Chhattisgarh (Durg district). [1]

(j) Konkan Railway — Mark along the western coast from Roha (Maharashtra) to Mangalore (Karnataka). [1]

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Question 3 — Short Answer Questions

(a) Difference between alluvial soil and black soil (formation): [2]

Alluvial Soil	Black Soil
Formed by the deposition of sediments brought by rivers (transported soil). Found in river valleys, flood plains, and deltas.	Formed by the weathering of volcanic basalt rocks (Deccan lava) — it is a residual soil. Found in the Deccan Plateau region.

(b) Rainwater harvesting: [2] - Rainwater harvesting is the technique of collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops, land surfaces, or rock catchments for later use, rather than allowing it to run off. - One urban method: Rooftop rainwater harvesting — rainwater from rooftops is collected through pipes and stored in underground tanks or used to recharge the groundwater table through recharge pits/bore wells.

(c) Coffee-growing states and conditions: [2] - Two states: Karnataka and Kerala (also acceptable: Tamil Nadu). - One geographical condition: Coffee requires a hot and humid climate with moderate rainfall (150-250 cm), well-drained, rich, loamy soil, and a temperature range of 15°C to 28°C. Shade trees are essential to protect coffee plants from direct sunlight.

(d) Golden Quadrilateral: [2] - The Golden Quadrilateral is a national highway network connecting the four major metropolitan cities of India — Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata — forming a quadrilateral shape. It is one of the largest highway projects in the world, managed by NHAI under the NHDP. - Two cities: Delhi and Mumbai (or any two of the four).

(e) Solar energy in India: [2] - Reason: India has great potential for solar energy because it receives abundant sunlight throughout the year, with most parts receiving 4-7 kWh of solar radiation per sq. metre per day. India's tropical location ensures about 300 clear sunny days in many regions, especially in the western and southern parts. - One state: Rajasthan (home to the Bhadla Solar Park, one of the largest solar parks in the world). Gujarat is also acceptable.

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Question 4 — Climate of India

(a) South-West Monsoon: [3] - (i) The two branches are: Arabian Sea branch and Bay of Bengal branch. - (ii) The Arabian Sea branch strikes the Western Ghats at a right angle, and the moisture-laden winds are forced to rise along the windward side (western slopes). This orographic uplift causes heavy rainfall (200-400 cm) on the western coast (Konkan, Malabar). After crossing the Western Ghats, the winds descend on the leeward side (eastern slopes) and lose their moisture. This descent creates a rain shadow area over the Deccan Plateau, which therefore receives scanty rainfall (50-100 cm).

(b) Climatic data analysis: [4] - (i) Total annual rainfall = 25 + 10 + 5 + 18 + 45 + 350 + 620 + 510 + 280 + 170 + 65 + 30 = 2128 mm - (ii) Annual range of temperature = Highest temp (May: 30.1°C) - Lowest temp (Jan: 24.5°C) = 5.6°C - (iii) The South-West Monsoon season (June to September) receives the maximum rainfall. The wind system responsible is the South-West Monsoon winds (moisture-laden winds from the Indian Ocean and Arabian Sea). - (iv) This station is likely on the western coast of India. - Reason: The very high total annual rainfall (2128 mm), the very high rainfall during June-August (the monsoon months), and the low annual range of temperature (5.6°C — indicating maritime/coastal influence) all point to a station on the western coast such as Mumbai, Goa, or Mangalore.

(c) Role of jet streams: [3] - Jet streams are high-altitude (9-12 km) narrow bands of fast-moving westerly winds. - Onset of monsoon: During summer (June), the Sub-Tropical Westerly Jet Stream (STWJ) withdraws from the Indian subcontinent and shifts northward beyond the Himalayas. Simultaneously, the Tropical Easterly Jet Stream (TEJ) develops over peninsular India. The withdrawal of the STWJ and the establishment of the TEJ help in the reversal of upper-air circulation, which triggers the sudden onset (burst) of the South-West Monsoon over India. - Withdrawal of monsoon: In September-October, the STWJ begins to re-establish itself south of the Himalayas. The TEJ weakens and retreats. This shift in the jet streams causes the monsoon winds to weaken and gradually withdraw from the Indian subcontinent, starting from north-western India and moving south-eastward by December.

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Question 5 — Soil Resources

(a) Soil erosion: [5] - (i) Soil erosion is the removal and transportation of the top fertile layer of soil from one place to another by natural agents such as wind, running water, or glaciers, often accelerated by human activities. - (ii) Two causes of soil erosion in India: 1. Deforestation — Cutting down trees removes the vegetative cover that holds the soil in place with its roots. Without this cover, the topsoil is easily washed away by rain or blown away by wind. 2. Overgrazing — Excessive grazing by livestock destroys the grass cover and loosens the topsoil, making it vulnerable to erosion by wind and water. - (iii) Two methods of soil conservation for hilly regions: 1. Terrace farming (terracing) — Cutting step-like flat surfaces on the hill slopes reduces the speed of running water and prevents soil from being washed downhill. 2. Contour ploughing — Ploughing along the contour lines (across the slope rather than up and down) creates natural barriers that slow down water flow and reduce soil erosion.

(b) Differences between red soil and laterite soil: [3]

Basis	Red Soil	Laterite Soil
(i) Formation	Formed by the weathering of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks (granite, gneiss) in areas of moderate rainfall.	Formed by the leaching process in regions of heavy tropical rainfall and high temperature. Silica is leached away, leaving behind oxides of iron and aluminium.
(ii) Colour and composition	Reddish colour due to the presence of iron oxide. Sandy to clayey in texture. Deficient in lime, nitrogen, and humus.	Brick-red to yellowish colour due to high content of iron oxide and alumina. Poor in nitrogen, potash, lime, and humus due to heavy leaching.
(iii) Distribution	Found in parts of Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and eastern Rajasthan.	Found in parts of Kerala, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu (hill summits), and parts of Assam, Meghalaya.

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Black soil is ideal for cotton cultivation because it has a high moisture-retaining capacity. It swells when wet and develops cracks when dry, allowing air to circulate deep into the soil. This self-ploughing quality (known as "self-aeration") is beneficial for the deep roots of the cotton plant. Black soil is also rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, potash, and lime — all nutrients needed for cotton growth. - (ii) Alluvial soil is the most widely spread and important soil because it covers about 40% of India's total land area, found across the entire Indo-Gangetic Plain, coastal strips, and river deltas. It is highly fertile, rich in potash, phosphoric acid, and lime, and supports the growth of a wide variety of crops including rice, wheat, sugarcane, and pulses. It is the most productive agricultural soil, sustaining the food requirements of the majority of India's population.

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Question 6 — Natural Vegetation and Water Resources

(a) Tropical deciduous forests: [4] - (i) Tropical deciduous forests (also called monsoon forests) are forests found in regions with a moderate amount of seasonal rainfall (70-200 cm). The trees shed their leaves during the dry season (hot weather season) for about six to eight weeks to conserve water. These are the most widespread forests in India. - (ii) Differences:

Basis	Tropical Moist Deciduous Forests	Tropical Dry Deciduous Forests
Rainfall	Found in regions receiving 100-200 cm of rainfall.	Found in regions receiving 70-100 cm of rainfall.
Tree species	Teak, sal, rosewood, sandalwood, bamboo. Example: Teak.	Tendu, palas, amaltas, neem, babool. Example: Tendu.

• (iii) Tropical deciduous forests are commercially the most important because they contain valuable timber trees like teak and sal which are in high demand for furniture, construction, and railway sleepers. These forests are less dense than evergreen forests, making the trees more accessible for commercial exploitation and logging.

(b) Social forestry: [2] - (i) Social forestry refers to the management and protection of forests and the raising of trees on public and community lands (such as village commons, roadsides, canal banks, and wasteland) with the active participation of local communities. The goal is to meet the needs of rural and urban populations for fuel, fodder, timber, and environmental protection. - Two objectives: 1. To meet the growing demand for firewood, fodder, and small timber for the rural population. 2. To reduce pressure on existing natural forests and prevent deforestation by providing an alternative source of forest products.

(c) Multipurpose river valley projects: [4] - (i) Two projects: 1. Bhakra Nangal Project — built on the Sutlej River (in Himachal Pradesh / Punjab border). 2. Hirakud Project — built on the Mahanadi River (in Odisha). - (ii) Multipurpose river valley projects are called the "temples of modern India" (a phrase coined by Jawaharlal Nehru) because, like temples that were centres of community life in ancient India, these projects serve multiple purposes that are vital for the development and prosperity of the nation. They provide irrigation for agriculture, generate hydroelectric power for industries and households, control floods, improve inland navigation, provide drinking water, promote fisheries, offer recreational facilities, and support afforestation — thereby contributing to economic growth and modern nation-building.

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Question 7 — Minerals and Energy Resources

(a) Iron ore: [4] - (i) Two types: Hematite and Magnetite. - (ii) Differences:

Hematite	Magnetite
Contains about 60-70% iron content.	Contains about 72% iron content (highest among all iron ores).
Colour is reddish (red oxide of iron).	Colour is black and it has magnetic properties.
Most widely mined iron ore in India.	Found in smaller quantities in India, mainly in Karnataka and Goa.

• (iii) Two leading iron ore producing states: Odisha and Jharkhand (also acceptable: Chhattisgarh, Karnataka, Goa).

(b) Energy resources: [4] - (i) Differences:

Conventional Sources	Non-Conventional Sources
Traditional sources of energy that have been in use for a long time.	Newer, alternative sources of energy developed in recent times.
Exhaustible / non-renewable (except hydroelectric power).	Inexhaustible / renewable.
Cause environmental pollution (CO₂, SO₂ emissions, etc.).	Eco-friendly and cause minimal pollution.
Example: Coal	Example: Solar energy

• (ii) Nuclear energy is the energy released during the fission (splitting) of heavy atoms such as uranium (U-235) or thorium in a nuclear reactor. The enormous heat generated is used to produce steam, which drives turbines to generate electricity.
• Two nuclear power stations:
  1. Tarapur Atomic Power Station — Maharashtra
  2. Kalpakkam (Madras Atomic Power Station) — Tamil Nadu

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Non-conventional sources are gaining importance because conventional sources like coal and petroleum are exhaustible (limited reserves) and their burning causes severe environmental pollution and global warming. Non-conventional sources like solar, wind, and biogas are renewable, eco-friendly, and sustainable. With India's growing energy demands, depleting fossil fuel reserves, and international commitments to reduce carbon emissions, there is an urgent need to develop and promote these alternative clean energy sources. - (ii) Petroleum is called "liquid gold" because it is an extremely valuable natural resource, vital for the economy. It is used as a fuel for transport, power generation, and industrial processes. It also serves as a raw material for the petrochemical industry, producing plastics, synthetic fibres, fertilizers, pharmaceuticals, and many other products. Its economic value, versatile applications, and limited availability make it as precious as gold.

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Question 8 — Agriculture

(a) Rice cultivation: [5] - (i) Intensive farming is a type of farming in which a small piece of land is cultivated with maximum input of labour, capital, fertilizers, and irrigation to obtain the highest possible yield per unit area. It is common in densely populated countries like India, China, and Japan where land is limited but labour is abundant. - (ii) Three geographical conditions for rice: 1. Temperature: Rice requires a high temperature of 20°C to 30°C during the growing season. A warm and humid climate is essential. 2. Rainfall: Rice needs abundant rainfall of 150-200 cm or assured irrigation. Standing water in paddy fields during the early growing stage is essential. 3. Soil: Deep, clayey, loamy soil that can retain water is ideal. Alluvial soil and deltaic soil are best suited for rice cultivation. - (iii) Two important rice-producing states: West Bengal and Tamil Nadu (also acceptable: Andhra Pradesh, Punjab, Uttar Pradesh).

(b) Comparison of tea and coffee: [3]

Condition	Tea	Coffee
Temperature	Cool climate: 20°C to 30°C with no frost. Requires warm days and cool nights.	Warm climate: 15°C to 28°C. Cannot tolerate frost. Shade trees are needed to protect from direct sunlight.
Rainfall	150-250 cm of well-distributed rainfall throughout the year.	150-250 cm of seasonal rainfall. Dry weather is needed during the ripening and harvesting period.
Soil	Deep, well-drained, loamy soil rich in humus and iron. Acidic soil (pH 4.5-5.5) is preferred. Hill slopes with good drainage are ideal.	Well-drained, rich, volcanic / laterite / loamy soil. Slightly acidic soil is preferred. Grown on hill slopes (600-1500 m altitude).

(c) Give reasons: [2] - (i) Sugarcane cultivation is shifting from north to south India because southern states like Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Tamil Nadu offer several advantages: the tropical climate provides a longer growing season (sugarcane can be harvested for a longer duration); the sucrose content in sugarcane grown in the south is higher due to the maritime climate; cooperative sugar mills in Maharashtra are more efficient; and the south is less affected by frost, which damages sugarcane crops in north India during winter. - (ii) Jute is mainly grown in the Ganga-Brahmaputra delta because this region provides ideal geographical conditions: hot and humid climate with temperatures of 25°C-35°C; heavy rainfall of 150-200 cm during the growing season; fertile alluvial soil deposited by the Ganga and Brahmaputra rivers; abundant standing water in the low-lying delta areas required for retting (soaking the jute stalks in water to separate the fibres); and availability of cheap labour for the labour-intensive cultivation and retting process.

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Question 9 — Manufacturing Industries

(a) Industries and location factors: [4] - (i) Two agro-based industries: Cotton textile industry and Sugar industry. Two mineral-based industries: Iron and steel industry and Cement industry (also acceptable: automobile industry). - (ii) Four factors influencing the location of industries: 1. Availability of raw materials — Industries are set up close to the source of raw materials to reduce transportation costs (e.g., sugar mills near sugarcane-growing areas). 2. Availability of power/energy — Adequate supply of coal, electricity, or other energy sources is essential for industrial operations. 3. Transport and communication — Well-connected road, rail, and port networks facilitate the movement of raw materials and finished goods. 4. Availability of labour — Both skilled and unskilled labour is needed. Industries tend to locate near population centres where labour is available.

(b) Cotton textile industry: [3] - (i) Two important centres: Mumbai (Maharashtra) and Ahmedabad (Gujarat). (Also acceptable: Coimbatore, Kanpur, Surat.) - (ii) Mumbai is called the "Manchester of India" because it was the first city in India where modern cotton textile mills were established (the first mill was set up in 1854). Mumbai became the leading centre of the cotton textile industry with the largest number of mills, just as Manchester in England was the centre of the cotton textile industry during the Industrial Revolution. (Note: Ahmedabad is also sometimes called the "Manchester of India.") - (iii) One problem: Competition from the power loom and handloom sectors and from synthetic fibres has reduced the demand for mill-made cotton cloth. Outdated machinery in many older mills, erratic power supply, and competition from cheaper imports also pose challenges. (Also acceptable: shortage of good quality long-staple cotton.)

(c) Iron and steel industry: [3] - (i) Two integrated steel plants: 1. TISCO (Tata Iron and Steel Company) — Jamshedpur, Jharkhand 2. Bhilai Steel Plant — Bhilai, Chhattisgarh (Also acceptable: Durgapur — West Bengal, Bokaro — Jharkhand, Rourkela — Odisha, Visakhapatnam — Andhra Pradesh.) - (ii) TISCO was set up at Jamshedpur because: 1. Iron ore is available from the mines of Noamundi and Gurumahisani in the nearby Singhbhum district (now in Jharkhand/Odisha). 2. Coal (coking coal) is available from the nearby Jharia and Raniganj coalfields in Jharkhand and West Bengal. (Also acceptable: Availability of water from the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers; cheap labour from the tribal areas of Jharkhand and Odisha; good transport connectivity by rail.)

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Question 10 — Transport and Waste Management

(a) Roads and NHDP: [4] - (i) Four types of roads: 1. National Highways — Connect major cities, state capitals, ports, and industrial centres. Maintained by the Central Government (NHAI). 2. State Highways — Connect state capitals to district headquarters. Maintained by State Public Works Departments. 3. District Roads — Connect district headquarters to towns and rural areas. Maintained by Zila Parishads. 4. Village Roads (Rural Roads) — Connect villages to towns and nearby roads. Built under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana (PMGSY). - (ii) The National Highway Development Project (NHDP) is a massive road infrastructure project undertaken by the Government of India through NHAI to upgrade and improve national highways across the country. Two components: 1. Golden Quadrilateral (GQ) — A 5,846 km network connecting Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. 2. North-South and East-West Corridors — Connecting Srinagar (north) to Kanyakumari (south) and Silchar (east) to Porbandar (west).

(b) Indian Railways: [3] - (i) Three gauges: 1. Broad gauge — 1.676 m (most widely used) 2. Metre gauge — 1.000 m 3. Narrow gauge — 0.762 m or 0.610 m - (ii) Two advantages of railways: 1. Railways are the most suitable means of transport for carrying heavy and bulky goods over long distances at a relatively low cost. 2. Railways are an energy-efficient and eco-friendly mode of transport compared to road transport, with lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions per tonne-kilometre. - (iii) The Uni-gauge project is important because the existence of multiple gauges created problems of trans-shipment (goods and passengers had to be transferred from one gauge to another at junction points), causing delays and increasing costs. The uni-gauge project aims to convert all metre gauge and narrow gauge lines to broad gauge, creating a uniform rail network across India. This will enable seamless, faster, and more efficient movement of goods and passengers across the country.

(c) Waste management: [3] - (i) E-waste (electronic waste) refers to discarded electronic devices and equipment that have reached the end of their useful life. It includes components containing toxic substances like lead, mercury, cadmium, and brominated flame retardants. Two items: Old computers/laptops and discarded mobile phones (also acceptable: televisions, refrigerators, printers, batteries). - (ii) Differences:

Biodegradable Waste	Non-Biodegradable Waste
Waste that can be broken down (decomposed) by natural biological processes involving microorganisms (bacteria, fungi) into simpler substances.	Waste that cannot be easily broken down by natural biological processes and persists in the environment for a long time.
Example: Vegetable peels, food scraps, paper, agricultural waste.	Example: Plastic bags, glass bottles, polythene, Styrofoam.

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TOPIC-WISE PROBABILITY ANALYSIS

Topic	Probability	Level
Topographical Map Study (Grid Ref, Distance, Cross-section)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Very High
Map Work (Marking on outline map of India)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Very High
Climate of India (Monsoons, Jet Streams, Seasons)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Very High
Agriculture (Rice, Wheat, Tea, Coffee, Cotton, Jute)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Very High
Manufacturing Industries (Iron & Steel, Cotton Textile)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Very High
Minerals and Energy Resources (Iron Ore, Coal, Nuclear)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	High
Soil Resources (Types, Conservation, Erosion)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	High
Natural Vegetation (Types, Distribution, Conservation)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	High
Water Resources (Multipurpose Projects, Irrigation)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	High
Transport (Roads, Railways, Waterways, Airways)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	High
Waste Management (E-waste, Biodegradable, Recycling)	⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛⬛	Medium

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KEY TOPICS TO REVISE

1. Topographical Maps — Practice reading grid references (4-figure and 6-figure), measuring distances (straight and along a route), calculating area, identifying conventional signs, drawing cross-sections, and calculating vertical exaggeration. Know settlement patterns (nucleated, dispersed, linear), drainage patterns (dendritic, radial, trellis), and how to deduce occupations from map evidence.

2. Climate of India — Know the four seasons, the mechanism of the South-West Monsoon (including the roles of ITCZ, Coriolis force, and jet streams), the two branches of the monsoon, rain shadow effect, and the concept of "burst of the monsoon." Practice interpreting climatic data (temperature and rainfall tables).

3. Soil Resources — Learn all five soil types (alluvial, black/regur, red, laterite, desert), their formation, characteristics, distribution, and the crops grown in each. Understand soil erosion (sheet, rill, gully) and conservation methods (terracing, contour ploughing, shelter belts, afforestation).

4. Natural Vegetation — Know the five types of forests, rainfall and temperature conditions, distribution on the map, and important tree species. Understand the importance of forests, causes of deforestation, and conservation measures including social forestry.

5. Water Resources — Learn the five multipurpose river valley projects (Bhakra Nangal, Hirakud, Damodar Valley, Nagarjuna Sagar, Tehri), the rivers they are on, and their benefits. Understand rainwater harvesting and methods of irrigation (wells, tube wells, canals, tanks).

6. Minerals and Energy Resources — Know the types and distribution of iron ore, manganese, copper, bauxite, and limestone. Differentiate between conventional and non-conventional energy. Learn locations of nuclear power plants, important coalfields, and petroleum-producing regions.

7. Agriculture — Learn conditions of growth, distribution, and producing states for all major crops: rice, wheat, sugarcane, cotton, jute, tea, and coffee. Understand types of farming (subsistence, commercial, intensive, extensive, plantation).

8. Manufacturing Industries — Focus on cotton textile industry (centres, problems) and iron and steel industry (six integrated steel plants — TISCO, Bhilai, Durgapur, Bokaro, Rourkela, Visakhapatnam). Know factors of industrial location. Understand the IT and automobile industries.

9. Transport — Learn the classification of roads, the NHDP and Golden Quadrilateral, railway gauges and zones, major ports (13 major ports), important airports, and inland waterways. Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each mode of transport.

10. Waste Management — Know types of waste (biodegradable, non-biodegradable, hazardous), methods of disposal (composting, recycling, landfill, incineration, vermicomposting), and special categories (biomedical waste, e-waste). Understand the 3Rs (Reduce, Reuse, Recycle).

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Prepared by BrightTutorials.in — For personal study use only. This is a prediction paper based on syllabus analysis and previous year trends. It does not claim to represent the actual ICSE 2026 examination paper.