Geography Notes
1. Definition of Resources
Resources are all the materials available in our environment which help us to satisfy our needs and are
technologically accessible, economically feasible, and culturally acceptable.
2. Classification of Resources
On the basis of origin:
- Biotic: Derived from living organisms (e.g., forests, wildlife).
- Abiotic: Derived from non-living things (e.g., minerals, water).
On the basis of exhaustibility:
- Renewable: Can be replenished (e.g., solar energy, wind energy).
- Non-Renewable: Exist in fixed quantity (e.g., fossil fuels, minerals).
On the basis of ownership:
- Individual: Owned privately (e.g., land, houses).
- Community: Owned by a community (e.g., village grazing grounds).
- National: Owned by the nation (e.g., roads, railways).
- International: Regulated by international institutions (e.g., oceanic resources).
On the basis of status of development:
- Potential: Exist in a region but not used (e.g., solar in Rajasthan).
- Developed: Surveyed and ready to use.
- Stock: Not developed due to lack of technology.
- Reserves: Part of stock, can be used with present technology.
3. Meaning of Resource Development
Resource development refers to the process of using resources in a planned and sustainable manner to meet
present and future needs, ensuring that they do not deplete or cause environmental damage.
4. Resource Planning and Steps Involved
Geography Notes
Definition: Resource planning is a strategy for proper utilization of resources.
Steps:
1. Identification and inventory of resources: Survey and mapping.
2. Evolving a planning structure: Matching resource development plans with national development plans.
3. Technology and skill development: Implementation of resource development plans.
5. Consequences of Over-Exploitation of Resources
Environmental degradation, resource depletion, and ecological imbalance.
Examples:
- Earth Summit (1992): Held in Rio de Janeiro to address environmental issues globally.
- Agenda 21: A comprehensive plan of action for sustainable development globally, nationally, and locally.
6. Resource Conservation
Resource conservation is the careful management of resources to ensure their sustainable use for future
generations. It involves reducing waste, recycling, and adopting sustainable practices.
7. Land Use Pattern of India
- Forest: 22.78%
- Net Sown Area: 43.41%
- Non-agricultural uses: 7.92%
- Barren and waste land: 6.29%
- Permanent pastures: 3.38%
- Fallow land: 8.61%
8. Causes of Land Degradation
- Deforestation
- Overgrazing
- Mining activities
- Over-irrigation (waterlogging and salinity)
- Industrial effluents and waste disposal
Geography Notes
9. Measures to Check Land Degradation
- Afforestation and proper grazing practices
- Planting shelter belts
- Control on mining activities
- Proper disposal of industrial waste
- Efficient irrigation and agricultural practices
10. Soil Resources - Factors Leading to Soil Formation
- Parent rock material
- Climate
- Relief
- Flora and fauna
- Time
11. Characteristics of Soils
- Black Soil: Rich in clay and moisture, ideal for cotton, found in Deccan Plateau
- Alluvial Soil: Fertile, ideal for agriculture, found in northern plains and river valleys
- Red and Yellow Soil: Low in humus, found in eastern and southern parts of Deccan
- Laterite Soil: Rich in iron, poor in organic matter, found in high rainfall areas
- Arid Soil: Sandy, low in moisture, found in Rajasthan
- Mountain/Forest Soil: Found in hilly and forested areas, rich in humus but poor in phosphorus
12. Soil Erosion and Conservation
Soil erosion is the removal of topsoil by agents like wind and water.
Types:
- Gully erosion: Water creates deep channels (ravines).
- Sheet erosion: Surface layer is removed uniformly.
Conservation methods: Contour ploughing, terrace farming, strip cropping, planting trees
13. Causes of Soil Erosion
Geography Notes
- Deforestation
- Overgrazing
- Construction and mining
- Faulty agricultural practices
- Natural factors like wind and rainfall