Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Human Settlements

Chapter Overview: Human Settlements

Book: Geography – Part I

Subject: CBSE Class 12 Geography

Chapter Focus: This chapter explores the concept of human settlements, their types, patterns, functions, and the factors influencing their growth. It highlights the evolution of settlements from rural to urban, and their role in the socio-economic development of societies. The chapter also delves into the structure of cities, urbanization trends, and the challenges faced by settlements, especially in the context of rapid urban growth.

About the Chapter: Understanding Human Settlements

Human settlements refer to the places where people live, either temporarily or permanently. These settlements can range from small rural villages to large urban cities, and their development is influenced by various factors such as geographical, economic, and social aspects. The chapter discusses the different types of settlements, from nucleated to dispersed, and how they evolve over time in response to human activities and natural environments.

As cities expand, they become centers of economic, political, and social life. The chapter emphasizes the importance of understanding settlement patterns, as they play a significant role in shaping the social and economic fabric of a nation. Urbanization, in particular, has become a key trend in human settlement, with millions migrating from rural areas to cities in search of better opportunities.

Key Themes of the Chapter:

1. Concept of Human Settlements:

Definition and Types of Settlements: Human settlements are the areas where people establish their homes, and they can be broadly classified into rural and urban areas.

Rural Settlements: These settlements are generally small and located in the countryside. They are usually centered around agricultural activities and have close-knit communities.

Urban Settlements: Urban settlements are more complex, larger in size, and usually serve as centers of commerce, industry, culture, and governance.

2. Types of Settlements:

Nucleated Settlements: In nucleated settlements, buildings are concentrated in one area, and the population is densely packed. These settlements are usually found in areas with fertile land, such as river valleys or plains. Examples include many rural settlements in India.

Dispersed Settlements: These are characterized by scattered houses, often found in regions with difficult terrain or areas of low population density, such as hilly or forested regions.

Linear Settlements: These settlements develop along roads, rivers, or other linear features due to the need for transportation or access to resources. Examples include settlements along riverbanks or major highways.

Planned Settlements: These are modern urban settlements that are systematically planned and developed by governments or authorities to address issues such as overpopulation, housing, and infrastructure. Examples include new towns or satellite cities.

3. Factors Influencing Settlement Patterns:

Physical Factors: The availability of water, favorable climate, fertile soil, and flat land are key physical factors that determine the location and type of settlement. For example, river valleys often have large nucleated settlements due to the availability of water and fertile land.

Economic Factors: The availability of employment opportunities, natural resources, and infrastructure (like roads and transportation networks) influences settlement patterns. Urban centers often develop around industrial hubs, ports, and trade routes.

Social and Cultural Factors: Historical, social, and cultural preferences can also influence where people choose to settle. Some regions may develop settlements due to religious, political, or social factors.

4. Urbanization and Growth of Cities:

Urbanization Trends: The process of urbanization refers to the movement of people from rural areas to urban centers. This is driven by factors such as better employment opportunities, better healthcare and education, and the allure of a higher standard of living.

Challenges of Urbanization: Rapid urbanization poses challenges such as overcrowding, poor housing, slums, inadequate infrastructure, and environmental degradation. The chapter discusses how cities are grappling with these challenges as they continue to grow.

Types of Urban Settlements: Urban settlements vary in size and function, from small towns to large metropolitan cities. Cities are typically characterized by a higher concentration of population and infrastructure like roads, schools, hospitals, and markets.

5. Settlement Patterns and Social Organization:

Functions of Settlements: Settlements serve various functions, including residential, commercial, agricultural, industrial, and service-oriented functions. The role of a settlement can vary based on its size, location, and level of development.

Social Hierarchy and Settlement Organization: In urban settlements, there is often a hierarchical structure, with wealthier and more influential individuals or communities residing in central areas and poorer sections occupying the periphery or slums.

6. Sustainable Development and Settlements:

Challenges of Sustainable Urbanization: The chapter examines how urban settlements must balance development with environmental sustainability. Issues such as pollution, deforestation, and water scarcity require careful planning and management to ensure long-term sustainability.

Role of Planning and Policies: Urban planning policies play a key role in managing the growth of cities and ensuring that adequate services, such as clean water, transportation, healthcare, and housing, are provided to meet the needs of a growing population.

7. Global Disparities in Settlement Development:

Developed vs. Developing Countries: Settlement patterns in developed countries differ significantly from those in developing countries. Developed countries tend to have well-organized urban centers, whereas developing countries often face challenges related to informal settlements, slums, and urban poverty.

Rural to Urban Migration: In many developing countries, there is a continuous flow of people from rural to urban areas, contributing to the growth of mega-cities. This trend is driven by the search for better economic opportunities, education, and healthcare.

Major Features of the Period:

Sources and Interpretation:

Census Data: The Census of India provides valuable data on settlement patterns, population distribution, and urbanization trends across different states and regions of India. The data helps policymakers understand the dynamics of urban and rural populations.

Urban Surveys and Reports: Urban studies conducted by government bodies and organizations like the UN-Habitat offer insights into urbanization, infrastructure, and social problems faced by urban settlements.

Government Policies: National and state-level policies, such as the Smart Cities Mission and housing schemes, play a crucial role in shaping the development of urban settlements in India.

Concept of Human Settlements:

Urban vs. Rural Settlements: Settlements are broadly divided into urban and rural categories based on population size, infrastructure, and economic activities. Rural settlements are typically centered around agriculture, while urban settlements focus on industry, commerce, and services.

Evolution of Settlements: Settlements evolve over time in response to economic, social, and environmental changes. While rural settlements have been present for thousands of years, urban settlements have developed rapidly in modern times due to industrialization and globalization.

Types of Settlements:

Nucleated and Dispersed: Nucleated settlements concentrate houses in one area, while dispersed settlements spread out across a larger area, often found in agricultural or hilly regions.

Linear and Planned Settlements: Linear settlements follow transportation routes or rivers, and planned settlements are systematically laid out to accommodate growing urban populations.

Factors Influencing Settlement Patterns:

Physical and Economic Factors: The physical environment, including the availability of water and fertile land, heavily influences settlement locations. Economic opportunities, like trade routes, industrial growth, and job availability, also shape where people live.

Social and Political Factors: Settlements may also develop due to political decisions, such as the establishment of capitals or military bases, or social factors, such as religious significance.

Urbanization and Growth of Cities:

Urbanization Process: Urbanization refers to the increasing number of people living in urban areas, resulting in the expansion of cities. It is primarily driven by economic opportunities, migration, and rural depopulation.

Challenges of Urban Growth: The rapid expansion of cities often leads to overcrowding, inadequate infrastructure, pollution, and poor living conditions, especially in developing nations.

Settlement Patterns and Social Organization:

Functional Zoning: Cities typically develop distinct zones for different functions, such as residential, commercial, industrial, and recreational. These zones help organize the urban space and manage the flow of people and goods.

Social Hierarchy: In urban areas, wealthier and more influential groups tend to live in central, well-developed areas, while poorer groups may occupy peripheral or slum areas.

Sustainable Development and Settlements:

Sustainable Urban Growth: Sustainable urban growth involves creating cities that offer a high quality of life while minimizing environmental harm. This includes promoting green spaces, reducing pollution, and ensuring access to essential services.

Urban Planning: Good urban planning is essential to accommodate growing populations in a way that ensures access to housing, education, healthcare, and employment, while also preserving the environment.

Key Historians & Contributions:

David Harvey: Known for his work on urbanization and the social implications of urban development. His theories on the production of space and the role of capitalism in shaping cities have influenced urban studies.

Jean Gottmann: His work on the concept of “megalopolis” highlights the growing interconnectedness of urban centers, particularly in North America and Europe.

Ashish Bose: A scholar in the field of population studies, particularly focused on the demographic challenges of urbanization in India.

Important Terminology:

Urbanization: The increasing number of people living in urban areas, leading to the growth and expansion of cities.

Rural Settlement: Settlements primarily focused on agricultural activities and small-scale industries.

Nucleated Settlement: A type of settlement where buildings are clustered together, often around a central point.

Dispersed Settlement: A type of settlement where people are spread out across a large area, usually due to economic activities such as farming.

Linear Settlement: A settlement pattern developed along roads, rivers, or other transportation routes.

Debates and Interpretations:

Urbanization vs. Rural Development: Should the focus be on urban growth or on improving rural areas to prevent mass migration to cities?

Sustainability in Cities: How can cities continue to grow without depleting resources or damaging the environment?

Role of Government in Urbanization: How can governments better manage the challenges of urbanization and ensure sustainable, equitable urban growth?

Why This Chapter Matters:

Understanding Urbanization: This chapter is crucial for understanding the dynamics of urban growth, rural-urban migration, and the implications of these processes for resource management, infrastructure development, and social equity.

Implications for Planning and Policy: Knowledge of settlement patterns and urbanization is essential for urban planners, policymakers, and government authorities to create sustainable cities and improve the quality of life for all citizens.

Challenges of Growth: As urban areas continue to grow, addressing the challenges of overcrowding, infrastructure, and inequality becomes increasingly important for ensuring equitable development.

Ideal For:

  • CBSE Class 12 Board Exams: Source-based questions, essay writing, and analysis of human settlement patterns.
  • CUET Humanities Section: Fact-based MCQs and questions on urbanization, rural-urban migration, and settlement structures.
  • UPSC Prelims & Mains: Geography and urban studies, with a focus on the implications of urbanization and rural development.
  • Geography Enthusiasts: Interested in exploring the factors influencing settlement growth and the challenges of managing urbanization.

NCERT Solutions For Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Human Human Settlements

Question 1.(i) Which one of the following towns is NOT located on a river bank?

  • (a) Agra
  • (b) Bhopal
  • (c) Patna
  • (d) Kolkata

Answer: (b) Bhopal

Question 1.(ii) Which one of the following is NOT part of the definition of a town as per the census of India?

  • (a) Population density of 400 persons per sq km.
  • (b) Presence of municipality, corporation, etc.
  • (c) More than 75% of the population engaged in primary sector.
  • (d) Population size of more than 5,000 persons.

Answer: (c) More than 75% of the population engaged in primary sector.

Question 1.(iii) In which one of the following environments does one expect the presence of dispersed rural settlements?

  • (a) Alluvial plains of Ganga
  • (b) Arid and semi-arid regions of Rajasthan
  • (c) Lower valleys of Himalayas
  • (d) Forests and hills in north-east

Answer: (d) Forests and hills in north-east

Question 1.(iv) Which one of the following groups of cities have been arranged in the sequence of their ranks i.e. 1, 2, 3 and 4 in size?

  • (a) Greater Mumbai, Bangalore, Kolkata, Chennai
  • (b) Delhi, Greater Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata
  • (c) Kolkata, Greater Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata
  • (d) Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai

Answer: (d) Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai

Question 2.(i) What are garrison towns? What is their function?

Answer: Garrison towns, also known as cantonment towns, develop around military bases. Examples include Ambala and Mhow. Their primary function is to support defense services, providing facilities and infrastructure for army, navy, or air force personnel and activities.

Question 2.(ii) How can one identify an urban agglomeration?

Answer: An urban agglomeration consists of:

  • A town and its adjoining urban outgrowths,
  • Two or more contiguous towns with or without their outgrowths, or
  • A city combined with one or more adjoining towns and their outgrowths forming a continuous urban area.

Examples of urban outgrowths include railway colonies, university campuses, port areas, and military cantonments located adjacent to towns or cities.

Question 2.(iii) What are the main factors for the location of villages in desert regions?

Answer: In desert regions characterized by aridity and scarce water, water availability is the primary factor influencing settlement patterns. Villages cluster around oases or other water sources, such as in Rajasthan. Limited vegetation and water resources force settlements to concentrate near these vital areas.

Question 2.(iv) What are metropolitan cities? How are they different from urban agglomerations?

Answer: Metropolitan cities, as per the Indian census, have populations between 1 to 5 million. An urban agglomeration is a continuous urban spread that may include multiple cities or towns. Many metropolitan cities are, in fact, urban agglomerations comprising several contiguous urban areas.

Question 3.(i) Discuss the features of different types of rural settlements. What are the factors responsible for the settlement patterns in different physical environments?

Answer: Rural settlements in India vary widely due to physical, cultural, and security factors:

  • Clustered Settlements: Compact villages with houses close together, common in fertile plains and northeastern states, often for security and efficient land use. Examples include Bundelkhand and Nagaland. Scarcity of water in Rajasthan also leads to clustered settlements.
  • Semi-Clustered Settlements: Fragmented villages where dominant landowning communities live centrally, and lower strata settle on outskirts.
  • Hamleted Settlements: Villages divided into smaller units (e.g., panna, para, palli), often due to social or ethnic reasons.
  • Dispersed Settlements: Isolated huts or small hamlets scattered in remote forests or hilly areas, shaped by rugged terrain and fragmented land resources.

These patterns depend on terrain, climate, water availability, social structures, and security needs.

Question 3.(ii) Can one imagine the presence of only one-function town? Why do the cities become multi-functional?

Answer: No town typically performs only one function. Towns are classified by their dominant activities, but as they grow, multiple functions emerge. Even specialized towns, such as garrison towns, support trade and daily needs. For example, Mumbai is primarily a port and transport hub but also serves as India’s commercial capital with diverse industries and business activities. The presence of one key function attracts people and ancillary activities, making towns multifunctional. Urban functions are dynamic, evolving as new activities develop and interlink over time.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Very Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Define human settlements.

Answer: Human settlements refer to clusters of dwellings of any size or type where people live. They involve the grouping of individuals and the allocation of land as a resource base for habitation and livelihood.

Question 2. Which factors help in determining types of settlement?

Answer: Settlement types are determined by the extent of the built-up area and the distance between houses, influencing whether settlements are compact, dispersed, or semi-clustered.

Question 3. Define and name an ancient town.

Answer: Ancient towns are settlements that are over 2000 years old with rich historical backgrounds, often serving as religious and cultural centers. Examples include Varanasi, Prayag (Allahabad), Pataliputra (Patna), and Madurai.

Question 4. Which are the medieval towns of India?

Answer: Medieval towns in India include Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Agra, Lucknow, and Nagpur, among others.

Question 5. Why did the foreigners first establish the modern towns in India?

Answer: Foreigners initially developed modern towns in India as trading ports to establish their presence and control over trade. Examples are Surat, Daman, Puducherry, and Goa.

Question 6. What percentage of people in India live in urban centers?

Answer: Approximately 31.16% of India’s population resides in urban centers.

Question 7. How is the level of urbanization measured?

Answer: Urbanization level is measured as the percentage of the urban population relative to the country’s total population.

Question 8. How many million-plus cities are there in India? Name the largest and the smallest one.

Answer: As per the 2011 Census, India has 53 million-plus cities or urban agglomerations. The largest is Mumbai, while Kota is the smallest among them.

Question 9. What can be the size of human settlement?

Answer: Human settlements vary in size from small hamlets in rural areas to vast metropolitan cities.

Question 10. Classify the human settlements on the basis of economic activities.

Answer: Based on economic activities, human settlements are classified as rural settlements (primarily agricultural) and urban settlements (focused on non-agricultural economic and administrative functions).

Question 11. Define urban settlements.

Answer: Urban settlements are typically compact and elongated areas where most people engage in non-agricultural activities like industry, commerce, and administration.

Question 12. Name different types of rural settlements.

Answer: Types of rural settlements include:

  • Clustered, agglomerated, or nucleated
  • Semi-clustered or fragmented
  • Hamleted
  • Dispersed or isolated

Question 13. What are different categories of Indian towns on the basis of history?

Answer: Indian towns are historically categorized into ancient towns, medieval towns, and modern towns.

Question 14. Which towns have developed in India after independence?

Answer: Modern towns developed post-independence include many trading ports and cities initially established by the British and Europeans, such as Surat, Daman, Goa, Puducherry, Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.

Question 15. Name the ancient towns of India.

Answer: Some notable ancient towns are Prayag (Allahabad), Pataliputra (Patna), Madurai, and others.

Question 16. Name those towns which have become mega cities.

Answer: Mega cities in India include Greater Mumbai, Kolkata, Delhi, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad.

Question 17. Name the biggest urban agglomeration of India.

Answer: Greater Mumbai is the largest urban agglomeration in India, with a population of approximately 16.4 million.

Question 18. On the basis of census, in how many categories have towns of India been divided?

Answer: According to the census, Indian towns are divided into six categories based on size and population.

Question 19. What is a metropolitan city?

Answer: A metropolitan city is defined as a city with a population ranging from 1 million to 5 million.

Question 20. Are towns static in their functions?

Answer: Towns are dynamic and their functions evolve over time. Even specialized towns become multifunctional as they grow into metropolitan areas, encompassing industries, business, administration, and transport.

Question 21. Name a few religious and cultural towns of India.

Answer: Religious and cultural towns include Varanasi, Mathura, Amritsar, Madurai, Puri, Ajmer, Pushkar, Tirupati, Kurukshetra, Haridwar, and Ujjain.

Question 22. Name some of the tourist towns of India.

Answer: Popular tourist towns are Nainital, Mussoorie, Shimla, Pachmarhi, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Udagamandalam (Ooty), and Mount Abu.

Question 23. What are garrison cantonment towns?

Answer: Garrison or cantonment towns emerge due to government defense activities. Examples include Ambala, Jalandhar, Mhow, Babina, and Udhampur.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Short Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Give two characteristics of urban settlement in India. How are cities connected to rural centres?

Answer: Urban settlements in India are typically compact and larger in size, with residents engaged in various non-agricultural, economic, and administrative activities. Cities maintain strong functional links with surrounding rural areas through the exchange of goods and services, such as food and raw materials, often facilitated by market towns.

Question 2. Write a note on evolution of towns in India.

Answer: Indian towns have evolved through three main phases: ancient, medieval, and modern. Ancient towns like Varanasi, Prayag, Pataliputra, and Madurai developed as religious and cultural centers over 2000 years ago. Medieval towns such as Delhi, Hyderabad, Jaipur, and Agra emerged as centers of principalities and kingdoms, often built on ancient town ruins. Modern towns originated under British and European influence, initially as trading ports like Surat, Daman, Goa, and later major cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata. Post-independence, new administrative and industrial towns like Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, and Bhilai were established, with satellite towns emerging around major metros.

Question 3. What factors are responsible for different types of rural settlements in India?

Answer: The diversity of rural settlements in India is influenced by:

  • Physical factors such as terrain, altitude, climate, and water availability.
  • Cultural and ethnic factors including social structure, caste, and religion.
  • Security concerns related to protection against theft and conflicts.

Question 4. Where do we find clustered settlements in India? Explain their features.

Answer: Clustered settlements are common in fertile alluvial plains and northeastern states. People live closely together for security and efficient use of resources, as seen in Bundelkhand and Nagaland. In Rajasthan, water scarcity drives compact living. Features include tightly packed houses distinct from surrounding farms, with recognizable geometric layouts such as rectangular or radial patterns.

Question 5. Write a few features of rural settlements.

Answer: Rural settlements are closely linked to land and primary activities like agriculture and fishing. They are generally small with slow growth, located near water sources such as rivers and lakes. Social cohesion is strong due to shared culture and religion. Housing construction typically adapts to local climatic conditions.

Question 6. Write a few features of urban settlements.

Answer: Urban settlements are associated with technology and man-made infrastructure. Most inhabitants work in secondary, tertiary, or quaternary sectors. These areas have high population density and are often situated near industrial zones, ports, or administrative centers. Governance is managed by municipal bodies or councils.

Question 7. Explain the classification of urban settlement on the basis of population size.

Answer: The Census of India classifies urban centers into six categories based on population:

Class Population Size
I 1,00,000 and above
II 50,000 – 99,999
III 20,000 – 49,999
IV 10,000 – 19,999
V 5,000 – 9,999
VI Less than 5,000

Cities with over one lakh population are termed Class I towns. Mega cities have populations between 1 and 5 million. About 61% of the urban population lives in Class I towns. Of 423 cities, 35 are metros, including six mega cities, housing around 21% of the population.

Question 8. What do you mean by urbanization and levels of urbanization in India?

Answer: Urbanization refers to the transformation of rural areas into towns featuring higher living standards and amenities. It is measured by the percentage of the urban population relative to the total population. In 2001, India’s urbanization level was approximately 28%.

Question 9. What factors are responsible for different types of human settlements?

Answer: Human settlements vary due to:

  • Physical characteristics such as terrain, climate, and water availability.
  • Cultural and ethnic influences including caste and religion.
  • Security needs for protection against theft and violence.

Question 10. When did maximum urban growth take place in India? What were its causes?

Answer: Significant urban growth in India occurred throughout the twentieth century, with urban population increasing elevenfold. This growth was driven by expansion of existing urban centers and emergence of new towns, supported by increased rural investments and migration to urban areas.

Question 11. What do you mean by urban agglomeration?

Answer: An urban agglomeration is a continuous urban spread comprising either:

  • A town and its adjoining outgrowths,
  • Two or more contiguous towns with or without outgrowths, or
  • A city combined with adjoining towns and their outgrowths.

Question 12. What is the total urban population of India? In which type of towns does this population live?

Answer: According to the 2011 Census, India’s urban population is approximately 377 million, with about 60% residing in Class I towns (population over 100,000).

Question 13. Name different types of towns on the basis of their functions.

Answer: Towns can be classified by their primary functions as:

  • Administrative towns and cities
  • Mining towns
  • Industrial towns
  • Garrison cantonment towns
  • Transport cities
  • Educational towns
  • Commercial towns
  • Religious and cultural towns
  • Tourist towns

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Long Answer Type Questions

Question 1. Define Human settlement. Briefly describe the rural settlement types in India.

Answer: A human settlement refers to a cluster of dwellings of any size or type where people live. It involves the grouping of individuals and the allocation of land as a resource base. Settlements vary in size and form, influenced by the extent of built-up areas and the distance between houses.

In India, rural settlements are classified into four main types:

  • Clustered Settlements: These are compact areas where houses are closely built. The living area is distinct from surrounding farms and pastures, often forming geometric patterns like rectangular or radial layouts. Such settlements are common in fertile alluvial plains and northeastern states. People cluster for security, as seen in central India and Nagaland. Water scarcity in Rajasthan also promotes compact settlements to conserve water.
  • Semi-Clustered Settlements: These occur when some sections of a dispersed settlement cluster in a restricted area. Typically, dominant land-owning groups reside centrally, while others settle on the outskirts.
  • Hamleted Settlements: Here, a village is divided into physically separated units, often due to social or ethnic reasons. These units are locally known by different names such as panna, para, palli, nagla, or dhani.
  • Dispersed Settlements: These consist of isolated huts or small hamlets, usually found in remote jungles or hills with farmland or pasture on slopes. This pattern results from fragmented terrain and limited land resources.

Question 2. How many classes of town are there in India based on population size? Give the size as well. Which of them has the highest percentage of people?

Answer: India classifies towns into six categories based on population size:

  • Class I: More than 1 lakh (100,000) population
  • Class II: 50,000 – 99,999
  • Class III: 20,000 – 49,999
  • Class IV: 10,000 – 19,999
  • Class V: 5,000 – 9,999
  • Class VI: Less than 5,000

Class I towns, with populations over one lakh, hold the highest percentage of the urban population.

Question 3. Write a note on functional classification of towns.

Answer: Towns and cities often specialize in particular functions or industries. Based on these, Indian towns are broadly classified as follows:

  • Administrative Towns: Serve as administrative headquarters, e.g., Chandigarh, New Delhi, Bhopal, Shillong, Guwahati, Imphal, Srinagar, Gandhinagar, Jaipur, Chennai.
  • Industrial Towns: Centers focused on industries, such as Mumbai, Salem, Coimbatore, Modinagar, Jamshedpur, Hugli, Bhilai.
  • Transport Cities: Either port cities engaged in trade like Kandla, Kochi, Kozhikode, Vishakhapatnam, or inland transport hubs such as Agra, Dhulia, Mughal Sarai, Itarsi, Katni.
  • Commercial Towns: Specialize in trade and commerce, including Kolkata, Saharanpur, Satna.
  • Mining Towns: Located in mineral-rich areas like Raniganj, Jharia, Digboi, Ankaleshwar, Singrauli.

Question 4. Study table 4.1 and write a note on Trends of urbanization in India during 1901-2001.

Answer: In 1901, about 11% of India’s population lived in urban areas, rising to 31% by 2011. The highest decadal urban growth rates occurred between 1971 and 1981, peaking at 46%. Growth slowed during 1951-1961 but then accelerated again. The surge in urbanization during 1971-1981 is attributed to agricultural and industrial development, along with improving economic conditions.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Differentiates

Question 1. Differentiate between urban and rural settlements in India.

Urban Settlements Rural Settlements
(i) Generally larger in size, with some cities covering vast areas and housing thousands or lakhs of houses. (i) Smaller settlements with fewer houses, mainly villages.
(ii) Occupational structure is diverse and complex, including industries, administration, trade, and commerce. Work is mainly within built-up areas. (ii) Simple occupational structure, mainly dependent on nature. Farming, fishing, and lumbering are predominant, with work done in fields.
(iii) Urban residents depend on rural areas for food and raw materials. (iii) Rural residents depend on urban areas for finished goods and services.
(iv) Permanent buildings made with materials sourced from distant places. Settlements are usually compact and planned. (iv) Houses are built with local materials, often dispersed and unplanned. Location factors include water supply and elevated, flood-free land.
(v) More facilities such as roads, electricity, telephones, hospitals, etc. (v) Lack modern amenities and infrastructure.
(vi) Houses are built according to individual preferences, often without a fixed layout plan. (vi) Houses often include a courtyard, storage, animal enclosures, and roofs designed for local weather.
(vii) Faces urban problems like pollution, sewage, and slums; city life is fast-paced and individualistic. (vii) Rural life is simpler, with fewer urban problems and a community focus.

Question 2. Differentiate between semi-clustered and dispersed settlements.

Basis Semi-Clustered Settlements Dispersed Settlements
Formation Develop due to clustering within a restricted area of an otherwise dispersed settlement. Often caused by social segregation or fragmentation. Consist of isolated huts or small hamlets in remote forests or hills with scattered farms and pastures.
Cause for Development Certain groups, often lower social strata, live slightly away from the main village cluster, while dominant landowners occupy central areas. Caused by highly fragmented terrain and limited land resources, leading to widely spaced habitation.
Areas Found Common in the Gujarat plains and parts of Rajasthan. Found in regions like Meghalaya, Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, and Kerala.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Higher Order Thinking Skills (HOTS)

Question 1. “Compact or clustered village is a universal feature in the northern plains.” Give reasons.

Answer: Compact or clustered villages are common in the northern plains due to several factors:

  • The land is flat and highly fertile, ideal for agriculture.
  • There is a large labor force, encouraging close settlement for cooperative work.
  • Water supply is abundant, supporting farming and daily activities.
  • People cluster together for social security and community support.
  • Better transportation networks facilitate connectivity within clustered settlements.
  • A significant portion of the population is landless, compelling them to live in close proximity.

Question 2. Mention how will you judge whether a settlement is to be classified as a town according to 2001 census.

Answer: To classify a settlement as a town according to the 2001 census, the following criteria are used:

  • The population size must be at least 5,000.
  • The population density should exceed 400 persons per square kilometer.
  • At least 75% of the male workforce should be engaged in non-agricultural activities.

Class 12 Geography Chapter 4 Important Questions

Question 1. Name the most developed religious and cultural centre of the ancient period in India. (Foreign 2009)

Answer: Varanasi and Ayodhya are among the most prominent religious and cultural centers of ancient India.

Question 2. Name the largest metropolitan city of Uttar Pradesh. Write its population according to Census 2001. (Delhi 2009)

Answer: Kanpur is the largest metropolitan city in Uttar Pradesh, with a population of approximately 2.69 million as per the 2001 Census.

Question 3. Name the largest metropolitan city of Madhya Pradesh. What was its population according to the census 2001? (AJ. 2009)

Answer: Indore is the largest metropolitan city in Madhya Pradesh, with a population of about 1.64 million according to the 2001 Census.

Question 4. Which class of cities has the highest percentage of urban population in India? (Delhi 2010)

Answer: Class-I cities, with populations exceeding 100,000, account for the highest percentage of urban population in India.

Question 5. What is the population size of class II cities in India? (Foreign 2010)

Answer: Class II cities have populations ranging between 50,000 and 99,999.

Question 6. Which class of cities has the largest number of towns and cities in India? (A.I. 2010)

Answer: Class-I cities represent the largest number of towns and cities in India.

Question 7. Give any two examples of Ancient towns of India. (CBSE 2008, 2014)

Answer: Pataliputra and Varanasi are notable examples of ancient Indian towns.

Question 8. Give the meaning of human settlement. (CBSE 2011)

Answer: A human settlement is a cluster of dwellings where people live on a more or less permanent basis.

Question 9. Name the metropolitan city of Karnataka State as per 2001 census. (A.I. 2011)

Answer: Bengaluru is the metropolitan city of Karnataka as per the 2001 census.

Question 10. Name the metropolitan city of Bihar. (A.I. 2011)

Answer: Patna is the metropolitan city of Bihar.

Question 11. Name any two ‘Garrison Cantonment’ cities of India. (Foreign 2011)

Answer: Ambala and Jalandhar are two well-known garrison cantonment towns in India.

Question 12. Name any two famous transport cities of India. (Foreign 2011)

Answer: Kandla and Kochi are two prominent transport cities in India.

Question 13. Name any two famous administrative cities of India. (Foreign 2011)

Answer: Chandigarh and New Delhi are well-known administrative cities in India.

Question 14. Give any two examples of mining towns in India. (CBSE 2013)

Answer: Raniganj and Jharia are notable mining towns in India.

Question 15. Give the meaning of ‘clustered rural settlement’ of India. (A.I. 2013)

Answer: A clustered rural settlement is a compact area where houses are closely built, distinct from surrounding farms and pastures, often showing a recognizable geometric pattern.

Question 16. Give one example of ancient historical town of Bihar. (A.I. 2014)

Answer: Pataliputra (Patna) is a famous ancient historical town in Bihar.

Question 17. Distinguish between towns and villages on the basis of occupation. (CBSE 2015)

Answer: In towns, most people work in secondary and tertiary sectors like industry and services, while in villages, the majority engage in primary occupations such as agriculture, fishing, and animal husbandry.

Question 18. What two factors mostly helped in the development of ancient towns in India? (CBSE 2015)

Answer: Religion and culture were the primary factors influencing the growth of ancient Indian towns.

Question 19. How is the level of urbanization measured in India? (CBSE 2015)

Answer: Urbanization is measured by the percentage of the population living in urban areas relative to the total population.

Question 20. Name any two garrison (cantonment) towns of India. (A.I. 2017)

Answer: Ambala and Jalandhar are two examples of garrison cantonment towns in India.

Short Answer Type Questions:

Question 1. Explain any three characteristics of dispersed settlements found in India. (Foreign 2009)

Answer: Dispersed settlements in India are characterized by:

  • Isolated huts or small hamlets located in remote forests or jungles.
  • Presence on small hills where farms or pastures are found on slopes.
  • Extreme dispersion caused by highly fragmented terrain and limited habitable land resources.

Question 2. Divide the population of the world into two groups on the basis of residence. How do they differ from each other? Explain any two points of difference. (CBSE 2011)

Answer: The world population can be categorized into:

  • Rural population
  • Urban population

Differences include:

  • Occupational structure: Rural populations mainly engage in primary activities like agriculture, while urban populations are involved in secondary and tertiary sectors.
  • Level of development: Urban areas generally have higher development levels compared to rural regions, especially in developing countries.

Question 3. Give the meaning of ‘dispersed settlement’. Explain any two reasons for the development of such settlements in India. (A.I. 2014)

Answer: Dispersed settlements in India consist of isolated huts or small hamlets scattered across remote jungles or hills with farms on slopes.

Two key reasons for their development are:

  • The highly fragmented and rugged nature of the terrain.
  • Limited availability and scattered distribution of land resources.

Question 4. “Many of the modern towns in India were developed during the period of British domination”. Substantiate the statement. (Delhi 2016)

Answer: During British rule, many modern towns in India were established, primarily along coastal regions. Initially, the British developed key trading ports such as Surat, Daman, Goa, and Puducherry. Subsequently, they strengthened control around major urban centers like Mumbai (Bombay), Chennai (Madras), and Kolkata (Calcutta). They also established administrative headquarters, hill stations as summer resorts, and military cantonments. Post-1850, industrial towns such as Jamshedpur emerged, marking the evolution of industrial urban centers under British influence.

Question 5. Explain any three features of semi-clustered rural settlements of India. (A.I. 2015)

Answer: Features of semi-clustered settlements include:

  • Formation due to clustering within a restricted zone of an otherwise dispersed settlement.
  • Often results from fragmentation or division of a large compact village.
  • Some sections of the community may live separately from the main village cluster due to social or economic factors.

Question 6. Explain the three basic differences between rural and urban settlements in India. (Delhi 2017)

Answer: Key differences between rural and urban settlements in India are:

  • Economic base: Rural areas rely on land-based primary activities like farming, while urban centers focus on processing raw materials and providing services.
  • Role in economy: Cities act as economic hubs supplying goods and services to both urban and rural areas; rural settlements provide essential food and raw materials.
  • Social structure: Social relationships, lifestyles, and outlooks differ significantly between rural and urban populations.

Question 7. Explain any three features of urban settlements in India. (CBSE 2018)

Answer: Three important features of urban settlements in India are:

  • They are generally compact and cover larger areas.
  • Many towns and cities specialize in specific functions, known for certain activities, products, or services.
  • Residents are primarily engaged in non-agricultural activities such as trade, industry, administration, and services.