Lifelines of National Economy
Multiple Choice Questions:
(i) Which two of the following extreme locations are connected by the east-west corridor?
- (b) Silchar and Porbandar
(ii) Which mode of transportation reduces trans-shipment losses and delays?
- (c) Pipeline
(iii) Which one of the following states is not connected with the H.V.J. pipeline?
- (b) Maharashtra
(iv) Which one of the following ports is the deepest land-locked and well-protected port along the east coast?
- (d) Vishakhapatnam
(v) Which one of the following is the most important mode of transportation in India?
- (b) Railways
(vi) Which one of the following terms is used to describe trade between two or more countries?
- (b) International trade
Answer the following in about 30 words:
(i) State any three merits of roadways.
- Roadways are cost-effective for short distances, provide door-to-door services, are flexible for routes and schedules, and are suitable for transporting perishable goods and people.
(ii) Where and why is rail transport the most convenient means of transportation?
- Rail transport is most convenient in the northern plains of India due to level land, dense population, agricultural production, and ease in laying tracks for carrying bulky goods over long distances.
(iii) What is the significance of the border roads?
- Border roads are significant for defence, connecting remote border areas, and promoting trade and integration by ensuring movement of troops and goods even in difficult terrains.
(iv) What is meant by trade? What is the difference between international and local trade?
- Trade is the exchange of goods and services. Local trade happens within a country, while international trade occurs between two or more countries across borders.
Answer the following in about 120 words:
(i) Why are the means of transportation and communication called the lifelines of a nation and its economy?
Means of transportation and communication are called the lifelines because they connect people, regions, and businesses across the country and the world. They enable the movement of raw materials, finished goods, and people, facilitating industries, commerce, and agriculture. Communication systems help in sharing information and ideas quickly, thus supporting administration and the functioning of various sectors. An efficient network boosts trade, enhances accessibility, integrates markets, and leads to economic development. Without them, resources could not reach factories, finished products could not reach markets, and people would remain isolated from opportunities. Thus, they are essential for unity, progress, and the smooth functioning of the nation’s economy.
(ii) Write a note on the changing nature of international trade in the last fifteen years.
In the last fifteen years, international trade has changed dramatically due to liberalisation, improved transport and communication, and technology. India’s trade volume and variety have increased, including both exports and imports. The country now trades with more nations, and new goods and services have emerged, especially in IT and technology-related sectors. Government policies have focused on globalisation and opening markets, leading to increased competition and quality improvement. The nature of traded commodities has shifted from mainly agricultural and raw materials to include manufactured goods, electronics, pharmaceuticals, and services. E-commerce and digital transactions have also made trade faster and more efficient, further expanding India’s participation in the global market.