Location
The Indian mainland extends between 8°4′ North and 37°6′ North latitudes and from 68°7′ East and 97°25′ East longitudes. Thus, the latitudinal and the North-south extent is 3214 km and East-west extentis 2933 km. India accounts 2.42% of the total world land area
India lies entirely in the northern hemisphere, and eastern hemisphere. The Tropic of Cancer (23°30′ North) passes through the centre of the country. It divides the country into almost two equal parts Northward of this latitude is North India and South of it is known as South India. Similarly 82°30′ East longitude passes almost from the middle of the country. It is known as Standard Meridian of India.
India is the largest country in terms of area and population in South-Asia. It is surrounded by the ocean. India is strategically located in the Indian Ocean. It commands sea routes between Europe and Africa, SouthEast Asia, far East Asia and Oceania. It is because of this that India shares good trade relation between many countries since ancient times
Physiographic Devision
The physiography of a region results from its structural characteristics, ongoing processes, and its developmental stage. India’s landscape is marked by remarkable diversity in its physical attributes. To the north, there stretches an extensive rugged terrain, featuring a sequence of mountain ranges adorned with diverse peaks, picturesque valleys, and profound gorges. In contrast, the southern region is comprised of a stable plateau with intricately carved plateaus, exposed rock formations, and a well-defined succession of cliffs. Nestled between these two lies the expansive expanse of the North Indian plain.
Considering these overarching variations, India can be categorized into the following physiographic divisions:
- The Northern and North- Eastern Mountains
- The Northern Plain
- The Peninsular Plateau
- The Indian Desert
- The Coastal Plains
- The Islands