CBSE Class 10 Social Science (Geography – Contemporary India-II)
Chapter 1: Resources and Development
20 Important Questions and Answers
As per CBSE Syllabus 2026–27
1. What do you mean by resources? Explain their importance.
Answer:
Resources are all those materials, substances, and services available in the environment that can be used to satisfy human needs and have utility. Examples include land, water, forests, minerals, and human skills. Resources are important because they support economic development and improve the quality of life. They provide raw materials for industries, food for people, and energy for various activities. However, resources are limited and need careful management. Proper planning and conservation of resources ensure their availability for future generations. Sustainable use of resources helps maintain ecological balance and prevents environmental degradation, making resources essential for both present and future development.
2. Classify resources on the basis of origin.
Answer:
On the basis of origin, resources are classified into biotic and abiotic resources. Biotic resources are obtained from the biosphere and have life. These include forests, wildlife, fisheries, and humans. Since they are living organisms, they can grow and reproduce. Abiotic resources are non-living resources obtained from the physical environment. Examples include land, rocks, minerals, water, and air. These resources are essential for supporting life and economic activities. Both biotic and abiotic resources are interdependent and play a vital role in maintaining ecological balance. Their proper use and conservation are necessary for sustainable development and environmental protection.
3. Differentiate between renewable and non-renewable resources.
Answer:
Renewable resources are those that can be replenished naturally within a relatively short period. Examples include solar energy, wind energy, water, and forests. These resources can be used repeatedly if managed properly. Non-renewable resources, on the other hand, are available in limited quantities and take millions of years to form. Examples include coal, petroleum, natural gas, and minerals. Once exhausted, they cannot be replaced quickly. Excessive use of non-renewable resources can lead to depletion and environmental problems. Therefore, renewable resources should be promoted, and non-renewable resources should be used judiciously to ensure long-term sustainability.
4. What are human-made resources? Give examples.
Answer:
Human-made resources are those resources that are created by humans using natural resources and technology. These resources do not occur naturally in the environment. Examples include buildings, roads, bridges, machines, vehicles, dams, and industries. Human-made resources increase productivity and improve living standards. Their development depends on the availability of natural resources, human knowledge, and technological advancement. They play a significant role in economic growth and modernization. However, their construction should be planned carefully to avoid environmental damage. Efficient use of human-made resources helps in achieving sustainable development and improving the overall quality of life.
5. Explain the concept of sustainable development.
Answer:
Sustainable development refers to development that meets the needs of the present generation without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. It aims to balance economic growth, social welfare, and environmental protection. Sustainable development encourages the careful use of natural resources, conservation of biodiversity, and reduction of pollution. It promotes renewable energy sources and responsible consumption patterns. The concept recognizes that resources are limited and should be managed wisely. By adopting sustainable practices, societies can ensure long-term prosperity while maintaining ecological balance and preserving resources for future generations.
6. Why is resource planning important in India?
Answer:
Resource planning is important in India because resources are unevenly distributed across different regions of the country. Some areas are rich in minerals and water, while others face scarcity. Rapid population growth and increasing demand for resources have made planning essential. Resource planning helps identify available resources, prevent wastage, and ensure equitable distribution. It promotes balanced regional development and supports sustainable economic growth. Proper planning also helps conserve resources for future generations and reduces environmental degradation. Therefore, resource planning is necessary for efficient utilization of resources and achieving national development goals.
7. Describe the steps involved in resource planning.
Answer:
Resource planning involves three main steps. First, resources are identified and inventoried through surveys, mapping, and technological studies. This helps determine the quantity and quality of resources available. Second, a planning structure is developed by formulating appropriate resource development plans and matching them with national development objectives. Third, these plans are implemented through coordinated efforts among government agencies, institutions, and local communities. Effective resource planning ensures optimal utilization, conservation, and sustainable management of resources. It also helps address regional imbalances and supports economic growth while protecting the environment.
8. What is resource conservation? Why is it necessary?
Answer:
Resource conservation refers to the careful and judicious use of natural resources to prevent their depletion and ensure their availability for future generations. Conservation is necessary because many resources are limited and are being overexploited due to increasing population and industrialization. Uncontrolled use can lead to environmental degradation, loss of biodiversity, and ecological imbalance. Conservation promotes sustainable development by maintaining resource availability and environmental quality. Measures such as afforestation, recycling, efficient water use, and renewable energy adoption help conserve resources. Thus, resource conservation is essential for long-term economic growth and environmental sustainability.
9. What is land? Why is it considered an important resource?
Answer:
Land is a natural resource that forms the foundation of all human activities. It supports agriculture, industries, transportation, settlements, and various economic activities. Land is important because it provides space for living and production. It also supports ecosystems, forests, and wildlife habitats. The availability and quality of land directly affect agricultural productivity and economic development. Since land is limited and cannot be increased, its proper management is essential. Misuse of land can lead to degradation and reduced productivity. Therefore, land is considered one of the most valuable and fundamental natural resources.
10. Explain land degradation and its causes.
Answer:
Land degradation refers to the decline in the quality and productivity of land due to human and natural activities. It reduces the ability of land to support agriculture and other uses. Major causes of land degradation include deforestation, overgrazing, mining, industrial waste disposal, excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides, and improper irrigation practices. Soil erosion and waterlogging also contribute to degradation. Land degradation affects food production, biodiversity, and environmental health. To control it, measures such as afforestation, regulated mining, proper waste management, and scientific farming practices should be adopted to restore and protect land resources.
11. What are the major land-use categories in India?
Answer:
Land in India is used for various purposes and is classified into different categories. These include forests, land not available for cultivation, barren and wasteland, permanent pastures and grazing land, land under miscellaneous tree crops, cultivable wasteland, fallow land, and net sown area. Forests help maintain ecological balance, while agricultural land supports food production. Grazing lands support livestock farming. Fallow lands are left uncultivated temporarily to regain fertility. Understanding land-use patterns helps in effective planning and management of resources. Proper land-use practices ensure balanced development and sustainable utilization of available land resources.
12. What are the causes of soil erosion?
Answer:
Soil erosion is the removal of the top fertile layer of soil by natural agents such as water and wind. Human activities also contribute significantly to erosion. Major causes include deforestation, overgrazing, mining, construction activities, and improper agricultural practices. In hilly areas, excessive rainfall can wash away soil, while strong winds cause erosion in dry regions. Soil erosion reduces fertility, lowers agricultural productivity, and affects environmental stability. Controlling erosion is essential for maintaining soil health and food security. Measures like afforestation, contour ploughing, and shelter belts help prevent soil erosion.
13. Explain contour ploughing as a method of soil conservation.
Answer:
Contour ploughing is a soil conservation technique used mainly in hilly and sloping areas. In this method, ploughing is done along the contour lines rather than up and down the slope. This creates natural barriers that slow down the flow of water and reduce soil erosion. It helps retain moisture in the soil and increases agricultural productivity. Contour ploughing prevents the washing away of fertile topsoil during heavy rainfall. It is an effective and economical method of conserving soil resources. By reducing runoff and preserving soil fertility, contour ploughing supports sustainable agricultural practices.
14. What is strip cropping? How does it help conserve soil?
Answer:
Strip cropping is a farming technique in which different crops are grown in alternating strips across a field. The strips are arranged in a way that reduces the speed of wind and water flow. Crops with dense cover help protect the soil from erosion, while other crops benefit from the reduced impact of natural forces. This method is especially useful in regions prone to wind erosion. Strip cropping helps retain soil fertility, reduce runoff, and improve agricultural productivity. It is an effective soil conservation measure that promotes sustainable farming and protects valuable land resources.
15. What are shelter belts? State their significance.
Answer:
Shelter belts are rows of trees or shrubs planted along the edges of agricultural fields to reduce the speed of wind. They act as barriers that protect the soil from wind erosion, especially in arid and semi-arid regions. Shelter belts help retain soil moisture, improve crop growth, and create favorable microclimatic conditions. They also provide habitats for birds and other wildlife. In desert regions such as western Rajasthan, shelter belts play an important role in preventing the expansion of sand dunes. Thus, they are an effective method of soil and environmental conservation.
16. Discuss the relationship between resource development and conservation.
Answer:
Resource development and conservation are closely related. Development involves utilizing resources to improve economic and social conditions, while conservation ensures that resources remain available for future generations. Excessive exploitation without conservation can lead to depletion and environmental degradation. Therefore, resource development should be carried out in a planned and sustainable manner. Conservation measures such as recycling, afforestation, and efficient resource use help maintain ecological balance. A balanced approach ensures that development goals are achieved without harming the environment. Thus, conservation is essential for the long-term success of resource development programs.
17. Why are resources considered the basis of development?
Answer:
Resources are considered the basis of development because they provide the materials and energy needed for economic activities. Agriculture, industries, transportation, and infrastructure all depend on the availability of resources. Human development, including education, health, and living standards, is also influenced by resource utilization. Countries with abundant and well-managed resources often achieve higher levels of development. However, resources alone are not sufficient; technology, human skills, and planning are also required. Effective management and conservation of resources ensure sustainable growth and contribute significantly to national progress and prosperity.
18. What problems arise due to indiscriminate use of resources?
Answer:
Indiscriminate use of resources leads to several environmental and economic problems. Excessive exploitation causes resource depletion, making them unavailable for future generations. It also results in environmental degradation, deforestation, loss of biodiversity, and pollution. Unequal access to resources can increase social and economic inequalities. Overuse of land and water resources affects agricultural productivity and ecological balance. Climate change and global warming are also linked to unsustainable resource use. Therefore, resources should be utilized responsibly through proper planning and conservation measures to ensure sustainable development and environmental protection.
19. Explain the role of technology in resource development.
Answer:
Technology plays a crucial role in resource development by improving the identification, extraction, processing, and utilization of resources. Advanced technology helps discover new resource deposits and increases efficiency in their use. It enables the conversion of natural materials into useful products and supports industrial growth. Technology also promotes sustainable practices such as renewable energy production, recycling, and efficient resource management. However, inappropriate use of technology can cause environmental problems. Therefore, technological advancements should be combined with conservation efforts to ensure balanced and sustainable resource development for present and future generations.
20. How can individuals contribute to resource conservation?
Answer:
Individuals can play an important role in conserving resources through responsible behavior and sustainable practices. They can reduce wastage of water and electricity, use public transport, recycle materials, and avoid excessive consumption. Planting trees, protecting forests, and participating in environmental awareness programs also contribute to conservation. People should adopt the principles of reduce, reuse, and recycle in their daily lives. Supporting renewable energy sources and eco-friendly products further helps conserve natural resources. Individual efforts, when combined with government initiatives, can significantly reduce environmental degradation and ensure the sustainable use of resources for future generations.