Question.
What is the connection between the distribution of natural resources and different aspects of life?
(Chapter 1, Class 8 Social Science, NCERT )
Answer.
The distribution of natural resources is closely connected with different aspects of human life because natural resources are not evenly spread everywhere. This uneven distribution affects different aspects of life, like how people live, work, and develop. Some of them are as follows:
1. Effect on Human Settlements
People often settle in places where resources like water, fertile soil, minerals, and forests are available. For example, many big cities developed near rivers because water is essential for life and farming.
2. Effect on Jobs and Economy
Natural resources create employment opportunities. Industries are usually set up near resources like coal, iron, or oil, which helps local people get jobs and improves their living standards. For example, there are many cities like Bokaro, Bhilai, Raurkela, and Durgapur in the resource-rich Chhota Nagpur Plateau.
3. Effect on Trade
Countries and regions trade with each other because no place has all the resources. For example, areas rich in minerals export them to places where industries need them. Thus, natural resources strongly influence trade patterns and economic development.
4. Cause of Conflicts and Wars
Since resources are limited and unevenly distributed, disputes may arise over their control. Many conflicts and even wars have happened due to competition for resources like oil, water, or land. Africa and Venezuela are examples of this.
5. Effect on Environment and Society
The development of resource-rich areas sometimes leads to the displacement of people and environmental problems. Balancing resource use with sustainability is therefore very important. For example, over-exploitation of groundwater resources in Punjab led to water scarcity and depletion of groundwater in unsustainable depths.
6. Effect on Relations Between States and Countries
Resources like rivers often cross political boundaries, leading to shared issues and negotiations between states or countries.
The distribution of natural resources influences settlements, occupations, trade, economy, conflicts, environment, and international relations.
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