Class 10 - Chapter 7: Lifelines of National Economy

1. Multiple Choice Questions

(i) Which two of the following extreme locations are connected by the east-west corridor?

(a) Mumbai and Nagpur
(b) Silchar and Porbandar
(c) Mumbai and Kolkata
(d) Nagpur and Siliguri

Answer: (b) Silchar and Porbandar

(ii) Which mode of transportation reduces trans-shipment losses and delays?

(a) Railways
(b) Roadways
(c) Pipeline
(d) Waterways

Answer: (c) Pipeline

(iii) Which one of the following states is not connected with the H.V.J. pipeline?

(a) Madhya Pradesh
(b) Maharashtra
(c) Gujarat
(d) Uttar Pradesh

Answer: (b) Maharashtra

(iv) Which one of the following ports is the deepest land-locked and well-protected port along the east coast?

(a) Chennai
(b) Paradip
(c) Tuticorin
(d) Visakhapatnam

Answer: (d) Visakhapatnam

(v) Which one of the following is the most important mode of transportation in India?

(a) Pipeline
(b) Railways
(c) Roadways
(d) Airways

Answer: (c) Roadways

(vi) Which one of the following terms is used to describe trade between two or more countries?

(a) Internal trade
(b) International trade
(c) External trade
(d) Local trade

Answer: (b) International trade

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2. Answer the Following Questions in About 30 Words

(i) State any three merits of roadways.

Answer:
Roadways provide door-to-door service, are economical for short distances and can reach remote and hilly areas where railways cannot be constructed easily.

(ii) Where and why is rail transport the most convenient means of transportation?

Answer:
Rail transport is most convenient in the northern plains because the level land, dense population and intensive agriculture generate large passenger and freight traffic.

(iii) What is the significance of the border roads?

Answer:
Border roads improve connectivity in remote border areas, strengthen national security, facilitate movement of defence forces and promote economic development in frontier regions.

(iv) What is meant by trade? What is the difference between international and local trade?

Answer:
Trade is the exchange of goods and services between people or places. Local trade occurs within a country, whereas international trade takes place between different countries.

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3. Answer the Following Questions in About 120 Words

(i) Why are the means of transportation and communication called the lifelines of a nation and its economy?

Answer:
Transportation and communication are called the lifelines of a nation and its economy because they connect different regions, people and markets. Transportation enables the movement of raw materials, finished goods and passengers from one place to another. Communication helps in the quick exchange of information, ideas and services. Together, they support trade, industry, agriculture and tourism. Efficient transport and communication systems reduce distances, save time and promote national integration. They also help in disaster management, defence activities and economic planning. In a large country like India, these networks are essential for balanced regional development and economic growth. Therefore, transportation and communication play a vital role in the overall progress and prosperity of the nation.

(ii) Write a note on the changing nature of the international trade in the last fifteen years.

Answer:
The nature of international trade has changed significantly in the last fifteen years. Earlier, India mainly exported agricultural products and imported manufactured goods. Today, exports include engineering goods, petroleum products, chemicals, gems and jewellery, software services and other manufactured products. Globalisation, technological advancements and improved transport and communication networks have expanded international trade. India's participation in world markets has increased, leading to greater economic growth. Imports now include machinery, petroleum, electronic goods and industrial raw materials. Trade agreements and economic reforms have further encouraged foreign trade. As a result, international trade has become more diversified and plays a crucial role in India's economic development and integration with the global economy.