UKPSC 2016 Paper IV

Points to Remember: Definition of a watershed Physical characteristics of a watershed Importance of watersheds Threats to watersheds Watershed management Introduction: A watershed, also known as a drainage basin or catchment area, is an area of land where all the water that falls on it drains off to a common outlet, such as a river, … Read more Define Watershed.

Points to Remember: Geographical diversity of Uttarakhand’s tribal habitats. Unique socio-cultural practices of different tribes. Challenges faced by tribal communities in Uttarakhand. Government initiatives and conservation efforts. Introduction: Uttarakhand, nestled in the Himalayas, is home to a diverse range of tribal communities. These communities, often residing in remote and ecologically sensitive areas, have developed unique … Read more Describe the tribal habitats of Uttarakhand.

Points to Remember: Geographical location and significance. Economic activities and infrastructure. Environmental impact and concerns. Social implications and development. Future prospects and challenges. Introduction: Krishnapatnam is a port city located in Nellore district, Andhra Pradesh, India. It’s not merely a geographical location but a significant example of India’s port development strategy, showcasing both opportunities and … Read more What is Krishnapatnam?

Points to Remember: Definition and formation of jet streams. Location and characteristics of major jet streams. Impact on weather patterns. Influence on aviation. Variability and future projections. Introduction: Jet streams are fast-flowing, narrow air currents found in the atmospheres of some planets, including Earth. They are essentially rivers of air, flowing horizontally at high altitudes. … Read more What are the ‘Jet streams’?

Points to Remember: Definition and scope of earthquake science (seismology). Key concepts: plate tectonics, seismic waves, earthquake magnitude and intensity. Methods of earthquake study: seismographs, GPS, geological surveys. Earthquake prediction and mitigation strategies. Societal impact and preparedness. Introduction: Earthquake science, also known as seismology, is the interdisciplinary scientific study of earthquakes and the propagation of … Read more What is earthquake science?

Points to Remember: Definition of a rain shadow region. Formation process (orographic lift and adiabatic cooling). Climatic characteristics of rain shadow regions. Geographical examples of rain shadow regions. Impact on ecosystems and human activities. Introduction: A rain shadow region is a dry area on the leeward side (downwind) of a mountain range. This aridity is … Read more What is a rain shadow region?

Points to Remember: Definition and types of age pyramids Construction and interpretation of age pyramids Applications of age pyramids in demographic analysis Limitations of age pyramids Introduction: An age pyramid, also known as a population pyramid, is a graphical representation of the age and sex composition of a population. It’s a powerful tool used in … Read more What is an age pyramid?

Points to Remember: Biodiversity encompasses the variety of life at all levels, from genes to ecosystems. It includes species diversity, genetic diversity, and ecosystem diversity. Loss of biodiversity has significant consequences for human well-being and the planet. Conservation efforts are crucial for maintaining biodiversity. Introduction: Biodiversity, a contraction of “biological diversity,” refers to the variety … Read more Define Bio-diversity.

Points to Remember: White coal is a metaphor, not a literal substance. It refers to hydropower. It highlights the clean and renewable nature of hydropower. Hydropower has both environmental and economic benefits and drawbacks. Introduction: The term “white coal” is a metaphorical expression used to describe hydropower, the energy derived from the movement of water. … Read more What is white coal?

Points to Remember: Key Role in Confederation: The Canadian Pacific Railway (CPR) played a crucial role in uniting Canada. Economic Impact: Its construction spurred economic growth and westward expansion. Challenges and Controversies: The CPR’s construction faced significant challenges and was accompanied by controversies. Long-Term Legacy: The CPR’s impact continues to shape Canada’s transportation and economic … Read more Describe the Canadian & Pacific Railway.