Saturday, 7 February 2026

 

 Geography Optional MAINS – Paper I
📘 Page–6 : Economic Geography (Agriculture, Industry & Services)


1️⃣ Economic Geography – Meaning

Economic Geography studies the spatial distribution of economic activities and their relationship with physical, social and technological factors.

It explains why economic activities are located where they are.


2️⃣ Factors Affecting Location of Economic Activities

  • Physical factors – climate, soil, minerals, water
  • Human factors – labour, capital, market
  • Technological factors – transport, power
  • Political & policy factors

Location is never accidental; it is economically rational.


3️⃣ Agricultural Geography – Concept

Agricultural geography deals with spatial variations in farming systems, crop patterns and productivity.

It is strongly influenced by climate and soil conditions.


4️⃣ Types of Farming Systems

  • Subsistence farming
  • Commercial farming
  • Plantation agriculture
  • Mixed farming
  • Shifting cultivation

Von Thünen’s model explains agricultural land use patterns.


5️⃣ Industrial Geography – Meaning

Industrial geography studies location, distribution and growth of industries in relation to raw materials, energy and markets.

Industries act as engines of economic development.


6️⃣ Location Theories of Industry

  • Alfred Weber’s Least Cost Theory
  • August Lösch’s Market Area Theory
  • Growth Pole Theory

Modern industries are more footloose due to technology.


7️⃣ Service Sector (Tertiary Activities)

Service sector includes trade, transport, banking, education, tourism and IT services.

It dominates modern economies and urban employment.


8️⃣ Globalisation & Economic Geography

  • Global supply chains
  • Multinational corporations
  • Outsourcing & IT hubs

Globalisation has reduced importance of distance.


9️⃣ Regional Economic Disparities

Uneven development leads to regional imbalances between core and peripheral areas.

Planned regional development is essential for equity.


🔟 Examiner’s View – Answer Writing Tips

  • Use flow diagrams & models
  • Quote classical theories
  • Give Indian & global examples
  • Link economy with sustainability

✅ End of Geography Optional MAINS – Page 6
Next: Transport, Communication & Trade Geography

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