What are non-farm primary activities? How are these activities related to physiographic features in India? Discuss with suitable examples. upsc mains 2025 Gs1 model answers

What are non-farm primary activities? How are these activities related to physiographic features in India? Discuss with suitable examples. (150 words)

Non-farm primary activities are those economic activities that derive directly from natural resources but are not related to crop cultivation. They include animal husbandry, fishing, forestry, mining, quarrying, and gathering of resources. These activities are largely influenced by India’s diverse physiographic features, as resource availability varies across regions.

Relation with Physiographic Features (with Examples):

  1. Animal Husbandry (Pastoralism):
    • Arid and Semi-Arid Regions (Rajasthan, Gujarat): Camel, sheep, and goat rearing suited to sparse vegetation.
    • Himalayan Pastures (J&K, Himachal, Uttarakhand): Yak, sheep, and goat grazing due to alpine meadows.
  2. Fishing:
    • Coastal Plains (Kerala, West Bengal, Andhra Pradesh): Marine fishing thrives due to long coastline, estuaries, and backwaters.
    • Inland Fishing: River systems like the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and reservoirs support freshwater fisheries.
  3. Forestry and Gathering:
    • Himalayan Region: Coniferous forests provide timber, resin.
    • Central India (Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Odisha): Sal, teak, and non-timber forest products (tendu leaves, mahua, lac).
    • Northeast India: Bamboo-based livelihoods due to humid climate and dense forests.
  4. Mining and Quarrying:
    • Chhota Nagpur Plateau: Rich in coal, iron ore, and bauxite.
    • Rajasthan: Marble and sandstone quarrying linked with desert physiography.

 

Conclusion:
Non-farm primary activities in India are deeply shaped by regional physiography and resource endowment. From pastoralism in deserts to forestry in dense forests and fishing along coasts, they highlight how India’s physical geography sustains diverse livelihoods beyond farming.

  Note: This Model Answer is for Reference purposes only

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