CBSE Class 8 Geography Chapter 6 Notes - Human Resources

The population of India is rising at an alarming speed. It also means that the various traits of the population are also altering gradually. To keep a tap on the potential of our human resources, the GOI has developed the MHRD. This resource is one of the strongest pillars supporting the economy of our country. In fact, various organizations from different countries are also showing immense interest in investing in Indian industries and markets. The importance of India’s human resources has been perfectly explained in Class 8 Social Science Chapter 6. Here is a brief description of the important sections of this chapter.

Population Distribution

The pattern of distribution of the population in a country is called population distribution. As we all know that the distribution of people living is uneven. The densest populations can be found in the major cities whereas the remotest locations are devoid of any human settlement.

The diversity in the topographies of a country influences the rate of human settlement. Diverse topographies such as high altitudes, deserts, marshes, etc are least populated whereas plain lands, riversides, etc are densely populated. If we check the entire population of the world, more than 60% live in just 10 countries. If you study CBSE Solutions for Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 6, you will understand the reasons for such diverse population distribution.

Population Density

The term explains the meaning. The population density of a place is calculated by counting the number of people residing in a unit area. By calculating population density, you can realize how much an area is populated and compare it with the other areas. As per the latest census calculations, the average density of our planet is 51 people living in an area of 1 square kilometre.

Factors Influencing Population Distribution

As mentioned earlier, the density of the population or its distribution depends on various factors. It can be socio-economic or geographical. Let us take a quick look at these factors influencing population distribution as per the Class 8 Social Science Geography Chapter 6.

1. Geographical Features

These features are based on geographical locations and topography.

• Topography

The preference of the topographical feature of land for settling down focuses on ease of the daily life flow. Hence, plain lands are preferred the most whereas mountainous regions are avoided. Plain lands are easily cultivable and water resources are ample.

• Climatic Conditions

Harsh climatic conditions make a place inhabitable. Despite this fact, we find many communities living under harsh conditions by adapting to the challenges. The population in that region is sparse. Deserts, mountains, polar regions, etc are less populated due to hostile climatic conditions. If you follow the Class 8 Geography Chapter 6 Human Resources notes, you will find proper examples to understand this concept.

• Soil

Fertility has been the priority of the population to grow food. Hence, river banks are chosen for settlement whereas marshlands are not. Most of the ancient civilizations were built beside a prime river to avail of the fertile features of the plains.

• Water

As per the Class 8 Social Science Chapter 6, another most important factor is the availability of water sources. Potable and irrigational water sources are mandatory for the growth of a population in a particular area. River valleys or locations near a permanent freshwater resource are always more populated. You will also see seashores that are well populated. This is because of the occupation of the residing people.

• Minerals

Mining areas are comparatively more populated than the diverse topographical areas. This is also because of occupational requirements.

2.  Social, Economic and Cultural Factors

• Social Factors

As per the Geography Chapter 6 Human Resources, the places with better residential and commercial facilities are densely populated. This is what distinguishes a city from a village.

• Cultural Factors

Places with cultural significance always have a higher density of population.

• Economic Factors

The availability of employment and earning opportunities decide the density of the population. New Delhi provides employment more than Ghaziabad. This is why it is more densely populated.