ISC Class 12 Specimen Paper Geography

GEOGRAPHY

Maximum Marks: 70
Time Allotted: Three Hours
Reading Time: Additional Fifteen Minutes

Instructions to Candidates
1. You are allowed additional fifteen minutes for only reading the question
paper.
2. You must NOT start writing during the reading time.
3. This question paper has 8 printed pages and a map.
4. It is divided into three sections and has 13 questions in all.
5. All questions are compulsory.
6. Section A has fourteen subparts which are very short answer questions.
Each question carries 1 mark.
7. While attempting Multiple Choice Questions in Section A, you are
required to write only ONE option as the answer.
8. Sketch maps and diagrams should be drawn wherever they serve to
illustrate your answer.
9. Make the index/ legend for Q1(A) section on the Map only. Answers
for Q1(B) should also be written on the Map only.
10. Section B has seven questions which are short answer questions. Each
question carries 4 marks.
11. Section C has four questions which are long answer questions. Each
question carries 7 marks.
12. Internal choices have been provided in two questions in Section B and in
one question in Section C.

Instruction to Supervising Examiner
1. Kindly read aloud the Instructions given above to all the candidates present
in the examination hall.

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Note: The Specimen Question Paper in the subject provides a realistic format of the
Board Examination Question Paper and should be used as a practice tool. The questions for
the Board Examination can be set from any part of the syllabus, though the format of the
Board Examination Question Paper will remain the same as that of the Specimen Question
Paper.

SECTION A – 14 MARKS

Question 1
A. Refer to the given outline Map of India and attempt subparts (i) and (ii) on
Map only.
(i) Mark and label the following on the outline Map of India. (Recall) [3]
(a) The mountain range that lies between two west flowing rivers.
(b) The plateau which is the source of Damodar River.
(c) The narrow waterbody that separates India from Sr Lanka.
(ii) Label the following on the outline Map of India. (Recall) [3]

(a) The oil refinery marked S is ___________
(b) The river marked W, that flows through Himachal Pradesh and Jammu
and Kashmir is _______
(c) The most urbanised state of India marked T is __________
B. Refer to the given outline Map of India, identify the correct option and
label on the Map only.
(i) The longitude of India marked R: (Recall) [1]
(a) 68 º7’E
(b) 78º30’E
(c) 23º30’N
(d) 97º25’E
(ii) The port city marked V that has a sheltered backwater bay is: (Recall) [1]
(a) Mumbai
(b) Haldia
(c) Kochi
(d) Marmagao
(iii) The nuclear power station marked with ♦ is: (Recall) [1]
(a) Kalpakkam
(b) Kaiga
(c) Rawatbhata
(d) Narora

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(iv) A centre of sugar industry marked with a Δ is: (Recall) [1]
(a) Ahmednagar
(b) Meerut
(c) Mumbai
(d) Ahmedabad

Question 2
Given below are two statements marked Assertion and Reason. Read these
statements carefully and choose the correct option.
(i) Assertion: The percentage of net sown area in Andhra Pradesh is high. [1]
Reason: The area of barren land is low in Andhra Pradesh.
(Analysis)
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct
explanation for Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct
explanation for Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true and Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
(ii) Assertion: Rooftop rainwater harvesting is compulsory for all buildings in [1]
Tamil Nadu.
Reason: Lack of perennial water resources resulted in an acute shortage of
water in Tamil Nadu.
(Analysis)
(a) Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct
explanation for Assertion.
(b) Both Assertion and Reason are true but Reason is not the correct
explanation for Assertion.
(c) Assertion is true and Reason is false.
(d) Both Assertion and Reason are false.
(iii) Observe the relation between the first two words and fill in the fourth word. [1]
Jowar: Maharashtra :: Bajra: ________
(Analysis)

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(iv) The north western region of India experiences cold waves in winter. [1]
Choose the correct reasons that justify the above statement. (Evaluate)
(P) Temperate cyclones form over Mediterranean Sea and move eastwards.
(Q) The westerly jet stream shifts and lies on 25ºN latitude.
(R) The northwestern region of the Ganga plains experiences continental
climate.
(S) Southwesterlies collect moisture and cause rainfall.
(a) Only (P) and (Q)
(b) Only (P) and (R)
(c) Only (Q) and (S)
(d) Only (R) and (S)

SECTION B – 28 MARKS

Question 3

(i) The locational extent of India is from 8°4´N to 37° 6´N. [2]
How does this influence agriculture in India? (Analysis)
(ii) The Bhabar region plays a significant role in the area’s ecosystem; yet it is not [2]
considered suitable for agriculture.
Justify the statement by giving two reasons. (Evaluate)

Question 4
(i) Peninsular Plateau is an old landmass of rocks whereas Himalayas is a young [2]
mountain of rocks.
Comment on the rock type in these two areas. Discuss how it has influenced the
evolution of the river valleys in these areas. (Analysis)
(ii) India is known as the ‘Mistress of the Eastern Seas’. Justify the statement by [2]
giving two reasons. (Evaluate)

Question 5
(i) ‘Indian monsoon has brought significant rainfall to various parts of the country [2]
with the Indian Meteorological Department issuing alerts for heavy rain,
thunderstorms and lighting. Monsoons are India’s yearly bonus and the cost of
losing it, again……….’
(Source: www.ndtvprofit.com dated 23/7/2025)
Suggest how monsoon rainfall in India can be transformed into a perennial asset.
(Evaluate)

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(ii) Study the climate data given below for two cities and answer the question that [2]
follows:

City D
J F M A M J J A S O N

T 24 24 26 28 30 29 27 27 27 28 27 25
A
R 4 2 2 2 18 465 613 329 286 65 18 2

B T 25 26 28 31 33 33 31 31 30 28 26 25
R 4 13 13 18 38 45 87 113 119 306 350 13

T- Mean Monthly Temperature in Degree Celsius
R- Average Monthly Rainfall in Millimetres.
What type of clime is city B experiencing? Give a reason for your answer.
(Analysis)
OR
(iii) Observe the map given below and account for the difference in temperature. [2]
(Analysis)

(iv) Coastal Odisha was battered by heavy winds and rain as Cyclone Dana, classified [2]
as a severe cyclonic storm with wind speeds reaching up to 110 kmph, made
landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra shortly after midnight
on Thursday, 24th October 2024, the India Meteorologial Department (IMD) said.
(Source: www.hindustantimes.com)
What climatic conditions in India and its surrounding water bodies led to the
phenomenon described above? (Understanding)

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Question 6
(i) Rural settlements in Rajasthan are large and inhabited by over ten thousand [2]
people.
Explain any two factors influencing location and size of rural settlements in
Rajasthan. (Understanding)
(ii) Discuss any two factors which determine evolution of urban settlements. [2]
(Understanding)

Question 7
(i) How has market gardening helped in agricultural diversification? (Analysis) [2]
(ii) Today, market gardening has become a key attraction to young entrepreneurs. [2]
Mention two ways that have made this form of farming commercially more
profitable. (Recall)

Question 8
(i) Iron and steel industry is a basic industry in India. How does this mineral based [2]
industry contribute to the economic development of the country? (Analysis)
(ii) Read the given extract and answer the following question: [2]
‘Tourists arrival in India have delayed, though even after post pandemic way,
all neighbours wooing international tourists their way,
India lives in a non-competitive way,
if travelling is in a hygienic way, is this why our economy sways.’
In context of the above, suggest any two ways by which India can increase the
inflow of international tourists. (Analysis)
OR
(iii) Read the given extract and answer the following question: [2]
Let’s salute the industrial flight, the power that drives the country so right,
Industrialization changed the world,the greed of many made heads swirl,
For here lies the nation’s plight, the heart and soul of our country’s life.
Source (edited): Industrial revolution by Linda Winchell
What are the two major factors related to the growth of the above-mentioned
sector?
(Analysis)
(iv) Analyse the growth and challenge of the cotton textile industries in India. [2]
(Analysis)

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Question 9

The Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change of the Government of India
has rolled out the Nagar Van Yojana (urban forest scheme) in 2020. According to the
India State of Forest Report 2023, the scheme resulted in an increase of 1445.81 km
of tree and forest cover.
Source (edited): The Hindu, May 24, 2025
(i) State two objectives of the National Forest Policy based on the ‘Yojana’ [2]
mentioned above. (Recall)
(ii) What is the difference between forest cover and forest area? (Recall) [2]

SECTION C – 28 MARKS
Question 10
(i) Chhattisgarh is predominantly an agricultural state. Give three reasons to [3]
support the statement. (Understanding)
(ii) Why is there a need to practise Block level planning? (Understanding) [2]
(iii) Evaluate the role of population growth in the formulation of developmental [2]
strategies. (Evaluate)

Question 11
Indian railways are one of the largest and most complex transport networks in the
world. It is the Indian Government which has approved 4 railway projects to expand
the track network in states like Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka and Jharkhand.
(i) Explain the absence of this means of transport in the Northeastern States of [2]
India. (Recall)
(ii) How does this means of transport bring economic prosperity to the areas [3]
through which it passes? (Analysis)
(iii) Roads act as feeders to railways. Justify this statement (Evaluate) [2]
OR
India’s water transport sector has shown significant growth and potential with the
inland waterways Authority of India (IWAI) recording a high cargo movement. India
has approximately 14500kms of navigable waterways comprising of rivers, canals,
backwaters and creeks. 111 waterways are declared as National Waterways promoting
IWT.
(iv) Name any two rivers which provide inland water transport in South India. [2]
(Recall)
(v) What are the physical, economic and environmental factors that influence the [3]
development and utilisation of Inland Waterways for transportation in India?
(Analysis)
(vi) Why are Inland Waterways not a popular means of transport in India? [2]
(Evaluate)

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Question 12
The graph given below represents demographic transition in India during the years
1901—2011. Study it carefully and answer the questions that follow:

(i) Phase III indicates a significant change in the population of India. Give [3]
any three reasons to account for this change. (Understanding)
(ii) Why is the year 1921 called a year of demographic divide? Give any two [2]
reasons for your answer. (Understanding)
(iii) Push factors are important indicators of Population growth in a given area. [2]
Explain how these factors have led to change in density of population in
the plains of Rajasthan. (Analysis)

Question 13

India’s breadbasket Punjab has been facing serious challenge of waterlogging due to
its extensive canal irrigation system particularly in the southwestern district. This has
resulted in a decline of agricultural production and land value.
(i) How do you think Punjab can balance its agricultural prosperity in spite of this [4]
pressing problem which threatens the fertility of land and sustainability of
water resources? (Analysis)
(ii) Why is Punjab known as the ‘breadbasket of India’? (Recall) [3]

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GEOGRAPHY
ANSWER KEY
SECTION A – 14 MARKS

Question 1
A. Candidates have to attempt this question on the Map provided.
(i) (a) Satpura [1]
(b) Chota Nagpur Plateau [1]
(c) Palk Strait [1]
(ii) (a) Barauni [1]
(b) River Chenab [1]
(c) Goa [1]
(B) In answering Multiple Choice Questions, candidates have to write either
the correct option number or the explanation against it. Please note that
only ONE correct answer should be written.
Candidates have to attempt this question on the Map provided.
(i) (a) or 68º7’E [1]
(ii) (c) or Kochi [1]
(iii) (a) or Kalpakkam [1]
(iv) (a) or Ahmednagar [1]

Question 2
In answering Multiple Choice Questions, candidates have to write either the
correct option number or the explanation against it. Please note that only ONE
correct answer should be written.
(i) (d) or Both Assertion and Reason are false. [1]
(ii) (a) or Both Assertion and Reason are true and Reason is the correct explanation [1]
for Assertion.

(iii) Rajasthan [1]
(iv) (a) or Only (P) and (Q) [1]

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SECTION B – 28 MARKS

Question 3

(i) The locational extent of India allows for the following: [2]
• It results in growing a large number and variety of crops with diverse
climatic conditions, diverse soil types and diverse growing seasons.
• Different agricultural practices with long agricultural seasons also lead
to growing of large variety of crops.
(Candidates are required to explain how the locational extent of India
affects its agriculture.)
(ii) • The porosity of the Bhabar makes all streams disappear. [2]
• There is lack of soil moisture/ water, making the area unfit for
agriculture.
(Candidates are required to justify the given statement by providing two
reasons.)

Question 4
(i) Peninsular plateau [2]
• Most rocks are igneous.
• They are hard to erode, so river valleys are shallow with low gradient.
Himalayas
• Most of the rocks are sedimentary.
• They are soft and easy to erode, so rivers form deep gorges.

(Candidates are required to first comment on the rock type in the two regions
and then briefly discuss how the rock types have led to the evolution of river
valleys in the two areas.)
(ii) • Strategic position on the globe with respect to trade, social and cultural [2]
interactions.
• Indian Ocean bridges the gap between east and west.
• India enjoys a long coastline in the eastern seas/ no other country has
such long coastline in Indian Ocean.
• Most dominating in terms of size, location, economic resources among
the littoral states.
• India acts as a principal entrepot in oceanic trade.
• All trans- Indian Ocean trade routes skirt the shores of India.
• Economically and culturally, India’s all major contacts with the outside
world for the last two millennia have been by sea.

(Candidates have to support the statement given in the question by providing
two reasons.)

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Question 5

(i) • India can adopt rainwater harvesting at an extensive level. [2]
• Crops that require more water can be grown in the monsoon prone
areas.
• Micro irrigation system can be adopted which will help in diversion of
water to drought prone areas.
• Local community can be engaged in the planning process.

(Candidates have to suggest a plan in which monsoon rainfall can be
utilised as a resource.)
(ii) City B experiences maritime climate. [2]
Reason-Annual range of temperature is low / below 10º C.
(Candidates have to study the climatic data given and state the type of
climate experienced by City B. They should then support their answer with
a valid reason.)
OR

(iii) Reasons for the difference in the temperature [2]
• The west to east alignment of the Himalayas prevents the cold polar
winds from entering India, making it comparatively warmer than Tibet
/ China.
• The altitude of the Indo Gangetic plains is much less than that of the
Plateau of Tibet.
(Candidates have to provide the reasons for the difference in the
temperature of the two places shown in the map.)
(iv) • The temperature difference between the land and the surrounding seas [2]
causes the development of such tropical cyclones.
• The position of the sun / ITCZ changes.
• Change in the pressure conditions over land and sea.
(Candidates have to describe the climatic conditions that led to the
phenomenon described through a situation in the question.)

Question 6
(i) Factors influencing size and location of rural settlements are: [2]
• Physical Factors
These include soil capability, climate, drainage, ground water level, etc.
These factors influence the type and spacing of dwelling. For instance, in
dry regions of Rajasthan, water is a crucial factor and, therefore, houses
are situated along a pond or a well which guides the compactness of the
settlement.
• Ethnic and Cultural Factors
These include aspects like caste, community, ethnicity and religion. This
leads to social segregation and fragmentation of a settlement into several
units.

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• Historical or Defence Factors
In the past, mostly border areas of north-western plains were conquered
or attacked frequently by outsiders. For a long time, apart from attack
from outsiders, there had been continuous fight between princely states
and kingdom within the country therefore, security concerns favoured the
evolution of nucleated settlements.
(Candidates have to briefly explain any two factors that determine the
location and size of rural settlements in Rajasthan.)
(ii) Factors for urban settlements: [2]
• Physical environment
• Economic activities
• Infrastructure development
• Security/law and order
• Environmental conditions
(Candidates have to develop their answer on the points given above and
briefly discuss any two factors that determine the evolution of urban
settlements.)

Question 7

(i) Market Gardening [2]
• Growing a variety of crops has reduced the dependence on a single crop.
• It has increased income opportunities by growing high value crops.
• It has improved food security especially with a failure of monsoon.
• Diversification of crops has helped farmers adapt to climate change,
market fluctuations and other challenges.
(Candidates have to briefly discuss how market gardening has diversified
agriculture.)
(ii) Market Gardening and Commercial Profit [2]
• Market gardeners are able to earn a good living by selling their produce
directly to consumers. They are also able to control their own prices,
which is more profitable than selling to a wholesaler.
• Market gardening is a more sustainable way to farm than conventional
agriculture. Market gardeners often use organic methods, which can help
to protect the environment.
• They also typically use less land and water than conventional farmers.
• Market gardening also creates a sense of community and can help to
connect people with their food.
• Market gardening has helped farmers grow different fruits, vegetables,
flowers according to local climatic conditions.

(Candidates have to mention two ways in which market gardening has become
commercially viable.)

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Question 8
(i) Role of Iron and Steel Industry [2]
• Iron and steel are a source of raw material for all other industries.
• These mineral-based industries form the backbone
of industrial infrastructure by providing essential material for
construction and transportation.
• With their widespread presence and diverse contributions, these
industries create and enhance employment prospects.
• They also provide material for engineering goods.
• They provide the material for defence, medical, telephonic, scientific
equipment and a variety of consumer goods.
(Candidates are required to discuss how this industry contributes to the
economic development of the country.)
(ii) • India can adopt a marketing strategy. [2]
• It can also improve its transport connectivity.
• It can upgrade its infrastructure and accommodation facilities.
• It can also improve hygiene and sanitation in the country.
(Candidates have to suggest two ways by which India can increase inflow
of international tourists.)
OR
(iii) Factors influencing industrialisation are: [2]
• Availability of raw materials
• Presence of sources of power
• Availability of labour
• Presence of transport
• Presence of market
• Availability of cheap land and water
• Suitable climate
• Favourable government policies
• Banking facility
• Political stability
(Candidates have to develop the answer on any two major factors and
discuss them in brief.)
(iv) Growth: [2]
• Areas of cotton cultivation and production were increased after
independence
• Ease of importing machinery
• Dispersal of industries
• Development of hydroelectricity
• Shift of the industry from high labour cost to areas of low labour cost
• Different sectors of cotton cloth production
Challenges:
• Sick mills with old and non-functioning machinery
• Labour strikes
• High land prices

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Competition from other countries
•
Competition from other textiles
•
(Candidates have to assess the growth of the cotton textile industries in
India and the challenges pertaining to it.)

Question 9

(i) Objectives [2]
• Controlling environmental pollution
• Introducing recreational activities
• Improving aesthetic values
(Candidates have to state any two objectives that led to the scheme
mentioned in the source.)

(ii) Forest Cover Forest Area [2]
It refers to an area actually It is an area notified and
occupied by forests. recorded as forest
irrespective of the existence
of trees

SECTION C – 28 MARKS

Question 10

(i) • It is a large fertile land. [3]
• Area is drained by river Mahanadi
• 70% people are employed in agriculture.
• Government takes initiatives to develop and diversify agriculture.

(Candidates have to provide three reasons to explain why Chattisgarh is an
agricultural land.)

(ii) • Block level planning is the third stage of planning. [2]
• It involves mass people in decision making and implementation of
development plan.
• It mobilises the local resources.

(Candidates have to explain the need for practising Block level planning.)
(iii) • Rapidly increasing population puts pressure on physical resource. [2]
• There is growing demand for food and other necessities of life.
• There will be a quest for improving the general living standards of the
people.

(Candidates have to evaluate the role of population growth in the
formulation of developmental strategies.)

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Question 11

(i) • The presence of hilly topography makes it difficult for the [2]
laying of tracks.
• These areas are crowded with dense forests.
• They receive heavy rainfall.
• The economy is backward.
(Candidates have to write valid reasons to explain the absence of
railways in north eastern states.)

(ii) • It creates employment opportunities [3]
• It increases trade prospects.
• It improves access to national markets.
• It enhances connectivity.
• It stimulates local economies.
(Candidates have to explain how railways bring economic prosperity.)

(iii) Roads as feeder to railways [2]
• They provide last mile connectivity to remote areas.
• They aid in collecting and distributing goods.
• They provide door-to-door services.
(Candidates are required to briefly explain how roads aid railways.)
OR

(iv) River Krishna, River Kaveri, River Godavari, River Tungbhadra and [2]
River Periyar.
(v) Factors influencing development and utilisation of inland waterways [3]
• Rivers and canals must have a sufficient flow of water.
• Perennial flow of water is required to enhance navigability.
• River bed should be smooth and free of features like cataracts and
rapids.
• The presence of huge market for waterways is also required for
making it an economically viable mode of transport.
• Human activities that cause industrial and agricultural waste
pollute the waterways and hinder water transportation.
(Candidates have to describe factors that influence development and
utilisation of inland waterways.)
(vi) • The presence of seasonal rivers and unsuitability for navigation [2]
makes them an unpopular means.
• They are slow.
• They are not used widely. / They are not in much demand.
• There is an uneven flow of water in river.
(Candidates have to explain the reasons for the unpopularity of inland
waterways in India.)

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Question 12

(i) Reasons: [3]
• The increase in birth rate is higher than the death rate.
• Health facilities had improved.
• Living conditions had improved.
• Death rate had declined.
• The rate of development had accelerated.
(Candidates are required to study the graph and provide three reasons to
explain the significance of Phase III.)
(ii) 1921 is called a demographic divide: [2]
• There was a slight decline in the population growth rate.
• The population continued to rise thereafter.
• The death rate increased during this year due to fatal diseases.
• Large number of soldiers had lost their lives during World War I.
• The population pyramid began to narrow with young people
proportion reducing and an increase in proportion of older people.
(Candidates have to write two reasons to explain why 1921 is known as the
demographic year.)
(iii) Push factors that have led to low density of population in Rajasthan are: [2]
• There is a lack of water resources.
• The presence of sandy soil also acts as an unattractive feature.
• This region experiences high temperature.
• Low precipitation
• There is a non-availability of fertile soil.
(Candidates have to explain the push factors that have impacted population
density in Rajasthan.)

Question 13

(i) • Improved drainage – it should construct drains and improving the existing [3]
ones.
• Water efficient irrigation – it would benefit by adopting drip and sprinkler
irrigation methods.
• Crop diversification – it needs to promote crops suitable for waterlogged
areas.
(Candidates are required to give their suggestions on stabilizing agricultural
in the Punjab region.)
(ii) • Fertile soil [4]
• Favourable temperature 10-150C
• Rainfall of 50-100 cms
• Extensive irrigation system
• Highest agricultural productivity for wheat and other cereal crops
(Candidates have to briefly explain the factors that justify Punjab’s status
as the ‘bread basket’ of India.)

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