Chapter 7 Lifelines Of National Economy

Overview

This chapter explains the vital role of transport, communication, and trade as the lifelines of a nation's economy. It discusses the evolution and classification of transport networks – roadways, railways, waterways, airways, and pipelines – highlighting their importance, distribution, and challenges in India. The chapter also covers the communication system, including mass media and personal communication, and emphasizes the significance of international trade and tourism for economic development. It underscores how efficient transport and communication networks are prerequisites for local, national, and global economic progress.

Transport

Transport facilitates the movement of goods and people, connecting supply and demand locales and driving economic development. India possesses one of the world's largest road networks and an extensive railway system.

• Roadways: More economical and versatile than railways, roads can be built and maintained at lower costs, traverse difficult terrains (mountains), provide door-to-door service, and act as feeders to other transport modes. Roads are classified by capacity (Super Highways, National Highways, State Highways, District Roads, Rural Roads) and material (metalled, unmetalled).
• Railways: The primary mode for long-distance freight and passenger transport, binding the country economically and integrating industries and agriculture. The network's development is influenced by physiography, economic activity, and administrative factors, with the northern plains being most favorable. Challenges include ticketing irregularities and property damage.
• Pipelines: A newer transport system used for crude oil, petroleum products, and natural gas, connecting fields to refineries and industries. They offer high initial costs but low running costs and minimize trans-shipment losses.
• Waterways: The cheapest means of transport, ideal for heavy and bulky goods, and environmentally friendly. India has extensive inland waterways (declared National Waterways like Ganga, Brahmaputra) and relies heavily on its major sea ports for international trade.
• Major Sea Ports: India's coastline has 12 major ports handling 95% of foreign trade, including Mumbai (natural harbour), Jawaharlal Nehru Port (to decongest Mumbai), Marmagao (iron ore export), New Mangalore (iron ore export), Tuticorin (artificial, handles diverse cargo), and Vishakhapatnam (landlocked, deep port for iron ore export).
• Airways: The fastest, most comfortable, and prestigious mode, crucial for difficult terrains and connecting remote areas. Nationalized in 1953, services include domestic and international routes, though still costly for common people.

Communication

Modern communication systems, including personal communication (telecom, postal network) and mass communication (radio, TV, press, films), facilitate the exchange of information and ideas. India has one of Asia's largest telecom networks, with efforts to extend services to rural areas. Mass media plays a role in entertainment and public awareness about government policies.

International Trade

The exchange of goods and services between countries (exports and imports) is crucial for economic prosperity. Globalisation has led to increased foreign trade, connecting markets and increasing competition. India exports gems, jewelry, chemicals, and agricultural products while importing petroleum, electronics, and machinery. The balance of trade (exports minus imports) indicates a country's economic standing.

Tourism As A Trade

Tourism has significantly grown in India, promoting national integration, supporting local crafts, and fostering international understanding. It contributes substantially to employment and the economy, with potential for development in heritage, eco, adventure, cultural, medical, and business tourism.