Very hot and dry and very cold and wet regions of India have low density of population. In this light, explain the role of climate on the distribution of population.
Climate plays a decisive role in determining the pattern of population distribution in India. Along with terrain and availability of water, it acts as a major physical factor that influences where people settle. Regions with extreme climatic conditions are generally less populated compared to areas with moderate climates.
Consequently, the North Indian Plains, deltas, and Coastal Plains have higher proportions of population. In contrast, the Himalayan region, North eastern states, and western states have relatively low densities. For instance, Arunachal Pradesh has a low density of 17 persons per sq km. However, the development of irrigation in areas like Rajasthan has allowed for moderate to high concentrations of population in previously sparse regions.
Explanation
The answer is derived from the textbook context which establishes climate as a key physical factor determining population distribution. It contrasts high-density areas (North Indian Plains, coastal areas) with low-density areas (Himalayas, North Eastern states, western states) to explain the spatial pattern. The explanation also incorporates the specific example of Arunachal Pradesh's low density from the data provided in the context to substantiate the argument.