South Asia Review Notes

This set of flashcards covers key concepts and questions regarding South Asia, including its demographics, economies, environmental issues, and cultural characteristics.

How has South Asia changed over time?

South Asia has improved in education, health care (free for the poor), and shows diverse economic growth, increasing from 42% to 69%.

What is the current state of health care in South Asia?

The national government provides free health care for the poor, but the quality is poor compared to private health care, leading many to pay for private services.

Describe the educational landscape of South Asia.

There is a high number of students in both private and public schools, but a significant gap exists with low education levels for girls.

What are the main economic sectors in South Asia?

South Asia's economy is diverse, including agriculture, industry, and tourism, with countries like Nepal, Maldives, and India experiencing growth.

What is the largest and smallest country in South Asia by population?

India has the largest population with 1.34 billion; the Maldives is the smallest with 436,330 people.

What are common food staples in South Asia?

Common food staples include rice, vegetables, and chicken.

How does religion affect women in South Asia?

Women in South Asia face harsh treatment, including child brides, sex trafficking, and dowry violence.

Between which two major lines of latitude does most of South Asia lie?

Most of South Asia lies between the Himalayas to the north and the Indian Ocean to the south.

Why are the Ganges and Indus Rivers important to South Asia?

The Ganges River flows from India to Pakistan, emptying into the Arabian Sea; the Indus River is crucial for its delta.

How does South Asia's geographic location affect its climate?

The Himalayas control the weather patterns, leading to monsoons and dry seasons.

What natural resources are abundant in South Asia?

Resources include petroleum, natural gas, uranium, coal, and various minerals.

What environmental issues are faced in South Asia?

Major issues include water pollution, air pollution, and landfill problems.

How have governments in South Asia addressed environmental issues?

Governments have implemented measures for proper sanitation, recycling, waste management, and clearing polluted waterways.

What is one proposed solution to environmental issues in South Asia?

Implementing effective waste management and clearing rivers and waterways of pollution.

Define 'subcontinent'.

A subcontinent is a large landform that is bigger than a peninsula yet smaller than a continent.

What is a monsoon?

A monsoon is a wind that changes direction with the seasons.

What historical significance does the Mauryan Empire hold?

The Mauryan Empire was established in 322 BC and lasted until 185 BC.

What is meant by passive resistance?

Passive resistance is the practice of achieving goals through protests, civil disobedience, and political noncooperation.

What does the caste system refer to?

The caste system categorizes members of society into strict social classes.

What are untouchables in the context of the caste system?

Untouchables are those who engage in despised occupations like tanners and garbage collectors.

What is reincarnation?

Reincarnation is the process of a person becoming absorbed back into oneness with Brahman.