The Geographical Extremes of India: Southernmost Latitude of the Union and Mainland

India, known for its vast expanse and rich diversity, is home to several geographical extremes. Among these is the southernmost latitude of both the Indian mainland and the entire country, which includes its islands. Understanding these latitudes is important for geographical and political perspectives. Below, we delve deeper into the geographical south of India.

Indira Point: The Southernmost Point of the Indian Union

The southernmost latitude of the Indian Union, encompassing both the mainland and its numerous islands, is 6°45N (approximately). This point, known as Indira Point, is located on Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Originally named Pygmalion Point or Parsons Point, it was renamed in honor of former Prime Minister Smt. Indira Gandhi in the mid-1980s. Notably, Indira Point faced a dramatic change in 2004 during the Tsunami, as it got submerged under the sea. This makes it a significant endpoint in the Indian territory and a historical landmark.

Kanyakumari: The Southernmost Point of the Indian Mainland

India also has a southernmost latitude on its mainland, which is at 8°4N. This point is known as Kanyakumari, also spelled as Kanniyakumari, and is situated in the southernmost tip of Tamil Nadu. Kanyakumari is a popular tourist destination, offering a unique experience at the confluence of the Arabian Sea, Bay of Bengal, and Indian Ocean. The town is rich in cultural and historical significance, and its geographical position makes it a key point in Indian cartography.

Geographical Extremes of India

The vast expanse of India stretches from a latitude of approximately 8°4N to 37°6N in the northern region and from longitude 68°7E to 97°25E. Each part has its own unique characteristics and markers, contributing to the overall diversity of the country. Below are some of the geographical points of interest:

Indira Point (6°45N): The southernmost point of the Indian Union, located on Great Nicobar Island. Kanyakumari (8°4N): The southernmost point of the Indian mainland, situated in Tamil Nadu. Indira Col (Ladakh): The northernmost point of the country, located in Ladakh. Guhar Moti (Gujarat): The westernmost point of India. Kibithu (Arunachal Pradesh): The easternmost point of India.

Additional Information: Kuttanad and Its Significance

Another important geographical point in the south of India is Kuttanad, a prime example of land reclaimed for agriculture. Kuttanad, situated in the state of Kerala, lies at an elevation of 2.2 meters below sea level. This area, damaged during the 1921 flood, was reclaimed from Lake Vembanad between the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, Kuttanad is known for its rich farming practices, particularly rice cultivation. The official languages in the region are Malayalam and English.

Conclusion

The southernmost latitudes of both the mainland and the Indian Union play a significant role in understanding the geographical extent of the country. From the submerged Indira Point to the picturesque Kanyakumari, each point holds its unique story and significance. Understanding these geographical markers not only enriches cultural and historical knowledge but also aids in the political and administrative management of the diverse nation of India.