PYQs – Class 10 Geography Chapter 3: Water Resources | CBSE | GPN

📚 Past Year Questions (PYQs) 2019-2024

This section contains 35 authentic questions from CBSE board exams (2019 to 2024) for Geography Chapter 3: Water Resources. Organized by marks category with clear answers. Water is life - and this chapter is about managing it wisely. Master these questions to ace the water-related questions in your exam.

💧 Chapter 3 Focus Areas

This chapter typically carries 6-8 marks. High-weightage topics: Water scarcity causes, multipurpose projects, rainwater harvesting, traditional water conservation methods, and dam controversies.

Most Repeated: Rainwater harvesting (6 times), Multipurpose projects (5 times), Water scarcity (4 times)

Map Skills: Dams and river locations are frequently tested

Confusion Alert: Students often confuse between different traditional water harvesting systems of various regions

PART A: Very Short Answer Questions (1 Mark Each)

Answer in one word or one sentence. Be specific and accurate.

What is water scarcity? [CBSE 2024]
Answer: Lack of access to adequate quantities of clean water to meet basic human needs.
Name any two multipurpose river valley projects of India. [CBSE 2024]
Answer: Bhakra Nangal Project and Damodar Valley Project.
What is rainwater harvesting? [CBSE 2023]
⚠️ Repeated
Answer: The technique of collecting and storing rainwater for future use.
Which state in India has made rooftop rainwater harvesting compulsory? [CBSE 2023]
Answer: Tamil Nadu (since 2001 for all buildings).
What is a dam? [CBSE 2022]
Answer: A barrier across flowing water that obstructs, directs, or retards the flow, often creating a reservoir.
Name the river on which Hirakud Dam is built. [CBSE 2022]
Answer: Mahanadi river (in Odisha).
What is groundwater? [CBSE 2021]
Answer: Water that exists underground in saturated zones beneath the land surface.
Name two traditional methods of rainwater harvesting in India. [CBSE 2021]
Answer: Khadins in Rajasthan and Johads in Haryana.
What is the meaning of 'water conservation'? [CBSE 2020]
Answer: The practice of using water efficiently to reduce unnecessary water usage and preserve water resources.
Name the first multipurpose river valley project of independent India. [CBSE 2020]
Answer: Damodar Valley Corporation (DVC) established in 1948.

PART B: Short Answer Questions (3 Marks Each)

Explain any three causes of water scarcity in India. [CBSE 2024, 3 marks]
⚠️ High Probability
Answer: Causes of water scarcity:

(1) Over-exploitation of groundwater: Excessive use for irrigation and industries.
(2) Uneven distribution: Some regions get heavy rainfall, others are arid.
(3) Population growth: Increasing demand for domestic use.
(4) Urbanization: Reduced percolation, increased runoff.
(5) Pollution: Industrial and domestic waste polluting water sources.
(6) Inefficient use: Agricultural practices using flood irrigation.
Describe any three advantages of multipurpose river valley projects. [CBSE 2024, 3 marks]
Answer: Advantages of multipurpose projects:

(1) Irrigation: Provide water for agriculture in dry seasons.
(2) Electricity generation: Hydel power is renewable and clean.
(3) Flood control: Regulate river flow to prevent floods.
(4) Water supply: For domestic and industrial use.
(5) Inland navigation: Create waterways for transportation.
(6) Tourism and fisheries: Develop recreational and economic activities.
Explain the traditional rainwater harvesting system in Rajasthan. [CBSE 2023, 3 marks]
Answer: Traditional systems in Rajasthan:

(1) Khadin System: Agriculture fields with embankments to capture rainwater.
(2) Nadis: Village ponds for drinking water.
(3) Tankas: Underground tanks for storing drinking water (common in Bikaner).
(4) Johads: Small earthen check dams to capture rainwater.
(5) Rapat: Small check dams built across streams.

These systems help in water conservation in arid regions.
Describe any three disadvantages of multipurpose river valley projects. [CBSE 2023, 3 marks]
Answer: Disadvantages of multipurpose projects:

(1) Displacement: Large-scale displacement of local communities.
(2) Ecological impact: Submergence of forests, loss of biodiversity.
(3) Siltation: Reservoirs get filled with silt over time.
(4) Social conflicts: Between upstream and downstream users.
(5) Earthquakes: May trigger earthquakes in seismic zones.
(6) Waterlogging and salinity: In command areas due to over-irrigation.
Explain the rooftop rainwater harvesting system. [CBSE 2022, 3 marks]
Answer: Rooftop rainwater harvesting:

(1) Collection: Rainwater collected from roof catchment.
(2) Transportation: Carried through pipes to storage.
(3) Filtration: Passed through filters to remove debris.
(4) Storage: Stored in tanks (surface or underground).
(5) Recharge: Excess water used to recharge groundwater.

Benefits: Reduces water bills, increases groundwater level, provides soft water.
Describe any three measures for conservation of water. [CBSE 2022, 3 marks]
Answer: Water conservation measures:

(1) Rainwater Harvesting: Collect and store rainwater.
(2) Watershed Management: Scientific conservation of water resources.
(3) Drip Irrigation: Minimize water use in agriculture.
(4) Recycling: Treat and reuse wastewater.
(5) Awareness: Public education about water conservation.
(6) Traditional Methods: Revive traditional water harvesting systems.
Explain the concept of watershed management. [CBSE 2021, 3 marks]
Answer: Watershed management:

(1) Definition: Scientific conservation of soil and water in a watershed.
(2) Objective: Sustainable use of land and water resources.
(3) Methods: Afforestation, check dams, contour bunding.
(4) Community Participation: Involving local people in planning.
(5) Benefits: Increases agricultural production, improves groundwater.

Example: Sukhomajri village in Haryana (successful watershed management).
Describe any three traditional water harvesting systems in different regions of India. [CBSE 2021, 3 marks]
Answer: Traditional water harvesting systems:

(1) Rajasthan: Khadins (agriculture fields), Tankas (underground tanks).
(2) Maharashtra: Bandharas (stone checks), Tals (village tanks).
(3) Madhya Pradesh: Bundhis (small earthen dams).
(4) Kerala: Surangams (horizontal wells in laterite rocks).
(5) Tamil Nadu: Eris (tank systems), Ooranis (small ponds).
(6) Kashmir: Springs (natural water sources).
Explain the reasons for opposition to large dams in India. [CBSE 2020, 3 marks]
⚠️ Most Important
Answer: Opposition to large dams:

(1) Displacement: Millions of people displaced without proper rehabilitation.
(2) Environmental: Submergence of forests, loss of biodiversity.
(3) Economic: High cost with questionable benefits.
(4) Social: Affect tribal communities disproportionately.
(5) Technical: Siltation reduces lifespan, may cause earthquakes.
(6) Distribution: Benefits go to rich farmers, costs borne by poor.
Describe any three methods of water conservation adopted in ancient India. [CBSE 2020, 3 marks]
Answer: Ancient water conservation methods:

(1) Stepwells: Like Chand Baori in Rajasthan (850 AD).
(2) Tank Systems: Grand Anicut (Kallanai) on Kaveri river (2nd century AD).
(3) Canals: Extensive network during Mauryan period.
(4) Lakes: Artificial lakes like Bhojtal in Bhopal (11th century).
(5) Underground Channels: Karez system in Rajasthan (similar to Persian qanat).
(6) Temple Tanks: Associated with temples for community use.

PART C: Long Answer Questions (5 Marks Each)

Explain the advantages and disadvantages of multipurpose river valley projects in India. [CBSE 2024, 5 marks]
Answer:

Advantages: (1) Irrigation: Provide water for agriculture, increasing production.
(2) Electricity: Generate hydroelectric power (clean energy).
(3) Flood Control: Regulate river flow, prevent damage.
(4) Water Supply: For domestic and industrial use.
(5) Navigation: Inland waterways for transportation.
(6) Recreation: Tourism, fisheries, water sports.

Disadvantages: (1) Displacement: Large-scale displacement of people.
(2) Ecological: Submergence of forests, loss of biodiversity.
(3) Social Conflicts: Between states over water sharing.
(4) Siltation: Reduces reservoir capacity over time.
(5) Waterlogging: In command areas affecting soil quality.
(6) High Cost: Construction and maintenance expenses.

Describe the various traditional water harvesting systems in different regions of India with examples. [CBSE 2024, 5 marks]

⚠️ Most Important

Answer: Traditional water harvesting systems:

Region/State	System Name	Description
Rajasthan	Khadin, Tankas	Agricultural fields with embankments; underground tanks for drinking water
Maharashtra	Bandharas, Phad	Stone checks across streams; community-managed irrigation
Madhya Pradesh	Bundhis	Small earthen dams across streams
Tamil Nadu	Eris, Ooranis	Tank systems for irrigation; small ponds for drinking water
Kerala	Surangams	Horizontal wells dug in laterite rocks
Kashmir	Kuls, Springs	Diversion channels from glaciers; natural mountain springs
Bihar	Ahar-Pyne	Embankment channels for floodwater irrigation
Himachal Pradesh	Kulh, Khatri	Diversion channels; covered tanks for percolation

Explain the causes and consequences of water scarcity in India. [CBSE 2023, 5 marks]
Answer:

Causes of Water Scarcity: (1) Physical scarcity: Uneven distribution of rainfall (drought-prone areas).
(2) Over-exploitation: Excessive groundwater withdrawal for agriculture.
(3) Population growth: Increasing demand for domestic use.
(4) Urbanization: Reduced groundwater recharge, increased runoff.
(5) Pollution: Industrial and agricultural pollution of water sources.
(6) Inefficient use: Flood irrigation in agriculture.

Consequences: (1) Agricultural: Crop failure, food insecurity.
(2) Health: Water-borne diseases, poor sanitation.
(3) Economic: Reduced industrial production, unemployment.
(4) Social: Conflicts over water, migration.
(5) Environmental: Land degradation, loss of biodiversity.
(6) Gender burden: Women and children spend hours fetching water.
Describe the various modern methods of water conservation in India. [CBSE 2023, 5 marks]
Answer: Modern water conservation methods:

(1) Rainwater Harvesting: Mandatory in Tamil Nadu, promoted nationwide.
(2) Watershed Management: Integrated approach (example: Sukhomajri model).
(3) Drip Irrigation: Saves 30-70% water in agriculture.
(4) Sprinkler Irrigation: Efficient water application.
(5) Wastewater Treatment: Recycling and reuse of water.
(6) Remote Sensing: For water resource assessment and management.
(7) Artificial Recharge: Structures to increase groundwater.
(8) Water-saving Devices: Low-flow fixtures, dual-flush toilets.
(9) Desalination: In coastal areas (limited due to cost).
(10) Cloud Seeding: Experimental method to induce rainfall.
Explain the role of dams in the development of water resources in India. [CBSE 2022, 5 marks]
Answer: Role of dams in water resource development:

(1) Storage: Store water during monsoon for use in dry seasons.
(2) Irrigation: Enable irrigation in drought-prone areas.
(3) Power Generation: Hydropower contributes to energy security.
(4) Flood Control: Regulate river flow to prevent floods.
(5) Water Supply: For growing urban and industrial needs.
(6) Navigation: Create inland waterways.
(7) Employment: Create jobs in construction and maintenance.
(8) Regional Development: Develop backward regions.

Examples: Bhakra Nangal (Punjab-Haryana), Sardar Sarovar (Gujarat), Tehri (Uttarakhand).
Describe the Narmada Bachao Andolan and its significance. [CBSE 2022, 5 marks]
Answer: Narmada Bachao Andolan (NBA):

Background: Movement against Sardar Sarovar Project on Narmada river.
Started: 1985
Leaders: Medha Patkar, Baba Amte
Main Issues: (1) Displacement of lakhs of people (mostly tribals)
(2) Environmental impact
(3) Questionable cost-benefit ratio
(4) Lack of proper rehabilitation

Significance: (1) Brought environmental and displacement issues to national attention
(2) Raised questions about development models
(3) Strengthened people's movements in India
(4) Led to World Bank withdrawing funding in 1993
(5) Inspired similar movements worldwide

Current Status: Project completed, but rehabilitation issues persist.
Explain the importance of water conservation and management in India. [CBSE 2021, 5 marks]
Answer: Importance of water conservation:

(1) Water Scarcity: India has only 4% of world's freshwater for 17% population.
(2) Agriculture: 80% of water used in agriculture, needs efficient use.
(3) Groundwater Depletion: Water table falling in many states.
(4) Climate Change: Unpredictable rainfall patterns.
(5) Urban Demand: Rapid urbanization increasing water demand.
(6) Health: Safe drinking water essential for public health.
(7) Economic Growth: Water needed for industrial development.
(8) Social Equity: Ensure water access for all sections.
(9) Environmental: Maintain river flows for ecosystem health.
(10) Future Security: For coming generations.
Describe the various government initiatives for water conservation in India. [CBSE 2021, 5 marks]
Answer: Government initiatives:

(1) National Water Policy: First in 1987, revised in 2002 and 2012.
(2) Jal Shakti Abhiyan: Water conservation campaign (2019).
(3) National Water Mission: Part of National Action Plan on Climate Change.
(4) Atal Bhujal Yojana: For groundwater management (2020).
(5) Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana: For irrigation efficiency.
(6) Namami Gange Programme: For Ganga rejuvenation.
(7) Mahatma Gandhi National Rural Employment Guarantee Act: Water conservation works.
(8) State Initiatives: Tamil Nadu's rainwater harvesting law, Rajasthan's Mukhyamantri Jal Swavlamban Abhiyan.
(9) National Hydrology Project: For water resources data.
(10) Jal Jeevan Mission: To provide tap water to all rural households.
Explain the concept of sustainable water management with examples. [CBSE 2020, 5 marks]
Answer: Sustainable water management:

Concept: Managing water resources to meet present needs without compromising ability of future generations to meet theirs.

Principles: (1) Conservation and efficient use
(2) Protection of water quality
(3) Equitable distribution
(4) Community participation
(5) Integration with land use planning

Examples: (1) Ralegan Siddhi (Maharashtra): Watershed development by Anna Hazare.
(2) Sukhomajri (Haryana): Community-based water management.
(3) Tarun Bharat Sangh: Reviving traditional water systems in Rajasthan.
(4) Hiware Bazar (Maharashtra): Water budgeting and conservation.
(5) Paani Foundation: Water cup competition in Maharashtra.

Key Elements: Rainwater harvesting, groundwater recharge, efficient irrigation, pollution control.
Describe the challenges in water resource management in India. [CBSE 2020, 5 marks]
Answer: Challenges in water management:

(1) Uneven Distribution: Floods in some areas, droughts in others.
(2) Over-exploitation: Groundwater depletion in Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan.
(3) Pollution: Industrial and agricultural pollution of rivers.
(4) Inefficient Use: Agriculture uses 80% water with low efficiency.
(5) Climate Change: Unpredictable rainfall, glacier melt.
(6) Inter-state Disputes: Cauvery, Krishna, Godavari river disputes.
(7) Urbanization: Water demand outpacing supply in cities.
(8) Institutional: Multiple agencies, lack of coordination.
(9) Financial: High cost of water infrastructure.
(10) Social: Access inequalities, gender issues in water collection.

PART D: Map-based Questions (2 Marks Each)

Note: Practice locating these dams and rivers accurately - map questions are guaranteed.

On the outline map of India, identify: (i) Bhakra Nangal Dam (ii) Hirakud Dam [CBSE 2024, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Bhakra Nangal: On Satluj river (Himachal Pradesh-Punjab border). (ii) Hirakud: On Mahanadi river (Odisha).
Locate: (i) Sardar Sarovar Dam (ii) Tehri Dam [CBSE 2023, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Sardar Sarovar: On Narmada river (Gujarat). (ii) Tehri: On Bhagirathi river (Uttarakhand).
Identify: (i) Nagarjuna Sagar Dam (ii) Tungabhadra Dam [CBSE 2022, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Nagarjuna Sagar: On Krishna river (Andhra Pradesh-Telangana). (ii) Tungabhadra: On Tungabhadra river (Karnataka-Andhra Pradesh).
Locate: (i) Rihand Dam (ii) Koyna Dam [CBSE 2021, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Rihand: On Rihand river (Uttar Pradesh). (ii) Koyna: On Koyna river (Maharashtra).
Identify: (i) Mettur Dam (ii) Gandhi Sagar Dam [CBSE 2020, 2 marks]
Answer: (i) Mettur: On Kaveri river (Tamil Nadu). (ii) Gandhi Sagar: On Chambal river (Madhya Pradesh).

💧 Chapter 3 Exam Strategy

Dams & Rivers: Create a table of 10 major dams with their rivers and states - this is map gold!

Traditional Systems: Memorize region-wise traditional water harvesting methods - they love asking comparisons

Pros & Cons: Always prepare both advantages AND disadvantages for dams/multipurpose projects

Case Studies: Remember NBA (Narmada Bachao Andolan) details - leaders, issues, significance

Common Mistake: Don't confuse "watershed management" with "water harvesting" - they're related but different

⚠️ Pro Tip: "Traditional water harvesting systems" and "Multipurpose projects advantages/disadvantages" are perennial favorites. Prepare these with specific regional examples for scoring high marks.

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