“Plains of India” examines the profound connection between geology, history, and economic development within the Indian subcontinent's fertile plains. It highlights how the plains, formed by the Himalayan orogeny and subsequent fluvial processes, have shaped agricultural practices, settlement patterns, and the overall socio-political landscape of India over millennia. The book uniquely integrates Earth Sciences, historical narratives, and economic analysis to provide a holistic understanding. It demonstrates the plains are not just geographical features, but cradles of civilization and engines of agriculture.
The book progresses by first establishing the geological context, focusing on topics like river systems and sediment deposition. It then analyzes the impact of these geological foundations on agricultural development, including traditional farming practices and the Green Revolution. Finally, it connects agricultural bounty to population density, economic systems, and contemporary challenges like climate change, resource management, and sustainable development.
Using diverse data sources, including satellite imagery and historical texts, this book illuminates the complex relationship between the environment and human activities, offering valuable insights for understanding regional development and resource utilization.
