Industries – Complete Guide For Class 8 Geography Chapter 4

Welcome to iPrep, your Learning Super App. Our learning resources for the chapter, “Industries” in Geography for Class 8th are designed to ensure that you grasp this concept with clarity and perfection. Whether you’re studying for an upcoming exam or strengthening your concepts, our engaging animated videos, practice questions and notes offer you the best of integrated learning with interesting explanations and examples. 

The chapter ‘Industries’ from the Class 8 Geography NCERT book provides an in-depth look at various aspects of industries, crucial for understanding their role in the economic development of a nation. This chapter ‘Industries’ covers an overview of what industries are, their classification, factors affecting their location, and the structure of industrial systems. It also discusses industrial regions and the distribution of major industries globally, with a focus on Jamshedpur as a case study. Understanding this chapter ‘Industries’ is vital for grasping the complexities of economic geography and the factors influencing industrial growth and development.

Objectives Of Learning The Chapter – Industries

Now that we understand the importance of studying this chapter, let’s explore the objectives behind the chapter “Industries”. 

• To understand the definition and significance of industries in economic development.
• To classify industries based on raw materials, size, and ownership.
• To analyze the factors that influence the location of industries.
• To understand the components of an industrial system.
• To identify and understand the significance of major industrial regions.
• To study the global distribution of major industries.
• To analyze Jamshedpur as a case study of an industrial city.

Let’s now understand the various sections of the chapter in detail.

The introductory section introduces the concept of industries, explaining their importance in transforming raw materials into finished products, which in turn supports economic growth and development. It sets the foundation for understanding how industries contribute to employment, infrastructure development, and overall economic prosperity.

Now, to understand the classification of industries, let us delve into the section “Classification of Industries” of the chapter ‘Industries’.

Classification of Industries

• This section covers the classification of industries into various categories. 
• Based on raw materials, industries are categorized into agro-based, mineral-based, marine-based, and forest-based. 
• By size, they are classified as small-scale or large-scale. 
• Ownership further divides industries into the public sector, private sector, joint sector, and cooperative sector. 
• Each classification provides insight into the diverse nature of industrial operations and their specific roles and contributions to the economy.

The section ‘Classification of Industries’ covers some key points which are discussed as follows:

1. Based on Raw Materials: Industries are classified according to the raw materials they use. For instance, agro-based industries use plant and animal-based products, whereas mineral-based industries use mineral ores.
2. Size of Industries: Industries can also be classified based on their size. Small-scale industries have lower investment and smaller workforce, while large-scale industries involve large investments and employ a significant number of people.
3. Ownership: Industries are classified by ownership. Public sector industries are owned by the government, private sector industries are owned by individuals or companies, joint sector industries are run by both the state and individuals or companies, and cooperative sector industries are owned and operated by the producers or suppliers of raw materials, workers, or both.
4. Mode of Operation: This classification includes heavy industries, which produce machinery and equipment, and light industries, which produce consumer goods.

Now, to understand the factors influencing where industries are established, let us delve into the section ‘Factors Affecting Location of Industries’ of the chapter ‘Industries’.

Factors Affecting Location of Industries

• In this section, several factors affecting the location of industries are discussed, including the availability of raw materials, labor, capital, power, and market. 
• Proximity to raw materials reduces transportation costs, while access to a skilled labor force ensures smooth operations. 
• Capital and power supply are crucial for the functioning of industries, and a nearby market helps in the easy distribution of finished products. 
• Understanding these factors is essential for planning and establishing successful industrial units.

Now, to understand the workings and components of the industrial process, let us delve into the section ‘Industrial System’ of the chapter ‘Industries’.

Industrial System

• This section talks about the industrial system, which comprises inputs, processes, and outputs. 
• Inputs include raw materials, labor, and capital. 
• Processes involve transforming these inputs into finished products through various manufacturing stages. 
• Outputs are the final products ready for consumption. 
• This systematic approach helps in understanding how industries function and produce goods for the market.

Now, to understand the significance of industrial regions, let us delve into the section ‘Industrial Regions’ of the chapter ‘Industries’.

Industrial Regions

• This section talks about industrial regions, areas with a high concentration of industries. 
• These regions are characterized by advanced infrastructure, availability of resources, and better transportation facilities. 
• Examples include the Ruhr region in Germany, the Great Lakes region in the USA, and the Chota Nagpur plateau in India. 
• Recognizing these regions helps in understanding the geographical distribution of industrial activities and their impact on regional development.

Distribution of Major Industries

• This section discusses the distribution patterns of major industries such as iron and steel, textiles, and information technology. 
• It explores how factors like resource availability, technological progress, and economic policies impact their locations. 
• Understanding these patterns provides insight into how and why industries are spread across the globe.

In the section on “Distribution of Major Industries,” several key points, are discussed them in detail.

Iron and Steel Industry

• Resource Dependence: The distribution of iron and steel industries often depends on the availability of raw materials like iron ore and coal. These industries are typically located near these resources to minimize transportation costs.
• Historical Development: Historically, the iron and steel industry developed in regions with abundant natural resources, such as the Ruhr region in Germany and the Great Lakes region in the USA.
• Economic Impact: The presence of iron and steel industries has a significant impact on regional economies, leading to the growth of related industries and infrastructure.

Now, to understand the impact of industrialization on urban and regional development, let us delve into the section “Jamshedpur” of the chapter “Industries.”

Jamshedpur

• This section talks about Jamshedpur, also known as Tatanagar, an important industrial city in India established by Jamshedji Tata. 
• It highlights the city’s role as home to Tata Steel, one of India’s largest steel plants.
• The development of Jamshedpur illustrates the effects of industrialization on urban growth, job creation, and regional development. 
• Examining Jamshedpur offers valuable insights into the practical aspects of setting up industrial operations and their socio-economic impacts.

In the section on “Jamshedpur,” several key points are discussed in detail.

Historical Context: Before 1947, Tata Iron and Steel Company Limited (TISCO) was the only iron and steel plant in India. Established in 1907 at Sakchi, now Jamshedpur, it was privately owned.

Geographical Advantages: Jamshedpur was strategically chosen for its proximity to iron ore, coal, manganese deposits, and Kolkata, providing both raw materials and a market. The location is near the confluence of the Subarnarekha and Kharkai rivers, ensuring a sufficient water supply.

Raw Materials and Transport: TISCO received coal from Jharia coalfields and iron ore, limestone, dolomite, and manganese from Odisha and Chhattisgarh. The plant’s location near railways and rivers facilitated the transportation of these resources.

Government Initiatives: After Independence, the Indian government set up several iron and steel plants, expanding the industry beyond the privately-owned TISCO.

Industrial Expansion: Following the establishment of TISCO, Jamshedpur developed into a significant industrial hub with additional plants producing chemicals, locomotive parts, agricultural equipment, machinery, tinplate, cable, and wire.

Industrial Dependence: The iron and steel industry has been crucial for the development of other sectors of Indian industry, providing essential infrastructure.

Steel Industry in Pittsburgh: Pittsburgh is a major steel city in the USA, benefiting from local coal, iron ore from Minnesota, and efficient transportation via the Great Lakes waterway. The steel industry in Pittsburgh is supported by the Ohio, Monongahela, and Allegheny rivers.

Industrial Distribution: While large steel mills are less common in Pittsburgh itself, they are located in the surrounding valleys and use steel for manufacturing products like railroad equipment, heavy machinery, and rails.

Economic Impact: The steel industry in both Jamshedpur and Pittsburgh significantly contributes to local and national economies through industrial growth and infrastructure development.

Now that we have discussed the whole chapter, let us know the overall learning value of the chapter “Industries”. 

Overall Learning Value of the Chapter

The chapter on ‘Industries’ provides valuable insights into the diverse world of industrialization. It explains the classification of industries based on various criteria, factors affecting their location, and their impact on the economy. By exploring examples like Jamshedpur and industrial regions such as Pittsburgh, students understand the practical aspects of industrial development and its significance. This chapter enhances knowledge about how industries function, their role in economic growth, and their contribution to regional and global economies.

In conclusion, CBSE Class 8th Geography Chapter – Industries offers a comprehensive understanding of how industries function, their classifications, and their role in shaping economies. From learning about the factors influencing the location of industries to exploring case studies like Jamshedpur and Pittsburgh, this chapter highlights the importance of industrialization in economic development. By grasping the concepts outlined in Chapter – Industries, students can better appreciate the global distribution of industries and their socio-economic impact. The insights gained from Class 8th Geography Chapter – Industries not only enhance academic knowledge but also provide a practical understanding of how industries contribute to both regional and global growth. So, mastering the concepts from Chapter – Industries will certainly strengthen your foundation in economic geography.