Question 68 from UPSC CSE 2017 - Geography

Question

Which of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar?

IASCODEX · Accepted Answer

Correct Option: A. Sumatra

Strategy: Determine the closest island to Great Nicobar by comparing the relative geographical positions of Sumatra, Borneo, Java, and Sri Lanka.

Key Info: **Great Nicobar Island**
Great Nicobar is the southernmost and largest of the Nicobar Islands, making it India's southernmost territory. It lies near the international maritime boundary between India and Indonesia. The **Great Channel**, also known as the Six Degree Channel, separates it from northern **Sumatra** by approximately 180 kilometers.

**Relative Positions of Other Islands**
- **Sumatra**: A large island in western Indonesia and the closest major landmass to Great Nicobar.
- **Borneo**: Located much farther to the east and is shared by Indonesia, Malaysia, and Brunei.
- **Java**: Situated south of Sumatra and is farther from Great Nicobar than Sumatra.
- **Sri Lanka**: Lies off the southeastern coast of India but is significantly farther from Great Nicobar, positioned in the Bay of Bengal southwest of the Indian mainland.

**Strategic Significance**
The proximity of Great Nicobar to Sumatra gives the Andaman & Nicobar Islands strategic importance, particularly concerning the **Malacca Strait**, one of the world's busiest shipping lanes.

IASCODEX · Answer

Option B: Borneo

IASCODEX · Answer

Option C: Java

IASCODEX · Answer

Option D: Sri Lanka