(a) Explain the factors responsible for the development of cotton textile industry in India.

(i) Availability of raw cotton supports the growth of cotton textile industry.

(ii) Production of cotton is abundant in areas like Maharashtra and Gujarat where black soil is found.

(iii) The climate of this area, make cotton fibre shiny and strong.

(iv) This offers scope for incorporating traditional skills and designs of weaving in cotton, silk, zari, embroidery, etc.

(v) Facility of nearby market acts as aide to the expansion.

(vi) Transport including accessible port facility helps further.

(vii) Cheap labour helps in localisation of cotton textile industry.

(viii) The secondary sector industry like chemicals and dyes, packaging materials and engineering works are supported by this industry.

(ix) Government support for the setting up of cotton textile industries creates opportunities of work in designing, packaging, tailoring and sewing.

(b) Explain any five suggestions to control environmental degradation.

(i) Minimising use of water for processing by reusing and recycling it in two or more successive stages.

(ii) Harvesting of rainwater to meet water requirements.

(iii) Treating hot water and effluents before releasing them in rivers.

(iv) Particulate matter in the air can be reduced by fitting smoke- stacks to factories.

(v) Smoke can be reduced by using oil and gas instead of coal.

(vi) Machinery should be redesigned to reduce noise.

(vii) Minimise industrial waste generation.

(viii) Provide green belts to nurture ecological balance, supported by regular monitoring and reviews.

(ix) The challenge of sustainable development requires integration of economic development with environmental concerns.