Detailed Summary of Clustered Settlements
This section introduces the concept of human settlements as clusters of dwellings, which can range from small hamlets to large metropolitan cities. It emphasizes that the nature of settlements varies in size, economic character, social structure, and technology. Rural settlements, such as villages, are primarily engaged in agriculture or primary economic activities, while urban settlements specialize in secondary and tertiary activities.
The section outlines the fundamental differences between rural and urban settlements:
- Economic Base: Rural settlements derive their sustenance from land-based activities, while urban areas process raw materials and provide various services.
- Functional Relationship: Urban centers act as nodes of growth, supplying goods to surrounding rural areas in exchange for raw materials.
- Social Characteristics: Rural communities are characterized by strong social ties, whereas social connections in urban settings tend to be more formal and complex.
Further, it categorizes rural settlements into various types: clustered, semi-clustered, hamleted, and dispersed, each shaped by factors like terrain and cultural dynamics. The importance of clustered and dispersed settlements illustrates how geography, resources, and social frameworks influence living patterns in India.