Part of: Kerala Gk set 5

In which state this vallam boat is used to reach the school.

Category: Kerala Gk

Hint: Consider the geographical and cultural context of the vallam boat.

Correct Answer: C) Kerala

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The vallam is a traditional boat used in Kerala, a state in southern India. Kerala is known for its extensive network of rivers, backwaters, and canals, which make water transportation a significant part of the local culture and daily life. The vallam, also known as a snake boat, is a long, narrow boat that is often used for transportation, especially in areas where water bodies are the primary mode of travel.

In many parts of Kerala, particularly in rural areas, children use vallam boats to reach their schools. This is because the geography of Kerala includes numerous rivers and canals that connect villages and towns. The use of vallam boats for school transportation is deeply rooted in the cultural and geographical context of Kerala.

Other states in India, such as Punjab, Gujarat, and Jharkhand, do not have the same geographical features that necessitate the use of vallam boats for transportation. Punjab is known for its agricultural practices and is located in the northern part of India, where water transportation is not a significant part of daily life. Gujarat, located in western India, has a coastline and some waterways, but it is not known for using vallam boats for school transportation. Jharkhand, in eastern India, has a different geographical and cultural context and does not use vallam boats for school transportation.

Therefore, the vallam boat is specifically associated with Kerala due to its unique geography and cultural practices. This makes Kerala the correct answer to the question about the state where vallam boats are used to reach schools.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Punjab is a state in northern India known for its agricultural practices and not for using vallam boats for school transportation. The vallam is specific to Kerala's geography and culture.
  • Option B: Gujarat is a state in western India with a coastline and some waterways, but it is not known for using vallam boats for school transportation. Vallam boats are specific to Kerala's geography and culture.
  • Option C: Kerala is the correct answer because the vallam is a traditional boat used in Kerala for various purposes, including reaching schools in areas with waterways. This reflects the geographical and cultural context of Kerala.
  • Option D: Jharkhand is a state in eastern India with a different geographical and cultural context. It is not known for using vallam boats for school transportation. Vallam boats are specific to Kerala's geography and culture.

Mnemonic: Vallam for Kerala, like a canoe for a lake.

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