Southern Asia

Southern Asia

General Information
Name	Southern Asia
Native Name
Other Names
Settlement Type
Transliteration
Language 1
Type 1
Info 1
Location
Coordinates
Map
Population
Total
Density	368 per km²
Area
Total	5,134,000 km²
Land	km²
Water	km²
Government
Type
Leader
Time Zone
Standard	UTC
DST	UTC

Southern Asia, also known as South Asia, is a region in the southern part of the Asian continent, comprising the sub-Himalayan countries and, for some definitions, adjoining countries to the west and east. It is bounded by the Indian Ocean to the south, West Asia to the west, Central Asia to the north, and Southeast Asia to the east.

Geography

Southern Asia is characterized by a diverse range of geographical features, including the towering Himalayas in the north, the fertile Indo-Gangetic Plain, and the extensive Deccan Plateau. The region is home to several major rivers, such as the Ganges, Indus, and Brahmaputra, which are crucial for agriculture and livelihoods.

Countries

The region typically includes the following countries:

• India
• Pakistan
• Bangladesh
• Nepal
• Bhutan
• Sri Lanka
• Maldives

Demographics

Southern Asia is one of the most populous regions in the world, with a population exceeding 1.8 billion people. The region is known for its ethnic, linguistic, and cultural diversity. Major languages spoken include Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, and Urdu.

Economy

The economies of Southern Asia are varied, ranging from the rapidly growing economy of India to the smaller economies of Bhutan and Maldives. Agriculture remains a significant sector, with rice and wheat being staple crops. The region is also known for its textile industry, IT services, and growing manufacturing sector.

Culture

Southern Asia has a rich cultural heritage, with a history that dates back to ancient civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization. The region is the birthplace of major world religions, including Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Sikhism. Festivals such as Diwali, Eid, and Vesak are widely celebrated.

Politics

The political landscape of Southern Asia is complex, with a mix of democracies, monarchies, and military regimes. The region has experienced conflicts, such as the Kashmir conflict, and has ongoing issues related to border disputes and ethnic tensions.

Environmental Issues

Southern Asia faces significant environmental challenges, including air and water pollution, deforestation, and the impacts of climate change. The region is prone to natural disasters such as earthquakes, floods, and cyclones.

Also see

• Indian Subcontinent
• Himalayas
• Indian Ocean
• Indo-Gangetic Plain
• Deccan Plateau