Previous Year Question
Which of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar?
Sumatra
Borneo
Java
Sri Lanka
Correct Answer: A
Detailed Solution
Great Nicobar is the largest island of the Nicobar group and India’s southernmost major landmass. Its southern extremity, Indira Point, is the southernmost point of India.
The Indonesian island of Sumatra lies immediately to the south of Great Nicobar. The two are separated by a maritime distance of approximately 180–200 km. The sea passage between them is known as the Great Channel or Six Degree Channel.
Examination of the Options
Sumatra: It lies immediately south of Great Nicobar and is the closest among the given options.
Borneo: It lies east of Sumatra and is considerably farther from Great Nicobar.
Java: It lies south-east of Sumatra and is farther from Great Nicobar.
Sri Lanka: It lies west of Great Nicobar, close to the Indian subcontinent, but is considerably farther away than Sumatra.
Therefore, Sumatra is geographically closest to Great Nicobar.