Exploring Indira Point: India's Southernmost Tip

Indira Point holds a significant place in India's geography. It is recognized as the southernmost point of the Republic of India. Located on the Great Nicobar Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, it is a key geographical marker.

Former Name of Indira Point

Before being officially renamed Indira Point, this geographical location was known by a different name. Understanding its history helps us appreciate its evolution and recognition.

The question asks for the former name of Indira Point. Let's look at the options provided:

1. Barsaat Point
2. Pyramidal point
3. Python Point
4. Pygmalion Point

Based on geographical records and historical naming conventions, the correct former name for Indira Point is Pygmalion Point.

The point was officially renamed Indira Point on February 10, 1985, in honor of the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi. Prior to this renaming, 'Pygmalion Point' was the commonly used name for this location.

Another name that was sometimes associated with parts of the same region or point was Parsons Point or India Point, but Pygmalion Point is the most widely recognized former name specifically for what is now known as Indira Point.

Significance of Indira Point

• Geographical Extremity: It marks the southernmost latitude of the Indian territory.
• Location: Situated on Great Nicobar Island, part of the Nicobar Islands archipelago.
• Lighthouse: A lighthouse was commissioned at Indira Point in 1972, which is crucial for maritime navigation in the region.
• Tsunami Impact: The 2004 Indian Ocean earthquake and tsunami severely affected Indira Point, causing significant subsidence of the land, reducing its elevation.

Comparing the Options

Let's briefly consider why the other options are not correct:

• Barsaat Point: This name is not historically associated with Indira Point.
• Pyramidal point: This name does not correspond to the former name of Indira Point.
• Python Point: This name is not the historical designation for Indira Point.
• Pygmalion Point: This is the historically correct former name of Indira Point.

Therefore, the accurate former name of Indira Point is Pygmalion Point.

Revision Table: Understanding Indira Point Names

Additional Information on India's Geographical Extremes

Understanding the geographical extremities of India is important:

• Southernmost Point (Mainland India): Kanyakumari, Tamil Nadu.
• Southernmost Point (Indian Territory): Indira Point, Great Nicobar Island.
• Northernmost Point: Indira Col, Siachen Glacier, Jammu and Kashmir (now part of Ladakh).
• Easternmost Point: Kibithu, Arunachal Pradesh.
• Westernmost Point: Ghughar Mota, Kutch region, Gujarat.

Indira Point holds the distinction of being the furthest south point of the entire Indian union, including its islands.