Great Nicobar — Closest landmass (UPSC Prelims PYQ 2017)

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Which of the following is geographically closest to Great Nicobar?

Sumatra
Borneo
Java
Sri Lanka

Explanation

Option (a) is correct

Great Nicobar to Sumatra distance: 1192 km approx.
Great Nicobar to Borneo distance: 2,398 km approx.
Great Nicobar to Java distance: 1817 km approx.
Great Nicobar to Sri Lanka distance: 1437 km approx.

Map of Southeast Asia and surrounding waters highlighting key maritime straits including Palk Strait, Strait of Malacca, Sunda Strait, and Bali Strait in red. The map shows countries like Sri Lanka, Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, and Brunei, with major cities and sea names labeled, emphasizing strategic shipping routes and geographic connections.