The correct option is (a).
Explanation
India is a vast country located in the Northern Hemisphere. Its geographical location is defined by specific latitudinal and longitudinal extents relative to the Equator and the Prime Meridian.Statement 1 is Correct:
India lies entirely in the Northern Hemisphere. The country's mainland is situated north of the Equator (0° latitude), extending northward.
Statement 2 is Incorrect:
The mainland of India extends between latitudes 8°4'N and 37°6'N. The statement incorrectly specifies the latitudes as 'S' (South), which would place India in the Southern Hemisphere.
Statement 3 is Incorrect:
The Tropic of Cancer (23°30'N) passes through the middle of the country and divides it into almost two equal parts. The use of the term "exactly" is geographically inaccurate due to the irregular shape of the Indian landmass and the unequal distribution of area north and south of this latitude.
Key Takeaway: India is located entirely in the Northern Hemisphere, with its mainland latitudinal extent ranging from 8°4'N to 37°6'N. The Tropic of Cancer divides the country into roughly, but not exactly, two equal halves.