The correct option is 2 only
Explanation
India’s geographical dimensions are defined by its latitudinal and longitudinal coordinates. While the angular extent (in degrees) is similar for both dimensions, the linear distance (in kilometers) varies due to the geodetic properties of the Earth.
Statement 1 is Incorrect:
The actual distance measured from the north to the south extremity (from Indira Col to Kanyakumari) is approximately 3,214 km. The distance from the east to the west extremity (from Kibithu to Guhar Moti) is approximately 2,933 km. Therefore, the north-south extent is longer than the east-west extent, not shorter.
Statement 2 is Correct:
Longitudes (meridians) converge at the poles; therefore, the linear distance between any two longitudes decreases as one moves from the Equator towards the poles. Latitudes (parallels), however, remain equidistant from each other; thus, the distance between two consecutive latitudes remains approximately constant (about 111 km) everywhere.
Statement 3 is Incorrect:
The latitudinal extent of mainland India is roughly 8°4' N to 37°6' N, and the longitudinal extent is roughly 68°7' E to 97°25' E. The difference in both cases is approximately 30 degrees, not 45 degrees.
Key Takeaway:
Despite both the latitudinal and longitudinal extents being roughly 30 degrees, the North-South distance is larger in kilometers because longitudes converge towards the poles, reducing the East-West linear distance at higher latitudes.