As per the Nearest Neighbourhood Analysis, an index value of 2.5 suggests that the settlements are:

Correct option is D

1. Nearest Neighbour analysis calculates the average distance between each settlement and its nearest neighbor, which helps determine whether settlements are clustered, evenly spaced, or randomly distributed.
2. An index value around 2.5 typically indicates even spacing, meaning that settlements are distributed at regular intervals over the landscape.
3. Values closer to 0 indicate clustered settlements, while values approaching 4.0 suggest evenly spaced or uniform distribution of settlements.
4. Randomly distributed settlements would produce an index value closer to 1.0, reflecting an unpredictable, non-uniform pattern of settlement.
5. The Nearest Neighbour index is commonly used in urban planning and agricultural geography to understand settlement patterns and land use.