Physical Features of India: From Majestic Mountains to Expansive Plains

India’s vastness is not just in terms of culture or history; its physical features are equally expansive and diverse. The landforms of India have their tales of formation and evolution, making the subcontinent a geographical marvel.

1. The Himalayan Mountains

Structure and Spread

• The Himalayas stretch across the northern border of India, separating the plains from the Tibetan Plateau.

Three Parallel Ranges

1. Greater Himalayas or Himadri - Contains the highest peaks including Mount Everest.
2. Lesser Himalayas or Himachal - Popular hill stations like Shimla, Nainital reside here.
3. Shivaliks - The outermost range, comprised mainly of sedimentary rocks.

Significance

• Acts as a climatic barrier and source of perennial rivers.

2. The Great Plains

Formation

• Formed by the sediment deposition by rivers like Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra.

Sub-divisions

1. The Indus Plain
2. The Ganga Plain
3. The Brahmaputra Plain

Significance

• The fertile alluvial soil supports agriculture, making the region densely populated.

3. The Indian Desert

Location

• Found in the western part of India, mainly in Rajasthan.

Characteristics

• Arid climate, minimal vegetation, and extreme temperature variations.

Significance

• Despite its harsh conditions, it is home to a unique ecosystem and vibrant cultures.

4. The Peninsular Plateau

Formation

• One of the world’s oldest landforms, formed due to the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land.

Major Plateaus

1. The Deccan Plateau - Bounded by the Western and Eastern Ghats.
2. The Central Highlands - Lies to the north of the Narmada river.

Significance

• Rich in minerals, flora, and fauna. The black soil found here is apt for cotton cultivation.

5. The Coastal Plains

Formation

• Formed due to the submersion of the western and eastern parts of the peninsular plateau.

Sub-divisions

1. The Western Coastal Plains - Lies between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea.
2. The Eastern Coastal Plains - Stretches between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.

Significance

• They support fisheries, salt manufacturing, and harbor major ports, boosting trade.

6. The Islands

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands

• Found in the Bay of Bengal and known for their coral reefs and indigenous tribes.

The Lakshadweep Islands

• Coral islands in the Arabian Sea, characterized by their scenic beauty and rich marine life.

7. Concluding Thoughts

India’s physical features not only define its topographical identity but also influence its climate, economy, and culture. This understanding is essential to appreciate the nation’s ecological diversity and its challenges.

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Note: This article provides an SEO-optimized summary of Chapter 2, ‘Physical Features of India’, from the Grade 9 Social Science NCERT Geography textbook. A comprehensive study, including detailed maps and illustrations, can be obtained from the original textbook.