Indian Physiographic Divisions: A Comprehensive Overview
India's diverse landscape is a result of geological processes spanning millions of years. Understanding its physiographic divisions is crucial for grasping its climate, resources, and human geography, especially for competitive exams like the UPSC Prelims.
The Majestic Himalayas
The Himalayas, the world's youngest and highest mountain range, form a formidable natural barrier in the north. They are geologically young and characterized by towering peaks, deep valleys, and a complex system of parallel ranges.
The Fertile Northern Plains
Stretching south of the Himalayas, the Northern Plains are vast, flat, and fertile alluvial plains formed by the deposition of silt by three major river systems: the Indus, the Ganga, and the Brahmaputra. This region is one of the most densely populated areas in the world.
| Division | Characteristics | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bhabar | Narrow belt at the foothills of Shiwaliks, porous gravelly soil. | Streams disappear into the porous beds. |
| Terai | Damp, marshy, and thickly forested region south of Bhabar. | Re-emergence of underground streams, rich biodiversity. |
| Bangar | Older alluvial deposits, higher ground, less fertile. | Contains 'kankars' (calcareous concretions). |
| Khadar | Newer alluvial deposits, floodplains, highly fertile. | Renewed annually by floods, ideal for agriculture. |
The Diverse Peninsular Plateau
The Peninsular Plateau is an ancient landmass, composed of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. It is triangular in shape, with its base coinciding with the southern edge of the Northern Plains and its apex pointing towards the Indian Ocean. It is broadly divided into two main parts: the Central Highlands and the Deccan Plateau.
The Coastal Plains
India has two narrow coastal plains running along the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal. These plains are formed by the deposition of sediments by rivers and the action of the sea.
| Coastal Plain | Location | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Western Coastal Plain | Between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. | Narrow, with three divisions: Northern part (Konkan coast), Central part (Kannad coast), Southern part (Malabar coast). Known for backwaters. |
| Eastern Coastal Plain | Between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal. | Broader, with two main divisions: Northern Circars and Coromandel Coast. Characterized by deltas of major rivers like Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. |
The Island Groups
India comprises two major island groups: the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and the Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea. These islands have unique geographical and ecological characteristics.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
When studying for competitive exams, focus on the key characteristics, geographical features, and economic significance of each physiographic division. Pay attention to specific terms like 'duns', 'bhabar', 'terai', 'bangar', 'khadar', 'ghats', and the names of major rivers and mountain ranges associated with each division.
Greater Himalayas (Himadri), Lesser Himalayas (Himachal), and Outer Himalayas (Shiwalik).
The Northern Plains.
Andaman and Nicobar are volcanic in origin; Lakshadweep are coral in origin.
Learning Resources
A detailed blog post explaining the physiographic divisions of India, tailored for UPSC preparation, with clear explanations and relevant points.
Comprehensive notes on the physiography of India, covering all major divisions with diagrams and key facts essential for competitive exams.
An overview of India's physiographic divisions, presented with a focus on geographical context and key characteristics of each region.
A video lecture explaining the physiographic divisions of India, offering a visual and auditory learning experience for better comprehension.
Another educational video detailing the physiographic divisions of India, useful for visual learners and for reinforcing concepts.
Chapter from the NCERT textbook on India's physical environment, providing foundational knowledge and a structured approach to the topic.
Detailed Wikipedia article on the Himalayas, covering their formation, geography, biodiversity, and cultural significance.
Wikipedia entry on the Indo-Gangetic Plain, explaining its formation, fertility, and importance as a major agricultural region.
Information on the Deccan Plateau, including its geological history, topography, and associated geographical features.
An article from a reputable UPSC coaching institute, offering insights and structured notes on India's physiographic divisions.