2. Physical Features of India

2. Physical Features of India

  • 2

    Physical Features Of India

    This section outlines the geographical size and location of India, including boundaries, latitude, and longitude.

  • 2.1

    Major Physiographic Divisions

    India's diverse physiographic divisions encompass mountains, plains, plateaus, deserts, coastal areas, and islands, each contributing uniquely to the country's geography.

  • 2.1.1

    The Himalayan Mountains

    The Himalayan Mountains stretch across northern India, showcasing diverse terrain, geological youth, and significant altitudinal variations.

  • 2.1.2

    The Northern Plains

    The Northern Plains of India are formed by the alluvial deposits from major river systems and are characterized by their fertile land and agricultural productivity.

  • 2.1.3

    The Peninsular Plateau

    The Peninsular Plateau is one of India's major physiographic divisions characterized by ancient landforms comprised of igneous and metamorphic rocks, featuring prominent geological features.

  • 2.1.4

    The Indian Desert

    The Indian Desert is a sparsely vegetated region characterized by sand dunes and very low annual rainfall.

  • 2.1.5

    The Coastal Plains

    The Coastal Plains of India are narrow strips of land along the eastern and western coasts, characterized by unique geographical features and significant ecosystems.

  • 2.1.6

    The Islands

    This section discusses India's geographical features, focusing on its mountainous regions, plains, plateaus, deserts, coastal areas, and islands.

  • 2.2

    Map Skills

    In this section, we explore the diverse physical features of India, focusing on major physiographic divisions such as the Himalayas, Northern Plains, Peninsular Plateau, Indian Desert, Coastal Plains, and Islands.

  • 2.3

    Project /activity

    This section focuses on India's diverse physical features, including mountains, plains, plateaus, deserts, and islands, emphasizing their geological characteristics and significance.

  • 2.4

    Exercise

    This section highlights the diverse physical features of India, categorizing them into major physiographic divisions.

    • Key Summary

    India exhibits a multitude of physical features including mountains, plains, deserts, plateaus, and islands. Key physiographic divisions include the Himalayas, the Northern Plains, the Peninsular Plateau, the Indian Desert, the Coastal Plains, and the Islands, each playing a vital role in the geographical diversity of the country. The chapter provides detailed insights into the geological aspects, topographical features, and the significance of these divisions in terms of natural resources and their contribution to India’s development.

    Key Takeaways

    • India has varied landforms including mountains, plains, and plateaus.
    • The Northern Plains are formed by the convergence of major river systems.
    • The Himalayas are one of the youngest and most rugged mountain ranges in the world.
    • The Peninsular Plateau is a tableland composed of ancient crystalline rocks.
    • The Indian Desert has a unique arid climate with minimal rainfall.

    Key Concepts

    • Himalayas: A major mountain range in northern India known for its high peaks and rugged terrain.
    • Northern Plains: Fertile land formed by alluvial deposits of rivers, significant for agriculture.
    • Peninsular Plateau: An ancient tableland characterized by igneous and metamorphic rocks.
    • Indian Desert: A dry region in western India with low rainfall and sandy terrain.