PHYSICAL FEATURES OF INDIA

---

India: Introduction

• India, encompassing a substantial geographical expanse, exhibits a noteworthy diversity of physical features. These features, ranging from the formidable Himalayan mountain range in the north to the expansive Indo-Gangetic plains, the arid Thar Desert, and the verdant Deccan Plateau, collectively contribute to the intricate tapestry of India’s natural topography. This formal introduction lays the foundation for a comprehensive examination of the distinct physical divisions that intricately shape the landforms of the Indian subcontinent.
• We shall proceed with a more detailed exploration of these significant geographical aspects.

The Himalayas

• The majestic Himalayan mountain range, adorning the northern borders of India, stands as a geographical marvel of unparalleled grandeur. Spanning in a west-east direction from the Indus to the Brahmaputra, the Himalayas constitute a formidable natural barrier with a distinctive three-fold division in their longitudinal extent.
• Great or Inner Himalayas (Himadri): The northernmost range, known as the Himadri or Great Himalayas, boasts continuous and lofty peaks, with an average height of 6,000 meters. Characterized by asymmetrical folds, the core of this range comprises granite formations, creating a breathtaking and formidable landscape.
• Himachal or Lesser Himalaya: South of the Himadri lies the Himachal or Lesser Himalaya, forming a rugged mountain system. Noteworthy within this range is the Pir Panjal, the longest and most significant range, which adds to the dramatic topography of the Himalayan region.
• Shiwaliks – The Outermost Range: The outermost range of the Himalayas is the Shiwaliks, composed of unconsolidated sediments. Though not as towering as the Himadri, the Shiwaliks contribute to the overall magnificence of the Himalayan mountain system.
• Longitudinal Valleys – Duns: The valleys between the Lesser Himalayas and the Shiwaliks are known as Duns. Dehradun, Kotli Dun, and Patli Dun are prominent examples. These valleys, nestled within the Himalayan embrace, offer fertile lands and distinctive landscapes.
• Pir Panjal Range: Among the ranges of the Lesser Himalaya, the Pir Panjal stands out as the longest and most important. Its geographical significance and rugged beauty contribute to the diversity of the Himalayan terrain.
• Geological Composition: The Great Himalayas, with their asymmetrical folds and granite core, showcase the geological intricacies that have shaped this mountainous marvel. The Himachal or Lesser Himalaya and the Shiwaliks, with their contrasting compositions, further enrich the geological tapestry of the Himalayan region.

• Punjab Himalaya – Kashmir and Himachal Himalaya:
  • Traditionally referred to as Punjab Himalaya, the western part between the Indus and Sutlej rivers is regionally known as Kashmir Himalaya and then transitions to Himachal Himalaya towards the east. This segment showcases diverse landscapes, including the breathtaking valleys of Kashmir and the rugged terrains of Himachal Pradesh.
• Kumaon Himalayas:
  • Stretching between the Sutlej and Kali rivers, the Kumaon Himalayas form a distinctive section. This region, characterized by its unique topography, is significant for its cultural and natural heritage.
• Nepal Himalayas and Assam Himalayas:
  • The Nepal Himalayas lie between the Kali and Teesta rivers, while the segment between Tista and Dihang rivers is known as Assam Himalayas. These divisions showcase the geographical diversity of the Himalayan range and have cultural implications as well.
• Eastern Boundary – Purvachal or Eastern Hills and Mountains:
  • The Brahmaputra River marks the easternmost boundary of the Himalayas. Beyond the Dihang gorge, the Himalayas take a sharp southward turn, giving rise to the Purvanchal or the Eastern Hills and Mountains. This expansive region includes the Patkai Hills, Naga Hills, Manipur Hills, and Mizo Hills.

Northern Plains

• The Northern Plains, a vast expanse shaped by the intricate dance of three major river systems – the Indus, the Ganga, and the Brahmaputra, stand as a testament to the geological interplay that has defined this region. Encompassing an expansive area of 7 lakh square kilometers, these plains are not only agriculturally fertile but also boast a varied topography marked by distinct sections.
• Punjab Plains – Western Part : The western segment, known as the Punjab Plains, owes its formation to the Indus and its tributaries – the Jhelum, Chenab, Ravi, Beas, and Satluj. This region showcases a rich agricultural landscape nurtured by the life-giving waters of these rivers.
• Ganga Plains : Extending between the Ghaggar and Teesta rivers, the Ganga Plain unfolds across the states of North India, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, partially Jharkhand, and West Bengal. This vast stretch is a cultural and agricultural heartland, witnessing the confluence of historical civilizations and contemporary dynamics.
• Brahmaputra Plain in Assam : The Brahmaputra Plain finds its place in the state of Assam, adding a unique dimension to the Northern Plains. This region, marked by the influence of the Brahmaputra River, contributes to the overall diversity of the plains.

• Variations in Elevation Points:
  • The Northern Plains, shaped by the erosional forces of rivers descending from the mountains, exhibit distinct features based on elevation points.
  • The Bhabar, a narrow belt of 8 to 16 km width along the Shiwaliks, is where rivers deposit pebbles, creating a distinctive landscape.
  • The Terai, a wet, swampy, and marshy region, emerges as rivers reappear after disappearing in the Bhabar belt.
  • The largest part of the plain, formed of older alluvium, presents a terrace-like feature known as Bhangar. The soil in this region, containing calcareous deposits, is referred to as Kankar.
  • The floodplains, with newer, younger deposits, are termed Khadar, adding a dynamic layer to the Northern Plains.

Peninsular Plateau

• The Peninsular Plateau, a geological masterpiece shaped by ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, stands as a testament to the enduring forces that have sculpted the Indian subcontinent. This tableland, a result of the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana land, unveils its unique character through distinct features, notably the expansive Deccan Trap adorned with black soil. The Peninsular Plateau, encompassing the Central Highlands and the Deccan Plateau, is a geological chronicle that narrates the tale of millennia.
• Formation and Composition:
  • The Peninsular Plateau foundation lies in old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, telling the story of ancient geological processes.
  • Its origin traces back to the breakup and drift of the Gondwana landmass, a pivotal event in the Earth’s history.
• Distinctive Feature – Deccan Trap:
  • A striking characteristic of the Peninsular Plateau is the presence of the Deccan Trap, an extensive area with unique black soil. This soil, rich in minerals, contributes to the fertility of the region.

• Central Highlands:
  • The northern segment of the plateau, lying above the Narmada River, forms the expansive Central Highlands.
  • Encompassing a significant portion of the Malwa plateau, this region extends eastward, revealing local appellations such as Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand.
• Deccan Plateau and Extensions:
  • The Deccan Plateau, a triangular landmass, extends south of the Narmada River.
  • A northeastern extension includes the Meghalaya Plateau, Karbi-Anglong Plateau, and North Cachar Hills, contributing to the plateau’s diverse topography.

Western and Eastern Ghats

• The Western and Eastern Ghats, two formidable mountain ranges that flank the Indian subcontinent, embody the geographical diversity that characterizes this ancient land. Running parallel to the western coast, the Western Ghats stand as sentinels, while the Eastern Ghats stretch from the Mahanadi Valley to the Nilgiris in the south. These ghats not only shape the regional climate but also serve as crucial ecosystems, harboring rich biodiversity. Let us delve into the distinctive features of these two mountain ranges that contribute to the dynamic landscape of the Indian subcontinent.

Western Ghats

• Western Ghats:
  • Geographical Orientation: Running parallel to the western coast, the Western Ghats form a continuous mountain range.
  • Crossability: Continuous and formidable, the Western Ghats can be traversed only through passes that punctuate their majestic expanse.
  • Elevation: Towering above their eastern counterparts, the Western Ghats boast an average elevation ranging from 900 to 1600 meters.
  • Highest Peak: Anamudi, standing tall at the pinnacle, claims the title of the highest peak in the Western Ghats.

Eastern Ghats

• Eastern Ghats:
  • Geographical Stretch: Extending from the Mahanadi Valley to the Nilgiris in the south, the Eastern Ghats present a discontinuous and irregular profile.
  • Crossability: Unlike their western counterparts, the Eastern Ghats are dissected by rivers draining into the Bay of Bengal, rendering them more fragmented and accessible.
  • Elevation: With a comparatively lower average elevation of 600 meters, the Eastern Ghats unfold as a series of undulating hills and plateaus.
  • Highest Peak: Mahendragiri, standing at an elevation of 1,501 meters, holds the distinction of being the highest peak in the Eastern Ghats.

Indian Desert

• Nestled towards the western fringes of the Aravali Hills, the Indian Desert unfolds as a distinctive geographical entity, contributing to the diverse tapestry of India’s landscape. This arid expanse, characterized by a sandy plain adorned with undulating sand dunes, stands as a testament to the enduring forces that have shaped the northwestern part of the subcontinent. With an annual rainfall tallying below 150 mm, the Indian Desert’s climate is marked by aridity, fostering a unique ecosystem with sparse vegetation cover. As we delve into the arid beauty of this region, the story of the Indian Desert unveils itself—a narrative shaped by geographical features, climatic constraints, and the resilient life that thrives in the face of limited precipitation and challenging conditions.
• Geographical Location:
  • The Indian Desert is situated towards the western margins of the Aravali Hills, defining a vast expanse in the northwestern part of India.
• Terrain and Landscape:
  • Characterized by a predominantly sandy plain, the Indian Desert features extensive sand dunes that contribute to its unique topography.
• Rainfall Patterns:
  • This arid region experiences exceptionally low rainfall, with precipitation levels consistently below 150 mm per year. The scarcity of rain defines the desert climate, shaping both the environment and ecosystem.

The Coastal Plains

• Introduction to the Coastal Plains of India:
  • India, a land of diverse landscapes, unfolds its coastal plains as enchanting strips of low-lying terrain, gracefully embracing the vastness of the oceans. These coastal plains, flanking the peninsular plateau to the east and west, add a dimension of geographical richness to the subcontinent. The Western Coastal Plain, nestled between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, and the Eastern Coastal Plain, lying between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal, carve a dynamic narrative of diverse ecosystems, vibrant cultures, and the harmonious interplay of land and sea.

Western Coastal Plains

• Geographical Placement:
  • The Western Coastal Plain is positioned between the Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea, creating a narrow yet enchanting expanse.
• Regional Divisions:
  • The western coast unfolds in three distinct sections: the northern Konkan, the central Kannad Plain, and the southern Malabar Coast. Each section exhibits unique landscapes and cultural nuances.
• Konkan Region:
  • The northern part, known as the Konkan, stretches from Mumbai to Goa, offering a blend of coastal beauty and cultural richness.
• Malabar Coast:
  • The southern stretch, referred to as the Malabar Coast, adds a touch of tropical allure to the Western Coastal Plain, with its lush landscapes and historical significance.

Eastern Coastal Plains

• Geographical Extent:
  • The Eastern Coastal Plain is an expansive stretch of land nestled between the Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal.
• Regional Names:
  • In its northern part, it is referred to as the Northern Circar, while the southern segment is known as the Coromandel Coast. These regional distinctions add cultural and historical layers to the coastal geography.
• River Delta Formation:
  • Large rivers, including the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, have shaped an extensive delta along the Eastern Coastal Plains, contributing to fertile lands and unique ecosystems.
• Significant Features:
  • Lake Chilika, a prominent feature along the eastern coast, stands as a testament to the rich biodiversity and geographical significance of this coastal plain.

Islands Of India

• Nestled within the embrace of azure waters, the islands of India stand as jewels in the vast expanse of the Indian Ocean. An island, a sub-continental piece of land surrounded by water, beckons with its unique charm and offers a canvas for diverse ecosystems to flourish. Among these maritime treasures, the Lakshadweep Islands, formerly known as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindive, form a group of small coral islands. Further, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, divided into the northern Andaman and the southern Nicobar, present a captivating blend of equatorial climate, thick forests, and strategic geographic proximity. As we explore these islands, their significance unravels, promising not only ecological marvels but also potential avenues for development rooted in their distinct physical attributes.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands:

• Geographical Division: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, lying close to the equator, are categorized into the northern Andaman Islands and the southern Nicobar Islands.
• Climate and Forest Cover: Experience an equatorial climate, these islands boast lush greenery with thick forest covers, creating a haven for diverse flora and fauna.
• Geopolitical Importance: Beyond their natural allure, these islands hold strategic geopolitical significance, playing a crucial role in India’s maritime security and defense.
• Biodiversity and Marine Life: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are renowned for their rich biodiversity, both on land and beneath the waves. Coral reefs and marine life thrive in the surrounding waters, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts.

Lakshadweep Islands:

• Coral Beauty: Composed of small coral islands, the Lakshadweep group, formerly known as Laccadive, Minicoy, and Amindive, forms a unique tapestry of coral beauty.
• Equatorial Climate: These islands, lying close to the equator, experience an equatorial climate, contributing to their tropical allure and making them a destination for those seeking sun-kissed beaches and turquoise waters.
• Maritime Potential: With their strategic location, the Lakshadweep Islands offer promising sites for fishing activities and port development, tapping into the maritime potential of the region.
• Environmental Sensitivity: As fragile ecosystems, the Lakshadweep Islands underscore the importance of environmental sensitivity and conservation efforts to preserve the delicate balance of their natural beauty.