All questions of Location, Extent, Physical features of India-Map Study for Class 10 Exam

Oldest Landmass in India:

India has a diverse topography with different landforms and divisions. The country can be broadly divided into three geological divisions- the peninsular part, the Himalayan mountain range, and the Indo-Gangetic plain. Out of these three divisions, the peninsular part has the oldest landmass.

The Peninsular Part:

The peninsular part of India is a vast region that comprises the Deccan Plateau and the Eastern and Western Ghats. It covers the southern part of India and is surrounded by water on three sides- the Arabian Sea to the west, the Bay of Bengal to the east, and the Indian Ocean to the south.

The peninsular part of India is made up of ancient rocks, some of which are more than a billion years old. These rocks were formed during the Precambrian era and were part of the Gondwana landmass.

The peninsular region of India consists of several plateaus and hill ranges, including the Malwa Plateau, the Satpura Range, the Vindhya Range, and the Eastern and Western Ghats. These landforms have been formed due to various geological processes over millions of years.

The Himalayan Mountain Range:

The Himalayan mountain range is the youngest landform in India and is still being formed. The range is located in the northern part of India and stretches for over 2,400 kilometers from the Indus River in the west to the Brahmaputra River in the east.

The Himalayas were formed due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates. This collision caused the upliftment of the Himalayan range, which is still continuing at a rate of 5mm to 10mm per year.

The Himalayan range is home to some of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest, K2, and Kangchenjunga.

The Vindhya Mountain Range:

The Vindhya mountain range is a range of hills and mountains that stretches for over 1,000 kilometers across central India. The range separates the northern part of India from the Deccan Plateau.

The Vindhya range is made up of sedimentary rocks that were formed during the Cenozoic era. These rocks are relatively younger than the rocks in the peninsular part of India.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, the peninsular part of India has the oldest landmass. The region is made up of ancient rocks that were formed during the Precambrian era and were part of the Gondwana landmass. The Himalayan range is the youngest landform in India and is still being formed, while the Vindhya range is relatively younger than the rocks in the peninsular part of India.

D

Overview of the Himalayas
The Himalayas are a vast mountain range in Asia, stretching across five countries: India, Nepal, Bhutan, China, and Pakistan. The range is divided into various sections based on geographical features, particularly river valleys.
Divisions of the Himalayas
The Himalayas are typically divided into four main sections from west to east:
- Punjab Himalayas: Between the Indus and Satluj rivers.
- Kumaon Himalayas: Between the Satluj and Kali rivers.
- Nepal Himalayas: Between the Kali and Teesta rivers.
- Assam Himalayas: East of the Teesta river.
Kumaon Himalayas: The Correct Answer
The section of the Himalayas lying between the Satluj and Kali rivers is specifically known as the Kumaon Himalayas. This region is characterized by:
- Geography: The Kumaon Himalayas are marked by stunning peaks, valleys, and rich biodiversity.
- Significant Peaks: It includes notable mountains such as Nanda Devi, which is the second-highest peak in India.
- Cultural Significance: The region is home to diverse cultures and traditions, reflecting the rich heritage of the local communities.
Other Sections for Context
- Nepal Himalayas: Located between Kali and Teesta rivers, known for their majestic peaks and attracting trekkers.
- Assam Himalayas: Found further east, characterized by lush green landscapes and rich wildlife.
In conclusion, the part of the Himalayas lying between the Satluj and Kali rivers is rightly termed the Kumaon Himalayas, distinguishing it from other sections of this magnificent mountain range.

Alluvial Soil in Northern Plains of India
The northern plains of India are characterized by fertile alluvial soil, which plays a crucial role in agriculture. Here's an in-depth look at why alluvial soil is ideal for intensive farming in this region.
Characteristics of Alluvial Soil
- Formation: Alluvial soil is formed by the deposition of sediments brought by rivers. The Ganges, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra contribute significantly to the formation of this soil.
- Nutrient-Rich: This soil is rich in essential nutrients like nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which are vital for plant growth.
- Texture: It has a loamy texture, which strikes a balance between sand, silt, and clay, making it easy to cultivate.
Suitability for Intensive Agriculture
- High Fertility: The nutrient density supports a variety of crops, enabling farmers to achieve high yields.
- Water Retention: Alluvial soil has good water retention capacity, which is crucial for crops, especially during dry spells.
- Crop Diversity: This soil type supports a wide range of crops, including rice, wheat, sugarcane, and pulses, making it ideal for intensive farming practices.
Conclusion
The combination of nutrient richness, good texture, and water retention makes alluvial soil in the northern plains of India exceptionally suitable for intensive agriculture. This is why it is the primary choice for farmers in the region, fostering food security and economic stability.

Understanding the Highest Peak in India
The question pertains to identifying the highest peak within Indian territory. Let's analyze the options provided.
Option Analysis
- Kanchenjunga
- Kanchenjunga stands at 8,586 meters (28,169 feet) and is located in the eastern Himalayas on the border between India and Nepal.
- It is the third highest mountain in the world and holds significant cultural and spiritual importance in India.
- Mt. Everest
- Mt. Everest, the highest mountain in the world, reaches a height of 8,848.86 meters (29,031.7 feet).
- However, it is primarily located in Nepal, with a small part of its southern face bordering Tibet, China, thus not classified as an Indian peak.
- Nanga Parbat
- Nanga Parbat, standing at 8,126 meters (26,660 feet), is situated in Pakistan.
- It is the ninth highest mountain globally and does not fall within Indian territory.
- Nandadevi
- Nandadevi rises to 7,816 meters (25,643 feet), making it the second highest peak in India.
- While it is prominent, it does not surpass Kanchenjunga.
Conclusion
Given the analysis, the correct answer is indeed option 'A', Kanchenjunga, as it is the highest peak located entirely within India. Understanding the geographical context of these mountains is essential for distinguishing their respective heights and locations.

The Coromandel Coast along the eastern coast of India is known for its extensive delta formations, created by large rivers such as the Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. This region is characterized by its wide and level plains.

Overview of the Central Highlands
The Central Highlands is a significant geographical region located north of the Narmada River. It is part of the larger Peninsular plateau, which is characterized by its elevated terrain and diverse landforms.
Geographical Features
- The Central Highlands primarily covers the Malwa plateau.
- It includes parts of Madhya Pradesh and extends into Rajasthan.
- The region is marked by a series of plateaus, hills, and valleys.
Importance of the Central Highlands
- Agriculture: The fertile soil in this region supports various crops, making it an important agricultural area.
- Mineral Resources: The Central Highlands is rich in mineral deposits, contributing to the local economy and industries.
- Climate: The region experiences a varied climate, which influences the flora and fauna, as well as agricultural practices.
Comparative Analysis
- Deccan Plateau: Located to the south of the Narmada River, it is distinct from the Central Highlands.
- Aravali Hills: These hills are part of the Central Highlands but are not the entire region.
- Western Ghats: These mountains lie to the west of the Deccan Plateau and do not fall within the Central Highlands.
Conclusion
The Central Highlands is a crucial part of India's geography, providing valuable resources and supporting a diverse ecosystem. Understanding its features and significance is essential for studying the Peninsular plateau as a whole.