All Exams  >   UPSC  >   Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read)  >   All Questions

All questions of India - Physical Environment for UPSC CSE Exam

What is the cause of climatic difference in Agra and Darjeeling?
  • a)
    Latitude
  • b)
    Altitude
  • c)
    Distance from the sea
  • d)
    The Himalayan Mountains
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Agra and Darjeeling are located on the same latitude, but temperature of January in Agra is 16°C whereas it is only 4°C in Darjeeling. It is due to the altitude difference. Temperature decreases with height. Due to thin air, places in the mountains are cooler than places on the plains.

Deccan plateau comes under area of
  • a)
    inadequate rainfall.
  • b)
    high rainfall.
  • c)
    medium rainfall.
  • d)
    low rainfall.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Meera Singh answered
There is heavy rainfall on the western coast of India but very little in the Deccan because the Deccan plateau is situated in the rain shadow of the Western Ghats. The Deccan Plateau to the east of the Western Ghats receives significantly less rainfall than the coasts. As the summer (wet) monsoons approach the West Coast of India, they rise up the western Ghats (mountains) and the air cools. This cool air is less able to hold moisture and it is released as rainfall.

Bamboos are important raw material for making
  • a)
    a match stick.
  • b)
    books.
  • c)
    musical instrument.
  • d)
    boxes.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Athul Chawla answered
Bamboo's natural hollow form makes it an obvious choice for many instruments, particularly wind and percussion. There are numerous types of bamboo flute made all over the world, such as the dizi, xiao, shakuhachi, palendag, jinghu and angklung.

Which is the north flowing tributary of Ganga?
  • a)
    Kosi
  • b)
    Ghaghra
  • c)
     Sone
  • d)
    Chambal
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Rashi Rahul answered
The Ganges flows throughout the country from the North to the south, the different tributaries of the ganges in the north are Gomti, Ghaghara, the Gandak, Kosi river , the Mahananda and the tributaries of Ganga in the south are Chambal, son, betwa.
(Son is it's major right bank tributary).
So, in my opinion answer should be ghaghara.
Source:-Given in NCERT too.

Ravines are widespread in the
  • a)
    Kashmir valley.
  • b)
    Chambal basin.
  • c)
    Gangetic plains.
  • d)
    Western ghats.
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Sparsh Malik answered
A region with a large number of deep gullies or ravines is called a badland topography. Ravines are widespread in the Chambal basin. Besides this, they are also found in Tamil Nadu and West Bengal. The country is losing about 8,000 hectares of land to ravines every year.

The most important geographical advantage of the Himalayas is
  • a)
    prevention of invasions.
  • b)
    valuable source of timber.
  • c)
    They prevent the monsoons from crossing to the north and also serve as a reservoir of water from which our perennial rivers flow
  • d)
    They protect India from the icy cold north winds
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Shruti Joshi answered
The most important geographical advantage of the Himalayas is option 3: They prevent the monsoons from crossing to the north and also serve as a reservoir of water from which our perennial rivers flow. The Himalayas act as a barrier to the southward movement of cold, dry winds from Central Asia and Siberia, which helps to maintain a relatively warm and humid climate in the Indian subcontinent. Moreover, the Himalayas receive heavy rainfall during the monsoon season, which results in the formation of numerous rivers and streams that provide water for irrigation, hydroelectric power generation, and other human needs.

In the Asian continent, India is located at the
  • a)
    central part.
  • b)
    Northern Part
  • c)
    Western Part
  • d)
    Southern Part
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Anagha Pillai answered
India is located in the southern part of the Asian continent. It shares its land borders with seven countries on three sides - Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Bangladesh.

Bamboos are grown most commonly at
  • a)
    great height from sea level.
  • b)
    medium height from sea level.
  • c)
    a very low height from sea level.
  • d)
    at any condition.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Siddharth Nair answered
Height of Bamboo Growth

Bamboos are one of the fastest-growing plants in the world, and they have a wide range of uses. They are grown mainly in tropical and subtropical regions. The height of bamboo growth depends on various factors like species, climate, soil, and sunlight.

Low Height from Sea Level

The correct answer to the given question is option 'C,' i.e., a very low height from sea level. Bamboos are mostly found in lowland areas, and they grow best in warm and humid conditions. Most of the bamboo species grow well at an elevation of 500 meters or less from sea level, and they prefer well-drained soils with a high content of organic matter.

Tropical and Subtropical Regions

Bamboos are commonly grown in tropical and subtropical regions, including Asia, Africa, South America, and Australia. In these areas, the climate is suitable for bamboo growth, and there is an ample supply of water.

Uses of Bamboo

Bamboos have numerous uses, including:

1. Construction material: Bamboo is used extensively for construction purposes, including building houses, bridges, and other structures.

2. Furniture: Bamboo is also used to make furniture like chairs, tables, and beds.

3. Paper production: Bamboo is a good source of pulp for paper production.

4. Food: Certain species of bamboo are used as food, and they are a rich source of nutrients.

5. Ornamental purposes: Bamboos are used for ornamental purposes, and they add beauty to gardens and landscapes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, bamboos are grown mostly at a very low height from sea level. They are commonly found in tropical and subtropical regions, and they have numerous uses, including construction material, furniture, paper production, food, and ornamental purposes.

Plants remain leafless for most of the year in
  • a)
    moist deciduous forest.
  • b)
    littoral and swamp forest.
  • c)
    montane forest.
  • d)
    tropical thorn forest.
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Mira Gupta answered
These forests receive rainfall less than 50 cm and temperatures can exceed a scorching 45 degree Celsius during the hotter months of the year.

Black soils are best for growing
  • a)
    wheat.
  • b)
    rice.
  • c)
    cotton.
  • d)
    tea.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Varun Datta answered
Black soils are best for growing cotton. These soils are also known as the ‘Regur Soil’ or the ‘Black Cotton Soil’. The black soils are generally clayey, deep and impermeable.

Khar, Neem, Khejri, Palas are:
  • a)
    Tropical Thorn forests
  • b)
    Tropical forests
  • c)
    Evergreen forests
  • d)
    Mangroves
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Naina Sharma answered
The correct option is Option A.
Tropical Thorn Forests : 
  1. These occur in the areas which receive rainfall less than 50 cm. It includes semi-arid areas of south west Punjab, Haryana, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh. 
  2. These consist of a variety of grasses and shrubs. In these forests, plants remain leafless for most part of the year and give an expression of scrub vegetation.
  3. Important species found are babool, ber and wild date palm, khair, neem, khejri, palas, etc. Tussocky grass upto a height of 2m as the under growth.

In the plains of Arunachal Pradesh, River Brahmaputra is known as ________. 
  • a)
    Dibang. 
  • b)
    Lohit. 
  • c)
    Dihang. 
  • d)
    Kenula.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Gowri Mehta answered
In the plains of Arunachal Pradesh, the River Brahmaputra is known as Dihang. Let's explore the reasons behind this name and understand its significance to the region.

The River Brahmaputra:
The Brahmaputra is one of the major rivers in Asia, flowing through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh. It originates in the Angsi Glacier in the Himalayas and moves eastwards, eventually merging with the Ganges River in Bangladesh before flowing into the Bay of Bengal. It is known by different names in different regions and plays a significant role in shaping the geography and culture of the areas it passes through.

Naming in Arunachal Pradesh:
In Arunachal Pradesh, a northeastern state of India, the River Brahmaputra is known as Dihang. The name Dihang holds cultural and historical significance in the region.

Cultural Significance:
1. Indigenous Tribes: Arunachal Pradesh is home to several indigenous tribes, such as the Adi, Mishmi, and Idu Mishmi. These tribes have their own languages and cultural practices. The name Dihang is derived from the language of the Adi tribe, who predominantly reside in the region. It reflects their deep connection with the river and the importance it holds in their lives.

Historical Significance:
1. Historical References: The name Dihang has historical references dating back centuries. In ancient texts and historical accounts, the river has been referred to as Dihang. This indicates that the name has been in use for a long time and has been passed down through generations.

2. Trade and Transportation: The Brahmaputra River has been a major trade route for centuries, connecting different regions and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The name Dihang has been associated with this river in the context of trade and transportation, highlighting its significance as a lifeline for the people of Arunachal Pradesh.

Conclusion:
The name Dihang for the River Brahmaputra in the plains of Arunachal Pradesh is derived from the language of the indigenous Adi tribe and has historical references dating back centuries. It reflects the cultural and historical significance of the river in the region and its role as a vital trade route.

Which region has the youngest rivers in India?
  • a)
    Eastern Ghats
  • b)
    Western Ghats
  • c)
    Himalayas
  • d)
    Deccan plateau
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Mansi Banerjee answered
Himalayas are the youngest mountains of India. Therefore, the rivers of this region are also the youngest rivers of India.

Which of the following soils contain a large proportion of sodium, potassium and magnesium?
  • a)
    Forest soil
  • b)
    Usara soil
  • c)
    Yellow soil
  • d)
    Laterite soil
Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

Usara soil is also known as saline soil. It contains a large proportion of sodium, potassium and magnesium. It has salts largely because of the dry climate and poor drainage.

In arid and semi-arid areas, lands unsuitable for cultivation should be converted into
  • a)
    fallow lands.
  • b)
    wastelands.
  • c)
    pastures.
  • d)
    residential areas.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

In arid and semi-arid areas, efforts should be made to protect cultivable lands from encroachment by sand dunes through developing shelter belts of trees and agro-forestry. Lands not suitable for cultivation should be converted into pastures for grazing.

The meeting place of Alaknanda and Bhagirathi is
  • a)
    Vishnu Prayag.
  • b)
    Karan Prayag.
  • c)
    Dev Prayag.
  • d)
    Rudra Prayag.
Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

Aravind Chawla answered
It rises in the Gangotri glacier near Gaumukh (3,900 m) in the Uttarkashi district of Uttaranchal and is known as the Bhagirathi. At Devprayag, the Bhagirathi meets the Alaknanda; hereafter, it is known as the Ganga.

Which of the mountain system is the oldest according to geological history?
  • a)
    Nilgiris
  • b)
    Satpuras
  • c)
    Vindhyas
  • d)
    Aravalli
Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

Malavika Patel answered
According to age, the Indian mountains can be arranged from the oldest; Aravalli,the Western Ghats, Vindhya and Satpura, the Nilgris and the Himalayas.

Which of the following statement(s) is/are correct?
i. The standard meridian of India is 82°30' E longitude.
ii. India’s coastline is the longest in the world.
iii. The southernmost point of India is Kanniyakumari.
iv. India extends from 6°45' N latitude to 37°6' N latitude.
  • a)
    i and iv
  • b)
    ii and iii
  • c)
     iii and iv
  • d)
    None of the above
Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

Divey Sethi answered
  • The standard meridian of India is 82°30' E longitude.
    This statement is correct. 82°30' E is the standard meridian of India, passing through Mirzapur in Uttar Pradesh.
  • India’s coastline is the longest in the world.
     This statement is incorrect. India has a coastline of about 7,516.6 km, but it is not the longest in the world. The longest coastline belongs to Canada.
  • The southernmost point of India is Kanniyakumari.
     This statement is incorrect. The southernmost point of mainland India is Kanniyakumari, but the actual southernmost point of the entire territory of India is Indira Point, located in the Nicobar Islands.
  • India extends from 6°45' N latitude to 37°6' N latitude.
     This statement is correct. India’s latitudinal extent is indeed from 6°45' N (southernmost point: Indira Point) to 37°6' N (northernmost point in Jammu and Kashmir).

    Which of the following statements are true?
    1. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the southernmost point of India.
    2. Indian Standard Time (IST) is based on the 82°30' E longitude.
    3. India has only one standard time zone.
    4. The Himalayas act as a barrier to cold winds from Central Asia.
    • a)
      1 and 2 are true
    • b)
      2, 3, and 4 are true
    • c)
      1, 3, and 4 are true
    • d)
      All statements are true
    Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

    Arnab Gupta answered
    Analysis of Statements
    Let's evaluate each statement provided:
    1. The Tropic of Cancer passes through the southernmost point of India.
    - This statement is false. The Tropic of Cancer lies at approximately 23.5° N latitude and passes through the central part of India, but not through the southernmost point, which is Kanyakumari.
    2. Indian Standard Time (IST) is based on the 82°30' E longitude.
    - This statement is true. IST is indeed based on the 82.5° E longitude, which is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of UTC (Coordinated Universal Time).
    3. India has only one standard time zone.
    - This statement is true. Despite its vast geographical expanse, India officially follows just one time zone, which is Indian Standard Time (IST).
    4. The Himalayas act as a barrier to cold winds from Central Asia.
    - This statement is true. The Himalayas serve as a significant barrier, preventing cold winds from Central Asia from penetrating into the subcontinent, which helps maintain a more moderate climate in northern India.
    Conclusion
    Based on the evaluation of these statements, the correct answer is option B: 2, 3, and 4 are true. The first statement is incorrect, while the others accurately describe geographical and climatic facts about India.

    Tsunamis are caused when
    • a)
      an earthqauke under the seawater
    • b)
      wind is strong.
    • c)
      ocean currents become warm.
    • d)
      sea level rises.
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    Mayank Goyal answered
    Earthquakes and volcanic eruptions that cause the sea-floor to move abruptly resulting in sudden displacement of ocean water in the form of high vertical waves are called tsunamis (harbour waves) or seismic sea waves. A tsunami is generated when an earthquake comes or a volcano erupts.

    The Peninsular Plateau of India extends up to:
    • a)
      Mizo hills
    • b)
      Himachal Himalayas
    • c)
      Assam valley
    • d)
      Meghalaya hills
    Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

    Prashanth Das answered
    The northeastern plateau is an extension of the main Peninsular plateau. It is believed that due to the force exerted by the northeastward movement of the Indian plate at the time of the Himalayan origin, a huge fault was created between the Rajmahal hills and the Meghalaya hills. Today, the Meghalaya and Karbi Anglong plateau stand detached from the main peninsular block.

    Which one of the following states receive floods in the winter?
    • a)
      Assam
    • b)
      West Bengal
    • c)
      Kerala
    • d)
      Tamil Nadu
    Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

    Anand Das answered
    During winter, the North-east dry Monsoon winds blow over the Bay of Bengal. Tamil Nadu receives rainfall in the winter season due to northeast trade winds. which causes a flood.

    Statement I: India’s latitudinal extent results in diverse climatic conditions across the country.
    Statement II: The distance between two longitudes decreases as one moves towards the poles.
    Statement III: India’s easternmost point experiences sunrise before its westernmost point.
    Statement IV: The Indian Standard Time is based on the 68°7' E longitude.
    • a)
      Statements I, II, and III are correct
    • b)
      Statements II and III are correct
    • c)
      Statements I, II, and IV are correct
    • d)
      All statements are correct
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    Crafty Classes answered
    • Statement I is correct as India’s vast latitudinal extent does lead to diverse climatic conditions.
    • Statement II is correct because the distance between longitudes indeed decreases towards the poles.
    • Statement III is correct since the easternmost point of India experiences sunrise earlier than the westernmost point.
    • Statement IV is incorrect as the Indian Standard Time (IST) is based on the 82°30' E longitude, not 68°7' E.

    Structure of arid soils are generally
    • a)
      loamy.
    • b)
      clayey.
    • c)
      silty.
    • d)
      sandy.
    Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

    Ruchi Joshi answered
    Arid soils range from red to brown in colour. They are generally sandy in structure and saline in nature.

    Which of the following states have very little alluvial soil area?
    • a)
      Uttar Pradesh
    • b)
      Uttaranchal
    • c)
      Arunachal Pradesh
    • d)
      Madhya Pradesh
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Varun Chauhan answered
    Alluvial soils are widespread in the northern plains and the river valleys. These soils coverabout 40 per cent of the total area of the country. Arunachal Pradesh has very little alluvial soil area.

    Monsoon or Tropical Deciduous forests are found in the areas with rainfall between
    • a)
      50 and 100 cm.
    • b)
      70 and 200 cm.
    • c)
      100 and 200 cm.
    • d)
      200 and 250 cm.
    Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

    Arnab Gupta answered
    Tropical Deciduous forests are also called monsoon forests. They are spread over regions that receive rainfall between 70 and 200 cm. On the basis of the availability of water, these forests are further divided into moist and dry deciduous.

    The most disastrous giant waves are
    • a)
      body waves.
    • b)
      ocean currents.
    • c)
      tsunamis.
    • d)
      surface waves.
    Correct answer is option 'C'. Can you explain this answer?

    Athul Chawla answered
    The speed of wave in the ocean depends upon the depth of water. It is more in the shallow water than in the ocean deep. As a result of this, the impact of tsunami is less over the ocean and more near the coast where they cause large-scale devastations.

    Arrange the following geographical features of India in the correct chronological order based on their formation or significance:
    1. Formation of the Himalayas
    2. Establishment of the Indian Standard Time
    3. Development of the Ganga River system
    4. Recognition of India's varied ecosystems
    • a)
      1, 3, 4, 2
    • b)
      1, 4, 3, 2
    • c)
      4, 1, 3, 2
    • d)
      1, 3, 2, 4
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    Arnab Gupta answered
    Chronological Order of Geographical Features in India
    To understand the correct chronological order of the given geographical features of India, we can analyze each one based on its formation or significance in history.
    1. Formation of the Himalayas
    - The Himalayas began forming approximately 50 million years ago due to the collision of the Indian tectonic plate with the Eurasian plate.
    - This geological event is significant as it shaped not only the physical landscape of northern India but also influenced climate patterns and the biodiversity of the region.
    2. Development of the Ganga River System
    - The Ganga River system developed over millions of years, with its origins traced back to the melting glaciers of the Himalayas.
    - The river has been central to Indian civilization, providing water resources, supporting agriculture, and serving as a cultural and spiritual symbol for millions.
    3. Recognition of India's Varied Ecosystems
    - The varied ecosystems of India, including forests, grasslands, deserts, and coastal areas, have been recognized more prominently in the 20th century.
    - This recognition has been vital for conservation efforts and understanding the ecological diversity of India.
    4. Establishment of the Indian Standard Time
    - Indian Standard Time (IST) was officially adopted in 1906.
    - This was a significant milestone for coordinating time across the vast geographical expanse of India, reflecting the modernization of the country during British colonial rule.
    Conclusion
    Based on the above analysis, the correct chronological order is:
    1. Formation of the Himalayas
    2. Development of the Ganga River system
    3. Recognition of India's varied ecosystems
    4. Establishment of the Indian Standard Time
    Thus, the correct option is a) 1, 3, 4, 2.

    Which of the following statement(s) about India's geography is/are correct?
    i. India extends approximately 3,214 km from north to south and 2,933 km from east to west.
    ii. The southernmost point of India lies at 6°45' N latitude in the Arabian Sea.
    iii. The standard meridian of India is 82°30' E, which is ahead of GMT by 5 hours and 30 minutes.
    iv. The geographical area of India includes regions in the tropics and sub-tropical zones.
    • a)
      i, iii, and iv
    • b)
      ii and iv
    • c)
      i and iii
    • d)
      i, ii, and iii
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    Dipanjan Desai answered
    Geographical Dimensions of India
    India's geography is defined by its vast dimensions.
    - North to South: Approximately 3,214 km
    - East to West: Approximately 2,933 km
    These measurements accurately depict the size and scale of India as a nation.
    Southernmost Point of India
    The statement regarding the southernmost point of India is slightly misleading.
    - Coordinates: The southernmost point is actually at 6°45' N latitude, but it is located on the island of Indira Point in the Nicobar Islands, not in the Arabian Sea.
    Thus, statement ii is incorrect.
    Standard Meridian of India
    India's standard meridian is essential for timekeeping and is correctly stated.
    - Standard Meridian: 82°30' E
    - Time Difference: This meridian is 5 hours and 30 minutes ahead of GMT (Greenwich Mean Time).
    This makes statement iii correct.
    Geographical Zones of India
    India's geographical area spans different climatic zones.
    - Tropical and Sub-Tropical Regions: The country includes regions that fall within both the tropical and sub-tropical zones, highlighting its diverse climate and ecology.
    This means statement iv is also correct.
    Conclusion
    Therefore, the correct statements are:
    - i: True
    - iii: True
    - iv: True
    Since statement ii is false, the correct option is a) i, iii, and iv.

    Dry winter is experienced in the
    • a)
      Ganga plain.
    • b)
      Eastern Ghats.
    • c)
      Western Ghats.
    • d)
      Deccan Plateau.
    Correct answer is option 'A'. Can you explain this answer?

    In winters, the northwestern parts of the subcontinent attracts wind from the Meditteranean region in the form of westerly disturbances. After September, retreating monsoons move out of the Ganga plains towards the low pressure zone of Bay of Bengal. They gather moisture from the bay and are drawn towards another low-pressure zone in the southern peninsula.

    Far less dramatic disaster is
    • a)
      volcano.
    • b)
      landslide.
    • c)
      earthquake.
    • d)
      tsunami.
    Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

    Disasters due to landslides, are in general, far less dramatic than due to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis and cyclones but their impact on the natural environment and national economy is in no way less severe.

    The general relief is the oldest in the
    • a)
      Himalayan mountain system.
    • b)
      Indus-Ganga plain.
    • c)
      North-eastern hills.
    • d)
      Peninsular plateau.
    Correct answer is option 'D'. Can you explain this answer?

    The Peninsular India is made up of a series of patland plateaus such as the Hazaribagh plateau, the Palamu plateau, the Ranchi plateau, the Malwa plateau, the Coimbatore plateau and the Karnataka plateau, etc. This is one of the oldest and the most stable landmass of India.

    Which of the following was the purpose of Project Tiger?
    • a)
      To kill tigers
    • b)
      To protect tigers from illegal hunting
    • c)
      To put tigers in the zoo
    • d)
      To make films on tiger
    Correct answer is option 'B'. Can you explain this answer?

    Jyoti Yadav answered
    Project Tiger has been implemented since 1973. The main objective of the scheme is to ensure maintenance of viable population of tigers in India for scientific, aesthetic, cultural and ecological values.

    Chapter doubts & questions for India - Physical Environment - Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read) 2025 is part of UPSC CSE exam preparation. The chapters have been prepared according to the UPSC CSE exam syllabus. The Chapter doubts & questions, notes, tests & MCQs are made for UPSC CSE 2025 Exam. Find important definitions, questions, notes, meanings, examples, exercises, MCQs and online tests here.

    Chapter doubts & questions of India - Physical Environment - Old & New NCERTs for IAS Preparation (Must Read) in English & Hindi are available as part of UPSC CSE exam. Download more important topics, notes, lectures and mock test series for UPSC CSE Exam by signing up for free.

    Top Courses UPSC CSE

    Related UPSC CSE Content