All questions of Physical Features of India for Grade 9 Exam

Lakshadweep islands have coral origin.They are a type of coral reefs which are known as Atolls that is circular or Horse shoe shaped reefs.This can be seen by looking at India map. Lakshadweep islands are somewhat horse shoe shaped.

The Brahmaputra River marks the eastern boundary of the Himalayas. Beyond the Dihang gorge, the Himalayas bend sharply towards south and form the Eastern hills or The Purvachal.
Following are the characteristics of Purvachal:
(a) These hills run through the north eastern states of India.
(b) They are mostly composed of sandstones (i.e. Sedimentary rocks).
(c) These hills are covered with dense forest.
(d) These hills are composed of the Patkai Hills, Naga Hills, Manipuri Hills and Mizo Hills.

Location of Lakshadweep Islands
Lakshadweep Islands are a tropical paradise located in the Arabian Sea, off the southwestern coast of India. This unique archipelago consists of 36 islands, of which only 10 are inhabited.
Geographic Significance
- Lakshadweep is situated approximately 200 to 440 kilometers away from the mainland of India.
- The islands are part of the Union Territory of India and form the smallest Union Territory in the country.
Importance of the Arabian Sea
- The Arabian Sea is a significant body of water that connects India to several countries in the Middle East and East Africa.
- It is known for its rich marine biodiversity and plays a vital role in trade and fishing activities.
Contrast with Other Water Bodies
- The Bay of Bengal lies to the east of India and is a separate body of water, making it unrelated to the Lakshadweep Islands.
- The Pacific Ocean is located far to the east of the Indian subcontinent and does not interact with the Arabian Sea.
- The Indian Ocean encompasses a larger area, but specifically, the Lakshadweep Islands are situated within the Arabian Sea region.
Conclusion
In summary, Lakshadweep Islands are located in the Arabian Sea, making option 'A' the correct answer. Their geographic positioning not only enhances their beauty but also contributes significantly to India's cultural and economic diversity.

Introduction
The Indian subcontinent is characterized by diverse geological formations, but among them, the Peninsular Plateau is recognized as the oldest landmass.
Geological Significance
- The Peninsular Plateau is primarily composed of ancient crystalline rocks, which are part of the Indian Shield.
- These rocks date back to the Precambrian era, making them over 2.5 billion years old, thus establishing the region's antiquity.
Formation and Structure
- The Peninsular Plateau was formed due to the tectonic activities and geological processes that shaped the Indian landmass.
- It consists of two main divisions: the Deccan Plateau and the Central Highlands, which are characterized by rugged terrain and hills.
Comparison with Other Landmasses
- The Himalayas: Though they are significant, they are relatively younger, formed around 50 million years ago due to the collision between the Indian plate and the Eurasian plate.
- Northern Plains: These are alluvial plains formed by sedimentation from rivers and are much younger than the Peninsular Plateau.
- Island Groups: The islands, such as the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, are also younger formations resulting from volcanic activity and tectonic movements.
Conclusion
The Peninsular Plateau stands as a testament to the geological history of India, making it the oldest landmass of the Indian subcontinent, characterized by its ancient rock formations and significant geological evolution over billions of years.

Teraic) The Teraic region is the correct answer for the given question.

The Teraic region, also known as the Terai, is a part of the Northern Plains in India. It is a region that lies at the foothills of the Himalayas and stretches across the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal. The Teraic region was originally a dense forested area full of wildlife.

During the colonial era, the British cleared the forests in the Teraic region to create agricultural land. The fertile soil and suitable climate of the region made it ideal for farming. The cleared land was used for growing crops such as sugarcane, rice, wheat, and jute. This led to the transformation of the Teraic region into a major agricultural area.

After the partition of India in 1947, many migrants from Pakistan, particularly from East Pakistan (now Bangladesh), settled in the Teraic region. These migrants were primarily engaged in agriculture and played a significant role in the development of the region's agricultural sector.

The clearing of forests and the conversion of the Teraic region into agricultural land had both positive and negative impacts. On one hand, it led to increased agricultural production and contributed to the economic development of the region. On the other hand, it resulted in the loss of natural habitat and a decline in wildlife populations. The deforestation also had adverse effects on the environment, such as soil erosion and loss of biodiversity.

In conclusion, the Teraic region of the Northern Plains was a thickly forested area full of wildlife that was cleared to create agricultural land. The region's transformation into an agricultural area was further accelerated by the settlement of migrants from Pakistan after partition.

Largest Inhabited Riverine Island: Majuli
Majuli is recognized as the largest inhabited riverine island in the world. Located in the Brahmaputra River in Assam, India, it covers an area of approximately 880 square kilometers.
Geographical Significance
- Majuli is situated between the Brahmaputra River and its tributaries, making it a unique geographical formation.
- The island is formed by the continuous erosion and deposition of sediment in the river, creating a dynamic landscape.
Cultural Importance
- Majuli is not just an ecological marvel; it is also a cultural hub.
- It is home to various ethnic communities, primarily the Mishing and the Assamese, who contribute to its rich cultural diversity.
- The island is famous for its satras (monasteries) that preserve and promote the traditional Vaishnavism of Assam.
Environmental Aspects
- The island faces significant challenges due to climate change, including erosion and flooding.
- Efforts are underway to preserve its unique biodiversity, which includes several species of migratory birds and other wildlife.
Tourism Potential
- Majuli attracts tourists for its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and vibrant festivals.
- Visitors can explore traditional crafts, local cuisine, and the serene landscapes that define this riverine island.
In conclusion, Majuli stands out as a remarkable example of how human habitation can coexist with nature in a riverine ecosystem, making it an essential part of both geography and culture in India.