Indian Geography Quiz - 1, General Knowledge - Railways MCQ

Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project
The Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project is a significant project that was completed with the assistance of Japan. It is located on a specific river, and the answer is option D, Godavari. Here is a detailed explanation of the project:
1. Project Overview:
- The Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project is a hydroelectric power plant situated on the Godavari River in Maharashtra, India.
- It was constructed with the collaboration and support of Japan.
2. Benefits of the Project:
- The primary purpose of the project is to generate hydroelectric power by utilizing the water resources of the Godavari River.
- The project provides a sustainable source of electricity to meet the growing energy demands of the region.
- It also helps in irrigation by storing water for agricultural purposes and ensuring a consistent water supply to the nearby areas.
3. Capacity and Features:
- The Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project has a total installed capacity of 10 MW.
- It consists of a dam and a power house, which houses the turbines and generators for power generation.
- The dam facilitates the storage of water, which is then released through the turbines to generate electricity.
4. Collaboration with Japan:
- Japan has been a key partner in the development of the Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project.
- It has provided technical expertise, financial assistance, and equipment for the successful completion of the project.
- This collaboration showcases the strong bilateral relations between India and Japan in the field of energy and infrastructure development.
In conclusion, the Paithan (Jayakwadi) Hydro-electric project is a notable venture that has been completed with the support of Japan. It is located on the Godavari River and serves the purpose of generating hydroelectric power and providing water for irrigation. The collaboration between India and Japan in this project highlights the importance of international partnerships in achieving sustainable development goals.

Irrigated area accounts for nearly 48.8 per cent of the 140 million hectare (mha) of agricultural land in India. The remaining 51.2 per cent is rainfed. The increasing gap also impacts rainfed production in the country.

Answer:
The pass located at the southern end of the Nilgiri Hills in south India is called the Palghat gap. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Palghat Gap:
- The pass located at the southern end of the Nilgiri Hills in south India is known as the Palghat gap.
- It is a mountain pass or gap that connects the state of Kerala with the state of Tamil Nadu.
- The Palghat gap is named after the town of Palakkad or Palghat, which is located in the pass.
- This pass is an important transportation route, as it allows for easy movement of people and goods between the two states.
2. Geographical Location:
- The Palghat gap is situated in the Western Ghats mountain range in southern India.
- It is located between the Nilgiri Hills to the north and the Anaimalai Hills to the south.
- The pass is approximately 30 kilometers wide and acts as a natural gateway between the states of Kerala and Tamil Nadu.
3. Importance:
- The Palghat gap is a significant pass due to its strategic location and geographical features.
- It serves as a vital transportation corridor, connecting the coastal plains of Kerala with the neighboring state of Tamil Nadu.
- The gap allows for the movement of road and rail traffic, facilitating trade and communication between the two states.
- It also plays a crucial role in the monsoon climate of the region, as it acts as a funnel for the southwest monsoon winds, bringing rainfall to the surrounding areas.
In conclusion, the pass located at the southern end of the Nilgiri Hills in south India is called the Palghat gap. It is an important transportation route that connects Kerala and Tamil Nadu, and it holds both geographical and climatic significance in the region.

Factors Responsible for the Rapid Growth of Sugar Production in South India Compared to North India:
I. Higher per acre field of sugarcane
- South India has favorable climatic conditions, including higher rainfall and temperature, which are conducive for the cultivation of sugarcane.
- The availability of suitable land and irrigation facilities enables farmers in South India to cultivate sugarcane in larger areas compared to North India.
- This leads to a higher per acre field of sugarcane in South India, resulting in increased sugar production.
II. Higher sucrose content of sugarcane
- The varieties of sugarcane cultivated in South India are known for their high sucrose content.
- The favorable climatic conditions, including the right temperature and soil fertility, contribute to the higher sucrose content in the sugarcane grown in South India.
- The higher sucrose content leads to a higher yield of sugar during the crushing process, contributing to the rapid growth of sugar production in South India.
III. Lower labor cost
- South India has a comparatively lower labor cost compared to North India.
- This lower labor cost reduces the production cost and makes sugar production more profitable in South India.
- The availability of skilled and cheap labor in South India further facilitates the rapid growth of sugar production in the region.
IV. Longer crushing period
- The crushing period for sugarcane in South India is longer compared to North India.
- This longer crushing period allows for a higher production of sugar from the available sugarcane.
- The extended time for crushing also allows farmers to utilize the full potential of their sugarcane crop, resulting in increased sugar production.
Overall, the combination of factors such as a higher per acre field of sugarcane, higher sucrose content, lower labor cost, and longer crushing period contributes to the rapid growth of sugar production in South India compared to North India.

north of the Equator
Kanyakumari is the southernmost tip of peninsular India and it lies north of Equator

India's copper ore reserves have been estimated at 400 million tonnes, with a metal content of 5 million tones. The principal copper belt of India lies in Singhbhum and Hazaribagh in Jharkhand. The mining centres are located at Mosabani, Ghatsila, Thobani and Badia of Singbhbum, Hazaribagh of Bihar, the Khetri and Dariba areas of Rajasthan, and Agnigundala of Andhra Pradesh. Total production is 2.6 million tones.

Explanation:
Jhum cultivation, also known as shifting cultivation or slash and burn agriculture, is a traditional farming practice in India, particularly in the northeastern region. Here is a detailed explanation of each statement:
I. It is largely practiced in Assam:
- Jhum cultivation is practiced in various northeastern states of India, including Assam.
- The terrain and climate of Assam make it suitable for this type of cultivation.
- So, the statement is true.
II. It is referred to as 'slash and burn' technique:
- Jhum cultivation involves cutting down and burning vegetation to clear land for cultivation.
- The ashes from the burned vegetation provide nutrients to the soil.
- This practice is commonly referred to as the 'slash and burn' technique.
- So, the statement is true.
III. In it, the fertility is exhausted in a few years:
- Jhum cultivation is not a sustainable farming practice.
- The land is cultivated for a few years until the fertility of the soil is exhausted.
- After that, farmers move on to clear new land for cultivation.
- So, the statement is true.
Therefore, all three statements are true regarding Jhum cultivation in India. The correct answer is option A: I, II, and III.

The Salal Project is located on the Chenab River in the Reasi district of Jammu and Kashmir. The Salal Hydroelectric Project is a run-of-the-river scheme that harnesses the river's hydropower potential. The project's total capacity is 690 MW, which is divided into two stages, each with a capacity of 345 MW

The Yarlung Zangbo River
The Yarlung Zangbo River, located in India, is known as the _______ river.
Explanation:
The correct answer is C: Brahmaputra.
Details:
Here is a detailed explanation of the answer:
- The Yarlung Zangbo River is one of the major rivers in Asia and flows through India, Tibet, and Bangladesh.
- In India, the river is known as the Brahmaputra River.
- The river originates from the Angsi Glacier in the Himalayas and flows across the Indian state of Arunachal Pradesh.
- It then continues its journey through Assam and eventually merges with the Ganges River in Bangladesh.
- The Brahmaputra River is an important waterway for transportation and irrigation in the region.
- It also plays a significant role in the agriculture and economy of the regions it passes through.
- The Yarlung Zangbo River/Brahmaputra River is known for its immense size and powerful currents.
- It is a lifeline for millions of people living along its course, providing water for drinking, irrigation, and other activities.
In conclusion, the Yarlung Zangbo River is known as the Brahmaputra River in India.

Explanation:
The given statement states that the only zone in the country that produces gold is also rich in iron. We need to determine which zone in the country satisfies this condition.
Zone: Southern zone
Reasoning:
- The Southern zone is the only zone in the country that produces gold.
- Additionally, the Southern zone is also rich in iron.
Therefore, the correct answer is option C: Southern zone.

To determine the percentage of Earth's surface covered by India, we need to calculate the land area of India and divide it by the total land area of Earth.
1. Calculate the land area of India:
- According to the World Bank, the total land area of India is approximately 2,973,190 square kilometers.
2. Calculate the total land area of Earth:
- The total land area of Earth is approximately 148,940,000 square kilometers.
3. Calculate the percentage:
- Divide the land area of India by the total land area of Earth:
(2,973,190 / 148,940,000) * 100 = 1.997%
4. Round the percentage to the nearest decimal place:
- The percentage of Earth's surface covered by India is approximately 2.0%.
Therefore, the correct answer is option A: 2.4%.

Factors responsible for the monsoon type of climate in India:
1. Location:
- India is located in the tropical region, between the Tropic of Cancer and the equator.
- Its location near the Indian Ocean influences the monsoon climate.
2. Thermal contrast:
- The differential heating and cooling of land and water create a temperature contrast.
- During summer, the land gets heated faster than the ocean, creating low-pressure areas over the land.
- As a result, moist winds from the Indian Ocean are drawn towards the land, causing the monsoon rainfall.
3. Upper air circulation:
- The presence of the Himalayan mountain range in the north and the Indian Ocean in the south affects the upper air circulation patterns.
- The Himalayas act as a barrier to the cold winds from Central Asia, forcing them to turn towards India.
- The moisture-laden winds from the ocean rise over the mountains, causing condensation and precipitation.
4. Inter-tropical convergence zone (ITCZ):
- The ITCZ is a belt of low-pressure located near the equator.
- During the summer season, the ITCZ shifts northwards, bringing the southwest monsoon winds to India.
- These winds carry moisture from the Indian Ocean and result in heavy rainfall.
Therefore, all the given factors - location, thermal contrast, upper air circulation, and the inter-tropical convergence zone - contribute to the monsoon type of climate in India. Hence, the correct answer is D: I, II, III, and IV.

The present forest area of India:
According to satellite data, the present forest area of India is decreasing. Here is a detailed explanation:
Satellite data:
- Satellite data provides accurate and reliable information about the forest cover in India.
- It allows for the monitoring and analysis of changes in forest area over time.
Reasons for decreasing forest area:
- Deforestation: The primary reason for the decrease in forest area is deforestation.
- Urbanization and Infrastructure: Rapid urbanization and the development of infrastructure projects often lead to the clearing of forests.
- Agriculture and Logging: Expansion of agricultural land and logging activities also contribute to the reduction in forest cover.
- Illegal Activities: Illegal activities such as poaching, illegal logging, and encroachment further exacerbate the problem.
Impacts of decreasing forest area:
- Biodiversity Loss: Forests are home to a diverse range of plant and animal species. The reduction in forest area poses a threat to biodiversity.
- Climate Change: Forests play a crucial role in regulating the climate by absorbing carbon dioxide. Decreasing forest area can contribute to increased greenhouse gas emissions and climate change.
- Soil Erosion: Forests help prevent soil erosion by anchoring the soil with their roots. The loss of forest cover can result in increased soil erosion and degradation.
Efforts to address the issue:
- Afforestation: The government and various organizations have initiated afforestation programs to increase the forest cover in India.
- Conservation Measures: Strict conservation measures, such as protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries, aim to preserve and restore forest ecosystems.
- Sustainable Practices: Encouraging sustainable practices in agriculture, logging, and other industries can help reduce the impact on forest areas.
In conclusion, the present forest area of India, according to satellite data, is decreasing. Deforestation, urbanization, agriculture, and illegal activities are the primary causes. Efforts are being made to address the issue through afforestation, conservation measures, and sustainable practices.

India's Highest Annual Rainfall
Location: Mawsynram, Meghalaya
Explanation:
- Mawsynram, located in the state of Meghalaya in Northeast India, holds the record for the highest annual rainfall in India.
- It receives an average annual rainfall of around 11,871 millimeters (467.4 inches).
- The region's unique geographical location, with its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and the presence of the Khasi Hills, contributes to its exceptionally high rainfall.
- The monsoon winds carrying moisture from the Bay of Bengal get trapped by the hills, resulting in heavy precipitation.
- Mawsynram's rainfall is primarily influenced by the Southwest Monsoon, which brings intense rainfall to the region from June to September.
- The continuous and heavy rainfall in Mawsynram has led to the formation of numerous caves and underground rivers in the area.
- The town is also known for its living root bridges, which are created by guiding the roots of trees across streams to form sturdy natural bridges.
Overall, Mawsynram in Meghalaya holds the distinction of receiving the highest annual rainfall in India due to its unique geographical features and the influence of the Southwest Monsoon.

Refineries set up by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd.

• Mathura Refinery


• Digboi Refinery


• Panipat Refinery

Explanation:

• The refineries mentioned in the question, namely Mathura, Digboi, and Panipat, are set up by Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. (IOCL).


• Indian Oil Corporation Ltd. is a state-owned oil and gas company headquartered in New Delhi, India. It is the largest commercial enterprise in the country and operates under the Ministry of Petroleum and Natural Gas.


• The Mathura Refinery, located in Mathura, Uttar Pradesh, was the first refinery to be set up by IOCL. It started operations in 1982 and has a refining capacity of 8 million metric tons per annum (MMTPA).


• The Digboi Refinery, located in Digboi, Assam, is the oldest operating refinery in India. It was established in 1901 and has a refining capacity of 0.65 MMTPA.


• The Panipat Refinery, located in Panipat, Haryana, is one of the largest and most complex refineries in India. It was commissioned in 1998 and has a refining capacity of 15 MMTPA.


• These refineries play a crucial role in meeting the demand for petroleum products in the country and contribute significantly to India's energy security.

Note: The answer provided is based on the information available and may vary slightly if there are any recent developments or changes in the refinery ownership.

Types of Indian Agriculture:

• Subsistence Agriculture: This is the predominant type of agriculture in India where farmers grow crops mainly for their own consumption. It is characterized by small landholdings, traditional methods of farming, and low productivity.


• Commercial Agriculture: While commercial agriculture is also practiced in India, it is not as prevalent as subsistence agriculture. In commercial agriculture, crops are grown primarily for sale in the market, and it involves larger landholdings and more modern farming techniques.


• Extensive Agriculture: Extensive agriculture involves the use of large areas of land with minimal inputs of labor and capital per unit area. This type of agriculture is common in regions with low population density and abundant land.


• Plantation Agriculture: Plantation agriculture is characterized by large-scale monoculture of cash crops such as tea, coffee, sugarcane, and rubber. It requires significant capital investment and is often associated with large estates owned by corporations or wealthy individuals.

Predominance of Subsistence Agriculture in India:

• Subsistence agriculture is the predominant type of agriculture in India due to several factors:


• Small landholdings: Most farmers in India own small plots of land, which makes it more feasible for them to grow crops for their own consumption rather than for sale.


• Traditional farming practices: Many Indian farmers still follow traditional methods of farming that are better suited to subsistence agriculture than commercial agriculture.


• Low productivity: The lack of access to modern farming techniques, irrigation facilities, and inputs like fertilizers and pesticides contributes to the low productivity of Indian agriculture, making subsistence farming more viable.


• Food security: Subsistence agriculture ensures food security for farming households, especially in rural areas where access to markets may be limited.

By considering these factors, it is evident that subsistence agriculture is the predominant type of agriculture in India.

The Radcliffe Line is a boundary that separates India and Pakistan. Here is a detailed explanation:
Background:
- The Radcliffe Line was drawn in 1947 by Sir Cyril Radcliffe, a British lawyer and politician.
- It was part of the Partition of India, which aimed to divide British India into two separate countries, India and Pakistan, based on religious demographics.
- The line was drawn to demarcate the border between the two newly created nations.
Location:
- The Radcliffe Line runs approximately 2,000 kilometers from the Arabian Sea in the south to the foothills of the Himalayas in the north.
- It passes through the states of Punjab, West Bengal, Assam, and Jammu and Kashmir.
Significance:
- The Radcliffe Line has immense historical and political significance as it marked the division of British India into two separate countries.
- It determined the borders of India and Pakistan and played a crucial role in defining the territories of each nation.
Impact:
- The drawing of the Radcliffe Line led to mass migrations and widespread violence.
- Millions of people were displaced as they had to move across the newly formed border to their respective countries.
- The partition resulted in communal tensions, riots, and loss of life on both sides.
Current Status:
- The Radcliffe Line is still the internationally recognized boundary between India and Pakistan.
- It is a heavily guarded border, with checkpoints and security forces on both sides.
In conclusion, the Radcliffe Line is a boundary that separates India and Pakistan. It was drawn as part of the Partition of India in 1947 and has had a lasting impact on the history and politics of the region.

Potential for Harnessing Tidal Energy in India:
India has a vast coastline and several water bodies that have the potential for harnessing tidal energy. Among the given options, the Gulf of Cambay is the most suitable location for tidal energy generation. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Gulf of Cambay:
- Located on the western coast of India, the Gulf of Cambay experiences high tidal range and strong tidal currents, making it an ideal site for tidal energy harnessing.
- The narrow and funnel-shaped gulf amplifies the tidal currents, increasing the energy potential.
- The region has a large tidal basin area, providing ample space for setting up tidal power plants.
- The gulf has a well-defined channel that can be utilized for constructing barrages and turbines to capture tidal energy.
2. Gulf of Mannar:
- While the Gulf of Mannar also experiences tidal currents, its energy potential is relatively lower compared to the Gulf of Cambay.
- The gulf is known for its rich biodiversity and coral reefs, which may pose environmental concerns for tidal energy projects.
3. Backwaters of Kerala:
- The backwaters of Kerala, including the Vembanad Lake, have a limited tidal range and weak tidal currents, making them less suitable for harnessing tidal energy.
- These water bodies are primarily used for tourism and traditional fishing activities.
4. Chilka Lake:
- Chilka Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon, experiences limited tidal fluctuations, limiting its potential for tidal energy generation.
- The lake is recognized as an important habitat for migratory birds and supports local fishing communities.
In conclusion, among the given options, the Gulf of Cambay in India has the greatest potential for harnessing tidal energy. Its high tidal range, strong currents, and suitable geography make it an optimal site for tidal power plants.

The typical area of sal forest in the Indian peninsular upland occurs on the Malwa plateau. Here is a detailed explanation:
Sal Forest in the Indian Peninsular Upland
Introduction: The Indian peninsular upland is a vast region in India that includes various geographical features such as plateaus, hills, and forests. One of the prominent types of forests found in this region is the sal forest, which is known for its rich biodiversity and economic importance.
Location: The sal forest in the Indian peninsular upland is primarily concentrated in the Malwa plateau. This plateau is located in the central part of India, covering parts of Madhya Pradesh and Rajasthan. It is bounded by the Vindhya Range in the south and the Aravalli Range in the northwest.
Characteristics: The sal forest in the Malwa plateau is characterized by the dominance of sal trees (Shorea robusta). These trees are known for their straight trunks and valuable timber. The forest ecosystem also supports a variety of flora and fauna, including other tree species, shrubs, and various animal species.
Importance: The sal forest in the Indian peninsular upland plays a crucial role in the region's ecology and economy. The sal timber is highly valued for its strength and durability, making it suitable for construction, furniture, and other wood-based industries. The forest also provides habitat for numerous wildlife species and contributes to the overall biodiversity of the region.
Conclusion: In conclusion, the typical area of sal forest in the Indian peninsular upland occurs on the Malwa plateau. This region is known for its rich sal forest ecosystem, which supports a diverse range of flora and fauna. The sal timber from this forest is of great economic importance, making it a valuable resource for the region.

The state having the largest area of forest cover in India is Madhya Pradesh.

Explanation:

Madhya Pradesh is the state in India with the largest area of forest cover. Here's a detailed explanation:

• Madhya Pradesh is located in central India and is known for its rich biodiversity and extensive forest cover.


• The state is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, including Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Pench National Park, and Satpura National Park.


• According to the India State of Forest Report 2019, released by the Forest Survey of India, Madhya Pradesh has a total forest cover of 77,414 square kilometers.


• This accounts for approximately 24.8% of the state's geographical area, making it the state with the highest forest cover in India.


• The forests in Madhya Pradesh are not only important for their ecological significance but also play a crucial role in supporting the livelihoods of local communities and contributing to the state's economy.


• The forest cover in Madhya Pradesh consists of a variety of forest types, including tropical moist deciduous forests, dry deciduous forests, and bamboo forests.


• The state government has also taken various initiatives to conserve and manage its forest resources, including the implementation of community-based forest management programs and the promotion of sustainable forestry practices.

Therefore, Madhya Pradesh is the state in India with the largest area of forest cover.

The Great Divide in the demographic history of India
Background:
- The demographic history of India refers to the changes in the population structure and trends over time.
- The Great Divide refers to a significant shift or turning point in this history.
Identification of the Great Divide:
- The year ____ is considered the Great Divide in the demographic history of India.
- To identify the correct year, let's examine the options provided: 1901, 1921, 1941, and 1951.
Explanation:
- In 1901, India's population was approximately 238 million. It marked the beginning of the 20th century.
- In 1921, India's population was approximately 251 million. This year witnessed the aftermath of the First World War and the Non-Cooperation Movement.
- In 1941, India's population was approximately 389 million. This period coincided with the Second World War and the Quit India Movement.
- In 1951, India's population was approximately 361 million. This year marked the first Census of Independent India.
Conclusion:
- Based on the options provided, the correct answer for the year that is considered a Great Divide in the demographic history of India is B: 1921.
- This year marked a significant shift in the population trends and structure of India.
- The population growth rate began to accelerate, and various socio-political movements influenced the demographic landscape of the country.

Private Sector Refinery by Reliance Petroleum Ltd.
The only private sector refinery set up by Reliance Petroleum Ltd. is located at Jamnagar.
Details of the Refinery
- Reliance Petroleum Ltd., a subsidiary of Reliance Industries Ltd., established a private sector refinery in Jamnagar.
- Jamnagar is a city in the state of Gujarat, India.
- The refinery is known as the Jamnagar Refinery.
- It is one of the largest refineries in the world.
- The refinery has a total capacity of processing 1.24 million barrels of oil per day.
- It is equipped with state-of-the-art technology and infrastructure.
- The refinery produces a wide range of petroleum products, including gasoline, diesel, jet fuel, petrochemicals, and more.
Benefits and Significance
- The Jamnagar Refinery has played a crucial role in meeting India's growing demand for petroleum products.
- It has contributed to the country's energy security and self-reliance.
- The refinery has created numerous job opportunities in the region, promoting economic growth and development.
- It has also attracted significant investments and collaborations in the energy sector.
- The Jamnagar Refinery has received recognition and awards for its operational excellence, environmental sustainability, and safety standards.
Therefore, the only private sector refinery set up by Reliance Petroleum Ltd. is located at Jamnagar, Gujarat, India.

The only state in India that produces saffron is Jammu and Kashmir.

1. Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir is the only state in India where saffron is produced. The saffron fields are primarily located in the Pampore region of the state.

Here are some key points about saffron production in Jammu and Kashmir:

1. Climatic Conditions: The climate and soil conditions in Jammu and Kashmir are ideal for saffron cultivation. The region experiences cold winters and dry summers, which are necessary for the growth of saffron flowers.


2. Pampore Region: Pampore, located in the Pulwama district of Jammu and Kashmir, is known as the saffron bowl of India. It has the highest concentration of saffron fields in the state.


3. Saffron Harvesting: Saffron is harvested from the flowers of the Crocus sativus plant. The harvesting process involves carefully picking the delicate saffron threads from each flower.


4. Uses of Saffron: Saffron is widely used in cooking and is known for its distinct flavor and aroma. It is also used in traditional medicine and skincare products.


5. Economic Importance: Saffron cultivation is a significant source of income for the farmers in Jammu and Kashmir. The saffron industry plays a vital role in the state's economy.

Therefore, it can be concluded that Jammu and Kashmir is the only state in India that produces saffron.

Explanation:
The correct answer is option C: Brahmaputra, Indus, and Sutlej. Here is a detailed explanation:
1. Mansarover Lake:
Mansarover Lake is located in the Great Himalayas. It is a freshwater lake situated at an altitude of 4,590 meters in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. The lake is considered sacred in Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, and Bon religion.
2. Rivers originating from Mansarover Lake:
Three important rivers of the Indian subcontinent have their sources near the Mansarover Lake. These rivers are:
- Brahmaputra: The Brahmaputra River originates from the Chemayungdung Glacier, located near Mansarover Lake. It flows through Tibet, India, and Bangladesh before merging with the Ganges to form the world's largest delta in the Bay of Bengal.
- Indus: The Indus River also originates from near Mansarover Lake, specifically from the Bokhar Chu Glacier in Tibet. It flows through India and Pakistan before emptying into the Arabian Sea.
- Sutlej: The Sutlej River, also known as the Satluj, has its source near Mansarover Lake in the Rakshastal Lake. It flows through Tibet, India, and Pakistan before joining the Indus River.
3. Other rivers:
The options A, B, and D are incorrect because they mention rivers that do not originate from Mansarover Lake. The Jhelum River and Yamuna River do not have their sources near Mansarover Lake.
In conclusion, the three important rivers of the Indian subcontinent that have their sources near the Mansarover Lake are Brahmaputra, Indus, and Sutlej.

The zonal soil type of peninsular India belongs to red soils.

Peninsular India is characterized by a diverse range of soil types. The zonal soil type, which is the dominant soil type in this region, is red soils. These soils are formed as a result of weathering of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks.

Here are some key features of red soils:

- Color: The name "red soils" comes from their distinctive red color, which is due to the presence of iron oxide.
- Texture: Red soils are generally well-drained and have a sandy to loamy texture.
- Fertility: They are generally low in fertility and organic matter content, but they can be highly productive with proper nutrient management.
- Distribution: Red soils are widely distributed in peninsular India, covering large areas in states like Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Maharashtra and Odisha.
- Crops: These soils are suitable for the cultivation of crops like millets, pulses, oilseeds, and cotton. However, they require careful irrigation and nutrient supplementation to maintain productivity.
- Challenges: Red soils are prone to erosion and nutrient leaching due to their sandy texture. They also have poor water-holding capacity, which can lead to water stress during dry periods.

Overall, red soils are an important soil type in peninsular India, and understanding their characteristics and management is crucial for sustainable agriculture in the region.