Physiography of India

VidyaarOctober 13, 20260341 views

Q270. For the Peninsular Block, assess:
1. Some western coastal sections submerged because of tectonic processes.
2. Veliconda and Mahendragiri are residual hills.
3. Deep V-shaped youthful river valleys characterise the block.

Which statements are correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims GS-I (2026)]

(A) 1 only

(B) 1 and 2 only

(D) 3 only

Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: The Peninsular Block is composed mainly of ancient crystalline rocks. Its western margin experienced tectonic submergence, and prolonged denudation left residual hills. Most Peninsular rivers have mature, relatively broad valleys rather than the deep V-shaped valleys typical of young Himalayan terrain.

Islands

Q269. Regarding the Andaman and Nicobar Islands:
1. Their climate is humid, tropical and coastal.
2. Both southwest and northeast monsoons bring rain.
3. Maximum rainfall occurs December–May.

Which statements are correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims GS-I (2026)]

(A) 1 only

(B) 1 and 2 only

(D) 3 only

Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: The islands have a warm and humid maritime climate because they are surrounded by the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea. Both seasonal monsoons supply rain, but the southwest monsoon months are much wetter than the drier January–April period.

Northern Mountains

Q268. Which ranges form the Trans-Himalayan mountain region in India?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 19 March 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Himalaya, Aravalli and Vindhya

(B) Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats and Satpura

(D) Himalaya, Satpura and Karakoram

Answer: (c) Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram

Explanation: The Trans-Himalayan belt lies to the north of the Greater Himalaya. Its principal chains include the Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram ranges. The Aravalli, Vindhya, Satpura and Ghats belong instead to central or peninsular India.

Coastal Region

Q267. Which part of India’s coast is associated with Vembanad Lagoon, separated from the Arabian Sea by narrow barriers?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 27 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Northern Circars

(B) Coromandel Coast

(D) Konkan Coast

Answer: (c) Malabar Coast

Explanation: Vembanad lies in Kerala, within the Malabar coastal plain. Sand barriers and spits separate much of this backwater system from the Arabian Sea. Such lagoons, locally called kayals, are a distinctive physical feature of the southwestern Indian coast.

Islands

Q266. Barren Island’s active volcano is classified as which type?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 17 March 2026, Shift 1 (memory-based) (2026)]

(A) Shield volcano

(B) Stratovolcano

(D) Cinder-cone volcano

Answer: (b) Stratovolcano

Explanation: Barren Island in the Andaman Sea hosts India’s only active volcano. The volcano is generally described as a stratovolcano, built by layers of erupted materials. It belongs to the volcanic island arc associated with subduction along the Andaman–Sumatra region.

Coastal Region

Q265. Which Indian coastal region has extensive lagoons and backwater systems along the western coastal plain?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 15 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Andhra Coast

(B) Coromandel Coast

(D) Northern Circars

Answer: (c) Malabar Coast

Explanation: The Malabar Coast of Kerala is noted for interconnected brackish lagoons called kayals. Coastal currents constructed sandbars and barrier islands, trapping water from rivers descending the Western Ghats. Vembanad and Ashtamudi are major examples of this characteristic coastal relief.

Southern and Central Hills

Q264. Which Indian mountain range is among the oldest fold mountain systems on Earth?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 15 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Himalayas

(B) Aravalli Range

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (b) Aravalli Range

Explanation: The Aravalli hills are ancient, heavily denuded remnants of Precambrian mountain-building events. They extend across northwestern India, especially Rajasthan, and are vastly older than the young fold Himalayas. Guru Shikhar near Mount Abu is their highest peak.

Islands

Q263. Approximately what is the combined geographical area of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 18 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) 6,249 square kilometres

(B) 7,567 square kilometres

(D) 8,249 square kilometres

Answer: (d) 8,249 square kilometres

Explanation: The Andaman and Nicobar archipelago covers about 8,249 square kilometres. Its island groups occupy the eastern part of India’s maritime territory in the Bay of Bengal and Andaman Sea, with the Andaman group to the north of Nicobar.

Coastal Region

Q262. Which pair of an Indian coastal plain and its state is correctly matched?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 8 May 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Malabar Plain – Gujarat

(B) Utkal Plain – Odisha

(D) Coromandel Plain – Kerala

Answer: (b) Utkal Plain – Odisha

Explanation: The Utkal coastal plain lies in Odisha along the Bay of Bengal and includes major deltaic tracts near the Mahanadi. The Malabar plain belongs mainly to Kerala, the Konkan to Maharashtra–Goa, and the Coromandel to southeastern India.

Coastal Region

Q261. Arrange the principal western coastal stretches from north to south.

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 15 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Konkan, Karnataka, Malabar

(B) Kathiawar, Malabar, Konkan

(D) Malabar, Konkan, Karnataka

Answer: (a) Konkan, Karnataka, Malabar

Explanation: South of Gujarat, India’s western coastal plain is usually divided into Konkan, Karnataka or Kannad, and Malabar sectors. They follow one another southward between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats, with local differences in breadth, lagoons, estuaries and sedimentation.

Southern and Central Hills

Q260. Which Western Ghats names and states are correctly paired:
1. Sahyadri–Maharashtra
2. Nilgiri–Karnataka and Tamil Nadu
3. Anaimalai–Kerala?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 15 June 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) 1, 2 and 3

(B) 1 only

(D) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: Sahyadri is the name associated particularly with the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. The Nilgiris extend around Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, while the Anaimalai uplands cross into Kerala. All three pairings identify recognised parts of the southern and western highlands.

Northern Mountains

Q259. The Atal highway tunnel near Rohtang is constructed through which Himalayan range?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 15 June 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Karakoram

(B) Zanskar

(D) Dhauladhar

Answer: (c) Pir Panjal

Explanation: The approximately nine-kilometre Atal Tunnel passes beneath Rohtang in the eastern Pir Panjal range of Himachal Pradesh. It enables more dependable road access to the Lahaul region when heavy snowfall makes the higher Rohtang Pass difficult to cross.

Coastal Region

Q258. Which western coastal sector has irregular, indented shorelines and several natural harbours?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 18 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Eastern Coastal Plain

(B) Kathiawar Plain

(D) Rann of Kachchh

Answer: (c) Konkan Region

Explanation: The Konkan is a relatively narrow, rocky and indented part of the Arabian Sea coast. Its drowned river mouths and creeks provide settings for sheltered harbours. This contrasts with broad delta-building stretches of India’s eastern coastal plain.

Mountain Peaks

Q257. In which Indian state do the Western Ghats reach their greatest elevation?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 13 June 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Karnataka

(B) Tamil Nadu

(D) Kerala

Answer: (d) Kerala

Explanation: Anamudi, the highest summit of the Western Ghats, rises to about 2,695 metres in Kerala near Munnar. The southern part of the range includes higher massifs than most northern sections, although elevations vary considerably from one local hill block to another.

Coastal Region

Q256. What is the name of the southern stretch of India’s western coastal plain?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 17 March 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Konkan Coast

(B) Kannad Coast

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (d) Malabar Coast

Explanation: The Malabar sector lies at the southern end of the western coastal plain, mainly beside Kerala. It is distinguished by backwaters, coastal lagoons and short rivers crossing from the Western Ghats, whereas the Konkan and Karnataka stretches lie farther north.

Islands

Q255. Which passage separates the Andaman Islands from the Nicobar Islands?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 22 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Palk Strait

(B) Nine Degree Channel

(D) Ten Degree Channel

Answer: (d) Ten Degree Channel

Explanation: The Ten Degree Channel separates Little Andaman on the north from Car Nicobar on the south. It is named for its approximate latitude near ten degrees north. The Nine Degree Channel belongs to the Lakshadweep region instead.

Coastal Region

Q254. Which western coastal section extends approximately between Mumbai and Goa?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 22 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Konkan Coast

(B) Malabar Coast

(D) Coromandel Coast

Answer: (a) Konkan Coast

Explanation: The Konkan Coast includes the shoreline of Maharashtra and adjoining Goa, between the Arabian Sea and the steep Western Ghats. Creeks, estuaries and narrow coastal tracts are prominent, while the Malabar Coast is located much farther south.

Northern Mountains

Q253. Which part of the Himalayas exhibits greater variation in altitude over short distances?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 16 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Southern Himalayan region

(B) Northern Himalayan region

(D) Eastern Himalayan region

Answer: (d) Eastern Himalayan region

Explanation: The Eastern Himalayas rise sharply from low and humid foothills toward high snowy mountain summits. This steep relief produces dramatic changes in climate and vegetation over short horizontal distances, helping explain the region’s marked altitudinal zonation.

Valleys

Q252. The Kashmir, Kangra and Kullu valleys are closely associated with which Himalayan division?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 17 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Vindhya

(B) Greater Himalayas

(D) Lesser Himalayas

Answer: (d) Lesser Himalayas

Explanation: The Lesser Himalayas, also called Himachal, include important ranges such as Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar and enclose well-known valleys including Kangra and Kullu. Kashmir Valley lies in a structural basin between Pir Panjal and the Greater Himalayan belt.

Valleys

Q251. Which is an example of a longitudinal valley between the Lesser Himalayas and the Shiwaliks?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 8 May 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Kangra Valley

(B) Dehra Dun

(D) Kullu Valley

Answer: (b) Dehra Dun

Explanation: Duns are elongated valleys situated between the Lesser Himalayan ranges and the Outer Himalayas or Shiwaliks. Dehra Dun is a celebrated example in Uttarakhand. Such valleys include sediment-filled structural depressions developed along the Himalayan foothill belt.

Islands

Q250. Barren Island, home to an active volcano, belongs to which Indian island group?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 16 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(B) Lakshadweep Islands

(D) Rameswaram Islands

Answer: (a) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Explanation: Barren Island lies east of the Andaman chain in the Andaman Sea. It belongs administratively to the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and hosts India’s active volcanic system, unlike the low coral atolls that characterise Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea.

Valleys

Q249. Which mountain range lies south of the Vindhyas, with the Narmada Valley between them?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 20 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Aravalli Range

(B) Eastern Ghats

(D) Western Ghats

Answer: (c) Satpura Range

Explanation: The Narmada flows west in a tectonic rift valley separating the Vindhyan uplands in the north from the Satpura Range in the south. This structural valley helps define the transition between the central Indian highlands and the Deccan region.

Coastal Region

Q248. Which monsoon branch supplies substantial rainfall to India’s west coast?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 14 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Western disturbances

(B) Southwest monsoon, Arabian Sea branch

(D) Northeast monsoon

Answer: (b) Southwest monsoon, Arabian Sea branch

Explanation: Moist winds of the Arabian Sea branch of the southwest monsoon strike the windward face of the Western Ghats. Forced ascent generates heavy orographic rainfall along many western coastal districts, particularly during the June–September monsoon season.

Physical Divisions

Q247. Which Indian natural region contains saline basins and salt lakes locally called playas?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 20 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Thar Desert

(B) Deccan Plateau

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (a) Thar Desert

Explanation: Playas are temporary or intermittently wet salt-lake basins common in the arid landscapes of western Rajasthan. Poor drainage and high evaporation concentrate salts, giving rise to inland saline depressions such as those associated with the Thar Desert.

Northern Mountains

Q246. Why does the Kosi River frequently shift its course across the northern plains?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 13 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) It crosses a long tectonic rift valley

(B) It carries very large sediment loads from the Himalayas

(D) It receives water only from seasonal monsoon rain

Answer: (b) It carries very large sediment loads from the Himalayas

Explanation: The Kosi descends from the steep, actively eroding Himalayas carrying enormous quantities of sand and silt. On reaching the low-gradient plains, sediment deposition can obstruct channels and trigger avulsions, making its course notoriously changeable.

Mountain Peaks

Q245. In which state is Anamudi, the highest summit of the Western Ghats, located?

[RRB Technician Grade III, 9 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Tamil Nadu

(B) Kerala

(D) Karnataka

Answer: (b) Kerala

Explanation: Anamudi stands in Kerala’s Idukki district, within the high Western Ghats near Eravikulam National Park. At approximately 2,695 metres it is the highest peak of southern India, and significantly taller than the familiar summit Dodda Betta in the Nilgiris.

Southern and Central Hills

Q244. Which statement about India’s Eastern and Western Ghats is incorrect?

[DSSSB PRT, 18 February 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Eastern Ghats are broken and dissected by rivers

(B) Western Ghats average roughly 900–1,600 metres in elevation

(D) Eastern Ghats generally rise higher than Western Ghats

Answer: (d) Eastern Ghats generally rise higher than Western Ghats

Explanation: The Western Ghats are generally taller and more continuous than the Eastern Ghats. Numerous east-flowing rivers break the Eastern Ghats into discontinuous hill masses. The Western Ghats form a major western escarpment of the Peninsular Plateau.

Northern Mountains

Q243. Which pair of Indian regions is associated especially with biodiversity hotspots?

[RRB Group D, 5 February 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Central India and Deccan Plateau

(B) Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas

(D) Mediterranean islands

Answer: (b) Western Ghats and Eastern Himalayas

Explanation: The Western Ghats and eastern Himalayan region support exceptionally diverse biological communities with many endemic plants and animals. Their varied altitudes and heavy rainfall create many habitats, while land-use pressure makes conservation across these mountain landscapes particularly important.

Physical Divisions

Q242. Which physiographic region consists mainly of alluvium carried by Himalayan rivers?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 14 June 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Peninsular Plateau

(B) Meghalaya Plateau

(D) Northern Plains

Answer: (d) Northern Plains

Explanation: The northern plains accumulated through long periods of deposition by the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems. Sand, silt and clay washed down from the Himalayan ranges built extensive low-lying fertile tracts between the mountains and peninsular uplands.

Physical Divisions

Q241. What is another name for the Thar Desert?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 27 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Great Salt Desert

(B) Great Indian Desert

(D) Great White Desert

Answer: (b) Great Indian Desert

Explanation: The Great Indian Desert is the conventional alternative name for the Thar, a hot arid region concentrated in western Rajasthan and extending across the international border. Sand dunes, saline basins and sparse vegetation reflect low rainfall and high evaporation.

Physical Divisions

Q240. The greatest portion of the Upper Ganga Plain lies in which state?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 16 June 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Uttar Pradesh

(B) West Bengal

(D) Haryana

Answer: (a) Uttar Pradesh

Explanation: The Upper Ganga Plain extends prominently through western and central Uttar Pradesh. Its broad alluvial surfaces are drained by the Ganga and tributaries, while the Shiwalik foothills lie to the north and peninsular uplands rise toward the south.

Coastal Region

Q239. Which river forms a major delta on India’s eastern coastal plain?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 27 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Narmada

(B) Mahi

(D) Tapi

Answer: (c) Godavari

Explanation: The Godavari carries sediment eastward across the Deccan Plateau and deposits it near the Bay of Bengal, building an extensive coastal delta. Narmada, Tapi and Mahi are west-flowing rivers that generally enter the Arabian Sea through estuarine mouths.

Coastal Region

Q238. Which river listed does not form a delta along the eastern coastal plain?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 27 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Godavari

(B) Tapi

(D) Mahanadi

Answer: (b) Tapi

Explanation: The Tapi flows westward from the Satpura uplands to the Arabian Sea and is not an eastern coastal delta-building river. Godavari, Krishna and Mahanadi all drain toward the Bay of Bengal and develop major depositional delta systems.

Glaciers

Q237. Which Karakoram glacier is noted as the longest there and among the longest outside polar regions?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 24 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Baltoro Glacier

(B) Gangotri Glacier

(D) Siachen Glacier

Answer: (d) Siachen Glacier

Explanation: Siachen lies in the eastern Karakoram and extends roughly 76 kilometres. It is often identified among the world’s longest nonpolar glaciers. Gangotri and Pindari are in Uttarakhand, while Baltoro is another major glacier of the Karakoram region.

Mountain Passes

Q236. Which pass connects Sikkim with Tibet?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Nathu La

(B) Rohtang Pass

(D) Zoji La

Answer: (a) Nathu La

Explanation: Nathu La crosses the eastern Himalayan frontier from Sikkim toward Tibet and was a route of the historic trade network. Shipki La is in Himachal Pradesh, Rohtang links Himalayan valleys there, and Zoji La is toward Ladakh.

Southern and Central Hills

Q235. For which feature were parts of the Western Ghats recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Mineral resources

(B) Rich biodiversity

(D) Cultural significance

Answer: (b) Rich biodiversity

Explanation: The designated Western Ghats property protects exceptional biological diversity, including rare endemic species and varied montane ecosystems. Steep gradients and monsoonal rainfall support many habitats along the long western peninsular mountain chain, beyond its geological significance alone.

Islands

Q234. Great Nicobar Island lies closest to which neighbouring country?

[SSC GD Constable, 30 April 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Myanmar

(B) Sri Lanka

(D) Bangladesh

Answer: (c) Indonesia

Explanation: Great Nicobar is India’s southernmost major island in the Nicobar group. Across the waters toward the southeast lie islands of Indonesia, including Sumatra. The Six Degree Channel is an important geographical reference between the Nicobar region and Indonesia.

Southern and Central Hills

Q233. The Western Ghats are also commonly called which hills?

[SSC GD Constable, 5 May 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Sahyadri Hills

(B) Vindhya Range

(D) Nilgiri Hills

Answer: (a) Sahyadri Hills

Explanation: Sahyadri is the broad regional name for the Western Ghats, especially familiar in Maharashtra. The Ghats parallel the Arabian Sea side of Peninsular India. Nilgiris are part of the southern complex, while Vindhya and Aravalli lie farther north.

Southern and Central Hills

Q232. Which is considered India’s oldest mountain range?

[SSC GD Constable, 4 May 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Himalayas

(B) Aravalli

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (b) Aravalli

Explanation: The Aravalli system originated from very ancient Precambrian mountain-building activity and has been worn down over immense periods. It is far older than the Cenozoic Himalayan orogeny and survives as subdued ridges and rocky uplands across northwestern India.

Southern and Central Hills

Q231. The Satpura Range is situated in which broad Indian region?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Northern India

(B) Southern India

(D) Eastern India

Answer: (c) Central India

Explanation: The Satpuras stretch mainly across central India, passing through areas of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra and nearby states. They lie south of the Narmada Valley and broadly parallel to the Vindhyas, separating key parts of the central uplands and Deccan.

Coastal Region

Q230. Which river, together with the Brahmaputra, builds the world’s largest delta?

[SSC GD Constable, 30 April 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Godavari

(B) Ganga

(D) Yamuna

Answer: (b) Ganga

Explanation: The Ganga and Brahmaputra, together with the Meghna system, deliver immense sediment loads into the Bay of Bengal. Their combined deposits create the vast Bengal delta and its intricate distributary channels, tidal creeks and mangrove landscapes.

Coastal Region

Q229. Which river system forms the world’s largest delta?

[SSC GD Constable, 5 May 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Indus

(B) Ganga–Brahmaputra

(D) Krishna

Answer: (b) Ganga–Brahmaputra

Explanation: The Ganga–Brahmaputra–Meghna system forms the Bengal or Sundarbans delta where large volumes of Himalayan alluvium meet the Bay of Bengal. Its low-lying distributary channels and tidal islands are distinctive features of this eastern coastal region.

Coastal Region

Q228. The Sundarbans delta is chiefly formed by which two rivers?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Ganga and Yamuna

(B) Ganga and Brahmaputra

(D) Mahanadi and Godavari

Answer: (b) Ganga and Brahmaputra

Explanation: The Sundarbans occupy the tidal outer portion of the enormous Bengal delta, built mainly by Ganga and Brahmaputra sediment carried through the Meghna system. Interlaced channels, mudflats and mangroves characterise this exceptionally dynamic coastal lowland.

Northern Mountains

Q227. Which place on the Meghalaya hills receives exceptionally high monsoon rainfall?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Kerala Coast

(B) Mawsynram, Meghalaya

(D) Western Rajasthan

Answer: (b) Mawsynram, Meghalaya

Explanation: Mawsynram in Meghalaya’s Khasi Hills experiences extremely high precipitation as moisture-laden Bay of Bengal monsoon winds are forced upward against steep south-facing uplands. This is a classic illustration of relief or orographic rainfall in northeastern India’s hill region.

Northern Mountains

Q226. The Bhabar belt occurs near which geographical feature?

[SSC GD Constable, 28 April 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Himalayan foothills

(B) Peninsular Plateau

(D) Thar Desert dunes

Answer: (a) Himalayan foothills

Explanation: The Bhabar is a narrow porous belt at the foot of the Shiwalik Hills. Himalayan streams deposit coarse gravel and pebbles here and may disappear underground before re-emerging farther south in the wetter Tarai zone.

Glaciers

Q225. Which is the longest glacier in India among the listed options?

[SSC GD Constable, 9 May 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Siachen

(B) Pindari

(D) Zemu

Answer: (a) Siachen

Explanation: Siachen extends roughly 76 kilometres through the eastern Karakoram and is longer than Gangotri, Zemu or Pindari. It drains toward the Nubra–Shyok–Indus system and remains among the most significant glaciers of the greater Himalayan region.

Plateaus

Q224. Which Indian plateau was identified as the Roof of the World in the examination options?

[SSC GD Constable, 18 May 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Ladakh Plateau

(B) Deccan Plateau

(D) Malwa Plateau

Answer: (a) Ladakh Plateau

Explanation: The paper selected the high Ladakh Plateau, a cold and arid Trans-Himalayan region. The title Roof of the World is also more widely applied to the much larger Tibetan Plateau or Pamir highlands, so usage depends on context.

Islands

Q223. Which river creates the large river island of Majuli in Assam?

[SSC GD Constable, 30 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Ganga

(B) Brahmaputra

(D) Godavari

Answer: (b) Brahmaputra

Explanation: Majuli lies within the Brahmaputra river system in Assam, formed and reshaped by braided channels and sediment deposition. Unlike the marine islands of Lakshadweep or Andaman–Nicobar, Majuli is a fluvial island vulnerable to channel migration and erosion.

Plateaus

Q222. In which state does most of the Malwa Plateau lie?

[SSC GD Constable, 28 April 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Madhya Pradesh

(B) Maharashtra

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (a) Madhya Pradesh

Explanation: The Malwa Plateau occupies much of western Madhya Pradesh and extends into adjoining Rajasthan. Basaltic rocks associated with Deccan volcanism are widespread. Its upland terrain is drained by streams including the Chambal and Shipra and bordered by other central Indian highlands.

Valleys

Q221. In which broad direction does the Narmada flow through its rift valley?

[SSC GD Constable, 4 May 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) East to west

(B) West to east

(D) South to north

Answer: (a) East to west

Explanation: The Narmada rises near Amarkantak and flows west through a rift valley lying between the Vindhya and Satpura ranges. Unlike many major Peninsular rivers, it drains to the Arabian Sea, entering through an estuarine mouth.

Valleys

Q220. Which river forms the Dhuandhar Falls near Jabalpur?

[SSC GD Constable, 5 May 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Tapi

(B) Kaveri

(D) Godavari

Answer: (c) Narmada

Explanation: The Narmada plunges at Dhuandhar near Bhedaghat in Madhya Pradesh after cutting through its famous marble-rock gorge. This fall lies within the river’s west-flowing valley between the Vindhyan and Satpura mountain systems.

Mountain Peaks

Q219. Which peak–height pairing is incorrect?

[RRB Technician Grade I, 13 March 2026 (2026)]

(A) Kangchenjunga – 8,598 metres

(B) Dodda Betta – 2,637 metres

(D) Anamudi – 2,695 metres

Answer: (c) Nanga Parbat – 7,026 metres

Explanation: Nanga Parbat stands at approximately 8,126 metres, not 7,026 metres. It is one of the high Himalayan giants near the western end of the mountain system. The other choices reproduce commonly quoted approximate heights from the examination.

Plateaus

Q218. Most major peninsular rivers flow eastward; which pair is an exception?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 24 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Godavari and Krishna

(B) Kaveri and Krishna

(D) Narmada and Tapi

Answer: (d) Narmada and Tapi

Explanation: The Narmada and Tapi flow generally westward through structural depressions toward the Arabian Sea. In contrast, the eastward tilt of much of the Deccan Plateau sends the Godavari, Krishna, Mahanadi and Kaveri into the Bay of Bengal.

Physical Divisions

Q217. Which three major river systems chiefly deposited India’s Northern Plains?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 25 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Mahanadi, Ganga and Brahmaputra

(B) Krishna, Godavari and Yamuna

(D) Narmada, Tapi and Kaveri

Answer: (c) Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra

Explanation: The Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems and their tributaries deposited huge quantities of Himalayan sediment in a foreland basin. Their alluvial accumulation formed the fertile Northern Plains, which differ in origin from the ancient crystalline Peninsular Plateau.

Southern and Central Hills

Q216. Which landform marks the western side of the Malda Gap separating the main plateau from the Meghalaya uplands?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 16 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Rajmahal Hills

(B) Meghalaya Plateau

(D) Bundelkhand Plateau

Answer: (a) Rajmahal Hills

Explanation: The Rajmahal Hills form the northeastern edge of the Chota Nagpur uplands. Alluvium-filled lowlands around the Malda or Garo–Rajmahal Gap separate the main Peninsular Block from its northeastern extension, represented by the Meghalaya Plateau.

Physical Divisions

Q215. Which is NOT one of the major peninsular rivers listed?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 27 March 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Ganga

(B) Narmada

(D) Godavari

Answer: (a) Ganga

Explanation: The Ganga is principally a Himalayan river originating in Uttarakhand and traversing the Northern Plains. Narmada, Krishna and Godavari are peninsular rivers, with drainage and valleys strongly influenced by the older hard-rock topography of central and southern India.

Islands

Q214. Lakshadweep’s islands are chiefly formed from which material?

[DSSSB PRT, 31 March 2026, Shift 3 (2026)]

(A) Sand dunes

(B) Granite rocks

(D) Volcanic rocks

Answer: (c) Coral deposits

Explanation: Lakshadweep is a coral archipelago in the Arabian Sea. Skeletal calcium carbonate accumulated through reef-building organisms creates its islands and atolls, many of which enclose lagoons. This geological origin contrasts with the partly volcanic Andaman island chain.

Plateaus

Q213. What are the two principal subdivisions of the Peninsular Plateau?

[DSSSB MTS, 19 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Eastern and Western Coastal Plains

(B) Western and Eastern Ghats

(D) Northern Plains and Coastal Plains

Answer: (c) Central Highlands and Deccan Plateau

Explanation: The Peninsular Plateau is broadly divided into the Central Highlands to the north and the Deccan Plateau to the south. Its ancient crystalline rocks and uplifted relief contrast with the recently deposited alluvium of the Northern Plains.

Southern and Central Hills

Q212. Which of these states is especially associated with the Eastern Ghats?

[DSSSB MTS, 27 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Andhra Pradesh

(B) Assam

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (a) Andhra Pradesh

Explanation: The Eastern Ghats run intermittently along the eastern margin of the peninsula and occupy extensive parts of Andhra Pradesh. Their local ranges include Nallamala, Velikonda and Palakonda, while major east-flowing rivers cut gaps through the hills.

Islands

Q211. Which Indian coastal region lies closest to the Lakshadweep group?

[DSSSB MTS, 24 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Malabar Coast

(B) Eastern Coast

(D) Kannad Coast

Answer: (a) Malabar Coast

Explanation: The Lakshadweep archipelago lies in the Arabian Sea off Kerala’s Malabar Coast, separated from the mainland by open water. Its coral islands are markedly different from the Andaman and Nicobar island group situated east of the Indian peninsula.

Islands

Q210. In which year were the Laccadive, Minicoy and Amindivi Islands renamed Lakshadweep?

[DSSSB MTS, 9 May 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) 1956

(B) 1961

(D) 1973

Answer: (d) 1973

Explanation: The island group’s official collective name became Lakshadweep in 1973. Located in the Arabian Sea west of Kerala, it consists of coral islands and atolls. Minicoy lies south of the Nine Degree Channel, distinct from the northern clusters.

Plateaus

Q209. Which mountain range forms the northern border of the Deccan Plateau among these options?

[DSSSB MTS, 28 April 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Aravalli Range

(B) Eastern Ghats

(D) Western Ghats

Answer: (c) Satpura Range

Explanation: The Satpuras occupy the northern flank of the Deccan highlands, south of the Narmada corridor. The Western and Eastern Ghats mark other margins of the plateau. This arrangement helps explain the peninsula’s triangular physiographic outline.

Plateaus

Q208. Which description correctly states the Deccan Plateau’s general slope?

[DSSSB MTS, 19 April 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Higher east and gently sloping west

(B) Higher west and gently sloping east

(D) Higher north and sloping south

Answer: (b) Higher west and gently sloping east

Explanation: The Deccan Plateau generally has greater elevation along its western margin near the Western Ghats and descends toward the Bay of Bengal. This broad gradient guides large rivers such as Krishna and Godavari eastward.

Coastal Region

Q207. Chilika, a famous coastal lagoon, lies along which stretch of India’s shore?

[DSSSB MTS, 8 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Coromandel Coast

(B) Malabar Coast

(D) Odisha Coast

Answer: (d) Odisha Coast

Explanation: Chilika is a vast brackish lagoon on Odisha’s Bay of Bengal coastline, south of the Mahanadi delta. A sandy barrier helps separate it from the sea. The lagoon is part of the broad, depositional Eastern Coastal Plain.

Plateaus

Q206. Which river provides the conventional northern limit for the Deccan Plateau?

[DSSSB Court Attendant, 5 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Mahanadi

(B) Narmada

(D) Damodar

Answer: (b) Narmada

Explanation: The Deccan Plateau extends mainly south of the Narmada Valley. This west-flowing river occupies a rift depression between Vindhyan uplands and the Satpuras. The plateau’s northern boundary is therefore often explained through the Narmada–Satpura region.

Coastal Region

Q205. Which is India’s largest brackish-water coastal lagoon among these?

[SSC GD Constable, 29 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Vembanad Lake

(B) Pulicat Lake

(D) Sambhar Lake

Answer: (c) Chilika Lake

Explanation: Chilika Lake is a large brackish coastal lagoon on Odisha’s eastern shore. A narrow barrier separates much of it from the Bay of Bengal. Sambhar is an inland salt lake, whereas Vembanad and Pulicat occupy other coastal settings.

Valleys

Q204. Which of the following is a major freshwater lake of the Kashmir Valley?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 14 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Wular Lake

(B) Loktak Lake

(D) Dal Lake

Answer: (a) Wular Lake

Explanation: Wular lies in Jammu and Kashmir’s valley basin and receives water from the Jhelum River. Its extent varies considerably with season. Loktak belongs to Manipur, while Chilika is a brackish lagoon on Odisha’s coast.

Physical Divisions

Q203. Which soil mainly makes up India’s Northern Plains?

[SSC MTS 2025 Cycle, 5 February 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Black soil

(B) Laterite soil

(D) Alluvial soil

Answer: (d) Alluvial soil

Explanation: The Northern Plains have thick layers of river-deposited alluvium, brought chiefly by the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra systems. Repeated flooding renews sediments in low-lying tracts. The region contrasts with the rocky surface of the Peninsular Plateau.

Physical Divisions

Q202. What is the younger alluvium regularly deposited on river floodplains called?

[DSSSB Court Attendant, 6 June 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Khadar

(B) Terai

(D) Bhabar

Answer: (a) Khadar

Explanation: Khadar denotes relatively recent alluvial deposits on active floodplains, often renewed by seasonal flooding. Bhangar represents older alluvium above normal flood levels; Bhabar is a porous foothill belt, and Terai is the wetter zone farther south.

Coastal Region

Q201. Between which two major geographical features are India’s western coastal plains found?

[DSSSB MTS, 27 April 2026, Shift 1 (2026)]

(A) Peninsular Plateau and Bay of Bengal

(B) Malabar and Konkan coasts

(D) Western Ghats and Arabian Sea

Answer: (d) Western Ghats and Arabian Sea

Explanation: The Western Coastal Plain is a narrow, elongated belt between the steep Western Ghats and the Arabian Sea. Its Konkan, Kannad and Malabar sectors include beaches, estuaries and backwaters. The eastern plain is generally broader and more deltaic.

Coastal Region

Q200. Which protected area was recognised by UNESCO in 1987 for its mangrove delta ecosystem?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 18 March 2026, Shift 2 (2026)]

(A) Kaziranga National Park

(B) Gir National Park

(D) Sundarbans National Park

Answer: (d) Sundarbans National Park

Explanation: Sundarbans National Park lies within the tidal delta formed by the Ganga–Brahmaputra–Meghna system. Its low islands, channels and mangrove forests reflect dynamic coastal sedimentation and tides. UNESCO inscribed the Indian national park in 1987.

Southern and Central Hills

Q199. Which state among the options is crossed by the Western Ghats?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 28 August 2025, Shift 1 (2025)]

(A) Punjab

(B) Bihar

(D) Uttar Pradesh

Answer: (c) Tamil Nadu

Explanation: The Western Ghats extend along western Peninsular India and continue into Tamil Nadu near the Nilgiri and southern highland blocks. Punjab, Bihar and Uttar Pradesh lie far from this range and occupy largely northern Indian plains.

Southern and Central Hills

Q198. Shola forests are especially associated with which Indian geographical region?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 5 June 2025, Shift 3 (2025)]

(A) Eastern Ghats

(B) Thar Desert

(D) Sundarbans

Answer: (c) Western Ghats

Explanation: Sholas are patches of evergreen montane forest, usually occupying sheltered valleys among high-altitude grasslands of the southern Western Ghats. They occur particularly in the Nilgiri, Anaimalai and Palani hill systems and thrive under cool, moist upland conditions.

Southern and Central Hills

Q197. Which range is a UNESCO World Heritage Site noted for exceptional biodiversity?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 8 August 2025, Shift 3 (2025)]

(A) Satpura Range

(B) Western Ghats

(D) Chota Nagpur Plateau

Answer: (b) Western Ghats

Explanation: The Western Ghats are recognised for their extensive endemic flora and fauna and distinctive evergreen and montane ecosystems. Several protected landscape clusters within the mountain range form a UNESCO World Heritage property, rather than the entire western coastal plain.

Coastal Region

Q196. Which physiographic region lies between the Arabian Sea and the Western Ghats?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 20 August 2025, Shift 1 (2025)]

(A) Malwa Plateau

(B) Deccan Plateau

(D) Western Coastal Plain

Answer: (d) Western Coastal Plain

Explanation: India’s western coastal plain forms a long, comparatively narrow strip immediately west of the Western Ghats. It faces the Arabian Sea and includes Konkan, Karnataka and Malabar sectors with distinct estuaries, beaches, lagoons and coastal settlements.

Plateaus

Q195. The Western and Eastern Ghats border opposite sides of which plateau?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 21 August 2025, Shift 2 (2025)]

(A) Shillong Plateau

(B) Chota Nagpur Plateau

(D) Deccan Plateau

Answer: (d) Deccan Plateau

Explanation: The Deccan Plateau occupies extensive southern peninsular highlands between the Western Ghats and the generally discontinuous Eastern Ghats. It slopes mainly eastward, helping many large rivers such as Godavari and Krishna drain into the Bay of Bengal.

Physical Divisions

Q194. Which is not a physiographic subdivision of the Northern Plains?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 12 June 2025, Shift 1 (2025)]

(A) Vindhyan Plateau

(B) Bhangar

(D) Khadar

Answer: (a) Vindhyan Plateau

Explanation: Bhangar and Khadar are older and newer alluvial tracts of the Northern Plains, while Tarai lies south of the porous Bhabar foothill belt. The Vindhyan Plateau belongs to the ancient Peninsular uplands and is geographically distinct.

Coastal Region

Q193. What mainly creates lagoons on the eastern coastal plain?

[RRB NTPC UG CBT-I, 8 August 2025, Shift 2 (2025)]

(A) Only sand deposition without river action

(B) Tectonic fault shifts

(D) River deposition together with coastal wave action

Answer: (d) River deposition together with coastal wave action

Explanation: Eastern coastal lagoons often form where river-borne sediment and wave-driven sand barriers isolate shallow water from the open Bay of Bengal. Such depositional processes explain features including coastal sandbars and lagoon systems alongside the broad eastern plain.

Coastal Region

Q192. The Utkal Plains are part of which Indian coastal region?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 10 June 2025, Shift 1 (2025)]

(A) Eastern Coastal Plain

(B) Konkan Coast

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (a) Eastern Coastal Plain

Explanation: The Utkal coastal tract lies mainly in Odisha beside the Bay of Bengal. It forms part of the Eastern Coastal Plain, where rivers and coastal currents have built alluvial lowlands, deltas, barrier bars and important lagoons including Chilika.

Coastal Region

Q191. Between which two features does the narrow Western Coastal Plain extend?

[RRB NTPC Graduate CBT-I, 23 June 2025, Shift 1 (2025)]

(A) Eastern Ghats and Bay of Bengal

(B) Himalayas and Indian Ocean

(D) Western Ghats and Arabian Sea

Answer: (d) Western Ghats and Arabian Sea

Explanation: The narrow western plain lies immediately between the steep Western Ghats escarpment and the Arabian Sea. Its irregular coast supports estuaries and harbours, whereas the generally broader eastern plain lies beside the Bay of Bengal and many deltas.

Plateaus

Q190. Which rocks predominantly characterise extensive parts of the Deccan Plateau?

[RPF Constable, 17 March 2025, Shift 2 (2025)]

(A) Alluvium

(B) Limestone and sandstone

(D) Pumice and red soil

Answer: (c) Granite and basalt

Explanation: The Deccan includes extensive basaltic lava sheets formed during volcanic eruptions, alongside older crystalline basement rocks such as granite. Weathering of basalt contributes to regur or black cotton soils. The plateau is not mainly a recent alluvial deposit.

Coastal Region

Q189. What is the central stretch of the western coastal plain called?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 8 July 2024, Shift 3 (2024)]

(A) Kannad Plain

(B) Konkan Coast

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (a) Kannad Plain

Explanation: The Kannad or Karnataka coastal plain occupies the middle portion of India’s west coast. Konkan is located to its north and the lagoon-rich Malabar region to its south. The Coromandel is an eastern, Bay of Bengal coastal sector.

Northern Mountains

Q188. What is the outermost range of the Himalayan mountain system called?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 10 July 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Dhauladhar

(B) Pir Panjal

(D) Shiwaliks

Answer: (d) Shiwaliks

Explanation: The Shiwaliks are the southernmost, outer foothill ranges of the Himalayas, made largely of comparatively young sediments. Higher Lesser Himalayan ranges, including Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar, lie to their north. Kangchenjunga is a mountain peak, not a range.

Northern Mountains

Q187. The Himalayas arose from sediments of which ancient geosyncline?

[SSC CPO Paper-I, 28 June 2024, Shift 2 (2024)]

(A) Appalachian

(B) Aravalli

(D) Tethys

Answer: (d) Tethys

Explanation: Sediments in the ancient Tethys marine basin were compressed and uplifted as the Indian plate collided with Eurasia. This long orogenic process built the Himalayan mountain belt. The Appalachians and Caledonides relate to other, older tectonic histories.

Northern Mountains

Q186. Along which side of India do the geologically young Himalayan fold mountains extend?

[DSSSB Jail Warder, 19 June 2024, Shift 3 (2024)]

(A) Northern

(B) Southern

(D) Western

Answer: (a) Northern

Explanation: The Himalayas form India’s great northern mountain frontier and rise sharply above the Northern Plains. Their active folds resulted from convergence between the Indian and Eurasian plates. The western and eastern coastal mountains, by contrast, belong to peninsular physiography.

Northern Mountains

Q185. Which is the northernmost of the three main longitudinal Himalayan ranges?

[DSSSB Jail Warder, 12 June 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Aravalli

(B) Himadri

(D) Shiwalik

Answer: (b) Himadri

Explanation: Himadri, or the Great Himalayas, constitutes the highest and generally northernmost main longitudinal Himalayan belt. The Lesser Himalayas and Shiwaliks lie progressively southward. Aravalli and Kalsubai are parts of much older peninsular uplands.

Northern Mountains

Q184. Which range is not part of the Purvanchal hill system?

[SSC CGL Tier-I, 12 September 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Naga Hills

(B) Pir Panjal Range

(D) Mizo Hills

Answer: (b) Pir Panjal Range

Explanation: Purvanchal comprises eastern hill systems including the Patkai, Naga, Manipur and Mizo ranges near the Myanmar frontier. Pir Panjal instead belongs to the western Lesser Himalayas near Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh, far from Purvanchal.

Southern and Central Hills

Q183. What is the correct south-to-north order of Deccan Plateau, Satpura Range, Vindhya Range and Malwa Plateau?

[SSC CHSL Tier-II, 18 November 2024 (2024)]

(A) Malwa, Satpura, Vindhya, Deccan

(B) Malwa, Vindhya, Satpura, Deccan

(D) Deccan, Vindhya, Satpura, Malwa

Answer: (c) Deccan, Satpura, Vindhya, Malwa

Explanation: From southern peninsular India, the Deccan uplands give way northward to the Satpuras, then the Vindhyas, and then Malwa farther north. Rivers and structural valleys help separate these overlapping central Indian physiographic belts.

Mountain Peaks

Q182. Which peak is outside the Himalayan mountain system?

[SSC MTS, 8 October 2024, Shift 2 (2024)]

(A) Nanda Devi

(B) Kamet

(D) Kalsubai

Answer: (d) Kalsubai

Explanation: Kalsubai is Maharashtra’s highest summit, situated in the Sahyadri or Western Ghats. Nanda Devi and Kamet belong to the Uttarakhand Himalayas, whereas Annapurna is in Nepal’s Himalayan system. The different locations identify the exception.

Mountain Peaks

Q181. Which statement about the Ghats is false?

[RPF SI CBT-I, 9 December 2024, Shift 2 (2024)]

(A) Eastern Ghats run southward from the Mahanadi Valley

(B) Mahendragiri is the highest summit in the Western Ghats

(D) Western Ghats are generally higher than Eastern Ghats

Answer: (b) Mahendragiri is the highest summit in the Western Ghats

Explanation: Mahendragiri is a peak in Odisha’s Eastern Ghats, not the highest Western Ghats summit. Anamudi in Kerala is higher and belongs to the Western Ghats. Comparing the two ranges’ peaks exposes the incorrect statement.

Plateaus

Q180. With which modern continent was India’s Peninsular Plateau once joined in Gondwanaland?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 1 July 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) South America

(B) North America

(D) Africa

Answer: (d) Africa

Explanation: Ancient peninsular India formed part of the Gondwana landmass with regions now in Africa, Antarctica, Australia and South America. Continental breakup carried the Indian plate northward, eventually producing its collision with Eurasia and the Himalayan uplift.

Coastal Region

Q179. Which of these states has India’s longest coastline?

[OSSSC Forest Guard, 2 May 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) West Bengal

(B) Kerala

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (d) Gujarat

Explanation: Gujarat has the country’s longest coastline among the states, featuring the Gulfs of Kachchh and Khambhat and an irregular western shore. Its tidal flats, estuaries and peninsulas create an extensive coastal outline compared with the other listed states.

Mountain Peaks

Q178. Which mountain peak is part of the Karakoram Range?

[SSC CPO Paper-I, 27 June 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Trishul

(B) Nanda Devi

(D) Kamet

Answer: (c) K2

Explanation: K2 rises in the Karakoram mountain system rather than the Garhwal–Kumaon Himalayan ranges containing Trishul, Nanda Devi and Kamet. At approximately 8,611 metres, it is the second-highest mountain on Earth and is associated with major Karakoram glaciers.

Plateaus

Q177. Which physical region represents India’s oldest major landmass?

[RPF SI CBT-I, 13 December 2024, Shift 3 (2024)]

(A) Indian islands

(B) Peninsular Plateau

(D) Indian Desert

Answer: (b) Peninsular Plateau

Explanation: The Peninsular Plateau contains ancient crystalline igneous and metamorphic rocks and is part of the Indian shield. The Northern Plains consist mainly of younger alluvium, while coastal landforms and many islands owe their forms to later processes.

Mountain Peaks

Q176. Which peak among these is in the Himalayan mountains?

[SSC MTS, 7 October 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Kamet

(B) Dhupgarh

(D) Taramati

Answer: (a) Kamet

Explanation: Kamet rises in the Garhwal Himalayas of Uttarakhand and exceeds 7,700 metres. Dhupgarh belongs to the Satpura Hills, while Kalsubai and Taramati are associated with the Western Ghats in Maharashtra. Thus only Kamet is Himalayan.

Plateaus

Q175. Which triangular plateau lies to the south of the Narmada River?

[SSC Selection Post, 25 June 2024, Shift 4 (2024)]

(A) Deccan Plateau

(B) Marwar Plateau

(D) Malwa Plateau

Answer: (a) Deccan Plateau

Explanation: The Deccan Plateau occupies much of southern India and is broadly triangular in shape. It lies south of the Narmada corridor, between the Western and Eastern Ghats. Malwa, Marwar and Baghelkhand belong to other peninsular subregions.

Islands

Q174. On which Indian island group is Pitti Bird Sanctuary located?

[SSC MTS, 18 October 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Tamil Nadu coast

(B) Lakshadweep

(D) Manipur

Answer: (b) Lakshadweep

Explanation: Pitti is a small, uninhabited coral islet within Lakshadweep in the Arabian Sea. It provides nesting habitat for seabirds such as terns. The sanctuary’s island setting distinguishes it from mainland coastal wetlands and the distant Andaman archipelago.

Coastal Region

Q173. Which of the following water bodies is NOT a coastal lagoon?

[SSC MTS, 7 October 2024, Shift 2 (2024)]

(A) Nainital

(B) Chilika

(D) Kolleru

Answer: (a) Nainital

Explanation: Naini Lake lies in the Kumaon hills of Uttarakhand, far inland from coastal processes. Chilika and Pulicat are familiar coastal lagoons along the Bay of Bengal. Kolleru occupies a low-lying coastal plain between the Krishna and Godavari deltas.

Physical Divisions

Q172. Which is not counted among India’s principal physiographic divisions?

[SSC MTS, 17 October 2024, Shift 3 (2024)]

(A) Peninsular Plateau

(B) Himalayan Mountains

(D) Tibetan Plateau

Answer: (d) Tibetan Plateau

Explanation: The Indian physical divisions include the Himalayan mountains, Northern Plains, Peninsular Plateau, Indian Desert, Coastal Plains and Islands. The Tibetan Plateau lies largely beyond India’s northern frontier, distinct from these standard subdivisions used in school geography.

Coastal Region

Q171. Which state contains the salt marshes called the Great and Little Rann?

[SSC MTS, 28 October 2024, Shift 1 (2024)]

(A) Jharkhand

(B) Maharashtra

(D) Gujarat

Answer: (d) Gujarat

Explanation: The Great and Little Rann of Kachchh lie in Gujarat, where seasonal flooding and evaporation create extensive salt flats. These low-lying coastal-desert landscapes differ from the fertile alluvial Northern Plains and rocky slopes of the Western Ghats.

Northern Mountains

Q170. Which listed region experiences particularly low rainfall because it lies in a Himalayan rain shadow?

[SSC MTS, 21 October 2024, Shift 3 (2024)]

(A) Andaman and Nicobar Islands

(B) Haryana

(D) Meghalaya

Answer: (c) Ladakh

Explanation: Ladakh lies north of high Himalayan barriers that intercept much of the monsoon moisture. Its elevated valleys and plateaus consequently have a cold-desert climate. Meghalaya and the Andaman Islands, in contrast, receive substantial rainfall from moisture-bearing winds.

Physical Divisions

Q169. Which natural region has the largest difference between day and night temperatures?

[SSC MTS, 13 November 2024, Shift 2 (2024)]

(A) Coastal region

(B) Island region

(D) Peninsular region

Answer: (c) Desert region

Explanation: Desert surfaces typically heat rapidly under clear skies and lose heat quickly after sunset. Limited moisture and cloud cover intensify the diurnal temperature range. Maritime coastal and island areas generally show smaller fluctuations because nearby water moderates temperatures.

Northern Mountains

Q168. Which statements are correct? 1. Zaskar, Ladakh, Kailash and Karakoram are trans-Himalayan ranges. 2. Greater Himalayas generally receive less rainfall than Lesser Himalayas and Shiwaliks. 3. Outer Himalayas form the most continuous range.

[TNPSC Group 4 Official Paper (2024)]

(A) 1 only

(B) 1 and 2 only

(D) 2 and 3 only

Answer: (b) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: Trans-Himalayan ranges include Zaskar, Ladakh, Kailash and Karakoram. Much of the Greater Himalaya is comparatively dry relative to southern slopes. The high Great Himalayan chain, rather than the fragmented Shiwaliks, is considered the most continuous major range.

Northern Mountains

Q167. Which Himalayan division is considered oldest among these?

[WBPSC WBCS 2023 Mains, held 18 August 2024 (2024)]

(A) Middle Himalayas

(B) Greater Himalayas

(D) Trans-Himalayas

Answer: (d) Trans-Himalayas

Explanation: Trans-Himalayan belts contain extensive older rock successions north of the main Himalayan arc. The Shiwalik foothills developed much later from sediment deposits, while the Greater and Lesser Himalayas reflect different stages of tectonic uplift and deformation.

Coastal Region

Q166. Which Indian state has the longest coastline among these?

[UPSC CDS-I (2023)]

(A) Tamil Nadu

(B) Gujarat

(D) Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (b) Gujarat

Explanation: Gujarat has India’s longest state coastline, including the indented shores of Kachchh, Saurashtra and the Gulfs of Kachchh and Khambhat. Coastal measurements can be updated with improved mapping, but Gujarat remains the leading state.

Mountain Passes

Q165. Which of these passes is outside the Indian Himalayan region?

[UPSC CDS-II (2023)]

(A) Zoji La

(B) Bolan Pass

(D) Lipulekh

Answer: (b) Bolan Pass

Explanation: Bolan Pass lies in present-day Pakistan, linking parts of Balochistan toward the Afghanistan region. Zoji La is in the Kashmir–Ladakh corridor, Shipki La in Himachal Pradesh, and Lipulekh in Uttarakhand. Thus only Bolan lies outside India.

Southern and Central Hills

Q164. Which hill group belongs to the Western Ghats?

[SSC CGL Tier-I, 24 July 2023, Shift 3 (2023)]

(A) Anaimalai Hills

(B) Khasi Hills

(D) Garo Hills

Answer: (a) Anaimalai Hills

Explanation: The Anaimalai or Elephant Hills lie in the southern Western Ghats near Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Khasi, Jaintia and Garo hills instead occupy Meghalaya’s northeastern plateau extensions. Anamudi, the tallest Western Ghats summit, lies in the Anaimalai highlands.

Plateaus

Q163. Which statement about the Deccan Plateau is incorrect?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 8 August 2023, Shift 2 (2023)]

(A) The Satpura Range lies south of the plateau

(B) Eastern Ghats border its east

(D) Vindhyan uplands lie to its north

Answer: (a) The Satpura Range lies south of the plateau

Explanation: The Satpura belt marks a northern limit rather than the southern side of the Deccan Plateau. Western and Eastern Ghats flank the peninsular uplands. The plateau’s broad triangular highland mass stretches toward the southern Indian hill ranges.

Southern and Central Hills

Q162. At which hills do the Eastern and Western Ghats meet?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 2 August 2023, Shift 2 (2023)]

(A) Satpura Hills

(B) Nallamala Hills

(D) Mahendragiri Hills

Answer: (c) Nilgiri Hills

Explanation: The Nilgiri highlands form the familiar meeting zone of the western and eastern peninsular hill systems in southern India. Their uplands stretch around Tamil Nadu, Karnataka and Kerala, with Dodda Betta as one of the best-known summits.

Plateaus

Q161. Which physiographic region is popularly called India’s storehouse of minerals?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 17 August 2023, Shift 4 (2023)]

(A) Deccan Plateau

(B) Western Ghats

(D) Himalayas

Answer: (c) Chota Nagpur Plateau

Explanation: The Chota Nagpur Plateau includes mineral-bearing crystalline and metamorphic formations across Jharkhand and adjoining states. Important iron ore, coal, mica and other mineral belts have made it a major mining and industrial region within India’s eastern Peninsular highlands.

Southern and Central Hills

Q160. Which river rises near Devarayanadurga hill in Karnataka and later joins the Kaveri?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 4 August 2023, Shift 2 (2023)]

(A) Shimsha

(B) Girna

(D) Waghur

Answer: (a) Shimsha

Explanation: The Shimsha rises near Devarayanadurga in Karnataka’s Tumakuru district and flows toward the Kaveri. Its headwaters illustrate the drainage of southern plateau hills. The Girna and Waghur belong to other basins, while Ghataprabha joins the Krishna.

Coastal Region

Q159. Where is the eastern coastal plain of India located?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 14 March 2023, Shift 1, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Between Gulf of Khambhat and Kanyakumari

(B) Between the Eastern Ghats and Bay of Bengal

(D) Between Diu and Kerala

Answer: (b) Between the Eastern Ghats and Bay of Bengal

Explanation: The eastern coastal plain extends between the discontinuous Eastern Ghats and the Bay of Bengal. Large east-flowing rivers build broad alluvial deltas here, unlike the generally narrow western coastal plain between the Arabian Sea and Western Ghats.

Coastal Region

Q158. Which is not a subdivision of the western coastal plain?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 17 March 2023, Shift 3, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Konkan

(B) Coromandel Coast

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (b) Coromandel Coast

Explanation: Coromandel is the southeastern coastal tract facing the Bay of Bengal. The western plain on the Arabian Sea side is commonly divided into Konkan, Karnataka or Kannad and Malabar. The distinction reflects coastline position and regional landforms.

Coastal Region

Q157. Which name does not designate part of India’s eastern coast?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 10 March 2023, Shift 3, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Coromandel Coast

(B) Tamil Nadu Coast

(D) Malabar Coast

Answer: (d) Malabar Coast

Explanation: The Malabar Coast is located along Kerala on India’s western, Arabian Sea margin. Utkal refers to the Odisha sector and Coromandel to the southeastern Bay of Bengal coast; the Tamil Nadu shoreline is part of the eastern coastal system.

Southern and Central Hills

Q156. Which statement about India’s Ghats is incorrect?

[SSC CHSL Tier-I, 10 March 2023, Shift 4, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Mahendragiri is an important Eastern Ghats summit

(B) Western Ghats become steadily lower from north to south

(D) Eastern Ghats extend toward the Nilgiri Hills

Answer: (b) Western Ghats become steadily lower from north to south

Explanation: The Western Ghats do not decline consistently southward; some of their highest massifs occur in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Their windward slopes intercept moisture-bearing monsoon winds, while the Eastern Ghats are discontinuous and broken by many major rivers.

Islands

Q155. What is the water channel separating the Andaman Islands from the Nicobar Islands?

[SSC MTS, 8 May 2023, Shift 1, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Palk Strait

(B) Conolly Canal

(D) Gulf of Mannar

Answer: (c) Ten Degree Channel

Explanation: The Ten Degree Channel lies between Little Andaman and Car Nicobar near latitude ten degrees north. The Palk Strait and Gulf of Mannar are around southeastern mainland India and Sri Lanka, not between the two island groups.

Southern and Central Hills

Q154. Which hills mark the junction of the Western and Eastern Ghats?

[SSC MTS, 13 June 2023, Shift 2, 2022 cycle (2023)]

(A) Nilgiri Hills

(B) Palkonda Hills

(D) Nallamala Hills

Answer: (a) Nilgiri Hills

Explanation: The Nilgiri hills stand near the tri-junction of Kerala, Karnataka and Tamil Nadu and form the meeting area of India’s eastern and western peninsular highlands. The Cardamom Hills lie farther south; Palkonda and Nallamala belong to the Eastern Ghats.

Mountain Passes

Q153. Which Himalayan pass linking India with Tibet lies in Arunachal Pradesh?

[WBCS Mains History Paper III (2023 exam, held 18 August 2024) (2023)]

(A) Nathu La

(B) Rohtang

(D) Lipulekh

Answer: (c) Bomdi La

Explanation: Bomdi La is a mountain pass and town area in Arunachal Pradesh in the eastern Himalayan region. Nathu La is in Sikkim, Rohtang is in Himachal Pradesh, and Lipulekh lies near Uttarakhand’s high Himalayan frontier.

Coastal Region

Q152. Chilika Lake lies south of the delta of which river?

[Rajasthan CET Senior Secondary, 11 February 2023, Shift 2 (2023)]

(A) Mahanadi

(B) Godavari

(D) Kaveri

Answer: (a) Mahanadi

Explanation: Chilika occupies a brackish coastal lagoon south of the Mahanadi delta in Odisha. The lake is separated from the Bay of Bengal by a sandy barrier. Godavari, Krishna and Kaveri form separate coastal drainage systems farther south.

Mountain Passes

Q151. As reported in the examination’s 2022 reference period, the highest motorable road crossed which pass?

[SSC CHSL 2022 Cycle, 15 March 2023, Shift 4 (2023)]

(A) Khunjerab

(B) Rohtang

(D) Umling La

Answer: (d) Umling La

Explanation: Umling La in Ladakh gained recognition for an exceptionally high motorable road, with a Guinness record reported in 2021. The wording is time-bound because engineering projects and measurement conventions can alter records. It is distinct from Rohtang Pass in Himachal Pradesh.

Mountain Passes

Q150. Which pass connects the Kullu Valley with the Lahaul region?

[SSC CHSL 2022 Cycle, 10 March 2023, Shift 2 (2023)]

(A) Banihal

(B) Thamarassery

(D) Lipulekh

Answer: (c) Rohtang

Explanation: Rohtang Pass crosses the eastern Pir Panjal area of Himachal Pradesh and historically linked Kullu with Lahaul. Banihal lies in the western Himalayas, Lipulekh in Uttarakhand and Thamarassery in the Western Ghats region of Kerala.

Plateaus

Q149. Rigid elevated ground, old denuded rocks and escarpments are typical of which physiographic region?

[UPSC NDA-I (2022)]

(A) Northern Mountains

(B) Northern Plains

(D) Coastal Plain

Answer: (c) Peninsular Plateau

Explanation: The Peninsular Plateau forms part of the ancient Indian shield. Its hard rocks, stable uplands and highly denuded relief contrast with the youthful folded Himalayas and recently deposited northern plains. Faulting also helped shape several escarpments and plateau margins.

Islands

Q148. Which is NOT a peak of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands?

[UPSC CDS-II (2022)]

(A) Saddle Peak

(B) Mount Thuillier

(D) Mount Diavolo

Answer: (c) Lhotse

Explanation: Lhotse belongs to the Himalayan massif near Mount Everest, across the Nepal–Tibet border. Saddle Peak rises on North Andaman, while Mount Thuillier and Mount Diavolo are identified with the Andaman–Nicobar region. The island groups are geographically separate from the Himalaya.

Southern and Central Hills

Q147. From which mountain range does the Tapi River originate?

[RRB Group D, 15 September 2022, Shift 1 (2022)]

(A) Satpura Range

(B) Nilgiri Hills

(D) Himalayas

Answer: (a) Satpura Range

Explanation: The Tapi or Tapti rises near Multai in Madhya Pradesh’s Betul district, in the Satpura highlands. It flows westward toward the Arabian Sea, broadly parallel to the Narmada, and is closely associated with the central Indian rift-valley region.

Southern and Central Hills

Q146. Which mountain range is bounded by the Satpuras on its south and the Aravallis toward the northwest?

[RRB Group D, 16 September 2022, Shift 1 (2022)]

(A) Vindhya

(B) Kailash

(D) Gir

Answer: (a) Vindhya

Explanation: The Vindhyan highlands extend across central India north of the Narmada–Satpura belt. The Aravallis lie to the northwest. These ancient upland chains provide an important geographical framework around the Malwa Plateau and neighbouring central Indian basins.

Islands

Q145. Which channel separates the Andaman island group from the Nicobar island group?

[RRB Group D, 22 September 2022, Shift 1 (2022)]

(A) Ten Degree Channel

(B) Twenty Degree Channel

(D) Forty Degree Channel

Answer: (a) Ten Degree Channel

Explanation: The Ten Degree Channel is the strait between the Andaman group to the north and Nicobar group to the south. Its name reflects its position close to ten degrees north latitude, a familiar landmark in India’s island geography.

Plateaus

Q144. What is a flat-topped elevated landform called?

[SSC CGL Tier-I, 6 December 2022, Shift 1 (2022)]

(A) Hill

(B) Plateau

(D) Valley

Answer: (b) Plateau

Explanation: A plateau is an extensive elevated area with a relatively level upper surface, often bounded by steeper slopes. India’s Deccan and Chota Nagpur plateaus demonstrate this landform, though their surfaces are dissected by rivers and shaped by geological structures.

Mountain Peaks

Q143. Consider the pairs: 1. Namcha Barwa—Garhwal Himalaya; 2. Nanda Devi—Kumaon Himalaya; 3. Nokrek—Sikkim Himalaya. Which are correctly matched?

[UPSC CSE Prelims GS-I, 5 June 2022 (2022)]

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 2 only

(D) 3 only

Answer: (b) 2 only

Explanation: Nanda Devi is an Uttarakhand Himalayan peak associated with the Kumaon–Garhwal region. Namcha Barwa stands near the eastern Himalayan bend, not Garhwal. Nokrek belongs to Meghalaya’s Garo Hills, not Sikkim. Therefore only the second pair is correct.

Southern and Central Hills

Q142. The Cardamom Hills in India continue which mountain system?

[UPSC CAPF (AC) (2021)]

(A) Eastern Ghats

(B) Mizo Hills

(D) Western Ghats

Answer: (d) Western Ghats

Explanation: The Cardamom Hills are part of the southern Western Ghats in Kerala and Tamil Nadu. These hills form a highland continuation of the Sahyadri system and receive considerable monsoon rainfall. They are unrelated to the Naga and Mizo hills of northeast India.

Mountain Peaks

Q141. Match Tamil Nadu, Rajasthan, Nagaland and Madhya Pradesh with their highest peaks: Dodda Betta, Guru Shikhar, Saramati and Dhupgarh. Which order is correct?

[UPPCS Prelims (2021)]

(A) Guru Shikhar, Saramati, Dhupgarh, Dodda Betta

(B) Dhupgarh, Dodda Betta, Guru Shikhar, Saramati

(D) Dodda Betta, Guru Shikhar, Saramati, Dhupgarh

Answer: (d) Dodda Betta, Guru Shikhar, Saramati, Dhupgarh

Explanation: Dodda Betta is in the Nilgiris of Tamil Nadu, Guru Shikhar is Rajasthan’s Aravalli summit, Saramati is the famous peak of Nagaland, and Dhupgarh crowns Madhya Pradesh’s Satpura uplands. State-to-peak pairing prevents confusing peninsular and northeastern highlands.

Islands

Q140. Where are atolls most commonly found among the following Indian regions?

[Jharkhand PSC Prelims (2021)]

(A) Near the Sundarbans

(B) Near the Gulf of Khambhat

(D) Near Rameswaram

Answer: (c) Near Lakshadweep

Explanation: Lakshadweep is primarily a coral island chain in the Arabian Sea. Many islands are atolls: ring-like reefs that partly or completely enclose lagoons. They differ from the deltaic Sundarbans and most barrier or continental islands near India’s mainland coast.

Southern and Central Hills

Q139. Which range contains the source of the Krishna River?

[SSC CHSL, 8 June 2022, Shift 2, 2021 cycle (2021)]

(A) Satpura Range

(B) Sahyadri Range

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (b) Sahyadri Range

Explanation: The Krishna rises near Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra’s Western Ghats, also called the Sahyadris. Its course travels eastward across the Deccan Plateau toward the Bay of Bengal, draining parts of Maharashtra, Karnataka, Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.

Southern and Central Hills

Q138. Which hill name is not associated with the Western Ghats?

[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 22 February 2021, Shift 1 (2021)]

(A) Mahendragiri Hills

(B) Nilgiri Hills

(D) Sahyadri Hills

Answer: (a) Mahendragiri Hills

Explanation: Mahendragiri belongs to the Eastern Ghats of Odisha, whereas Sahyadri, Nilgiri and Anaimalai refer to regions of the Western Ghats. This distinction is useful because the Ghats run along opposite flanks of Peninsular India.

Southern and Central Hills

Q137. Which of the following Indian ranges is popularly called the Blue Mountains?

[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 11 January 2021, Shift 1 (2021)]

(A) Shiwalik Hills

(B) Garo Hills

(D) Khasi Hills

Answer: (c) Nilgiri Hills

Explanation: Nilgiri means Blue Mountains and refers to the uplands near the Tamil Nadu–Kerala–Karnataka junction. These hills are part of the southern Western Ghats, with Dodda Betta as their highest peak and important montane grassland and forest habitats.

Plateaus

Q136. Hyderabad is located on which Indian plateau?

[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 8 April 2021, Shift 2 (2021)]

(A) Meghalaya Plateau

(B) Deccan Plateau

(D) Malwa Plateau

Answer: (b) Deccan Plateau

Explanation: Hyderabad in Telangana stands on the Deccan Plateau, a large expanse of ancient peninsular highlands. The city occupies rocky granitic terrain rather than the northern alluvial plain or the eastern Chota Nagpur and northeastern Meghalaya plateau systems.

Plateaus

Q135. Which statement about black soil and Indian relief is correct?

[RRB NTPC CBT-I, 25 January 2021, Shift 2 (2021)]

(A) Black soil covers much of the Deccan Plateau

(B) Black soil is the least fertile

(D) Black soils are rich in nitrogen and phosphorus

Answer: (a) Black soil covers much of the Deccan Plateau

Explanation: Black cotton or regur soils are closely linked with the weathering of basaltic Deccan Trap rocks. They retain moisture and support crops including cotton, while alluvial rather than black soils dominate much of the northern Gangetic plains.

Valleys

Q134. According to the WBCS question’s range pairs, between which two ranges lies the Kashmir Valley?

[WBCS Prelims, 22 August 2021 (2021)]

(A) Zaskar and Pir Panjal

(B) Zaskar and Karakoram

(D) Zaskar and Shiwalik

Answer: (a) Zaskar and Pir Panjal

Explanation: The Kashmir basin lies between the Pir Panjal hills to the southwest and the high Himalayan mountain belt to the northeast, often associated with the Zanskar sector in regional descriptions. The Karakoram lies considerably farther north.

Northern Mountains

Q133. Which of the following is the youngest mountain system?

[UPPCS Prelims (2020)]

(A) Himadri

(B) Aravalli

(D) Vindhya

Answer: (a) Himadri

Explanation: The Himalayas are youthful fold mountains created by collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. Himadri is part of that system. The Aravalli, Vindhya and Western Ghats belong to the much older Peninsular landmass or its margins.

Glaciers

Q132. Siachen Glacier lies in which relative position?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2020)]

(A) East of Aksai Chin

(B) East of Leh

(D) North of Nubra Valley

Answer: (d) North of Nubra Valley

Explanation: Siachen lies in the eastern Karakoram, north of the Nubra Valley in Ladakh. Meltwater ultimately contributes to the Nubra–Shyok–Indus drainage. Its strategic setting is also associated with the Saltoro Ridge, west of the glacier.

Mountain Passes

Q131. Nathu La connects India with which neighbouring country?

[SSC CGL Tier-I, 20 August 2021, Shift 2, 2020 cycle (2020)]

(A) Nepal

(B) Bangladesh

(D) China

Answer: (d) China

Explanation: Nathu La lies in eastern Sikkim on the historical route toward Tibet, now administered by China. Its frontier location gives it strategic and trade significance. Other well-known trans-Himalayan passes include Shipki La, Lipulekh and Bomdi La.

Mountain Passes

Q130. Which pairing of a Himalayan pass with its state is correct?

[SSC CGL Tier-I, 7 March 2020, Shift 1 (2020)]

(A) Nathu La – Arunachal Pradesh

(B) Rohtang – Sikkim

(D) Lipulekh – Uttarakhand

Answer: (d) Lipulekh – Uttarakhand

Explanation: Lipulekh is a high mountain pass near the Uttarakhand–Tibet border. Nathu La belongs to Sikkim, Rohtang to Himachal Pradesh and Bomdila to Arunachal Pradesh. Checking each pass’s state quickly reveals the only valid pairing.

Mountain Passes

Q129. Which pass crosses the Pir Panjal range and lies on the traditional Manali–Leh road?

[SSC CHSL, 14 October 2020, Shift 2 (2020)]

(A) Banihal

(B) Baralacha La

(D) Nathu La

Answer: (c) Rohtang

Explanation: Rohtang Pass is in Himachal Pradesh’s eastern Pir Panjal range and connects the Kullu Valley with Lahaul. The highway onward toward Leh uses additional high passes such as Baralacha La, while Nathu La is far away in Sikkim.

Mountain Passes

Q128. Which gap lies between the Nilgiri and Anaimalai hills?

[SSC CHSL, 20 October 2020, Shift 2 (2020)]

(A) Aghil Pass

(B) Rohtang Pass

(D) Palghat Gap

Answer: (d) Palghat Gap

Explanation: The Palghat or Palakkad Gap cuts across the southern Western Ghats between the Nilgiris to the north and Anaimalai Hills to the south. It creates a relatively low corridor between Tamil Nadu’s interior and Kerala’s coastal plain.

Mountain Passes

Q127. Which listed mountain pass is in Uttarakhand?

[SSC CHSL, 11 August 2021, Shift 2, 2020 cycle (2020)]

(A) Baralacha La

(B) Mangsha Dhura

(D) Bomdi La

Answer: (b) Mangsha Dhura

Explanation: Mangsha Dhura lies in Uttarakhand’s high Himalayan border country. Baralacha La is on the Himachal–Ladakh route, Nathu La is in Sikkim, and Bomdi La is in Arunachal Pradesh, making their state associations different.

Northern Mountains

Q126. Why is the Himalayan region particularly seismically active? Consider Assertion: India has many high-risk Himalayan seismic zones; Reason: the Himalayas contain numerous longitudinal thrusts.

[UPPCS Prelims (2019)]

(A) Both correct and reason explains assertion

(B) Both correct but reason does not explain assertion

(D) Assertion incorrect, reason correct

Answer: (a) Both correct and reason explains assertion

Explanation: Ongoing convergence of the Indian and Eurasian plates generates compressional forces along Himalayan faults and thrust belts. These active structures produce earthquakes across the region, making the assertion and its explanation consistent with Himalayan tectonics.

Northern Mountains

Q125. In which Himalayan subregion are Karewa deposits found?

[MPPSC Prelims (2019)]

(A) Northeastern Himalaya

(B) Eastern Himalaya

(D) Kashmir Himalaya

Answer: (d) Kashmir Himalaya

Explanation: Karewas are elevated lacustrine and fluvio-glacial deposits in the Kashmir Valley. These terraces preserve evidence of older lake environments and are widely associated with saffron cultivation. They are a distinctive landform of Kashmir, not the eastern Himalayan ranges.

Northern Mountains

Q124. Which sequence correctly arranges central Indian hill groups from west to east?

[UPPCS Prelims (2019)]

(A) Maikal, Satpura, Mahadeo, Chotanagpur

(B) Satpura, Mahadeo, Maikal, Chotanagpur

(D) Satpura, Mahadeo, Chotanagpur, Maikal

Answer: (b) Satpura, Mahadeo, Maikal, Chotanagpur

Explanation: The Satpura system occupies central India, with the Mahadeo Hills and Maikal highlands extending eastward. The Chotanagpur Plateau lies farther east, particularly in Jharkhand. This west–east ordering follows the geographic distribution of these uplands.

Northern Mountains

Q123. Cherrapunji is located in which hills?

[Chhattisgarh PSC Prelims (2019)]

(A) Naga Hills

(B) Garo Hills

(D) Mikir Hills

Answer: (c) Khasi Hills

Explanation: Cherrapunji, also known as Sohra, is situated in Meghalaya’s East Khasi Hills. Its position near the southern escarpment facing moisture-laden Bay of Bengal winds helps explain the area’s exceptionally high orographic rainfall, a classic example in Indian physical geography.

Mountain Peaks

Q122. Which of the following is outside India, according to the original peak-location question?

[UPPCS Prelims (2019)]

(A) Gurla Mandhata

(B) Kamet

(D) Trishul

Answer: (a) Gurla Mandhata

Explanation: Gurla Mandhata lies in Tibet north of the Himalayan main chain. Kamet, Nanda Devi and Trishul are prominent peaks of Uttarakhand. Peak names can be confused because several Tibetan mountains occur close to the Indian frontier.

Mountain Peaks

Q121. Gaurlata Peak belongs to which ‘Pat’ upland?

[Chhattisgarh PSC Prelims (2019)]

(A) Samri Pat

(B) Mainpat

(D) Jarang Pat

Answer: (a) Samri Pat

Explanation: Gaurlata is located in the Samri Pat highlands of Balrampur district, Chhattisgarh. The local term pat refers to elevated plateau-like terrain. This question tests subregional relief within the state’s northern uplands, rather than an all-India Himalayan peak.

Plateaus

Q120. Which Bihar district lacks Dharwar-type geological formations among the options?

[65th BPSC Prelims (2019)]

(A) Munger

(B) Rohtas

(D) Nawada

Answer: (b) Rohtas

Explanation: Rohtas is mainly associated with Vindhyan formations, while Dharwar-age rocks occur in parts of southeastern Bihar, including areas around Munger, Jamui and Nawada. Identifying the geological province distinguishes older crystalline plateau terrain from Vindhyan sedimentary strata.

Mountain Ranges

Q119. Which central Indian hill sequence runs from west to east?

[UPPCS Prelims (2019)]

(A) Maikal–Satpura–Mahadeo–Chotanagpur

(B) Satpura–Mahadeo–Maikal–Chotanagpur

(D) Satpura–Mahadeo–Chotanagpur–Maikal

Answer: (b) Satpura–Mahadeo–Maikal–Chotanagpur

Explanation: The central Indian highlands grade from the Satpura region through the Mahadeo and Maikal hills to the Chotanagpur Plateau farther east. The geographic sequence tracks older peninsular uplands across Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand.

Glaciers

Q118. Which glacier–river pairs are correctly matched: 1. Bandarpunch–Yamuna 2. Bara Shigri–Chenab 3. Milam–Mandakini 4. Siachen–Nubra 5. Zemu–Manas?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2019)]

(A) 1, 2 and 4

(B) 1, 3 and 4

(D) 3 and 5

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 4

Explanation: Bandarpunch contributes to the Yamuna headwaters, Bara Shigri drains toward the Chenab, and Siachen feeds the Nubra system. Milam is linked to the Goriganga, not Mandakini, while Zemu drains the Teesta system rather than the Manas.

Southern and Central Hills

Q117. Which among these hills is traditionally known as the Blue Mountains?

[SSC MTS, 21 August 2019, Shift 1 (2019)]

(A) Khasi Hills

(B) Anaimalai Hills

(D) Nilgiri Hills

Answer: (d) Nilgiri Hills

Explanation: The Nilgiris, literally blue mountains, form part of the southern Indian highlands near Ooty. Their distinctive high-altitude ecosystems include grasslands and shola forests. Khasi hills are in Meghalaya, while Anaimalai and Cardamom hills are other southern ranges.

Mountain Passes

Q116. Which pass is a well-known tourist destination in Himachal Pradesh?

[SSC CGL, 6 June 2019, Shift 2 (2019)]

(A) Rohtang Pass

(B) Mintaka Pass

(D) Aghil Pass

Answer: (a) Rohtang Pass

Explanation: Rohtang Pass lies above the Kullu Valley near Manali and crosses the Pir Panjal section of the Himalayas toward Lahaul. The other passes are in high Karakoram or Ladakh regions rather than Himachal’s familiar Manali tourist circuit.

Mountain Passes

Q115. Which Sikkim–Tibet pass reopened for trade in 2006 after decades of closure?

[SSC CGL, 6 June 2019, Shift 1 (2019)]

(A) Lanak La

(B) Imis La

(D) Nathu La

Answer: (d) Nathu La

Explanation: Nathu La historically served caravans along routes connecting Sikkim and Tibet. Cross-border trade through the pass resumed in 2006 after prolonged closure following the 1962 conflict. Pensi La belongs to the Zanskar region rather than Sikkim.

Mountain Passes

Q114. Which mountain pass and location are incorrectly paired?

[SSC MTS, 7 August 2019, Shift 2 (2019)]

(A) Nathu La – Sikkim

(B) Shipki La – Arunachal Pradesh

(D) Mana – Uttarakhand

Answer: (b) Shipki La – Arunachal Pradesh

Explanation: Shipki La lies in Himachal Pradesh near the Sutlej valley and the Tibet frontier, not Arunachal Pradesh. Nathu La is in Sikkim, Mana in Uttarakhand, and Zoji La links Kashmir toward Ladakh.

Mountain Passes

Q113. Which pass was selected as the highest motorable among these in the historical paper?

[SSC GD Constable, 1 March 2019, Shift 1 (2019)]

(A) Jelep La

(B) Nathu La

(D) Dungri La

Answer: (d) Dungri La

Explanation: Dungri La, also called Mana Pass in some descriptions, is a very high motorable pass near Uttarakhand’s India–Tibet border. Records for highest motorable roads are revised as new routes open, so the answer belongs to the paper’s timeframe and options.

Plateaus

Q112. Which hill group is NOT part of the Meghalaya Plateau?

[64th BPSC Prelims (2018)]

(A) Bhuban Hills

(B) Garo Hills

(D) Jaintia Hills

Answer: (a) Bhuban Hills

Explanation: The Meghalaya Plateau contains the Garo, Khasi and Jaintia hills. Bhuban Hills lie farther southeast in the Barak Valley sector. The plateau is an outlying part of the Peninsular shield, separated from the main block by intervening lowlands.

Islands

Q111. Between which two countries lies the Palk Strait?

[MPPSC Prelims (2018)]

(A) India and Pakistan

(B) India and Bangladesh

(D) India and Maldives

Answer: (c) India and Sri Lanka

Explanation: The Palk Strait is the shallow waterway between southeastern India and northern Sri Lanka. Along with Palk Bay and Adam’s Bridge shoals, it forms a distinctive coastal zone between the Bay of Bengal and Gulf of Mannar.

Mountain Ranges

Q110. Match states Kerala, Nagaland, Uttarakhand, Tamil Nadu to peaks Anamudi, Saramati, Nanda Devi, Dodda Betta. Choose the correct sequence.

[UPPCS Prelims (2018)]

(A) Dodda Betta–Nanda Devi–Saramati–Anamudi

(B) Nanda Devi–Saramati–Anamudi–Dodda Betta

(D) Anamudi–Nanda Devi–Saramati–Dodda Betta

Answer: (c) Anamudi–Saramati–Nanda Devi–Dodda Betta

Explanation: Anamudi belongs to Kerala’s Western Ghats; Saramati rises in Nagaland; Nanda Devi is in the Uttarakhand Himalaya; and Dodda Betta crowns Tamil Nadu’s Nilgiri Hills. Distinguishing states and physiographic belts resolves this matching question.

Islands

Q109. About Barren Island: 1. It contains an active Indian volcano. 2. It lies about 140 km east of Great Nicobar. 3. It has been inactive since 1991. Which is correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2018)]

(A) 1 only

(B) 2 and 3 only

(D) 1 and 3 only

Answer: (a) 1 only

Explanation: Barren Island is an active volcanic island in the Andaman Sea, substantially north of Great Nicobar. It has erupted after 1991, so inactivity since that year is incorrect. Only the statement identifying its active volcano is correct.

Southern and Central Hills

Q108. Which is the southernmost of these Indian hill ranges?

[MPPSC Prelims (2018)]

(A) Nilgiri

(B) Anamalai

(D) Nallamalai

Answer: (c) Cardamom Hills

Explanation: The Cardamom Hills form part of the extreme southern Western Ghats close to Kerala and Tamil Nadu. Nilgiri and Anamalai lie farther north, while Nallamalai belongs to the Eastern Ghats system in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana.

Southern and Central Hills

Q107. Among Aravalli, Vindhyachal, Himalaya and Eastern Ghats, which range is youngest?

[Chhattisgarh PSC Prelims (2018)]

(A) Aravalli

(B) Vindhyachal

(D) Eastern Ghats

Answer: (c) Himalaya

Explanation: The Himalayan fold belt grew largely during the Cenozoic as India converged with Eurasia. By contrast, the Aravalli and other peninsular ranges are ancient. They were shaped by long erosion and tectonic processes over far older geological periods.

Physical Divisions

Q106. The Thar Desert consists chiefly of deposits from which geological intervals?

[UPPCS Prelims (2018)]

(A) Pliocene

(B) Paleocene

(D) Oligocene

Answer: (c) Pleistocene and Recent

Explanation: Much of the Thar Desert’s surface comprises Quaternary sands and associated Pleistocene-to-Recent deposits. Reworking by wind created extensive dunes. Its surface materials therefore contrast with the older crystalline bedrock exposed across much of Peninsular India.

Physical Divisions

Q105. Which listed region is predominantly desert-like?

[MPPSC Prelims (2018)]

(A) Sindhu region

(B) Middle Ganga region

(D) Central Indian region

Answer: (a) Sindhu region

Explanation: The Indus basin includes extensive arid landscapes in northwestern South Asia, in contrast to the humid Assam valley and fertile Ganga plains. The question distinguishes broad natural regions by climate, vegetation and surface conditions rather than administrative divisions.

Coastal Region

Q104. Which coastal region does not belong to the western coastline?

[SSC CHSL, 5 March 2018, Shift 3 (2018)]

(A) Kathiawar Coast

(B) Konkan Coast

(D) Coromandel Coast

Answer: (d) Coromandel Coast

Explanation: The Coromandel Coast borders the Bay of Bengal, particularly along southeastern India. Kathiawar, Konkan and Malabar all lie on or are associated with the Arabian Sea side. The western coastline generally has more estuaries than major river deltas.

Islands

Q103. Which island lies nearest to Great Nicobar?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2017)]

(A) Sumatra

(B) Borneo

(D) Sri Lanka

Answer: (a) Sumatra

Explanation: Sumatra, part of Indonesia, lies just southeast of Great Nicobar across the Six Degree Channel region. Borneo, Java and Sri Lanka are farther away. Proximity to Indonesia is an important feature of the Nicobar island chain’s location.

Mountain Passes

Q102. Which pass-and-region pairing is wrong?

[UPPCS Prelims (2017)]

(A) Shipki La–Himachal Pradesh

(B) Bomdi La–Arunachal Pradesh

(D) Zoji La–Jammu and Kashmir

Answer: (c) Nathu La–Meghalaya

Explanation: Nathu La lies in Sikkim and connects the Gangtok area with Tibet’s Chumbi Valley. Shipki La is in Himachal Pradesh and Bomdi La in Arunachal Pradesh. Zoji La historically connected Kashmir with Ladakh.

Coastal Region

Q101. How many Indian states possess a coastline?

[UPPCS Prelims (2017)]

(A) Six

(B) Seven

(D) Nine

Answer: (d) Nine

Explanation: Nine Indian states touch the sea: Gujarat, Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal. India’s coastal union territories are counted separately, so including them would incorrectly increase the number of coastal states.

Southern and Central Hills

Q100. Which of these mountain ranges is confined to a single state?

[MPPSC Prelims (2017)]

(A) Aravalli

(B) Satpura

(D) Sahyadri

Answer: (c) Ajanta

Explanation: The Ajanta hill range lies within Maharashtra. The Aravalli, Satpura and Western Ghats cross multiple state boundaries. This question tests regional distribution of mountain systems rather than their height or age.

Northern Mountains

Q99. Arrange the Garo, Khasi, Jaintia and Naga hills from west to east.

[UPPCS RO/ARO Prelims (2017)]

(A) Khasi–Garo–Naga–Jaintia

(B) Naga–Jaintia–Khasi–Garo

(D) Jaintia–Naga–Garo–Khasi

Answer: (c) Garo–Khasi–Jaintia–Naga

Explanation: Within Meghalaya, the Garo Hills are to the west, Khasi Hills occupy the middle and Jaintia Hills extend eastward. The Naga Hills lie still farther east near Nagaland and the Indo-Myanmar highlands.

Southern and Central Hills

Q98. Kodaikanal is situated in which hills?

[Chhattisgarh PSC Prelims (2017)]

(A) Anamalai

(B) Bundi

(D) Amarkantak

Answer: (c) Palani

Explanation: Kodaikanal is a hill station of the Palani Hills in Tamil Nadu. These southern highlands form part of the Western Ghats system and should not be confused with the Anamalai hills or the Amarkantak plateau farther north.

Coastal Region

Q97. Assess the Western Ghats: 1. They are associated with block relief. 2. Their eastern slope merges gradually into the plateau. 3. Northern sectors contain basalt. Which statements are correct?

[UPPCS RO/ARO Mains (2017)]

(A) 1 and 2

(B) 2 and 3

(D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3

Explanation: The Western Ghats mark the elevated western margin of the Deccan Plateau. Their eastern slopes are generally less abrupt than the western escarpment, and their northern region contains Deccan Trap basalt. All three features support the given answer.

Islands

Q96. The northern segment of India’s western coastal plain is called what?

[UPPCS Prelims (2016)]

(A) Karnataka Coast

(B) Malabar Coast

(D) Coromandel Coast

Answer: (c) Konkan Coast

Explanation: The Konkan coast occupies the northern western coastal plain, especially Maharashtra and Goa. Southward lie the Kanara and Malabar sections. Coromandel belongs to India’s eastern coast, so it cannot describe the northern Arabian Sea shore.

Mountain Passes

Q95. Choose the correct match: Mana, Nathu La, Zoji La, Shipki La with Uttarakhand, Sikkim, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh respectively.

[UPPCS Prelims (2016)]

(A) Zoji La–Sikkim; Nathu La–Uttarakhand

(B) Mana–Himachal; Shipki La–Sikkim

(D) Mana–Sikkim; Zoji La–Himachal

Answer: (c) Mana–Uttarakhand; Nathu La–Sikkim; Zoji La–Jammu and Kashmir; Shipki La–Himachal

Explanation: Mana is in Uttarakhand, Nathu La in Sikkim, Shipki La in Himachal Pradesh, and Zoji La on the Kashmir–Ladakh corridor. The 2016 examination used Jammu and Kashmir for Zoji La, before Ladakh became a separate Union Territory.

Mountain Passes

Q94. Which pass–state pairing is incorrect?

[RAS Prelims (2016)]

(A) Jelep La–Sikkim

(B) Mana and Niti–Uttarakhand

(D) Bomdi La–Arunachal Pradesh

Answer: (c) Shipki La–Jammu and Kashmir

Explanation: Shipki La lies in Kinnaur district of Himachal Pradesh on the India–Tibet frontier, not in Jammu and Kashmir. The remaining pairs correctly identify Himalayan passes in Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Arunachal Pradesh.

Mountain Passes

Q93. Kingri-Wingri and Niti–Mana are names of what?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2016)]

(A) Mountain passes

(B) Rivers

(D) Religious places

Answer: (a) Mountain passes

Explanation: Kingri-Wingri, Niti and Mana are mountain passes in Uttarakhand’s Himalayan frontier zone. Passes provide routes through otherwise difficult terrain and have historically supported movement and trade between Himalayan valleys and the Tibetan Plateau.

Valleys

Q92. In which state is Nelang Valley located?

[UPPCS Prelims (2016)]

(A) Himachal Pradesh

(B) Sikkim

(D) Uttarakhand

Answer: (d) Uttarakhand

Explanation: Nelang Valley is located in Uttarkashi district of Uttarakhand near the Tibetan frontier and Gangotri National Park. This high Himalayan valley is different from the Kullu and Sangla valleys of Himachal Pradesh.

Valleys

Q91. Kashmir Valley is located between which mountain systems?

[MPPSC Prelims (2016)]

(A) Ladakh and Zanskar

(B) Great Himalaya and Pir Panjal

(D) Karakoram and Ladakh

Answer: (b) Great Himalaya and Pir Panjal

Explanation: The Kashmir Valley forms a major longitudinal depression between the Pir Panjal Range to the southwest and the Greater Himalaya to the northeast. The Ladakh and Karakoram systems are farther north and not its immediate bounding ranges.

Northern Mountains

Q90. Which rivers bound the Kumaon Himalaya region?

[UPPSC RO/ARO Re-exam (2016)]

(A) Indus and Sutlej

(B) Kali and Teesta

(D) Teesta and Brahmaputra

Answer: (c) Sutlej and Kali

Explanation: Traditional regional divisions place the Kumaon Himalaya between the Sutlej and Kali rivers. The Punjab Himalaya lies farther west, while the Nepal and Assam Himalayan sections are identified using the Kali, Teesta and Dihang river boundaries.

Coastal Region

Q89. Which state has the longest coastline of the four listed?

[UPPCS RO/ARO Re-exam (2016)]

(A) Andhra Pradesh

(B) Gujarat

(D) Kerala

Answer: (b) Gujarat

Explanation: Gujarat’s strongly indented shoreline includes the Saurashtra peninsula and Kachchh region. These coastal formations help give it the greatest coastline length of any Indian state, greater than Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu or Kerala.

Coastal Region

Q88. Which agent generally causes the greatest coastal erosion?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2016)]

(A) Waves

(B) Tides

(D) Tsunami waves

Answer: (a) Waves

Explanation: Waves repeatedly attack beaches and coastal cliffs, transporting sediment and removing material through hydraulic action and abrasion. Tides and currents modify erosion patterns, while tsunamis are episodic. Ordinary wave action is the principal continuous agent of coastal erosion.

Northern Mountains

Q87. Among Vindhyan, Cuddapah, Dharwar and Gondwana rock systems, which is geologically youngest?

[UPPCS Prelims (2016)]

(A) Vindhyan

(B) Cuddapah

(D) Gondwana

Answer: (d) Gondwana

Explanation: Gondwana sedimentary formations are much younger than the ancient Dharwar, Cuddapah and Vindhyan systems. They include important coal-bearing deposits laid down after the oldest shield rocks formed. This age contrast is relevant to the geological history of India’s plateaus.

Mountain Passes

Q86. Which pass pairing is incorrect?

[UPPCS Mains (2015)]

(A) Chang La–Ladakh region

(B) Rohtang–Himachal Pradesh

(D) Se La–Uttarakhand

Answer: (d) Se La–Uttarakhand

Explanation: Se La lies in Arunachal Pradesh, providing access toward the Tawang area. Rohtang is in Himachal Pradesh, Bomdi La in Arunachal Pradesh, and Chang La in Ladakh. The question asks for the mismatched pass location.

Southern and Central Hills

Q85. Which hills stand around the meeting zone of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu?

[UPPCS Mains (2015)]

(A) Anaimalai

(B) Palani

(D) Nilgiri

Answer: (d) Nilgiri

Explanation: The Nilgiri Hills are situated near the junction of Karnataka, Kerala and Tamil Nadu and connect sections of the Western and Eastern Ghats. Palani and Anaimalai hills occupy different parts of the southern Western Ghats system.

Northern Mountains

Q84. Which state is NOT normally aligned with the Patkai hill system?

[UPPCS Mains (2015)]

(A) Nagaland

(B) Tripura

(D) Mizoram

Answer: (b) Tripura

Explanation: The Patkai and adjacent northeastern ranges extend along the India–Myanmar frontier. Nagaland, Manipur and Mizoram form part of this northeastern highland region, whereas Tripura lies farther west with its own fold-hill systems.

Northern Mountains

Q83. From south to north, which Himalayan range sequence is correct?

[CGPSC Prelims (2015)]

(A) Great Himalaya–Lesser Himalaya–Shiwalik

(B) Shiwalik–Lesser Himalaya–Great Himalaya

(D) Shiwalik–Great Himalaya–Lesser Himalaya

Answer: (b) Shiwalik–Lesser Himalaya–Great Himalaya

Explanation: The Shiwaliks are the outermost and southernmost Himalayan foothills. To their north rise the Lesser or Middle Himalaya and then the Great Himalaya, called Himadri. This sequence describes the broad longitudinal structure of the western Himalayan mountain belt.

Southern and Central Hills

Q82. Select the correct south-to-north sequence: Satmala, Kaimur, Naga Hills and Pir Panjal.

[UPPCS Mains (2015)]

(A) Kaimur–Pir Panjal–Satmala–Naga

(B) Satmala–Kaimur–Naga–Pir Panjal

(D) Naga–Pir Panjal–Kaimur–Satmala

Answer: (b) Satmala–Kaimur–Naga–Pir Panjal

Explanation: Satmala Hills are in Maharashtra, Kaimur Hills farther north in central–eastern India, Naga Hills in the northeastern uplands, and Pir Panjal farther north in the western Himalaya. Latitude and regional maps help establish the ordering.

Mountain Peaks

Q81. Who became the first woman to reach the summit of Mount Everest?

[MPPSC Prelims (2015)]

(A) Junko Tabei

(B) Karoline Mikkelson

(D) Bachendri Pal

Answer: (a) Junko Tabei

Explanation: Japan’s Junko Tabei first climbed Everest in 1975. Bachendri Pal became the first Indian woman to summit it in 1984. The Himalayan peak lies on the Nepal–Tibet frontier, and these two milestones refer to different national and global records.

Northern Mountains

Q80. Which of these states does NOT adjoin the Patkai Hills?

[UPPCS Mains (2015)]

(A) Nagaland

(B) Tripura

(D) Mizoram

Answer: (b) Tripura

Explanation: Tripura lies west of the main Patkai–Indo-Myanmar highlands. Nagaland and adjoining northeastern states occupy the eastern mountain zone. Identifying this distinction helps separate Tripura’s local north–south hill ranges from the frontier highlands.

Mountain Peaks

Q79. Kangchenjunga rises on the border of which Indian state and Nepal?

[MPPSC Prelims (2014)]

(A) Kashmir

(B) Himachal Pradesh

(D) Uttarakhand

Answer: (c) Sikkim

Explanation: Kangchenjunga stands in the eastern Himalaya on the Sikkim–Nepal border. It is one of the world’s highest peaks and is closely identified with Sikkim’s mountainous geography. Other listed northern states lie much farther west.

Southern and Central Hills

Q78. In which state is the Aravalli Range particularly extensive?

[UPPSC RO/ARO Prelims (2014)]

(A) Rajasthan

(B) Himachal Pradesh

(D) Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (a) Rajasthan

Explanation: The ancient Aravalli system trends through Rajasthan and continues into parts of Gujarat, Haryana and Delhi. The state of Rajasthan contains its most prominent stretches, including Mount Abu and Guru Shikhar in the southwest.

Glaciers

Q77. Which glacier lies in Uttarakhand’s Kumaon region?

[UPPSC Revenue Inspector (2014)]

(A) Hispar

(B) Zemu

(D) Rupal

Answer: (c) Milam

Explanation: Milam Glacier is in the Kumaon Himalaya of Uttarakhand and feeds the Goriganga river system. Zemu is in Sikkim, while Hispar and Rupal lie far to the northwest outside the Kumaon region.

Northern Mountains

Q76. Which of these relief features is south of the Karakoram, after Dhauladhar, Zanskar and Ladakh in the south-to-north sequence?

[UPPCS RO/ARO Prelims (2013)]

(A) Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

(B) Zanskar, Dhauladhar, Karakoram, Ladakh

(D) Ladakh, Karakoram, Dhauladhar, Zanskar

Answer: (a) Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

Explanation: Dhauladhar belongs to the Lesser Himalaya. Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram lie progressively farther north in the Trans-Himalayan sector. Their positions explain the marked relief transition from the populated Himalayan valleys toward high cold-desert plateaus.

Northern Mountains

Q75. Choose the northward order of Pir Panjal, Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram.

[RAS Prelims (2013)]

(A) Zanskar, Pir Panjal, Ladakh, Karakoram

(B) Pir Panjal, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

(D) Pir Panjal, Ladakh, Zanskar, Karakoram

Answer: (b) Pir Panjal, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

Explanation: Pir Panjal forms part of the Lesser Himalaya and lies south of the higher Trans-Himalayan ranges. Moving northward the sequence runs through Zanskar, Ladakh and finally Karakoram, near the northern edge of the Indian subcontinent.

Islands

Q74. Which is a coral island group?

[UPPSC RO/ARO Prelims (2013)]

(A) New Moore

(B) Car Nicobar

(D) Lakshadweep

Answer: (d) Lakshadweep

Explanation: Lakshadweep is a group of predominantly coral islands and atolls in the Arabian Sea. The Andaman and Nicobar chains have a different tectonic origin, while New Moore was a disputed sandbar in the Bay of Bengal.

Plateaus

Q73. Meghalaya Plateau is structurally associated with which larger Indian physical division?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Prelims (2013)]

(A) Himalaya

(B) Peninsular Plateau

(D) Satpura Range

Answer: (b) Peninsular Plateau

Explanation: The Meghalaya Plateau is an extension of the ancient Peninsular shield in northeast India. Lowlands and geological faulting separate it from the main plateau block, yet its underlying crystalline structures differ from the young folded Himalayas.

Glaciers

Q72. Among Siachen, Baltoro, Chogo Lungma and Biafo, which glacier is the longest?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Prelims (2013)]

(A) Siachen

(B) Baltoro

(D) Biafo

Answer: (a) Siachen

Explanation: Siachen Glacier, in the eastern Karakoram, is commonly reported at roughly 76 kilometres long, exceeding the listed Karakoram glaciers. It is one of the longest glaciers outside the polar regions and feeds the Nubra drainage system.

Coastal Region

Q71. Which reference coast did the cited Indian mean-sea-level question identify?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Prelims (2013)]

(A) Mumbai

(B) Chennai

(D) Visakhapatnam

Answer: (b) Chennai

Explanation: The original examination identified Chennai as its reference in a mean-sea-level question. Modern Indian vertical datums and surveying procedures have a more complex history, so the exam answer should be interpreted in its historical question context.

Mountain Peaks

Q70. In which state is Nanda Devi situated?

[Jharkhand PSC Prelims (2013)]

(A) Himachal Pradesh

(B) Uttarakhand

(D) Sikkim

Answer: (b) Uttarakhand

Explanation: Nanda Devi is a major Himalayan summit in the Chamoli region of Uttarakhand. It rises within the Garhwal Himalaya and lends its name to a protected high-altitude landscape recognized for its exceptional alpine environment.

Northern Mountains

Q69. Put Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh and Karakoram from south to north.

[Jharkhand PSC Prelims (2013)]

(A) Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

(B) Dhauladhar, Ladakh, Karakoram, Zanskar

(D) Karakoram, Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh

Answer: (a) Dhauladhar, Zanskar, Ladakh, Karakoram

Explanation: Dhauladhar is associated with the Lesser Himalaya. North of the principal Himalayan highlands are Zanskar and Ladakh, followed by Karakoram. This ordering is useful for understanding passes, river valleys and high-altitude cold deserts.

Islands

Q68. Lakshadweep is composed of how many islands in the common exam enumeration?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Prelims (2013)]

(A) 17

(B) 27

(D) 47

Answer: (c) 36

Explanation: Lakshadweep is conventionally described as a group of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea, although only a smaller number are inhabited. Most emerged islands and reefs are coral in origin and lie southwest of the Kerala coast.

Mountain Peaks

Q67. Which of these peaks is the highest in the Nilgiris?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Prelims (2013)]

(A) Anamudi

(B) Dodda Betta

(D) Guru Shikhar

Answer: (b) Dodda Betta

Explanation: Dodda Betta is the highest summit of the Nilgiri Hills in Tamil Nadu. Anamudi is higher overall but belongs to another sector of the Western Ghats in Kerala. Guru Shikhar is in Rajasthan’s Aravalli Range.

Northern Mountains

Q66. Which phenomena indicate a youthful folded Himalaya: 1. Deep gorges 2. U-turn rivers 3. Parallel chains 4. Landslide-prone steep slopes?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2012)]

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 1, 2 and 4 only

(D) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Explanation: All four reflect the Himalayan mountain belt’s comparatively recent uplift and active tectonics. Rivers cut deep gorges through rising rock, valleys exhibit complex bends, long chains remain parallel, and unstable steep slopes frequently produce landslides.

Southern and Central Hills

Q65. Which peak is the highest in South India?

[UPPCS Prelims (2012)]

(A) Anamudi

(B) Dodda Betta

(D) Mahendragiri

Answer: (a) Anamudi

Explanation: Anamudi, in Kerala’s Western Ghats, reaches approximately 2,695 metres and is the highest peak of South India. Dodda Betta crowns the Nilgiris but is lower, while Amarkantak and Mahendragiri lie in different physiographic regions.

Plateaus

Q64. The Deccan Trap basalt chiefly formed during which geological period?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2012)]

(A) Cretaceous

(B) Pleistocene

(D) Miocene

Answer: (a) Cretaceous

Explanation: Enormous basaltic lava eruptions around the end of the Cretaceous built the Deccan Traps. Multiple lava flows solidified into layered rock, producing a distinctive plateau surface and soils. This volcanic history differs from sedimentary formation of the northern plains.

Northern Mountains

Q63. Which Indian state among these has no Himalayan mountain ranges?

[MPPSC Prelims (2012)]

(A) Uttarakhand

(B) Uttar Pradesh

(D) Himachal Pradesh

Answer: (b) Uttar Pradesh

Explanation: Uttar Pradesh consists chiefly of the northern plains and adjoining plateau margins; the Himalayan highlands lie immediately to its north in Uttarakhand and Nepal. Sikkim and Himachal Pradesh are both strongly mountainous Himalayan states.

Mountain Peaks

Q62. Which of the listed Aravalli peaks is tallest?

[RAS Prelims (2012)]

(A) Sajjangarh

(B) Lilagarh

(D) Taragarh

Answer: (c) Kumbhalgarh

Explanation: Guru Shikhar is the highest summit in the entire Aravalli chain, but it is absent from the given options. Among those listed, Kumbhalgarh is higher than Sajjangarh, Taragarh and Lilagarh.

Northern Mountains

Q61. Himalayan rivers are perennial, and the Himalayas receive southwest-monsoon rain. Which assertion–reason option is correct?

[UPPCS Mains (2011)]

(A) Both true and reason correctly explains assertion

(B) Both true but reason does not correctly explain assertion

(D) Assertion false, reason true

Answer: (b) Both true but reason does not correctly explain assertion

Explanation: Many major Himalayan rivers receive snowmelt and glacier melt in addition to seasonal precipitation. Their year-round flow is therefore not explained solely by southwest-monsoon rainfall. Both statements can hold, but the proposed reason is insufficient.

Islands

Q60. Sriharikota Island lies close to which lake?

[Chhattisgarh PSC Prelims (2011)]

(A) Chilika Lake

(B) Mahanadi mouth

(D) Godavari mouth

Answer: (c) Pulicat Lake

Explanation: Sriharikota is a barrier island along the Andhra Pradesh coast beside Pulicat Lagoon. It separates part of the lagoon from the Bay of Bengal and hosts the Satish Dhawan Space Centre, India’s principal launch site.

Mountain Passes

Q59. Match Banihal, Nathu La, Niti and Shipki with Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

[UPPCS Mains (2011)]

(A) Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal, Uttarakhand, Sikkim

(B) Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal

(D) Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Jammu and Kashmir, Himachal

Answer: (b) Jammu and Kashmir, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal

Explanation: Banihal crosses the Pir Panjal in the Jammu–Kashmir region; Nathu La is in Sikkim; Niti is in Uttarakhand; and Shipki La lies in Himachal Pradesh. Historical state names reflect the period of the examination.

Islands

Q58. In which sea or gulf is Barren Island situated?

[UPPSC GIC (2010)]

(A) Bay of Bengal

(B) Arabian Sea

(D) South China Sea

Answer: (a) Bay of Bengal

Explanation: Barren Island lies in the Andaman Sea within the wider Bay of Bengal region, east of India’s mainland. It contains an active volcano on the Andaman island arc and is not part of the coral Lakshadweep chain.

Northern Mountains

Q57. Which chain is youngest among Vindhya, Aravalli, Shiwalik and Anamalai?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA (2010)]

(A) Vindhya

(B) Aravalli

(D) Anamalai

Answer: (c) Shiwalik

Explanation: Shiwalik is the outer, geologically young division of the Himalayan system, built largely of sediments shed from the rising mountains. Vindhya and Aravalli are ancient central Indian uplands, while Anamalai belongs to the older southern highland terrain.

Islands

Q56. From which locality does Adam’s Bridge extend toward Sri Lanka?

[UPPSC UDA/LDA Special Prelims (2010)]

(A) Dhanushkodi

(B) Mandapam

(D) Rameswaram town centre

Answer: (a) Dhanushkodi

Explanation: Adam’s Bridge, also called Ram Setu, is a chain of shoals extending from the Dhanushkodi end of Pamban Island toward Sri Lanka’s Mannar Island. The feature separates the Palk region from the Gulf of Mannar.

Coastal Region

Q55. Which coastal designation is associated with the southeastern Tamil Nadu–Andhra shore?

[RAS Prelims (2010)]

(A) Coromandel

(B) Malabar

(D) Konkan

Answer: (a) Coromandel

Explanation: The Coromandel Coast is associated with India’s southeastern shoreline, especially coastal Tamil Nadu and adjacent Andhra Pradesh. The Malabar and Konkan coasts belong to the Arabian Sea side. Northern Circars denotes a more northerly east-coast subdivision.

Northern Mountains

Q54. Shiwalik peaks commonly fall within which altitude range in the cited paper?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2010)]

(A) 850–1200 metres

(B) 750–1100 metres

(D) 750–1300 metres

Answer: (a) 850–1200 metres

Explanation: The Shiwalik belt is the low outer Himalayan chain, with many heights near one kilometre. Local relief varies, so figures represent an approximate examination range rather than a universal elevation limit for every Shiwalik peak.

Mountain Passes

Q53. In which state is Mana Pass located?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2010)]

(A) Uttar Pradesh

(B) Uttarakhand

(D) Himachal Pradesh

Answer: (b) Uttarakhand

Explanation: Mana Pass is a high Himalayan route near the India–Tibet frontier in Uttarakhand, close to the Badrinath region. Such passes are important because they connect interior Himalayan valleys with routes across the main watershed.

Islands

Q52. Which island lies between mainland India and Sri Lanka?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2010)]

(A) Elephanta

(B) Nicobar

(D) Salsette

Answer: (c) Rameswaram

Explanation: Rameswaram, or Pamban Island, lies close to Tamil Nadu’s southeast tip, separated from the mainland by the Pamban Channel. Elephanta and Salsette are in the Mumbai region; Nicobar belongs to the distant Bay of Bengal island group.

Northern Mountains

Q51. Forests are an important resource in which of these Himalayan regions?

[RAS Prelims (2010)]

(A) Western Himalayan resource region

(B) Deccan Plateau region

(D) Coromandel coast

Answer: (a) Western Himalayan resource region

Explanation: Western Himalayan mountains support diverse temperate, coniferous and subalpine forests because altitude and precipitation produce strong ecological zonation. Such forest resources are far more characteristic of this mountain region than arid deserts or low tropical coastlines.

Southern and Central Hills

Q50. Which is India’s oldest fold mountain range?

[UPPCS Prelims (2009)]

(A) Himalaya

(B) Aravalli

(D) Nilgiri

Answer: (b) Aravalli

Explanation: The Aravalli system is an extremely ancient mountain belt that has been deeply denuded through geological time. The Himalayas are much younger, and the Satpura and Nilgiri uplands occupy other parts of the Peninsular relief structure.

Mountain Passes

Q49. Arrange Shipki La, Lipulekh, Nathu La and Bomdi La from west to east.

[UPPCS Lower Subordinate Prelims (2009)]

(A) Shipki La, Nathu La, Bomdi La, Lipulekh

(B) Nathu La, Bomdi La, Lipulekh, Shipki La

(D) Bomdi La, Nathu La, Shipki La, Lipulekh

Answer: (c) Shipki La, Lipulekh, Nathu La, Bomdi La

Explanation: Shipki La is in Himachal Pradesh, Lipulekh in Uttarakhand, Nathu La in Sikkim and Bomdi La in Arunachal Pradesh. Their longitudes therefore increase broadly in that order across the Himalayan borderlands.

Plateaus

Q48. What plateau lies between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges?

[MPPSC Prelims (2008)]

(A) Malwa Plateau

(B) Chotanagpur Plateau

(D) Meghalaya Plateau

Answer: (a) Malwa Plateau

Explanation: The Malwa Plateau lies in western Madhya Pradesh and adjoining Rajasthan between the Aravalli highlands toward the northwest and Vindhyan uplands toward the south. It is part of central India’s broader Peninsular plateau system.

Mountain Passes

Q47. Which mountain pass is situated in Uttarakhand?

[UPPCS Special Mains (2008)]

(A) Jelep La

(B) Lipulekh

(D) Shipki La

Answer: (b) Lipulekh

Explanation: Lipulekh lies in Uttarakhand’s Pithoragarh region and is a route toward Tibet and Kailash Mansarovar. Jelep La and Nathu La are in Sikkim, while Shipki La belongs to Himachal Pradesh.

Coastal Region

Q46. Match the beaches Digha, Gopalpur, Calangute and Marina with states.

[UPPCS Special Mains (2008)]

(A) Tamil Nadu, Odisha, Goa, West Bengal

(B) West Bengal, Odisha, Goa, Tamil Nadu

(D) Goa, Odisha, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu

Answer: (b) West Bengal, Odisha, Goa, Tamil Nadu

Explanation: Digha is in West Bengal, Gopalpur in Odisha, Calangute in Goa and Marina Beach in Tamil Nadu. Two are on the Bay of Bengal coast, one on the Arabian Sea coast and one near Chennai.

Mountain Peaks

Q45. Give the east-to-west order of Namcha Barwa, Kangchenjunga, Everest and Nanda Devi.

[UPPCS Special Mains (2008)]

(A) Dhaulagiri, Kangchenjunga, Makalu, Everest

(B) Namcha Barwa, Kangchenjunga, Nanda Devi, Everest

(D) Namcha Barwa, Kangchenjunga, Everest, Nanda Devi

Answer: (d) Namcha Barwa, Kangchenjunga, Everest, Nanda Devi

Explanation: The eastern Himalayan bend is near Namcha Barwa. Moving west comes Kangchenjunga on the Sikkim–Nepal border, Everest in Nepal and Nanda Devi in Uttarakhand. Their approximate longitudinal positions establish the required sequence.

Plateaus

Q44. Dandakaranya is associated most closely with which two states in the older question?

[UPPCS Special Mains (2008)]

(A) Chhattisgarh and Madhya Pradesh

(B) Chhattisgarh and Odisha

(D) Andhra Pradesh and Jharkhand

Answer: (b) Chhattisgarh and Odisha

Explanation: Dandakaranya is a broad forested upland and plateau region most strongly associated with southern Chhattisgarh and adjoining Odisha. The wider historical–geographical region extends into other neighbouring states, but the listed examination pair is Chhattisgarh and Odisha.

Southern and Central Hills

Q43. The Cardamom Hills are near which state boundary?

[UPPCS Special Prelims (2008)]

(A) Karnataka–Tamil Nadu

(B) Karnataka–Kerala

(D) Tamil Nadu–Andhra Pradesh

Answer: (c) Kerala–Tamil Nadu

Explanation: The Cardamom Hills lie within the southern Western Ghats along the Kerala–Tamil Nadu highlands. The humid slopes support cardamom cultivation, from which the name derives. They are separate from the northern Sahyadri sections.

Mountain Peaks

Q42. Guru Shikhar Peak is in which state?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2007)]

(A) Rajasthan

(B) Gujarat

(D) Maharashtra

Answer: (a) Rajasthan

Explanation: Guru Shikhar is the Aravalli Range’s highest summit, near Mount Abu in Rajasthan’s Sirohi district. Its elevation exceeds 1,700 metres. The peak illustrates the ancient, heavily eroded character of India’s northwestern highlands.

Northern Mountains

Q41. What name is given to the porous plain just south of the Himalayan foothills?

[UPPCS Prelims (2007)]

(A) Tarai

(B) Doon

(D) Bhabar

Answer: (d) Bhabar

Explanation: The Bhabar belt is a narrow, gravelly piedmont zone where streams often disappear into porous deposits after leaving the Siwaliks. Farther south, the water re-emerges in the swampier Tarai belt. Doons are longitudinal valleys within the foothills.

Southern and Central Hills

Q40. The Narmada and Tapi river systems occur on opposing sides of which hills?

[UPPCS Prelims (2007)]

(A) Vindhya

(B) Satpura

(D) Aravalli

Answer: (b) Satpura

Explanation: The Satpura uplands lie broadly between the west-flowing Narmada river to the north and Tapi river to the south. Both are associated with important rift-valley drainage structures within central Peninsular India.

Valleys

Q39. Match Markha, Dzukou, Sangla and Yumthang valleys with Ladakh, Nagaland, Himachal Pradesh and Sikkim.

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2006)]

(A) Himachal, Nagaland, Ladakh, Sikkim

(B) Ladakh, Sikkim, Himachal, Nagaland

(D) Ladakh, Nagaland, Himachal, Sikkim

Answer: (d) Ladakh, Nagaland, Himachal, Sikkim

Explanation: Markha Valley lies in Ladakh, Dzukou on the Nagaland–Manipur highlands, Sangla in Himachal Pradesh and Yumthang in Sikkim. These valleys occur in widely separated Himalayan and northeastern physiographic settings.

Mountain Passes

Q38. Match Bum La, Jelep La, Muling La and Shipki La to Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Uttarakhand and Himachal Pradesh.

[UPPCS Mains (2006)]

(A) Arunachal, Himachal, Sikkim, Uttarakhand

(B) Arunachal, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal

(D) Sikkim, Arunachal, Uttarakhand, Himachal

Answer: (b) Arunachal, Sikkim, Uttarakhand, Himachal

Explanation: Bum La is on the Arunachal frontier, Jelep La is associated with Sikkim, Muling La with Uttarakhand and Shipki La with Himachal Pradesh. The passes occur across different longitudinal sections of the Indian Himalayan border.

Mountain Passes

Q37. Nathu La Pass is found in which Indian state?

[UPPCS Prelims (2006)]

(A) Arunachal Pradesh

(B) Assam

(D) Sikkim

Answer: (d) Sikkim

Explanation: Nathu La lies east of Gangtok in Sikkim and opens into the Chumbi Valley of Tibet. It is a historic border trade route in the eastern Himalaya and should not be confused with passes in Arunachal Pradesh.

Physical Divisions

Q36. Artesian wells are notably associated with which Uttarakhand foothill belt?

[Uttarakhand PSC Mains (2006)]

(A) Bhabar

(B) Tarai

(D) Deccan Plateau

Answer: (b) Tarai

Explanation: The Tarai belt lies south of the permeable Bhabar deposits and often has a high groundwater table. Confined groundwater conditions can create artesian wells. The zone is wetter and more marshy than the gravel-dominated Bhabar belt.

Northern Mountains

Q35. Where does the Lesser Himalaya lie relative to the other Himalayan belts?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2006)]

(A) Between Trans-Himalaya and Great Himalaya

(B) Between Shiwalik and Great Himalaya

(D) South of the Outer Himalaya

Answer: (b) Between Shiwalik and Great Himalaya

Explanation: The Lesser, or Middle, Himalaya lies north of the Shiwaliks and south of the Greater Himalaya. Ranges such as Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal belong broadly to this belt. This north–south arrangement is fundamental to Himalayan physiography.

Southern and Central Hills

Q34. Which statement about Western Ghats, Anamudi, Tapi and the Narmada–Tapi valleys is incorrect?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2005)]

(A) Western Ghats are generally higher in their northern section

(B) Anamudi is the Western Ghats’ highest peak

(D) Narmada and Tapi follow old rift valleys

Answer: (a) Western Ghats are generally higher in their northern section

Explanation: The Western Ghats attain especially high elevations in their southern sector, including Anamudi. The Tapi lies south of the Satpura range, and the Narmada and Tapi are associated with ancient structural troughs. Thus the north-is-higher claim is false.

Valleys

Q33. Consider Silent Valley: 1. It lies in Nallamalai. 2. Pathrakkadavu hydropower was proposed nearby. 3. Kunthi River rises in the valley’s rainforest. What is correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2005)]

(A) 1 and 3

(B) 2 only

(D) 1, 2 and 3

Answer: (c) 2 and 3

Explanation: Silent Valley National Park lies in Kerala’s Western Ghats, not the Nallamalai range of the Eastern Ghats. The Kunthipuzha runs through its rainforest, and a hydroelectric project was proposed nearby. Thus the last two statements are correct.

Islands

Q32. What separates the Andaman and Nicobar island groups?

[UPPCS Prelims (2005)]

(A) Ten Degree Channel

(B) Palk Strait

(D) Nine Degree Channel

Answer: (a) Ten Degree Channel

Explanation: The Ten Degree Channel is the wide marine passage between the Andaman group to the north and Nicobar Islands to the south, approximately along 10°N. The Eight and Nine Degree channels relate instead to the Lakshadweep–Minicoy region.

Coastal Region

Q31. India’s territorial sea normally extends how far from its baseline?

[UPPCS Mains (2005)]

(A) 3 nautical miles

(B) 6 nautical miles

(D) 24 nautical miles

Answer: (c) 12 nautical miles

Explanation: India’s territorial sea extends up to 12 nautical miles from the legally defined baseline. This should not be confused with the 24-nautical-mile contiguous zone or the much broader exclusive economic zone that can extend up to 200 nautical miles.

Mountain Peaks

Q30. Which listed peak does not lie in India?

[UPPCS Mains (2005)]

(A) Gosainthan

(B) Kamet

(D) Trishul

Answer: (a) Gosainthan

Explanation: Gosainthan, also known as Shishapangma, lies in Tibet. Kamet, Nanda Devi and Trishul are major peaks of Uttarakhand’s Himalaya. Nearby international borders make peak-location questions easy to confuse unless the map is checked.

Physical Divisions

Q29. Which claim about Indian physiography is wrong?

[UPPCS Lower Subordinate Prelims (2004)]

(A) The Peninsula is India’s oldest geological block

(B) Himalayas are youthful fold mountains

(D) Gondwana strata contain major Indian coal deposits

Answer: (c) Western coast was built primarily by river deposition

Explanation: India’s western coastal margin is associated with tectonic movements, submergence and marine processes rather than large river-built delta plains. The east coast, by contrast, has broad deltas. The other statements accurately describe major geological features of India.

Mountain Peaks

Q28. Nanda Devi is part of which Himalayan section?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2003)]

(A) Assam Himalaya

(B) Garhwal Himalaya

(D) Punjab Himalaya

Answer: (b) Garhwal Himalaya

Explanation: Nanda Devi rises in Uttarakhand’s Garhwal Himalaya. It is an important peak within the Nanda Devi Biosphere Reserve landscape and is far west of the Nepal and Assam Himalayan sections listed in the alternatives.

Southern and Central Hills

Q27. Which is the oldest mountain range of India?

[RAS Prelims (2003)]

(A) Himalaya

(B) Aravalli

(D) Satpura

Answer: (b) Aravalli

Explanation: The Aravalli Mountains are remnants of one of India’s oldest orogenic systems. Extensive weathering and erosion have reduced their former height. The Himalayas, in contrast, are a much younger actively rising fold mountain belt.

Coastal Region

Q26. Which rounded value approximates India’s full coastline in the older exam?

[Jharkhand PSC Prelims (2003)]

(A) 3,500 km

(B) 800 km

(D) 7,500 km

Answer: (d) 7,500 km

Explanation: The traditional figure for India’s mainland and island coastline was about 7,516.6 kilometres, making 7,500 km the nearest choice. Coastline measurement depends on map scale and surveying methodology, so newer official recalculations need not match historical question figures.

Coastal Region

Q25. Which places are on India’s western coast: 1. Janjira 2. Udupi 3. Auroville 4. Tuticorin?

[UPPCS Lower Subordinate Prelims (2002)]

(A) 1 and 2 only

(B) 2 and 3 only

(D) 1, 2 and 4

Answer: (a) 1 and 2 only

Explanation: Janjira lies on Maharashtra’s Arabian Sea coast and Udupi on Karnataka’s western coast. Auroville and Tuticorin are on the southeastern or eastern coastal side. Hence only the first two locations qualify.

Mountain Peaks

Q24. Who became the first woman to climb Everest twice?

[Uttarakhand PSC Prelims (2002)]

(A) Bachendri Pal

(B) Chandra Prabha Aitwal

(D) Santosh Yadav

Answer: (d) Santosh Yadav

Explanation: Santosh Yadav climbed Mount Everest in 1992 and again in 1993, becoming the first woman to summit it twice. This achievement is distinct from Bachendri Pal’s milestone as the first Indian woman to reach Everest in 1984.

Southern and Central Hills

Q23. According to the question’s approximate-age choices, the Aravalli Range is how old?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (2001)]

(A) 370 million years

(B) 470 million years

(D) 670 million years

Answer: (c) 570 million years

Explanation: The question used an approximate value of 570 million years for the Aravalli belt. The range’s geological history involves much older rocks and multiple tectonic episodes, so the exam figure should be read as a conventional approximation rather than a precise single formation date.

Islands

Q22. In standard examination counting, how many islands make up Lakshadweep?

[45th BPSC Prelims (2001)]

(A) 17

(B) 27

(D) 47

Answer: (c) 36

Explanation: Lakshadweep’s traditional enumeration is 36 islands. They form an Arabian Sea archipelago of reefs, lagoons and atolls southwest of India. Kavaratti serves as its administrative centre, and only part of the island group is inhabited.

Coastal Region

Q21. Which west-coast cities are in correct north–south order: Janjira, Sindhudurg, Kannur and Nagercoil?

[UPPCS UDA/LDA Prelims (2001)]

(A) Janjira, Kannur, Nagercoil, Sindhudurg

(B) Kannur, Janjira, Nagercoil, Sindhudurg

(D) Janjira, Sindhudurg, Kannur, Nagercoil

Answer: (d) Janjira, Sindhudurg, Kannur, Nagercoil

Explanation: Janjira lies on northern coastal Maharashtra, Sindhudurg farther south in Maharashtra, Kannur in Kerala and Nagercoil near India’s southern tip in Tamil Nadu. Their positions establish the direction from the northern Arabian Sea coast toward Kanyakumari.

Southern and Central Hills

Q20. What is the common name of the Western Ghats in Maharashtra and Karnataka?

[44th BPSC Prelims (2000)]

(A) Nilgiri

(B) Sahyadri

(D) Maikal

Answer: (b) Sahyadri

Explanation: Sahyadri is a traditional name for the Western Ghats, especially across Maharashtra and Karnataka. The Nilgiris are a southern section near the three-state junction, whereas Deccan Plateau describes the broader upland to the east.

Northern Mountains

Q19. Which belt forms the foothills or outermost Himalaya?

[43rd BPSC Prelims (1999)]

(A) Trans-Himalaya

(B) Shiwalik

(D) Aravalli

Answer: (b) Shiwalik

Explanation: The Shiwalik or Outer Himalaya is the southernmost major Himalayan range. It consists largely of geologically younger sediments transported from higher ranges. Longitudinal valleys called duns can occur between the Shiwalik and Lesser Himalayan belts.

Valleys

Q18. Between which ranges does the Kullu Valley lie?

[UPPCS Prelims (1999)]

(A) Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal

(B) Ranjoti and Nag Tibba

(D) Middle Himalaya and Shiwalik

Answer: (a) Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal

Explanation: Kullu Valley lies in Himachal Pradesh between Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal highlands. It is a well-known Himalayan valley along the Beas drainage and should not be confused with Kashmir’s larger valley or Ladakh’s cold-desert basins.

Physical Divisions

Q17. Paleomagnetic evidence indicates that the Indian landmass migrated primarily in which direction?

[UPPCS Prelims (1998)]

(A) Northward

(B) Southward

(D) Westward

Answer: (a) Northward

Explanation: India was once attached to Gondwanaland in the Southern Hemisphere. After continental breakup it drifted northward and ultimately collided with Eurasia, producing the Himalayan mountain system. Remanent magnetism in rocks provides evidence for earlier plate positions.

Physical Divisions

Q16. Match Deccan Traps, Western Ghats, Aravalli and Narmada–Tapi deposits with their geological periods. Which coded sequence is correct?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (1997)]

(A) Cretaceous-Eocene, Pleistocene, late Cenozoic, Cambrian

(B) Cretaceous-Eocene, late Cenozoic, Precambrian, Pleistocene

(D) Late Cenozoic, Cambrian, Precambrian, Pleistocene

Answer: (b) Cretaceous-Eocene, late Cenozoic, Precambrian, Pleistocene

Explanation: The examination associated Deccan basalt with Cretaceous–Eocene activity, the Western Ghats with later Cenozoic development, Aravalli rocks with Precambrian history and Narmada–Tapi alluvium with Pleistocene deposits. Different landforms thus record widely separated geologic eras.

Northern Mountains

Q15. Shiwalik sediments were accumulated chiefly during which geological era?

[42nd BPSC Prelims (1997)]

(A) Eozoic

(B) Palaeozoic

(D) Cenozoic

Answer: (d) Cenozoic

Explanation: The Shiwalik Group consists largely of Cenozoic foothill sediments carried from the uplifting Himalayas. Their relatively young age contrasts with the ancient crystalline terrain of Peninsular India. Folding later helped create the Outer Himalayan relief belt.

Islands

Q14. On which Andaman island is Saddle Peak located?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (1996)]

(A) Great Nicobar

(B) Middle Andaman

(D) North Andaman

Answer: (d) North Andaman

Explanation: Saddle Peak stands on North Andaman Island and is the highest summit of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. It should not be confused with Mount Thuillier, which is in the Nicobar sector.

Plateaus

Q13. The extra-peninsular mountain belt of India formed mainly in which era?

[41st BPSC Prelims (1996)]

(A) Eozoic

(B) Palaeozoic

(D) Cenozoic

Answer: (d) Cenozoic

Explanation: The Himalayas are part of the younger extra-peninsular mountain system that formed through Cenozoic collision and uplift. The Peninsular shield, meanwhile, preserves much older rock formations and deeply denuded relief.

Physical Divisions

Q12. How many broad natural divisions of India did the cited classification recognize?

[RAS Prelims (1996)]

(A) Four

(B) Six

(D) Eight

Answer: (a) Four

Explanation: Some classical geography classifications group India into four broad natural regions: northern mountains, great plains, peninsular plateau, and coasts with islands. Other educational schemes divide the country into six major physiographic units, explaining differing classifications.

Mountain Peaks

Q11. Who was the first Indian woman to climb Mount Everest?

[UPPCS Prelims (1996)]

(A) Bachendri Pal

(B) Dicky Dolma

(D) P. T. Usha

Answer: (a) Bachendri Pal

Explanation: Bachendri Pal reached Mount Everest’s summit in 1984 and became the first Indian woman to achieve that feat. Santosh Yadav later became notable for summiting Everest twice. Both are associated with India’s Himalayan mountaineering history.

Physical Divisions

Q10. The ancient Indian subcontinent was part of which large southern landmass?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (1995)]

(A) Jurassic landmass

(B) Aryavarta

(D) Gondwana

Answer: (d) Gondwana

Explanation: India originally belonged to Gondwana together with parts of present-day Africa, Antarctica, Australia and South America. Plate breakup and the northward movement of the Indian plate ultimately resulted in collision with Eurasia and the rise of the Himalayas.

Glaciers

Q9. Which is longest among Gangotri, Kedarnath, Kanchenjunga and Rundun glaciers in the old question?

[UPPCS Prelims (1995)]

(A) Kanchenjunga

(B) Rundun

(D) Kedarnath

Answer: (c) Gangotri

Explanation: Gangotri is a major glacier in Uttarakhand and the longest among those listed in the examination. Meltwater from its snout at Gaumukh gives rise to the Bhagirathi, an important headstream of the Ganga river system.

Mountain Peaks

Q8. Mount Everest is situated on the border region of which country in the traditional option set?

[MPPSC Prelims (1995)]

(A) Pakistan

(B) India

(D) Nepal

Answer: (d) Nepal

Explanation: Everest stands on the Nepal–China (Tibet) boundary, with its summit shared by those territories. Among the question’s alternatives, Nepal was the intended answer. The peak lies outside India and is called Sagarmatha in Nepal.

Southern and Central Hills

Q7. Which of these ranges is oldest in India?

[MPPSC Prelims (1995)]

(A) Himalaya

(B) Aravalli

(D) Satpura

Answer: (b) Aravalli

Explanation: The Aravalli is an ancient, deeply eroded mountain system in northwestern India. Its complicated geological past long predates the Cenozoic Himalayas. Its highest point, Guru Shikhar, lies near Mount Abu in Rajasthan.

Northern Mountains

Q6. Of the main Himalayan parallel ranges, which among the options formed earliest?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (1994)]

(A) Shiwalik

(B) Lesser Himalaya

(D) Dhauladhar

Answer: (c) Great Himalaya

Explanation: The Greater Himalaya formed earlier in the major Himalayan folding sequence than the younger Lesser Himalayan frontal development and Shiwalik sedimentary belt. The question concerns relative phases of mountain building rather than the great antiquity of its component rocks.

Glaciers

Q5. Which snow-line range was given for the eastern Himalayas in the examination?

[39th BPSC Prelims (1994)]

(A) 4,300–6,000 metres

(B) 4,000–5,800 metres in the west

(D) None of these

Answer: (a) 4,300–6,000 metres

Explanation: Snow-line elevation changes with precipitation, slope exposure, latitude and local climatic conditions. The older exam accepted the eastern Himalayan range shown in option A. Regional estimates should be interpreted as broad ranges rather than a fixed boundary across all mountains.

Coastal Region

Q4. What did the ancient geographical name Ratnakara denote?

[UPSC CSE Prelims (1994)]

(A) Arabian Sea

(B) Bay of Bengal

(D) Confluence at Prayag

Answer: (c) Indian Ocean

Explanation: Ratnakara is a traditional Sanskrit expression associated with the great ocean, literally suggesting a store of gems. In the cited geography question it referred to the Indian Ocean rather than a single adjoining sea or river confluence.

Southern and Central Hills

Q3. Which mountain range is considered India’s oldest?

[MPPSC Prelims (1993)]

(A) Himalaya

(B) Aravalli

(D) Satpura

Answer: (b) Aravalli

Explanation: The Aravalli Range has roots in ancient Precambrian orogenic activity. Denudation over immense geological spans reduced its height, unlike the youthful Himalayan belt. Its remnants cross Gujarat, Rajasthan, Haryana and the Delhi region.

Islands

Q2. Which large Indian city historically developed on an island group?

[RAS Prelims (1993)]

(A) Panaji

(B) Rameswaram

(D) Mumbai

Answer: (d) Mumbai

Explanation: Mumbai grew on the former Seven Islands of Bombay, subsequently joined by land reclamation and urban development. Its island origins help explain its intricate harbour and coastal urban history, unlike most mainland cities.

Islands

Q1. Lakshadweep is located in which sea?

[MPPSC Prelims (1990)]

(A) Indian Ocean (general)

(B) Arabian Sea

(D) Pacific Ocean

Answer: (b) Arabian Sea

Explanation: Lakshadweep is an archipelago of coral islands, reefs and atolls in the Arabian Sea west of Kerala. It forms India’s principal Arabian Sea island group, whereas the Andaman and Nicobar Islands lie toward the Bay of Bengal.

General introduction of India

Geological Structure of India

Related posts

Awards and Trophies

Sports

Indian Security System