Physical Features of India

Coastal plains extend along the sea coasts of India. For exams separate eastern and western coasts.

The peninsular part of India is surrounded by sea on three sides. For exams observe the map of South India.

The Northern Plains were formed by alluvial deposits brought by the Indus, Ganga and Brahmaputra river systems. Their flat, fertile land is distinctive; the Peninsular Plateau consists mainly of ancient hard rocks. Exam tip: link alluvium with river deposition.

The Arabian Sea lies to the west of India. For exams remember its link with the western coast.

The Indian Ocean lies to the south of India. For exams remember the peninsula surrounded by water on three sides.

Himalayan glaciers supply water to many rivers. For exams remember the link between Himalayas and river sources.

Northern Plains are fertile and water rich so they are suitable for settlement. For exams remember the agriculture population link.

Plateau regions are often made of very old igneous and metamorphic rocks. These rocks may contain minerals such as iron ore, manganese, bauxite and mica. Therefore, option A is correct. The presence of only ice or loose soil is not a general reason for high mineral occurrence. Exam tip: Remember the Chotanagpur Plateau of India for minerals such as iron ore, coal and mica.

India has mountains deserts plains plateaus coasts and islands. For exams remember the six main divisions.

While studying physical features identifying main landforms on the map is most useful. For exams practice maps.

Himadri is the highest range of the Greater Himalaya. For exams connect Himadri with high peaks.

Dehradun is an example of a Dun valley between Shiwalik and Lesser Himalaya. For exams remember Dun means mountain valley.

Ladakh is called a cold desert due to high altitude and low rainfall. For exams consider it a Himalayan dry region.

Naga Hills are linked with the Purvanchal region of Northeast India. For exams remember Naga Mizo Patkai together.

The Ganga Plain is made of alluvial soil brought by rivers. For exams remember it as a fertile plain.

The Brahmaputra flows through the Assam Valley in India. For exams remember Brahmaputra and Assam together.

Sundarbans lies in the large delta of the Ganga Brahmaputra river system. For exams also remember mangroves.

The Western Ghats lie along the western boundary of the Deccan Plateau. For exams also remember the name Sahyadri.

The Eastern Ghats lie near the eastern edge of the Deccan Plateau. For exams remember them as more discontinuous ghats.

The Tapi flows westward like the Narmada and joins the Arabian Sea. For exams remember both together.