India comprises six physiographic divisions: Northern Mountains, Northern Plains, Peninsular Plateau, Indian Desert, Coastal Plains, and Islands.
India’s physical structure is the result of ancient geological processes, including the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates.
India has both Himalayan (perennial) and Peninsular (seasonal) river systems, forming complex drainage patterns.
The Himalayas block cold Central Asian winds, while the Indian Ocean influences monsoonal winds, shaping India’s diverse climates.
From alluvial in the north to black, red, laterite, arid, and forest soils, each region supports unique vegetation and farming patterns.
India’s varied geography contributes to it being one of the world’s 17 megadiverse countries, with multiple ecological zones.
Introduction
India’s physical geography plays a central role in defining its climatic patterns, biodiversity, resource distribution, and demographic settlements. From the glacial Himalayas to the humid coastal plains, it showcases exceptional geodiversity, crucial for civil services and other competitive exams.
Major Physiographic Divisions
- Himalayan Mountains: Young fold mountains divided into Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik ranges; source of perennial rivers.
- Northern Plains: Alluvial plains formed by the Ganga, Brahmaputra, and Indus systems, known for high agricultural productivity.
- Peninsular Plateau: Oldest landmass with volcanic origin; includes the Deccan Plateau and Central Highlands.
- Thar Desert: Arid region with sand dunes and sparse vegetation; dependent on monsoon rainfall and canal irrigation.
- Coastal Plains: Divided into Western and Eastern coasts; host ports, lagoons, and deltaic formations.
- Islands: Includes the coral-origin Lakshadweep and the volcanic Andaman & Nicobar Islands.
Geological History
The Indian subcontinent was part of Gondwana land and drifted northward after breaking away. The collision with the Eurasian plate gave rise to the Himalayas, influencing India’s topography and climate over millions of years.
Climatic Zones
India experiences tropical, subtropical, and alpine climates. Geography plays a critical role in monsoon behavior, with variations in rainfall and temperature influenced by altitude, latitude, ocean currents, and landform barriers.
Natural Resources & Soil
The geological structure determines the distribution of minerals, forest cover, water availability, and agriculture-friendly soils such as black (cotton) and alluvial (wheat, rice).
Conclusion
India’s physical geography is not only a foundation of its ecological and cultural identity but also a key subject in academic and competitive exam contexts. A strong conceptual grasp of terrain types, formation processes, and resource allocation is vital for aspirants in UPSC, SSC, State PSCs, and other exams.
