Physical Divisions of India Complete Notes for SSC, UPSC, OSSSC & Railway Exams

Physical Divisions of India – Complete Geography Notes


1. Introduction

India has diverse physical features formed by geological processes such as plate tectonics, erosion, and deposition. Based on relief and structure, India is divided into six major physical divisions.

These divisions help us understand climate, rivers, agriculture, and natural resources.


1. The Himalayan Mountains

The Himalayas are the youngest and highest fold mountains in the world.

Important Features

  • Stretch about 2400 km from west to east
  • Width: 150–400 km
  • Act as a natural barrier protecting India from cold winds

Three Parallel Ranges

  1. Himadri (Greater Himalayas)

    • Highest range
    • Average height about 6000 meters
    • Contains many glaciers
  2. Himachal (Lesser Himalayas)

    • Located south of Himadri
    • Famous hill stations like Shimla
  3. Shiwalik Range

    • Outermost range
    • Lowest height
    • Contains valleys called Duns

2. Northern Plains

The Indo-Gangetic Plain is one of the most fertile regions in the world.

Formation

  • Formed by alluvial deposits of rivers.

Major Rivers

  • Ganga River
  • Brahmaputra River
  • Indus River

Characteristics

  • Flat and fertile land
  • Ideal for agriculture
  • Densely populated

Three Parts

  1. Punjab Plains
  2. Ganga Plains
  3. Brahmaputra Plains

3. The Peninsular Plateau

The Deccan Plateau is the oldest landmass of India.

Important Features

  • Triangular plateau
  • Rich in minerals and resources
  • Average height 600–900 meters

Two Main Parts

  1. Central Highlands
  2. Deccan Plateau

Major Rivers

  • Godavari River
  • Krishna River
  • Kaveri River

4. Indian Desert

The Thar Desert is located in western India.

Features

  • Very low rainfall
  • Sandy soil with sand dunes
  • Sparse vegetation

Important River

  • Luni River

5. Coastal Plains

India has long coastlines along the Arabian Sea and Bay of Bengal.

Two Coastal Plains

  1. Western Coastal Plains

    • Narrow plain
    • Includes Konkan Coast and Malabar Coast
  2. Eastern Coastal Plains

    • Wider plain
    • Includes Northern Circars and Coromandel Coast

6. Islands of India

India has two major island groups.

1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands

Located in the Bay of Bengal.

Example:

  • Barren Island (only active volcano in India)

2. Lakshadweep Islands

Located in the Arabian Sea.

Features:

  • Coral islands
  • Beautiful lagoons

Summary Table

Physical Division Key Feature
Himalayan Mountains Highest mountains
Northern Plains Fertile agricultural land
Peninsular Plateau Oldest landmass
Indian Desert Sandy and dry region
Coastal Plains Long coastline
Islands Coral and volcanic islands

Important Exam Questions

  1. Highest mountain range in India → Himalayas
  2. Largest plateau in India → Deccan Plateau
  3. Indian desert name → Thar Desert
  4. Active volcano in India → Barren Island



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