RPSC Geography: Climate

Arid and Semi-arid continental Rajasthan’s climate is predominantly characterized by extreme temperatures and sparse rainfall. Large parts of the state fall under the arid and semi-arid categories due to its geographical location. The Thar Desert dictates these characteristics, leading to a continental climate with significant temperature variations between summer and winter seasons across the diverse topography of the region.

It creates an intense low-pressure trough attracting the Southwest monsoon. During the summer months, the intense heating of the sandy terrain in the Thar Desert creates a deep low-pressure zone. This meteorological phenomenon is crucial as it acts as a thermal engine, drawing moisture-laden winds from the high-pressure areas over the Indian Ocean. This pressure gradient facilitates the advancement of the southwest monsoon into northern India.

Both statements are correct and Statement II explains Statement I. Western Rajasthan experiences a higher diurnal temperature range primarily because of its sandy soil. Sand has a low specific heat capacity, causing it to heat up very rapidly under solar radiation during the day and lose heat quickly through radiation at night. This physical property of the desert surface leads to extreme fluctuations between daytime highs and nighttime lows.

A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i Koeppen’s classification identifies Jaisalmer as part of the arid BWhw region, while Sikar falls under the semi-arid BShw category. Dausa is situated in the sub-humid Cwg region, and Dungarpur belongs to the tropical Aw zone. These classifications reflect the distinct variations in precipitation and temperature patterns observed across the diverse geographical landscapes of the state of Rajasthan. Click Here to Buy book

Western Rajasthan winter temperatures never drop below freezing. In reality, winter temperatures in the arid and semi-arid regions of western Rajasthan frequently dip below the freezing point. During intense cold waves, frost formation is a common phenomenon in districts like Churu and Bikaner. The sandy soil’s rapid heat loss at night facilitates these sub-zero temperatures, contradicting the claim that they never fall below zero degrees Celsius.

II and III The western desert remains dry because the Arabian Sea monsoon branch travels parallel to the Aravalli Range, preventing moisture-laden winds from rising. Additionally, these mountains act as a significant physical barrier that blocks the Bay of Bengal branch from penetrating into the western parts. These combined factors lead to sparse rainfall and arid conditions in the western region.

Western Disturbances from the Mediterranean Sea Mawath refers to the light winter rainfall received primarily in the northern and western parts of the state. This precipitation is caused by shallow cyclonic depressions known as Western Disturbances. These systems originate over the Mediterranean Sea and are transported to the Indian subcontinent by the sub-tropical westerly jet stream, providing vital moisture during the winter months.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. The Arabian Sea branch of the southwest monsoon yields very low rainfall in the western desert region. This occurs because the Aravalli mountain range is aligned almost parallel to the direction of the incoming moisture-laden winds. Consequently, the mountains fail to provide the necessary orographic barrier required to force the winds to rise, cool, and precipitate effectively. on Amazon

Loo The term Loo describes the intense, hot, and dry westerly winds that sweep across the plains of northern and western India during May and June. In Rajasthan, these winds are a defining feature of the summer season. They originate from the desert regions and can cause severe dehydration and heatstroke due to their extremely high temperatures and low humidity.

I, II, III and IV Rajasthan is divided into several climatic zones based on annual rainfall. The arid region includes western districts like Jaisalmer with minimal rain. The semi-arid zone covers central districts like Nagaur, while sub-humid and humid zones receive progressively higher rainfall in the eastern and southeastern parts. However, the very humid region generally records 80 to 100 centimeters of rainfall annually.

Western Rajasthan would receive heavy rainfall from the Arabian Sea branch. If the Aravalli Range were aligned from east to west, it would act as a massive physical barrier to the Arabian Sea monsoon branch moving northward. This orientation would force the moisture-laden winds to rise and precipitate on the southern slopes, leading to heavy rainfall in western Rajasthan. This change would transform the desert landscape into a more humid region.

Influence of the cold ocean currents in the Bay of Bengal Rajasthan’s climate is shaped by its continental location, distance from the sea, and the orientation of the Aravalli Range. However, the Bay of Bengal does not have significant cold ocean currents that influence the state’s weather patterns. Instead, it serves as a source of moisture- laden monsoon winds that enter the state from the east and southeast during the summer.

Mawath Loo, Andhi, and Jhola are all atmospheric phenomena associated with the hot summer season or dry wind patterns in the region. In contrast, Mawath refers specifically to winter rainfall caused by Western Disturbances. This precipitation is a cool-season occurrence that is highly beneficial for Rabi crops, distinguishing it from the heat-related wind and storm patterns of the summer months.

A-iv, B-i, C-iii, D-ii Jhalawar receives the highest average annual rainfall among all districts, while Churu is noted for recording the highest average annual temperatures. Mount Abu, due to its high elevation, experiences the lowest winter temperatures in the state. Phalodi is recognized as the place that frequently records the highest extreme summer temperatures because of its geographical location in the desert.

Sri Ganganagar Sri Ganganagar district records the highest average number of dust storm days in Rajasthan annually, typically around twenty-seven days. These storms, locally called Andhi, occur most frequently during the peak summer months. They are triggered by intense convective activity and localized low-pressure systems over the dry, sandy terrain of northern Rajasthan, often providing a temporary reprieve from extreme heat.

Only II The period from mid-June to September is actually the season of the advancing southwest monsoon, not the retreating monsoon. The retreating phase typically occurs from October to November as the high-pressure system begins to establish itself over the region. This transition marks the end of the rainy season and leads into the cool, dry winter months across the state.

Erratic, highly variable, and sparse rainfall combined with high evapotranspiration Western Rajasthan faces frequent droughts due to its highly erratic and sparse rainfall patterns, which show significant inter-annual variability. Furthermore, the extremely high temperatures in the region lead to high potential evapotranspiration rates. This combination of low moisture input and high water loss ensures a persistent state of water deficit, making the region highly vulnerable to recurring drought conditions.

DB’w - Semi-arid mixed climate Thornthwaite’s classification for Rajasthan identifies the DB’w zone as representing a semi- (2) A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv (3) A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i (4) A-ii, B-i, C-iv, D-iii (5) Question not attempted 1

Increased occurrences of both extreme high temperatures and erratic intense rainfall events Recent observations indicate that climate change is causing more frequent extreme weather events in Rajasthan. This includes a notable rise in peak summer temperatures and a shift towards erratic, high-intensity rainfall episodes. These intense bursts of rain often lead to localized flooding even in traditionally arid districts, while the intervals between rainfall events remain dry, complicating the state’s water management.

10-20 cm, 20-40 cm, 40-60 cm, 60-80 cm As one moves from the western border of Jaisalmer towards the eastern plains of Rajasthan, the average annual rainfall increases progressively. The extreme west receives minimal rain, under 20 centimeters. This amount rises across the semi-arid central plains to about 40-60 centimeters. Finally, the eastern and southeastern districts receive higher precipitation, typically ranging between 60 and 80 centimeters annually.

Statement I is incorrect and Statement II is correct. The Northeast monsoon originates over the continental landmass and travels towards the sea, making these winds dry and cold. Consequently, they carry very little moisture and do not provide substantial agricultural benefits to Rajasthan. The state’s primary source of rainfall is the Southwest monsoon, while the light winter rains, known as Mawath, are caused by Western Disturbances instead.

It leads to a temporary drop in temperature accompanied by higher humidity or light drizzle. Dust storms, or Andhi, typically occur during the afternoons of the summer months. They are convective in nature and often lead to a sudden, temporary drop in local temperatures as they block solar radiation and may be accompanied by light drizzle or an increase in humidity. This provides a brief, welcome relief from the scorching heat and dry conditions. Click Here to Buy book

Banswara is generally the first district to receive advancing Southwest Monsoon rainfall. The Southwest monsoon typically enters Rajasthan from the southern and southeastern parts. Banswara district, located at the southernmost tip, is generally the first to experience the arrival of the monsoon winds, usually by the middle of June. From there, the monsoon gradually advances towards the northwest, although its intensity and reliability decrease as it moves further into the desert.

A-iv, B-iii, C-i, D-ii Trewartha’s climatic classification maps the Aw code to the southern tropical regions, while BSh represents the semi-arid transitional steppe. The BWh code is assigned to the extreme western desert, characterized by high temperatures and minimal rain. Finally, the Caw classification corresponds to the southeastern region, reflecting its sub-humid characteristics and seasonal variations in precipitation and temperature patterns.

Mawath rainfall in winter Mawath refers to the rainfall received during the winter season, which is caused by Western Disturbances originating from the Mediterranean region. Farmers in Rajasthan consider these raindrops “golden” because they are exceptionally beneficial for Rabi crops, especially wheat, mustard, and gram. This timely moisture during the growing phase significantly enhances crop yields and the overall agricultural productivity of the region.

Only III The claim that frost is unknown in the sandy plains of northwestern Rajasthan is incorrect. In fact, these regions frequently experience frost during the peak of winter when temperatures drop below freezing. The rapid cooling of the sandy soil under clear skies at night facilitates the formation of frost, which can significantly impact local vegetation and agricultural practices in those areas.

Pratapgarh Barmer, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur are central districts within the arid Thar Desert, characterized by sparse rainfall and frequent droughts. In contrast, Pratapgarh is located in on Amazon

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. Light winter rainfall in northern Rajasthan is highly beneficial for the cultivation of wheat and other Rabi crops. This precipitation is delivered by Western Disturbances, which are extra- tropical storms originating in the Mediterranean region. These systems are steered toward India by the sub-tropical westerly jet stream, providing essential moisture to the northern plains during the otherwise dry winter months.

Hot, dry, intense westerly winds blowing during the afternoon in early summer. Loo refers to the extremely hot and dry winds that blow from the west across the plains of northern India and Rajasthan. These winds typically peak in intensity during May and June. They are characterized by their high temperatures, often exceeding forty-five degrees Celsius, and can cause life-threatening conditions such as heatstroke and severe dehydration due to their desiccating nature.

Only V The statement that westernmost districts experience more than forty rainy days per year is incorrect. In reality, districts like Jaisalmer have very few rainy days, often averaging fewer than ten per year. While the state receives most of its rain from the Southwest monsoon and has a major divide in the Aravallis, the western desert is characterized by minimal rainy days.

An extremely high annual and diurnal range of temperature. Continentality refers to the climatic effect of being located far from the moderating influence of the sea. In western Rajasthan, this manifests as extreme temperature variations. The region experiences scorching summers and very cold winters, alongside a high diurnal range where daytime heat dissipates rapidly at night. This lack of marine influence leads to sharp contrasts in temperature throughout the year.

Direction of retreating monsoon - Southwest to Northeast The retreating monsoon actually moves from the Northeast to the Southwest as the high-pressure system builds over the land and winds begin to blow towards the sea. The other pairs are correct: the 25 cm isohyet divides the arid and semi-arid zones, the Aravalli Range is the principal divide, and moisture for the Bay of Bengal branch originates in the ocean.

Mount Abu Mount Abu, the highest point in the Aravalli Range, receives the highest average annual rainfall in Rajasthan, often exceeding 150 centimeters. This is due to its high altitude, which causes moisture-laden monsoon winds to rise and precipitate through orographic lifting. While Jhalawar is the wettest district overall, Mount Abu remains the specific location with the most significant precipitation in the state.

A-iii, B-ii, C-iv, D-i Sri Ganganagar experiences the highest frequency of dust storms, averaging about twenty-seven days annually. Bikaner follows with approximately eighteen days. In contrast, Ajmer in the central region has only three to five days of dust storms, and Jhalawar in the southeast records fewer than three days. This pattern shows a clear decrease in storm frequency from the northwest to the southeast.

Dungarpur Koeppen’s BWhw code represents the hot desert climate, which covers the arid western districts like Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and parts of Barmer. Dungarpur, however, is located in the southern part of the state and belongs to the tropical Aw climate region. It receives much higher rainfall and has a different vegetation profile, making it the odd one out in this list.

Only I The statement that the Arabian Sea branch brings heavier rainfall to the eastern plains than the Bay of Bengal branch is incorrect. In reality, the Bay of Bengal branch is the primary source of significant rainfall for the eastern and southeastern parts of Rajasthan. The Arabian Sea branch mostly passes parallel to the Aravallis, providing less precipitation to the eastern plains. arid or steppe-type climate with a moisture deficit in all seasons. This region typically covers the northern parts of the state. Other codes include EA’d for the arid western desert and DA’w for the sub-humid to semi-arid tropical regions covering central and southeastern parts of the state.

Retreat is marked by clear skies and a drastic drop in daytime temperatures. During the withdrawal of the monsoon, the transition is actually marked by clear skies and a temporary rise in daytime temperatures, often referred to as “October Heat.” While nights may become cooler, the daytime heat remains intense due to high humidity and clear sunlight. The significant drop in daytime temperatures only occurs later with the arrival of the winter season in November.

Moisture-laden winds associated with the Bay of Bengal monsoon branch. Purvaiya refers to the moisture-bearing winds that enter Rajasthan from the east and southeast. These winds are part of the Bay of Bengal branch of the southwest monsoon. They are responsible for bringing significant rainfall to the eastern and southeastern districts of the state. The name “Purvaiya” literally translates to “from the east,” reflecting the direction from which these winds blow.

Statement I is correct and Statement II is incorrect. Meteorological data confirms that traditionally arid regions like Barmer have indeed experienced rare, extreme flood events due to erratic rainfall patterns. However, Statement II is incorrect because climate change is actually increasing the frequency and intensity of extreme weather events, such as heatwaves and flash floods, rather than reducing them. The state is facing more unpredictable and volatile weather conditions.

I, III, IV, II Rainfall in Rajasthan increases from the northwest towards the southeast. Jaisalmer, in the extreme west, has the lowest rainfall. Jodhpur, located in the semi-arid zone, receives slightly more. Jaipur, in the sub-humid eastern region, has a higher average, while Jhalawar in the southeast receives the highest amount. This sequence accurately reflects the state’s geographical distribution of annual precipitation levels.

May In Rajasthan, May is statistically the hottest month of the year across most regions. During this time, the sun is positioned directly over the northern hemisphere, leading to intense solar radiation. The dry, sandy terrain of the Thar Desert heats up rapidly, and the prevalence of hot “Loo” winds further elevates temperatures, often reaching extremes before the monsoon onset in June.

Lack of clouds, low humidity, and low specific heat of dry sandy soil. The Thar Desert’s extreme diurnal temperature range is caused by several factors. The dry, sandy soil has a low specific heat capacity, meaning it heats up very quickly during the day and cools down rapidly at night. Additionally, clear skies and low atmospheric humidity allow for maximum solar radiation intake during the day and unrestricted terrestrial radiation escape at night.

The Aravalli Mountain Range The 50 cm isohyet line, which represents areas receiving 500 millimeters of annual rainfall, runs nearly parallel to the Aravalli Mountain Range. This geographical feature acts as a major climatic divide in Rajasthan. Regions to the west of the Aravallis generally receive less than 50 cm of rain, while the eastern and southeastern regions typically receive more than this amount.

A-iv, B-ii, C-i, D-iii The arid region is defined by minimal rainfall, typically between 0 and 20 centimeters. The semi-arid region receives between 20 and 40 centimeters. The sub-humid region, located mostly along the Aravallis, gets 40 to 60 centimeters. Finally, the humid region in eastern Rajasthan receives 60 to 80 centimeters of rain annually. These categories help classify the state’s diverse ecological and agricultural zones.

Location away from the sea results in a continental climate with temperature extremes. Rajasthan’s inland location, far from the moderating effects of any ocean, gives it a characteristic continental climate. This results in significant seasonal and daily temperature fluctuations, with very hot summers and cold winters. The lack of nearby large water bodies means there is no maritime influence to stabilize temperatures, leading to the extreme weather conditions observed across most of the state’s territory.

I, II and III Mawath, the winter rainfall caused by Western Disturbances, is highly beneficial for all major Rabi crops in Rajasthan. Wheat, gram (chickpea), and mustard all require some moisture during their growing period in the cool season. This precipitation helps in better grain formation and increases the overall yield, making it an essential meteorological event for the agricultural economy of northern India.

Bikaner Koeppen’s Cwg classification describes a monsoon climate with a dry winter, which is typical for the eastern and northeastern parts of Rajasthan, including Bharatpur, Dholpur, and Sawai Madhopur. Bikaner, however, is located in the northern part of the arid western desert. It falls under the BWhw (hot desert) or BShw (semi-arid) categories, characterized by much lower rainfall and higher aridity.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. A major portion of Rajasthan, particularly the west, is classified as drought-prone. This geographic reality is driven by the highly erratic and sparse nature of the monsoon rains. High temperatures further increase evaporation, while the absence of perennial rivers in the desert regions makes it difficult to maintain water security. These combined factors lead to persistent and recurring water deficits across the state.

The 25 cm isohyet line Climatologically, the 25 cm isohyet line serves as the critical boundary between the purely arid desert (Marusthali) and the semi-arid transitional steppe region in western Rajasthan. Areas receiving less than 25 centimeters of annual rainfall are considered arid, while those receiving between 25 and 50 centimeters fall into the semi-arid category. This line marks a significant change in vegetation and land use.

I, III and IV Climate change in Rajasthan is evident through shifts in the monsoon cycle, with frequent delays in onset and earlier withdrawals. Additionally, heatwaves are becoming more severe during summers, and there is an increase in unseasonal Downloaded from rainfall and hailstorms that threaten Rabi crops. However, the claim that total annual rainfall has increased uniformly by 50% across all western districts is scientifically inaccurate.

High potential evapotranspiration significantly exceeds actual precipitation. Aridity is not just a function of low rainfall but also of high water loss. In western Rajasthan, the potential evapotranspiration—the amount of water that would evaporate and transpire if moisture were available—is extremely high due to intense solar radiation and high temperatures. Because this potential loss far exceeds the actual precipitation received, the region remains fundamentally arid even in moderate years.

DB’w - Characterized by extremely high winter rainfall suitable for Kharif crops. This pairing is incorrect because the DB’w zone, representing the semi-arid northern parts of Rajasthan, is not characterized by “extremely high” winter rainfall. Furthermore, Kharif crops are grown during the monsoon season, not based on winter rains. Thornthwaite’s DB’w actually indicates a region with a moisture deficit throughout the year and only light, sporadic rainfall, primarily during the winter and monsoon periods.

Both statements are correct and Statement II explains Statement I. Frost formation is indeed observed in several parts of Rajasthan during peak winter, especially in the northern districts and the elevated Aravalli region. This occurs because nighttime temperatures can drop below the freezing point during intense cold waves. When this happens, the moisture in the air undergoes deposition, turning directly from a gas to solid ice crystals on surfaces like leaves and soil.

A-iv, B-i, C-ii, D-iii In the context of Rajasthan’s climate, Grishma Ritu or summer lasts from March to mid-June. Varsha Ritu, the monsoon season, spans from mid-June to September. Sharad Ritu, the period of the retreating monsoon or autumn, occurs during October and November. Finally, Shishir or Hemant Ritu, representing the winter season, extends through the months of December, January, and February across the state. A. Great Indian Bustard B. Bengal Tiger C. Siberian Crane (Historical visitor) D. Flying Squirrel List II: (Primary Protected Area in Rajasthan) i. Keoladeo Ghana National Park ii. Sitamata Wildlife Sanctuary iii. Ranthambore National Park iv. Desert National Park (1) A-iv, B-iii, C-i, D-ii (2) A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv (3) A-iv, B-i, C-iii, D-ii (4) A-iii, B-iv, C-ii, D-i (5) Question not attempted 1

Mount Abu Mount Abu records the highest number of rainy days in Rajasthan, typically averaging around forty-eight days per year. This high frequency is attributed to its mountainous topography and elevation, which forces the moisture-laden winds of the southwest monsoon to rise and cool. This orographic effect results in more frequent and sustained precipitation compared to the surrounding plains and the arid desert regions.

I and IV Statement I is incorrect because Loo is a dry, hot wind, not moisture-laden. Statement IV is also incorrect because the frequency of dust storms (Andhi) is highest in the northwestern districts like Sri Ganganagar and Bikaner, rather than in the southeastern districts. Andhi does lead to a temporary drop in temperature, and Loo is indeed a severe heatwave phenomenon in the summer.

Pachpadra, Lunkaransar, Sambhar, Siliserh Arranging Rajasthan’s lakes from west to east requires tracking their district locations. Pachpadra is in the far west (Barmer), followed by Lunkaransar in the northwest (Bikaner). Moving east, we find Sambhar Lake near the center (Jaipur boundary). Finally, Siliserh Lake is located in the eastern district of Alwar, completing the longitudinal sequence across the state’s diverse and vast geographical landscape.

I, II, III, IV and V Sambhar Lake is a complex saline ecosystem fed by several rivers like the Mendha and Rupangarh. It is a designated Ramsar site, reflecting its international ecological importance. Managed by Hindustan Salts Limited, it is also historically significant; the Bijolia inscription attributes its construction to Vasudev Chauhan. These factors highlight the lake’s multifaceted role in the state’s economy, history, and environment.

Tal Chhapar - Churu Tal Chhapar is a small saline depression located in the Churu district, which is also famous for its Blackbuck sanctuary. While many of Rajasthan’s prominent salt lakes like Sambhar and Didwana are in the central region, Tal Chhapar represents the saline features found in the northern desert area. Other mentioned lakes like Degana and Kuchaman are located in the Nagaur and Didwana-Kuchaman districts respectively.

An outbreak of Avian Botulism In recent years, Sambhar Lake witnessed a tragic ecological disaster involving the death of thousands of migratory birds. Scientific investigations confirmed that the primary cause was an outbreak of Avian Botulism, a serious neuromuscular illness caused by a toxin produced by the bacterium Clostridium botulinum. This event highlighted the vulnerability of the lake’s ecosystem to changing environmental conditions and biological pathogens.

Gomti Jaisamand Lake, historically known as Dhebar Lake, was created in the 17th century by Maharana Jai Singh. It was formed by constructing a massive marble dam across the Gomti River. Located in the Udaipur region, it remains one of the largest artificial freshwater lakes in the world, serving as a vital source of water and a major attraction for tourists.

A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i Rajasthan’s freshwater lakes are distributed across several districts, each with its own history. Rajsamand Lake is in its namesake district, while Jaisamand is now part of the Salumbar district. Fateh Sagar is a jewel of Udaipur city, and Nakki Lake is uniquely located in the hill station of Mount Abu in Sirohi. These lakes are central to regional tourism and water management.

Rajsamand The Rajsamand Lake is famous for its ‘Nau Chowki Pal’, a beautiful embankment where 25 marble slabs are installed. These slabs contain the ‘Raj Prashasti’, which is considered the longest stone inscription in India, detailing the history of the Mewar dynasty. Constructed by Maharana Raj Singh, the lake and its artistic embankment represent a significant intersection of engineering and historical documentation.

A-iv, B-iii, C-ii, D-i The 10 cm isohyet represents the extreme western border, while the 25 cm line divides the arid desert into purely arid and semi-arid zones. The 40 cm isohyet marks the western limit of the steppe region, and the 50 cm line roughly bisects the state along the Aravallis. These lines are essential for mapping the rainfall gradients and ecological zones across Rajasthan.

Triggering intense tropical cyclones over the Thar desert in the month of June. Western Disturbances are primarily winter phenomena that bring light rainfall to northern India between December and February. They are not associated with the formation of tropical cyclones, which typically occur in the pre- monsoon and post-monsoon periods over oceanic regions. Furthermore, June weather in the Thar Desert is dominated by heatwaves and the arrival of the monsoon rather than these Mediterranean- origin disturbances.

II and III Statement II is incorrect because continentality actually causes extreme variations between summer and winter temperatures. Statement III is also incorrect because the highest temperatures are recorded in the northern and western desert districts like Churu and Phalodi, not in the southern tribal belt. Temperature inversions, however, are a common and correct phenomenon observed in the desert during clear winter nights.

Both statements are correct but Statement II does not explain Statement I. The northward shift of the ITCZ over the Thar Desert creates a low-pressure trough that draws in monsoon winds, which is a fundamental meteorological process. Separately, the characteristics of this trough indeed dictate the rainfall intensity. While both statements are facts regarding the monsoon mechanism in Rajasthan, the second statement describes the result of the trough’s behavior rather than explaining why it forms.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. Mount Abu experiences significantly cooler summer temperatures compared to the nearby low-lying plains of Jalore and Sirohi. This is a Click Here to Buy book direct consequence of the environmental lapse rate, which states that atmospheric temperature decreases as altitude increases. Because Mount Abu is situated at a high elevation in the Aravalli Range, it remains much cooler than the surrounding regions despite the intense summer heat.

It occurs on average once every 2 to 3 years. Long-term climatic data for western Rajasthan shows that drought is a frequent and recurring phenomenon. In the most arid districts, meteorological or agricultural drought occurs on average once every two to three years. This high frequency is due to the extreme variability and unreliability of the monsoon rains in the Thar Desert region, making water security a constant challenge for the local population.

I and V Statement I is incorrect because the Arid region covers approximately 60% of the state’s area, not 20%. Statement V is also incorrect because the Very Humid region is not extensive; it is limited to specific areas in the southeast and the Mount Abu region, rather than covering the entire northern plains. The descriptions for the Semi-arid, Sub-humid, and Humid regions are generally accurate.

Lack of rain, porous sandy surfaces, and extreme potential evapotranspiration. Bikaner district lacks flowing rivers due to its extreme arid environment. The region receives very little annual rainfall, which is insufficient to sustain permanent water bodies. Furthermore, the highly porous sandy soil causes any surface water to infiltrate quickly. Combined with exceptionally high potential evapotranspiration rates driven by heat and wind, moisture is lost before it can form stable drainage channels or river systems.

BWhw - Hot desert climate with dry winter In Koeppen’s classification system, the code BWhw specifically represents a hot desert climate characterized by low precipitation and dry winters. This classification is perfectly suited for the western parts of Rajasthan, including the Thar Desert. The other options provided in the question misrepresent the standard codes used on Amazon (3) They contain species like mango, jamun, and bamboo. (4) They are dominated by thorny bushes and cacti. (5) Question not attempted 4

Formation of dense algal blooms that deplete dissolved oxygen. An immediate and critical consequence of lake eutrophication is the formation of dense algal blooms on the water’s surface. As these algae die and decompose, the process consumes vast amounts of dissolved oxygen. This depletion creates “dead zones” where fish and other aquatic organisms cannot survive. Consequently, the biodiversity of the lake drops sharply, and the water becomes unsuitable for use.

A-i, B-ii, C-iii, D-iv Rajasthan’s wetlands and lakes have varying conservation statuses. Sambhar Lake and Keoladeo Ghana are both recognized Ramsar sites, designated in 1990 and 1981 respectively. Mansagar Lake in Jaipur is known for its restoration via a public-private partnership. Meanwhile, Ana Sagar in Ajmer faces typical challenges of urban lakes, such as siltation and encroachment. These classifications help prioritize national conservation efforts.

The National Lake Conservation Plan (NLCP) is funded entirely (100%) by the State Government of Rajasthan. The National Lake Conservation Plan is a Centrally Sponsored Scheme, meaning it is not funded entirely by the state government. Funding is typically shared between the Central and State governments in a specific ratio. While the state implements the projects, financial support and policy guidelines come from the national level to ensure the systematic restoration and conservation of critical aquatic ecosystems.

Bandi The Bandi River, a tributary of the Luni, has become one of the most polluted rivers in Rajasthan due to industrial activity. In the city of Pali, hundreds of textile dyeing and printing units discharge untreated chemical effluents directly into the river. This has led to severe groundwater contamination and ecological degradation, making the river water toxic for agriculture and harmful environment.

Both A and R are true and R is the correct explanation of A. Many freshwater lakes in the Aravalli and southern regions of Rajasthan are indeed man- made rather than natural. Historically, local rulers constructed these reservoirs by damming seasonal streams to harvest and store rainwater. This practice was a strategic response to the state’s semi-arid climate and erratic rainfall, ensuring a reliable supply of water for drinking and irrigation throughout the entire year.

2019 The Rajasthan State Wetland Authority was officially constituted in 2019. Its primary mandate is to implement and enforce the Wetland Rules within the state. This body is responsible for identifying, notifying, and protecting critical wetlands from encroachment and pollution. The establishment of this authority marked a significant step toward the institutionalized and systematic conservation of Rajasthan’s diverse and fragile aquatic ecosystems.

Setting up new industries or expanding existing ones. Under the Wetland Rules, setting up new industries or expanding existing ones within a notified wetland’s boundary is strictly prohibited. This rule aims to prevent chemical pollution and physical encroachment that could destroy the delicate aquatic habitat. Other activities like traditional fishing or scientific research are generally permitted or regulated, as they do not typically cause the same level of environmental harm.

To holistically conserve and restore lakes and wetlands for improvement of water quality and biodiversity. The National Plan for Conservation of Aquatic Eco-systems aims for the holistic conservation of lakes and wetlands. Its main objectives are to improve water quality, restore ecological health, and preserve biodiversity. By addressing issues like pollution, siltation, and catchment degradation, the plan seeks to ensure that these water bodies continue to provide essential ecosystem services while maintaining their natural environmental balance.