Indian Geography: UPSC Previous Year Questions (Geography)

Explanation

Sambhar Lake, situated in Rajasthan, India, holds the distinction of being the nation’s largest inland saline wetland. This expansive lake, located southwest of Jaipur, plays a crucial role in the region’s ecology. Historically renowned for salt production, Sambhar Lake provides a vital habitat for a diverse array of flora and fauna, particularly migratory birds such as flamingos and pelicans. However, the lake faces environmental challenges including pollution, water scarcity, and human encroachment. Despite these challenges, Sambhar Lake remains an ecologically significant and culturally important landmark in Rajasthan.

Explanation

India’s port system comprises two distinct categories: major ports and non-major (minor) ports. As of 2024, the nation has 13 major ports and 217 non-major ports, forming a crucial network for maritime trade. Major ports, strategically administered by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways under the Government of India, play a pivotal role in the coun-try’s maritime trade. In contrast, non-major ports come under the jurisdiction of the respective State Maritime Boards, with some also operating under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Among the given options, Dahej is classified as a non-major port in India. In contrast, Kochi (Cochin), Paradip, and New Mangalore are all designated as major ports.

Explanation

The Shompen tribe is an indigenous and particularly vulnerable tribal group (PVTG) found in the Nicobar Islands, specifically in the Great Nicobar Island. They are semi-no-madic hunter-gatherers who live in the dense forests of Great Nicobar. Their population is very small, and they have minimal contact with outsiders. The Government of India recognizes them as a PVTG under the Andaman and Nicobar (Protection of Aboriginal Tribes) Regulation, 1956.

Option (a), (c) and (d) are incorrect:

Nilgiri Hills (Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Karnataka): Home to Toda, Kota, Irula, and Kurumba tribes, but not the Shompen Spiti Valley (Himachal Pradesh): Inhabited by Bhotia and Spitians (Tibetan origin people), not the Shompen Lakshadweep Islands: No indigenous tribal communities; the majority population follows Islam.

Explanation

Located in the Kishtwar district of Jammu and Kashmir, India, the Dul Hasti Hydroelectric Power Plant, a 390 MW project, was constructed by the National Hydroelectric Power Corporation (NHPC). This power plant utilizes the run-of-the-river principle, harnessing the flow of the Chenab River to generate electricity.

Explanation

Statement 1 is correct: Tropical deserts indeed form along the western margins of continents within the trade wind belt due to several factors. Trade winds, blowing from east to west, lose moisture on eastern coasts and arrive dry on the western side. These regions lie under subtropical high-pressure belts (15°-30° latitude), where descending air suppresses cloud formation and rainfall. Additionally, cold ocean currents, such as the Humboldt Current, cool the air, reducing its moisture-holding capacity and creating stable, dry conditions. In some cases, mountains block moist winds, causing a rain shadow effect. Together, these factors create arid environments like the Sahara, Atacama, and Namib deserts.

Statement 2 is incorrect: In India, the Eastern Himalayas experience significantly higher rainfall compared to the Western Himalayas. This precipitation is primarily attributed to the South-west monsoon, rather than the Northeast monsoon. The Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon carries moisture-laden winds that are funneled toward the Eastern Himalayas. When these winds encounter the steep terrain, they rise, cool, and condense, resulting in heavy orographic rainfall. This effect is particularly pronounced in regions like Meghalaya, which receive some of the highest rainfall globally.

Explanation

Option (d) is correct:

The Sutlej River has its origins far beyond the borders of India, tracing its source back to the sacred Mansarovar-Rakas Lakes in western Tibet(now China). The Sutlej River flows 1,450 km through Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Pakistan before joining the Indus. It enters India via the Shipki La Pass. Major dams on the river include Bhakra-Nangal and Nathpa Jhakri supporting irrigation and hydropower. Its tributaries include Spiti and Baspa. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:

The Ravi River emerges from the Himalayan heights in the Multhan tehsil of Kangra district in Himachal Pradesh, India. The Beas River, similarly originating in the Himalayas, finds its source near the Rohtang Pass, a prominent mountain pass at an elevation of 4,062 meters above sea level. This pass marks the southern extremity of the Pir Panjal Range, a significant mountain chain in the region. Interestingly, the source of the Ravi lies in close proximity to the Beas’s origin. The Chenab River, a major tributary of the Indus, is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers, an event that occurs within the Lahaul and Spiti district of Himachal Pradesh.

Explanation

With reference to the year in which this has been asked, Andaman and Nicobar Islands have the maximum number of National Parks among the given states/UTs:

Andaman and Nicobar Islands: 9 National Parks Assam: 7 National Parks Arunachal Pradesh: 2 National Parks Meghalaya: 2 National Parks Currently, Madhya Pradesh has the maximum number (12) of National Parks.

Explanation

"Top Slip" serves as the primary tourist hub within the Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park. This national park, located in Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu, lies within the southern expanse of the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, nestled amidst the Annamalai mountain range. The name "Top Slip" has its roots in a historical logging practice during British rule. Timber extracted from the forest was transported downhill to the plains using a canal system. This method of timber transport, known locally as "slipping," was carried out at this particular location, giving rise to its distinctive name. Today, Top Slip is renowned for its sightings of elephants, gaur (Indian bison), and a variety of bird species. Options (a), (b) and (c) are incorrect:

Simlipal National Park (Odisha): A tiger reserve and biosphere reserve, home to Bengal tigers, elephants, and orchids, located in the Eastern Ghats. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary (Kerala): Famous for Periyar Lake and the Periyar Tiger Reserve, known for its elephant population and boat safaris. Manjira Wildlife Sanctuary (Telangana): A wetland sanctuary along the Manjira River, known for migratory birds, marsh crocodiles, and freshwater turtles.

Explanation

Reserves of diamond-bearing Kimberlite rocks have been discovered in Raipur district, Chhattisgarh in the recent past. Kimberlite is an igneous rock that often contains diamonds, and its presence indicates the possibility of diamond deposits. These discoveries are part of the Mainpur Kimberlite Field, which has been extensively explored by the Geological Survey of India (GSI).

Explanation

The Servarayan Hills, also known as the anglicised ‘Shevaroy Hills’, are a prominent mountain range in Tamil Nadu. Located near the city of Salem, these hills form a significant part of the southern section of the Eastern Ghats. The name ‘Servarayan’ is derived from a local deity worshipped in the region, reflecting the cultural significance of these mountains. Spanning 400 sq. km, they feature lush forests, coffee plantations, and diverse flora and fauna. The hills are home to Yercaud, a popular hill station, and the Shevaroy Temple, situated at the highest peak (1,620 m). The region is known for its panoramic views, trekking trails, and unique biodiversity, including endemic species like Neelakurinji and shield-tail snakes. The hills also host bauxite deposits and fruit orchards.