Geography of India

India is divided into six primary physiographic regions:

• The Himalayas (Northern Mountains): Formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, this mountain arc includes the world’s highest peaks, such as Kangchenjunga (8,586 m). They act as a barrier to frigid Central Asian winds and facilitate the monsoon.
• The Peninsular Plateau: This is the oldest and most stable landmass in India. It contains several subdivisions:
• Mountain Ranges: Includes the Aravalli Range (the oldest, running across Rajasthan), the Vindhya Range (separating North and South India), and the Satpura Range.
• Ghats: The Western Ghats (Sahyadri) run parallel to the western coast and are a UNESCO World Heritage site for biodiversity. The Eastern Ghats are a discontinuous range eroded by major rivers.
• Major Plateaus: The Deccan Plateau (a large triangular plateau), the Malwa Plateau, and the Chhota Nagpur Plateau (rich in coal and metal ores).
• Indo-Gangetic Plain (The Northern Plains): These are large alluvial plains dominated by the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra river systems. They are classified into four belts: Bhabar (pebbles), Tarai (moist/forested), Bangar (older alluvium), and Khadar (newer alluvium).
• Thar Desert: Covering 61% of Rajasthan, it features extreme temperatures (reaching up to 50°C in summer) and is characterized by sand dunes, craggy rocks, and sparse vegetation. It is the tenth largest desert in the world and has historical significance in Indian geography and culture.
• Coastal Plains: The Eastern Coastal Plain is wide and receives both monsoons, while the Western Coastal Plain is narrow and inundated by fast-flowing perennial rivers.
• Islands: India has two major groups:
• Andaman and Nicobar Islands: Volcanic islands in the Bay of Bengal, located approximately 1,000 km from mainland India. They are strategically important for India’s maritime security and contain unique biodiversity. They were affected by the 2004 Indian Ocean tsunami.
• Lakshadweep Islands: Coral islands in the Arabian Sea, located approximately 400 km from mainland India. They are ecologically important for coral reef ecosystems and have significant strategic value for India’s maritime interests.