India’s physiography is one of the most diverse and unique in the world. It reflects the country’s complex geological structure and dynamic geomorphic evolution. Broadly, India can be divided into six major physiographic divisions, each with distinct features, geological composition, and natural significance. Understanding these divisions is crucial for NDA and CDS aspirants as they form a key part of the geography syllabus.
NDA & CDS 1 2026 Exam Indian Geography- Physiography
1. The Northern Mountains
The Himalayas, located in the northern part of India, form the highest and youngest mountain system in the world. They act as a natural barrier, influencing India’s climate, vegetation, and river systems.
Sub-divisions:
- Trans-Himalayas: Includes Karakoram, Ladakh, Zanskar, and Kailash ranges. These are older and composed mainly of sedimentary rocks.
- Greater Himalayas (Himadri): The highest range containing prominent peaks like Mount Everest (Nepal), Kanchenjunga, Nanda Devi, and Kamet.
- Lesser Himalayas (Himachal): Contains hill stations like Shimla, Mussoorie, and Nainital; famous for valleys such as Kullu, Kangra, and Kashmir.
- Shiwalik Range: The southernmost and youngest range, composed of unconsolidated sediments and home to foothill towns like Dehradun.
Significance:
- Source of major perennial rivers such as Ganga, Yamuna, and Brahmaputra.
- Acts as a climatic divide, protecting India from cold winds from Central Asia.
- Rich in forests, minerals, and tourism potential.
2. The Northern Plains
Formed by the alluvial deposits of rivers originating from the Himalayas and Peninsular Plateau, the Indo-Gangetic-Brahmaputra Plains are among the most fertile regions in the world.
Key Features:
- Extends from Punjab in the west to Assam in the east.
- Divided into three sections:
- Punjab Plains (formed by Indus and its tributaries)
- Ganga Plains (Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal)
- Brahmaputra Plains (Assam and adjoining areas)
Significance:
- Densely populated and agriculturally rich region.
- Supports cultivation of rice, wheat, sugarcane, and pulses.
- Facilitates transport, trade, and industrial development due to flat terrain.
3. The Peninsular Plateau
The Peninsular Plateau is the oldest landmass of India, formed by the Dravidian shield and part of the ancient Gondwana land. It consists mainly of igneous and metamorphic rocks.
Major Divisions:
- Central Highlands: Between the Aravalli and Vindhya ranges, includes the Malwa Plateau and Bundelkhand region.
- Deccan Plateau: Covers most of southern India, bounded by the Western and Eastern Ghats.
- Western Ghats: Continuous range, high and steep towards the west; includes peaks like Anai Mudi (2,695 m).
- Eastern Ghats: Discontinuous range, lower in height; rivers like Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri cut across it.
Significance:
- Rich in minerals such as iron, manganese, and coal.
- Source of major peninsular rivers.
- Home to several plateaus like Chotanagpur Plateau, known as the “storehouse of minerals.”
4. The Indian Desert
Located in the northwestern part of India, mainly in Rajasthan, the Thar Desert is characterized by arid climate, sand dunes, and scarce vegetation.
Features:
- Receives less than 150 mm of rainfall annually.
- Luni River is the only major river flowing through it.
- Vegetation includes xerophytic plants adapted to dry conditions.
Significance:
- Rich in wind energy and solar potential.
- The Indira Gandhi Canal has transformed parts of the desert into fertile land.
5. The Coastal Plains
India’s long coastline of about 7,500 km is divided into the Western Coastal Plains and Eastern Coastal Plains.
Western Coastal Plains:
- Narrow and uneven; lies between Western Ghats and Arabian Sea.
- Includes Konkan (Mumbai–Goa), Karnataka, and Malabar Coast.
- Known for lagoons, estuaries, and ports like Mumbai and Mangalore.
Eastern Coastal Plains:
- Wide and level; lies between Eastern Ghats and Bay of Bengal.
- Includes Northern Circar and Coromandel Coast.
- Famous for deltas of Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri rivers.
6. The Islands
India has two major island groups — Andaman & Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal and Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea.
Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
- Volcanic origin; includes Barren Island (active volcano) and Narcondam Island (extinct volcano).
- Important for defence and biodiversity.
Lakshadweep Islands:
- Coral origin; consists of atolls and reefs.
- Known for tourism and marine biodiversity.
Conclusion
India’s physiography plays a crucial role in shaping its climate, agriculture, natural resources, and biodiversity. From the towering Himalayas to the serene coastal plains, each region contributes uniquely to the country’s geographical identity. For NDA and CDS aspirants, a deep understanding of India’s physiographic divisions provides not only academic strength but also insights into the country’s strategic and environmental diversity.
Quick Revision Table
| Physiographic Division | Key Features | Major Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Northern Mountains | Young fold mountains | Himalayas |
| Northern Plains | Alluvial fertile land | Ganga-Brahmaputra Plain |
| Peninsular Plateau | Ancient igneous rocks | Deccan Plateau |
| Indian Desert | Arid land, sand dunes | Thar Desert |
| Coastal Plains | Narrow (west), wide (east) | Konkan, Coromandel |
| Islands | Coral & volcanic origin | Lakshadweep, Andaman & Nicobar |
