Peninsular Plateau of India: A Comprehensive Guide
The Peninsular Plateau of India is the largest and oldest physiographic division, characterized by its triangular shape and elevated, flat landform. Composed of ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, it features black soil of volcanic origin. This significant landmass, formed from the breaking and drifting of Gondwana land, plays a crucial role in India's diverse geography.
Key Takeaways
India's largest physiographic division, triangular and elevated.
Composed of ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.
Features black soil from volcanic activity and broad, shallow valleys.
Formed by the breaking and drifting of the ancient Gondwana land.
Divided into Central Highlands and the vast Deccan Plateau.
What Defines the Peninsular Plateau of India?
The Peninsular Plateau of India stands as the largest physiographic division, a distinct triangular landmass covered by water on three sides. It is an elevated, flat landform that rises sharply above its surroundings, typically reaching a general elevation between 600 and 900 meters. This ancient geological formation consists primarily of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, contributing to its unique stability and resilience. Its formation is attributed to the breaking and drifting of the supercontinent Gondwana land, a pivotal event that shaped its enduring features. The plateau is also notable for its broad, shallow valleys, gently rounded hills, and the widespread prevalence of black soil, which is distinctly of volcanic origin, supporting diverse ecosystems and agricultural practices across its vast expanse.
- Largest physiographic division in India, covering a vast area.
- Possesses a distinct triangular shape, bordered by water on three sides.
- Characterized as a flat, elevated landform, rising sharply from its surroundings.
- Maintains a general elevation ranging from 600 to 900 meters above sea level.
- Composed of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, indicating ancient origins.
- Features black soil, primarily of volcanic origin, supporting specific agricultural practices.
- Exhibits broad, shallow valleys and gently rounded hills across its expanse.
- Formed due to the significant breaking and drifting of the ancient Gondwana landmass.
What are the Major Geographical Divisions of the Peninsular Plateau?
The Peninsular Plateau is broadly categorized into several major geographical divisions, each possessing distinct features and unique geological formations. These primary divisions include the expansive Central Highlands, the vast Deccan Plateau, the ancient and eroded Aravali Range, and the highly mineral-rich Chota Nagpur Plateau. These diverse regions collectively define the intricate topography of peninsular India, significantly influencing its varied river systems, characteristic soil types, and crucial economic activities. Their varied elevations, specific rock compositions, and long historical geological processes contribute profoundly to the unique character of each region, from rugged mountain ranges to fertile plateau lands. Understanding these fundamental divisions is essential for a comprehensive grasp of India's complex physical geography.
- Central Highlands:
- Location: North of Narmada River, bounded by Satpura (South) and Aravalis (Northwest).
- Includes the Vindhya Range.
- Features the Malwa Plateau, which is the largest and situated on the western side.
- Encompasses the Chota Nagpur Plateau, found on the eastern side.
- Wider in the West, narrower in the East, including regions like Bundelkhand and Baghelkhand.
- The Narmada River flows through this region.
- Maharashtra and Gujarat are top cotton producers.
- Also includes the Rewa Panna Plateau.
- Malwa Plateau Details: Spreads across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh; composed of basaltic rock; origin of black soil; drained by Chambal, Betwa, Sindh, and Ken rivers flowing southwest to northeast.
- Satpura Range: Comprises three hills (Rajmahal, Maikala, Mahadeo); features Dhupagarh peak (Madhya Pradesh); includes Pachmarhi hill station.
- Vindhya Range: Known for Panna (Madhya Pradesh, diamond); includes Sadbhavana Shikhar peak.
- Deccan Plateau:
- A triangular landmass situated south of the Narmada River.
- Borders include the Satpura Range to the north and the Mahadeo, Kaimur, and Maikal ranges to the east.
- Geologically tilted towards the East.
- Highest in the West, with a gentle slope eastwards.
- Its extension includes the Meghalaya Plateau, Garo, Khasi, and Jaintia Hills, along with the Karbi Anglong Plateau and North Cachar Hills (Assam).
- The Rajmahal Hills form its northeastern boundary.
- Separated from the Karbi Anglong, Meghalaya, and North Cachar Plateaus by the Malda Fault/Gap.
- Includes the Mikir Hills and Rengma Hills.
- Home to Cherrapunji and Mawsynram (known for highest rainfall), and the city of Shillong.
- Aravali Range:
- Represents the northwest extension of the Central Highlands.
- Spreads approximately 860 km.
- Considered old residual mountains.
- Extends across Gujarat, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Haryana.
- Its highest peak is Guru Shikhar (1722 m), located in the Mt. Abu Hills.
- Home to the famous Dilwara Jain Temple.
- Chota Nagpur Plateau:
- Spreads across the states of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal.
- Often referred to as the 'Ruhr of India' due to its rich mineral deposits.
- Comprises distinct plateaus such as Ranchi, Hazaribagh, and Kodarma.
- Features Parasnath peak, significant for being associated with the 23rd Tirthankar.
- The Damodar River flows on its eastern side.
- Includes the Jaduguda Mines, notable for uranium extraction.
What Other Significant Geographical Features Characterize the Peninsular Plateau?
Beyond its primary divisions, the Peninsular Plateau encompasses several other notable geographical features that significantly contribute to its unique landscape and profound geological significance. These features often highlight specific geological processes, distinctive drainage patterns, or concentrated resource deposits within the plateau's ancient terrain. From the unique radial drainage system of the Amarkantak Plateau, giving rise to major rivers, to significant fault lines like the Bhima Fault and the presence of various rift valleys, these elements further define the complex and enduring geological history of peninsular India. Their presence underscores the plateau's long geological evolution and its vital role in shaping the subcontinent's physical environment and the distribution of its valuable natural resources.
- Amarkantak Plateau: Known for its radial drainage pattern, serving as the origin for the Narmada and Son rivers, and possessing significant bauxite deposits.
- Bhima Fault: A notable geological fault line within the plateau, indicating past tectonic activity.
- Rift Valley: Presence of rift valleys, suggesting areas of crustal divergence and subsidence.
- Tributaries of Yamuna: Several rivers originating in the plateau flow northwards to join the Yamuna, contributing to its extensive drainage basin.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Peninsular Plateau of India?
The Peninsular Plateau is India's largest physiographic division, a triangular, elevated landform composed of ancient crystalline rocks. It features broad, shallow valleys, rounded hills, and black soil of volcanic origin, formed from the breaking of Gondwana land.
What are the main divisions of the Peninsular Plateau?
The main divisions include the Central Highlands (north of Narmada, with Malwa and Chota Nagpur Plateaus), the Deccan Plateau (south of Narmada, tilted eastwards), the ancient Aravali Range, and the mineral-rich Chota Nagpur Plateau.
How was the Peninsular Plateau formed?
The Peninsular Plateau formed due to the breaking and drifting of the ancient supercontinent Gondwana land. This geological process resulted in its stable, elevated structure, composed of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.
