SSC Selection Post 2025 PYQ — Question 23

Correct Answer

Eastern Coastal Plain

Explanation

The Coromandel Coast forms the southern section of the Eastern Coastal Plain of the Indian subcontinent. It stretches along the Bay of Bengal, extending roughly from the Krishna River delta in Andhra Pradesh in the north to Cape Comorin (Kanyakumari) in Tamil Nadu in the south. The coastline is largely dominated by the deltas of major east-flowing rivers such as the Kaveri, Palar, and Penner.

Key Points

The Eastern Coastal Plain is broadly divided into two major parts: the Northern Circars in the northern half and the Coromandel Coast in the southern half.

Unlike the Western Coastal Plain, which is narrower and features various lagoons and estuaries, the Eastern Coastal Plain is relatively wide and features extensive deltaic plains formed by major rivers.

The Coromandel Coast is historically unique as it falls under a rain-shadow region during the advancing Southwest Monsoon but receives heavy rainfall during the retreating Northeast Monsoon (October to December).

Additional Facts

The term 'Coromandel' is believed to be derived from Cholamandalam, meaning the land or realm of the Chola dynasty that ruled the southern peninsula for centuries.

Major ports and historical trading settlements along or near this coast include Chennai (formerly Madras), Puducherry (Pondicherry), and Thoothukudi (Tuticorin).

The western counterpart corresponding to the southern section of the Indian peninsula is known as the Malabar Coast (spanning Kerala and parts of Karnataka).

Important Questions

Question: Which major dynasty's kingdom gave the Coromandel Coast its historical name?

Answer: The Chola Dynasty (Cholamandalam).

Question: During which months does the Coromandel Coast receive the bulk of its annual rainfall due to the retreating monsoon?

Answer: October to December (Northeast Monsoon).