Which of the following statements best describes the Indian drainage system?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: C
Explanation
Solution: The correct answer is It includes rivers shaped by terrain and rainfall.
Explanation:
☛ The Indian drainage system is primarily natural and has evolved through geological processes, topography (terrain), and climatic conditions such as monsoon rainfall.
☛ India's river systems are broadly classified into two major categories: the Himalayan rivers (fed by melting snow and rain, making them perennial) and the Peninsular rivers (largely rain-fed and seasonal).
☛ The direction, gradient, flow, and volume of water in Indian rivers are determined by the underlying rock structure, relief features, and rainfall patterns across different geographical regions.
Extra Exam-Relevant Facts:
☛ On the basis of discharge of water, Indian drainage is divided into the Arabian Sea drainage (about 23%) and the Bay of Bengal drainage (about 77%).
☛ The major water divide separating the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea drainage comprises the Delhi ridge, the Aravalli range, and the Western Ghats.
☛ Himalayan rivers: These rivers (like the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra) are antecedent in nature, form deep gorges, and create meanders in their plains.
☛ Peninsular rivers: These rivers (like the Godavari, Krishna, Mahanadi, and Cauvery) flow through shallow graded valleys and represent a mature stage of fluvial cycle.
Important One-Liners for Upcoming Exams:
☛ Which river is known as 'Dakshin Ganga'? → Godavari
☛ Which two major peninsular rivers flow westward into the Arabian Sea? → Narmada and Tapi
☛ Which river basin is the largest in India? → Ganga River Basin
☛ Through which rift valley do the Narmada and Tapi rivers flow? → Fault trough between Vindhya and Satpura ranges
☛ What drainage pattern resembles the branches of a tree? → Dendritic pattern