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I. Chapter Summary:

This chapter explains the diverse physical features of India formed by various geological processes. It covers six major physiographic divisions: the Himalayan Mountains, the Northern Plains, the Peninsular Plateau, the Indian Desert, the Coastal Plains, and the Islands. It explains their formation, characteristics, and importance.

II. Key Concepts Covered:

Concept	Explanation
Tectonic Origin	India’s physical features are a result of tectonic plate movements.
Himalayan Mountains	Young-fold mountains formed by the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. Divided into Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwaliks.
Northern Plains	Formed by alluvial deposits; divided into Punjab Plains, Ganga Plains, and Brahmaputra Plains.
Peninsular Plateau	Ancient landmass; includes Deccan and Central Highlands. Rich in minerals.
Indian Desert	Arid region with sandy soil and dunes; lies in western Rajasthan.
Coastal Plains	Western and Eastern coastal plains; important for ports and agriculture.
Islands	Andaman & Nicobar (volcanic origin), Lakshadweep (coral origin).

III. Important Questions:

(A) Multiple Choice Questions (1 Mark):

1. The Himalayas were formed by the collision of:
   • a) Indian Plate and Pacific Plate
   • b) Eurasian Plate and Pacific Plate
   • c) Indian Plate and Eurasian Plate ✅
   • d) Australian Plate and Eurasian Plate
     (PYQ 2020)
2. The Indian Desert lies in:
   • a) Punjab
   • b) Gujarat
   • c) Rajasthan ✅
   • d) Haryana
3. Which region is known for black soil and lava formations?
   • a) Northern Plains
   • b) Peninsular Plateau ✅
   • c) Coastal Plains
   • d) Islands
4. The highest range of the Himalayas is:
   • a) Himachal
   • b) Shiwalik
   • c) Himadri ✅
   • d) Aravali

(B) Short Answer Questions (2/3 Marks):

1. Explain the significance of the Peninsular Plateau. (PYQ 2019)
2. Why is the Northern Plain agriculturally productive? (PYQ 2021)
3. Differentiate between Western and Eastern Coastal Plains.
4. Describe the formation of the Indian Desert.

(C) Long Answer Questions (5 Marks):

1. Describe the three major divisions of the Himalayas.
2. Write a detailed note on the Northern Plains and their sub-divisions.
3. Compare the features of the Himalayan Mountains and the Peninsular Plateau.
4. Discuss the significance of India’s coastal plains and islands. (PYQ 2020)

(D) HOTS Questions:

1. How would India’s geography change if there were no Himalayas?
2. Explain how physiographic diversity supports India’s economic activities.

IV. Key Formulas/Concepts:

(Not applicable for Geography; focus instead on definitions and distinctions.)

V. Deleted Portions (CBSE 2025–26):

No portions have been deleted from this chapter as per the rationalized NCERT textbooks.

VI. Chapter-Wise Marks Bifurcation:

Unit/Chapter	Estimated Marks	Type of Questions Typically Asked
Physical Features of India	5–6 Marks	1 MCQ, 1 SAQ, 1 LAQ or Map-based question

VII. Previous Year Questions (PYQs):

• Explain the three types of Himalayan ranges. (PYQ 2022 – 5 marks)
• Name the major physiographic divisions of India. (PYQ 2021 – 3 marks)
• What is the significance of the Himalayas? (PYQ 2019 – 5 marks)
• Differentiate between the Peninsular Plateau and the Northern Plains. (PYQ 2020 – 3 marks)

VIII. Real-World Application Examples:

• Tourism: Himalayas attract adventure tourists and pilgrims.
• Agriculture: Northern Plains provide fertile land due to alluvial soil.
• Ports: Coastal plains aid in trade via Mumbai, Chennai, etc.
• Minerals: Plateau regions are rich in coal, iron, and mica.

IX. Student Tips & Strategies:

• Time Management:
• Spend 20 minutes daily on map practice.
• Exam Preparation:
• Make comparative charts (e.g., Himalayas vs. Plateau), use mnemonic devices.
• Stress Management:
• Practice deep breathing before social science revision to improve focus.

X. Career Guidance & Exploration:

• Classes 9–10:
  • Learn map skills and regional development concepts early.
  • Explore participation in NTSE and Social Science Olympiads.
• Classes 11–12:
  • Geography stream leads to careers in:
    • Urban Planning
    • Cartography
    • Environmental Science
    • Civil Services (UPSC, State PCS)

XI. Important Notes:

• Visit cbseacademic.nic.in for circulars.
• Use updated NCERT e-textbooks at ncert.nic.in.
• Map questions are crucial—practice regularly.