UPSC Prelims 2005 Q79: Geography – Indian Physical Geography
Which one of the following statements is not correct?
- (a) The Western Ghats are relatively higher in their northern region
- (b) The Anaimudi is the highest peak in the Western Ghats
- (c) Tapti river lies to the south of Satpura.
- (d) The Narmada and the Tapi river valleys are said to be old rift valleys.
Answer: (a) The Western Ghats are relatively higher in their northern region
Explanation
Western Ghats, Satpura and rift valleys
| Statement | Verdict |
|---|---|
| a. Western Ghats higher in the north | Not correct — they are higher in the south, e.g. Anaimudi 2,695 m |
| b. Anaimudi is the highest peak | Correct |
| c. Tapti lies south of Satpura | Correct |
| d. Narmada and Tapi valleys are old rift valleys | Correct |
Statement (a) is wrong: the Western Ghats are higher in the south than in the north.
Answer: (a) The Western Ghats are relatively higher in their northern region.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) CORRECT. The Western Ghats are higher in the south, so this is not correct.
- (b) Incorrect. Anaimudi is the highest peak of the Western Ghats.
- (c) Incorrect. The Tapti flows south of the Satpura range.
- (d) Incorrect. Narmada and Tapi flow in rift valleys.
Key point
Western Ghats: Sahyadri in the north, Nilgiri, Anaimalai, Cardamom hills in the south (higher).
Remember
The Western Ghats are higher in the south, with Anaimudi as the peak.
Common mistakes
- Thinking the Ghats rise towards Maharashtra.
- Missing the word not in the question.
- Confusing the Tapti with the Narmada, which lies between Vindhya and Satpura.
Exam tip
Highest peaks: Anaimudi (Western Ghats), Doddabetta (Nilgiris), Mahendragiri (Eastern Ghats).
Sources
- NCERT Class XI Geography — India Physical Environment
- NCERT Class XI Geography — India: Physical Environment — Structure and Physiography