Test: Geographical Diversity of India - Class 7 MCQ

The Aravalli Hills serve as a crucial natural barrier that helps in preventing the spread of the Thar Desert to the east. Their presence plays a key role in:

• Maintaining ecological balance
• Supporting diverse wildlife
• Preserving vegetation in the surrounding areas

By doing so, they effectively contribute to preventing desertification and protect the environment from adverse effects.

The Himalayas act as a vital natural barrier in northern India, extending across multiple countries. This impressive mountain range:

• Influences the climate of the region.
• Shapes the cultural and spiritual lives of the people.
• Provides a habitat for diverse flora and fauna.

Additionally, the Himalayas are renowned for their stunning landscapes and are a popular destination for tourism and adventure activities.

The Gangetic Plains are renowned for their fertility, primarily due to:

• The rich alluvial soil deposited by the Ganga and its tributaries.
• Extensive agricultural activities which thrive in this region.
• This fertility contributes to it being one of the most densely populated areas in India.

Overall, the Gangetic Plains are a vital agricultural hub, supporting a significant portion of the country's food production.

Ladakh is known as India's cold desert. It features:

• Extreme temperatures, often dropping significantly during winter.
• Minimal rainfall, contributing to its desert classification.
• Unique wildlife that has adapted to the harsh conditions.
• A rich cultural heritage, with traditions that thrive despite the challenging environment.

This combination of factors makes Ladakh a distinctive and fascinating region.

• Mount Everest is the highest peak in the Himalayas, standing at over 8,848 metres above sea level.
• Its impressive height attracts climbers from around the globe, representing the essence of adventure and exploration.

A delta is a triangular landform that forms at the mouth of a river. This occurs when the river deposits sediments as it flows into a larger body of water. Key features of deltas include:

• Fertility: Deltas are often rich in nutrients, making them ideal for agriculture.
• Diverse ecosystems: They support a wide variety of wildlife.
• Geological formation: Deltas are shaped by the accumulation of sediments over time.

Overall, deltas play a crucial role in both the environment and human activities.

The Thar Desert is predominantly located in Rajasthan. This region is renowned for its:

• Golden sand dunes
• Unique ecosystems
• Rich cultural heritage

The inhabitants have developed adapted lifestyles and traditional practices that showcase their resilience in the arid environment.

The Peninsular Plateau is bordered by the Western Ghats to the west and the Eastern Ghats to the east. This geographical layout has a significant impact on:

• Climatic conditions in the region.
• Biodiversity of the area.

These mountain ranges play a crucial role in influencing weather patterns and supporting diverse ecosystems.

Jaisalmer is known as the Golden City of India because of its unique yellow sandstone architecture, which shines brightly in sunlight.

Key features of Jaisalmer include:

• Rich cultural heritage that attracts many visitors.
• The impressive Jaisalmer Fort, which is a UNESCO World Heritage site.
• Vibrant local traditions and festivals.

These elements contribute to Jaisalmer's status as a significant cultural and historical destination in India.

The Ganga River originates from the Gangotri Glacier, which is revered as the source of one of India's most sacred rivers. This river holds immense significance due to its:

• Spiritual importance to millions of people.
• Role in agriculture, providing essential water for farming.
• Impact on daily life in northern India, supporting various communities.

The Ganga is not just a river; it is a lifeline that sustains both the culture and livelihood of the region.

The Himalayas form a formidable natural barrier separating India from its northern neighbours, including China, Nepal, and Bhutan.

This mountain range has a significant impact on:

• Geography: It defines the landscape and topography of the region.
• Climate: The Himalayas influence weather patterns, affecting rainfall and temperature.
• Cultural exchanges: They serve as a barrier that has shaped interactions between different cultures.

The Peninsular Plateau is characterized by its flat and elevated landforms, distinguishing it from surrounding areas. Key features include:

• Flat Terrain: The plateau consists of vast, level surfaces.
• Elevation: It is significantly raised compared to adjacent regions.
• Mineral Richness: This area is abundant in various minerals.
• Diverse Ecosystems: The plateau supports a wide range of plant and animal life.
• Economic Importance: It plays a crucial role in India's economy.

The Ganga, Brahmaputra and Indus originate in the Himalayas, whereas the Narmada originates in the plateau.

The Himalayas are known as the Water Tower of Asia due to their crucial role in supplying water to major rivers, including the Ganga, Indus, and Brahmaputra. These rivers are essential for:

• Drinking water for millions of people
• Agriculture, supporting livelihoods
• Hydroelectric power generation

This water system sustains countless communities throughout the region.

Key highlights include:

• Conservation of various species of flora and fauna.
• Significant for environmental protection efforts.
• Supports a variety of habitats, contributing to global biodiversity.

This status helps promote awareness and conservation of this vital area. The Great Himalayan National Park is designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its rich biodiversity and unique ecosystems.

Lakshadweep is an archipelago of coral islands situated off the southwestern coast of India.

Key features include:

• Home to diverse marine life, including various species of fish and corals.
• Significant for its coral reefs, which are crucial for ecological balance.
• Popular destination for tourism, attracting visitors for its natural beauty.
• Focus on environmental conservation to protect its unique ecosystem.

The Sundarbans delta is renowned for its mangrove forests, which play a vital role in coastal protection and biodiversity. This remarkable ecosystem supports the Royal Bengal Tiger and many other species, earning it recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

• Mangroves provide essential habitat for wildlife.
• They help prevent coastal erosion.
• The delta is a critical area for conservation efforts.

According to Ncert, "The Ladakhi people lead a simple life. The region is known for its ancient monasteries and colourful festivals such as Losar and the Hemis Festival."

Living root bridges are a remarkable feature found in Meghalaya, India. They are crafted by the Khasi tribe using the roots of rubber trees.

These bridges showcase:

• Sustainability: They are environmentally friendly and blend with nature.
• Innovation: The construction method illustrates the community's unique adaptation to their surroundings.
• Connectivity: These structures improve access between villages, enhancing local interaction.

Ladakh is known for its extreme winters, where temperatures can plunge below -30°C. This cold desert climate significantly influences the lifestyle and cultural practices of the local inhabitants. They have adapted to thrive in these harsh conditions.

• The region experiences very low precipitation, making it a desert.
• Summers are short and mild, with temperatures rising but not excessively.
• The unique climate supports a distinct ecosystem.