Explanation: Meghalaya, a state in northeastern India, is renowned for its high rainfall, particularly in the areas of Cherrapunji and Mawsynram, which are located in the Garo Hills. These regions are often referred to as the wettest places on Earth, with annual rainfall exceeding 1,080 cm. This high rainfall is primarily due to the region's geographical location and the influence of the monsoon winds. The Khasi Hills, where Cherrapunji and Mawsynram are situated, act as a barrier to the monsoon winds, causing them to rise and cool, leading to heavy precipitation.
On the other hand, the northwest Himalayas and the western deserts of India experience very low precipitation. The northwest Himalayas, including regions like Ladakh and parts of Jammu and Kashmir, are shielded from the monsoon winds by the high Himalayan range, resulting in a rain shadow effect. This means that these areas receive very little rainfall, often less than 10 cm annually. Similarly, the western deserts, such as the Thar Desert in Rajasthan, are characterized by arid conditions due to their distance from the sea and the influence of the subtropical high-pressure belt, which leads to very low precipitation.
Understanding these climatic differences is essential for comprehending the diverse weather patterns across India. The high rainfall in Meghalaya is a result of its unique geographical features and the influence of the monsoon winds, while the low precipitation in the northwest Himalayas and western deserts is due to their location and the presence of natural barriers that prevent the entry of moisture-laden winds.
In conclusion, both statements are correct. Cherrapunji and Mawsynram in the Garo Hills of Meghalaya do receive rainfall over 1,080 cm in a year, and the annual precipitation is indeed less than 10 cm in the northwest Himalayas and the western deserts. This understanding of regional climatic conditions is crucial for various fields, including geography, meteorology, and environmental studies.