Explanation: To understand the correct answer, it is essential to delve into the geological and geographical context of the regions mentioned in the statements.
The Peninsular block is a term used in geology to describe the ancient landmass that forms the core of the Indian subcontinent. This block is characterized by its stable and relatively old geological formations, which have remained largely unchanged over millions of years. The Peninsular block includes various plateaus and regions, such as the Deccan Plateau, the Chotanagpur Plateau, and the Meghalaya Plateau.
The Meghalaya Plateau is located in the northeastern part of India and is part of the Peninsular block. It is characterized by its rugged terrain, deep gorges, and dense forests. The plateau is composed of ancient crystalline rocks and is part of the larger geological formation that includes the Karbi Anglong region. Karbi Anglong is a district in Assam that shares similar geological features with the Meghalaya Plateau, making it an extension of the Peninsular block.
On the other hand, the Chotanagpur Plateau is a distinct part of the Peninsular Plateau. It is located in the eastern part of India, covering parts of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha. The Chotanagpur Plateau is known for its rich mineral deposits, including coal, iron ore, and mica. It is a significant part of the Peninsular Plateau and shares similar geological characteristics with other regions within the Peninsular block.
Therefore, the first statement is correct because the Meghalaya Plateau and Karbi Anglong are indeed extensions of the Peninsular block. The second statement is incorrect because the Chotanagpur Plateau is a part of the Peninsular Plateau. This understanding of the geological and geographical features of these regions is crucial for comprehending the correct answer to the question.
In summary, the correct answer is (A) Statement 1 is correct. This answer is based on the geological and geographical context of the regions mentioned, where the Meghalaya Plateau and Karbi Anglong are part of the Peninsular block, while the Chotanagpur Plateau is a distinct part of the Peninsular Plateau. Understanding these distinctions is essential for correctly identifying the geographical features of Meghalaya and the broader Peninsular block.