Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 39

Lesser Himalayas are also called .....

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the different names given to the Himalayan ranges.

Correct Answer: B) Himachal

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Himalayas, the world's highest mountain range, are divided into three main ranges: the Greater Himalayas (Himadri), the Lesser Himalayas (Himachal), and the Outer Himalayas (Shivaliks). Each of these ranges has distinct characteristics and geographical features.

The Greater Himalayas, also known as Himadri, are the highest and most continuous range of the Himalayas. They are characterized by their towering peaks, including Mount Everest, and are generally located in the northernmost part of the Himalayan system. The Greater Himalayas are composed of hard rock formations and are the source of many major rivers.

The Lesser Himalayas, also known as Himachal, lie between the Greater Himalayas and the Shivaliks. This range is less elevated than the Greater Himalayas but still includes several important mountain ranges such as the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar. The Lesser Himalayas are characterized by their rolling hills and valleys, and they are home to a variety of flora and fauna. The state of Himachal Pradesh in India is named after this range, which further reinforces the association between "Himachal" and the Lesser Himalayas.

The Outer Himalayas, also known as Shivaliks, are the southernmost and lowest ranges of the Himalayas. They are characterized by their relatively low elevation and are composed of softer rock formations compared to the Greater and Lesser Himalayas. The Shivaliks are important for their fertile soil and are often the site of human settlements.

Understanding the different names and characteristics of the Himalayan ranges is crucial for students of geography and those preparing for competitive examinations. The Lesser Himalayas, or Himachal, are an important part of this knowledge, and recognizing their alternative name is essential for correctly answering questions related to the Himalayan geography.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is incorrect. Himadri refers to the Greater Himalayas, not the Lesser Himalayas. The Greater Himalayas are the highest and most continuous range of the Himalayas.
  • Option B: This option is correct. The Lesser Himalayas are also known as Himachal. This range lies between the Greater Himalayas and the Shivaliks and includes several important mountain ranges such as the Pir Panjal and Dhauladhar.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Shivaliks refer to the Outer Himalayas, which are the southernmost and lowest ranges of the Himalayas. They are not the same as the Lesser Himalayas.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. "Himachal" is indeed the correct alternative name for the Lesser Himalayas, so "None of the above" is not the right choice.

Mnemonic: Remember "Himachal" for "Lesser Himalayas" by associating it with the state of Himachal Pradesh.

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