📚 Part of: Constitutional Powers And Indian Geography Mcqs

What are the different divisions in the Himalayan Range?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: A) Himadri, Himachal and Shiwalik.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, State PSC Exams, Geography Olympiad

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

The Himalayan Range is divided into three main longitudinal divisions: Himadri (or the Greater Himalayas), Himachal (or the Lesser Himalayas), and Shiwalik (or the Outer Himalayas). Each division has distinct geological and topographical characteristics.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing the Himalayan divisions with river systems or other geographical features.
  • Not understanding the specific characteristics that define each division.
  • Overlooking the fact that the Himalayan Range is a complex system with multiple divisions.
Explanation:

The Himalayan Range is a vast and complex mountain system that stretches across several countries in South Asia, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Pakistan. It is the highest mountain range in the world and is divided into three main longitudinal divisions: Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik.

1. **Himadri (Greater Himalayas)**: This is the innermost and highest range of the Himalayas. It is also known as the "Ardha-Giri" or "Himadri." The Himadri is characterized by its high peaks, including Mount Everest, which is the highest peak in the world. The rocks in this range are mostly composed of granite and gneiss, and the climate is harsh with heavy snowfall and low temperatures.

2. **Himachal (Lesser Himalayas)**: This range lies between the Himadri and the Shiwalik. It is also known as the "Dorsa" or "Himachal." The Himachal is less elevated than the Himadri and is composed of sedimentary rocks. It includes the Pir Panjal, Dhauladhar, and Mahabharat ranges. The climate in this region is milder than the Himadri, and it is known for its rich biodiversity and scenic beauty.

3. **Shiwalik (Outer Himalayas)**: This is the outermost range of the Himalayas and is also known as the "Sub-Himalayas" or "Shiwalik." The Shiwalik is a narrow range composed of unconsolidated sediments and is characterized by its rolling hills and valleys. The climate in this region is relatively warm and humid, and it is the most densely populated part of the Himalayan region.

Understanding the divisions of the Himalayan Range is crucial for comprehending the geographical and geological features of this vast mountain system. Each division has its own unique characteristics and plays a significant role in the overall structure and function of the Himalayas. The correct divisions are Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik, as stated in Option A.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Himalayan Range is indeed divided into three main longitudinal divisions: Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik. Each of these divisions has distinct geological and topographical features that make them unique.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The terms "Panjab-Haryana," "Ganga," and "Brahmaputra" refer to river systems and regions in the plains of northern India, not to the divisions of the Himalayan Range. These terms are unrelated to the longitudinal divisions of the Himalayas.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Since Option B is incorrect, the combination of either Option A or Option B cannot be correct. The correct divisions of the Himalayan Range are specifically Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Since Option A is correct, stating that neither Option A nor Option B is correct is false. The correct divisions of the Himalayan Range are indeed Himadri, Himachal, and Shiwalik.

Mnemonic: HHS: Himadri, Himachal, Shiwalik

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