Part of: Rajasthan Gk set 28

Which among the following regions of India experience low rainfall and is drought prone?

Category: Rajasthan Gk

Hint: Consider the climatic conditions and geographical features of each region.

Correct Answer: A) Rajasthan

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question asks about the regions in India that experience low rainfall and are prone to drought conditions. To understand this, it is essential to consider the geographical and climatic factors that influence rainfall patterns in different parts of the country.

Rajasthan, located in the northwestern part of India, is known for its arid and semi-arid climate. The region is characterized by low rainfall and frequent drought conditions. This is primarily due to its geographical location and topography. Rajasthan is situated in the rain shadow area of the Aravalli Range, which blocks the monsoon winds from the Arabian Sea. As a result, the region receives very little rainfall, typically less than 600 mm annually. The scarcity of rainfall is further exacerbated by the high evaporation rates due to the hot and dry climate, leading to frequent drought conditions.

Other regions mentioned in the options, such as Gujarat, Bihar, and Telangana, have different climatic conditions and rainfall patterns. Gujarat, while it does experience some drought conditions, generally receives more rainfall than Rajasthan due to its coastal areas and proximity to the Arabian Sea. The western part of Gujarat receives significant rainfall from the Arabian Sea monsoon, while the eastern part receives some rainfall from the Bay of Bengal monsoon.

Bihar, located in the eastern part of India, is influenced by the monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal. The region typically receives more rainfall than Rajasthan, with an average annual rainfall of around 1,100 mm. The monsoon season in Bihar is crucial for agriculture, and the region is not as prone to drought as Rajasthan.

Telangana, located in the southern part of India, also receives more rainfall than Rajasthan. The region is influenced by both the northeast and southwest monsoons, with an average annual rainfall of around 800 mm. The topography of Telangana, which includes the Deccan Plateau, allows for better distribution of rainfall compared to the arid regions of Rajasthan.

In summary, Rajasthan is the correct answer because of its arid and semi-arid climate, which results in low rainfall and frequent drought conditions. The geographical location and topography of Rajasthan play a significant role in limiting the amount of moisture it receives from the monsoon winds, making it the most drought-prone region among the options provided.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Rajasthan is known for its arid and semi-arid climate, which results in low rainfall and frequent drought conditions. The region's geographical location and topography limit the amount of moisture it receives from the monsoon winds.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. While Gujarat does experience some drought conditions, it generally receives more rainfall than Rajasthan due to its coastal areas and proximity to the Arabian Sea.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Bihar typically receives more rainfall than Rajasthan, as it is located in the eastern part of India and is influenced by the monsoon winds from the Bay of Bengal.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Telangana, located in the southern part of India, receives more rainfall than Rajasthan due to its proximity to the Bay of Bengal and the influence of the monsoon winds.

Mnemonic: R for Rajasthan, R for Rainfall, R for Rare

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