Explanation: The coastal plains of India are significant geographical features that run along the country's coastline. These plains are characterized by their flat terrain and are often rich in alluvial soil, making them important agricultural regions. The coastal plains can be divided into two main categories: the western coastal plain and the eastern coastal plain.
The western coastal plain lies along the Arabian Sea and includes regions such as the Konkan, Malabar, and Coromandel coasts. This region is known for its diverse topography, including the Western Ghats, which run parallel to the coast.
The eastern coastal plain, on the other hand, lies along the Bay of Bengal. It stretches from West Bengal in the north to Tamil Nadu in the south. This region is characterized by its fertile alluvial soil, which is deposited by the major rivers that flow into the Bay of Bengal, such as the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri. The eastern coastal plain is an important agricultural area, with crops such as rice, sugarcane, and coconut being widely cultivated.
The Bay of Bengal is a significant body of water that is part of the northeastern Indian Ocean. It is bounded by India and Bangladesh to the west, Myanmar to the east, and the Andaman and Nicobar Islands to the south. The Bay of Bengal is known for its large size and its influence on the climate and weather patterns of the surrounding regions.
In the context of the question, the correct answer is "East" because the eastern coastal plain is the one that borders the Bay of Bengal. This region is characterized by its fertile alluvial soil and is an important agricultural area. The western coastal plain, which lies along the Arabian Sea, is not the correct answer in this context.
Understanding the geographical features of India, including its coastal plains, is important for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, and State PSC Exams. It is essential to be familiar with the specific geographical features and their locations to avoid common misconceptions and to answer questions accurately.