Part of: Rajasthan Gk set 37

Which desert covers approximately 60% of Rajasthan?

Category: Rajasthan Gk

Hint: Consider the deserts located in the Indian subcontinent.

Correct Answer: A) Thar Desert.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, is a significant geographical feature that covers approximately 60% of the state of Rajasthan in India. This desert is located in the northwestern part of the Indian subcontinent and is characterized by its sandy and rocky terrain. The Thar Desert is the world's 17th largest desert and is a crucial part of the Indian landscape, influencing the climate, ecology, and culture of the region.

The Thar Desert is primarily located in India, with a small portion extending into Pakistan. It is bounded by the Aravalli Range to the northeast, the Rann of Kutch to the southwest, and the Indus River to the west. The desert is known for its extreme temperatures, with hot summers and cold winters. The region receives very little rainfall, which makes it a challenging environment for agriculture and human habitation.

Understanding the geographical features of Rajasthan is essential for comprehending the state's unique characteristics. The Thar Desert plays a significant role in shaping the state's climate, flora, and fauna. It is home to various species of plants and animals that have adapted to the harsh desert conditions. The desert also has a rich cultural heritage, with many communities living in and around the desert for generations.

Other deserts mentioned in the options, such as the Sahara, Gobi, and Karakum, are located in different parts of the world and are not related to the geography of Rajasthan. The Sahara Desert is in North Africa, the Gobi Desert is in Mongolia and northern China, and the Karakum Desert is in Central Asia, primarily in Turkmenistan. These deserts are significant in their own right but are not relevant to the geographical context of Rajasthan.

Therefore, the correct answer is the Thar Desert, which is the primary desert covering approximately 60% of Rajasthan. Understanding the geographical features of a region is crucial for comprehending its environmental, cultural, and economic aspects.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The Thar Desert covers approximately 60% of Rajasthan and is the primary desert in the region. It is located in the northwestern part of India and is a significant geographical feature of the state.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. The Sahara Desert is located in North Africa and does not cover any part of Rajasthan. It is the largest hot desert in the world but is not related to the geography of Rajasthan.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. The Gobi Desert is located in Asia, primarily in Mongolia and parts of northern China. It is not related to the geography of Rajasthan and does not cover any part of the state.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. The Karakum Desert is located in Central Asia, primarily in Turkmenistan. It is not related to the geography of Rajasthan and does not cover any part of the state.

Mnemonic: Think "Thar" for "Thar Desert" as it's the primary desert in Rajasthan.

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