Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The Peninsular Plateau, a defining feature of India’s geography, is home to several plateaus, each with unique characteristics. Among these, the North-Western Lava Plateau, commonly known as the Deccan Plateau, and the Chotanagpur Plateau stand out due to their distinct geological histories and resultant landforms. The Deccan Plateau, formed by volcanic eruptions during the Cretaceous and early Tertiary periods, covers a vast area, while the Chotanagpur Plateau is a result of complex geological processes involving ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks. Understanding the geographical differences between these two plateaus is crucial for comprehending the diverse landscapes and resource distribution of India.
The North-Western Lava Plateau (Deccan Plateau)
The Deccan Plateau is a large, elevated triangular landform, bounded by the Western Ghats, the Eastern Ghats, and the Satpura and Vindhya ranges. Its formation is primarily attributed to extensive volcanic activity millions of years ago.
- Geological Formation: Primarily basaltic lava flows laid down in successive layers during the Cretaceous and early Tertiary periods. This gives it a stepped topography.
- Topography: Generally flat-topped with gentle slopes, interspersed with volcanic features like craters and lava beds. The plateau exhibits a terraced structure due to successive lava flows.
- Drainage: Major rivers like the Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery, and their tributaries originate from the Western Ghats and flow eastward, draining the plateau. These rivers have formed extensive river valleys and gorges.
- Soil: Black soil (Regur) is predominant, highly fertile and suitable for cotton cultivation. Red and laterite soils are also found in some areas.
- Vegetation: Dry deciduous forests are common, with thorny vegetation in drier regions.
- Economic Significance: Rich in mineral resources like iron ore, manganese, coal, and bauxite. Agriculture, particularly cotton, sugarcane, and pulses, is a major economic activity.
The Chotanagpur Plateau
The Chotanagpur Plateau is situated in eastern India, covering parts of Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, Odisha, and West Bengal. It’s a complex geological formation, older than the Deccan Plateau.
- Geological Formation: Composed of ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks (granites, gneisses, schists). It’s a dissected plateau, meaning it has been eroded over time.
- Topography: Undulating terrain with hills, plateaus, and valleys. It’s characterized by residual hills and plateaus due to prolonged erosion.
- Drainage: Rivers like the Damodar, Subarnarekha, Brahmani, and Baitarani drain the plateau. These rivers have carved out deep valleys and waterfalls.
- Soil: Red and yellow soils are prevalent, generally less fertile than the black soils of the Deccan Plateau.
- Vegetation: Sal forests are dominant, with mixed deciduous forests in some areas.
- Economic Significance: Rich in mineral resources, particularly coal, iron ore, copper, and mica. Agriculture is practiced, but limited by soil fertility and rainfall.
Comparative Analysis
The following table summarizes the key differences between the two plateaus:
| Feature | North-Western Lava Plateau (Deccan Plateau) | Chotanagpur Plateau |
|---|---|---|
| Geological Formation | Basaltic lava flows (Volcanic origin) | Ancient crystalline and metamorphic rocks |
| Age | Relatively younger (Cretaceous-Tertiary) | Much older (Pre-Cambrian) |
| Topography | Flat-topped, stepped, terraced | Undulating, dissected, residual hills |
| Drainage Pattern | Radially outward from the Western Ghats | Dendritic, with deep valleys |
| Soil Type | Black soil (Regur) dominant | Red and yellow soils dominant |
| Vegetation | Dry deciduous forests, thorny vegetation | Sal forests, mixed deciduous forests |
| Mineral Resources | Iron ore, manganese, coal, bauxite | Coal, iron ore, copper, mica |
Conclusion
In conclusion, the North-Western Lava Plateau and the Chotanagpur Plateau, while both being significant components of the Peninsular Plateau, exhibit substantial differences in their geological origins, topographical features, and resource endowments. The Deccan Plateau’s volcanic past has resulted in a relatively flat, fertile landscape, while the Chotanagpur Plateau’s ancient crystalline rocks have created a more rugged, undulating terrain. These differences have profoundly influenced the economic activities and ecological characteristics of the respective regions, shaping the diverse geographical mosaic of India.
Answer Length
This is a comprehensive model answer for learning purposes and may exceed the word limit. In the exam, always adhere to the prescribed word count.