UPSC / UPPSC Geography Optional
Paper–II (Indian Geography) – Page 2
The Himalayan Mountain System
Shaktimatha 369 Learning
1. Introduction
The Himalayas are one of the youngest and loftiest mountain systems in the world. They form a continuous arc along the northern boundary of India and play a decisive role in shaping India’s climate, drainage, biodiversity and strategic geography.
2. Origin of the Himalayas
The Himalayas were formed due to the collision between the northward-moving Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate. This collision began around 50 million years ago and resulted in the folding of sediments deposited in the Tethys Sea.
- Indian Plate drifted north after Gondwanaland breakup
- Tethys Sea sediments compressed and folded
- Orogenic movements still continuing
Exam Tip: Mention plate tectonic theory for full marks.
3. Evolution of the Himalayas
The Himalayan mountain system evolved through multiple stages of uplift, folding and faulting. Even today, the Himalayas are rising at a slow rate, making them tectonically unstable.
- Presence of major thrusts (MCT, MBT, MFT)
- Frequent earthquakes
- Young fold mountain characteristics
4. Structural Divisions of the Himalayas
A. Trans-Himalayas
Located north of the Great Himalayas, this region includes ranges like Karakoram, Ladakh and Zaskar. It is characterised by cold desert conditions.
B. Greater Himalayas (Himadri)
The Great Himalayas contain the highest peaks of the world, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga and Nanda Devi. These ranges are permanently snow-covered.
C. Lesser Himalayas (Himachal)
The Lesser Himalayas lie south of the Himadri and include important valleys like Kashmir and Kangra. Many hill stations are located in this zone.
D. Shiwalik Range
The Shiwaliks are the outermost foothills of the Himalayas. They consist of unconsolidated sediments and are prone to erosion and landslides.
5. Regional Divisions of the Himalayas
- Punjab Himalayas
- Kumaon Himalayas
- Nepal Himalayas
- Assam Himalayas
6. Significance of the Himalayas
- Climatic barrier against cold Central Asian winds
- Source of perennial rivers
- Rich biodiversity hotspot
- Natural defence barrier
- Hydropower potential
7. Environmental & Human Issues
- Earthquakes and landslides
- Deforestation and slope instability
- Glacial retreat due to climate change
- Unplanned infrastructure development
8. Answer Writing Strategy (Mains Focus)
- Draw a simple Himalayan cross-section
- Mention plate tectonic theory
- Add one current example (glaciers, disasters)
- Link Himalayas with climate and rivers
Golden Rule: Plate tectonics + diagram + significance = Top scores
End of Geography Optional – Paper II | Page 2
Shaktimatha 369 Learning
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