Thursday, 29 January 2026

 

🗺️ Geography Optional – Paper II

Map-Based PYQs (Draw a Map & Explain)

Page – 1

UPSC / UPPSC | Shaktimatha 369 Learning


Q1. Draw a map of India and explain the major physiographic divisions.

Map to Draw:

  • Himalayan Mountains
  • Northern Plains
  • Peninsular Plateau
  • Indian Desert
  • Coastal Plains
  • Islands

Answer:

India is divided into six major physiographic regions, each with distinct relief, structure and economic significance.

  • Himalayas: Young fold mountains acting as climatic and physical barrier
  • Northern Plains: Fertile alluvial plains supporting dense population
  • Peninsular Plateau: Ancient stable block rich in minerals
  • Indian Desert: Arid region with sparse vegetation
  • Coastal Plains: Important for ports and fisheries
  • Islands: Strategic and ecological importance

Conclusion:

Physiographic diversity explains India’s varied climate, resources and settlement patterns.


Q2. Draw a map showing major Himalayan ranges and passes. Explain their significance.

Map to Draw:

  • Greater Himalaya (Himadri)
  • Lesser Himalaya (Himachal)
  • Shiwalik Range
  • Nathu La, Zoji La, Shipki La

Answer:

The Himalayan ranges form a complex mountain system with immense climatic, hydrological and strategic importance.

  • Control monsoon rainfall
  • Source of perennial rivers
  • Natural defence barrier
  • Mountain passes facilitate trade and defence

Conclusion:

The Himalayas are vital for India’s ecological balance and geopolitical security.


Q3. On an outline map of India, show major river systems and discuss their economic importance.

Map to Draw:

  • Indus system
  • Ganga system
  • Brahmaputra system
  • Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri

Answer:

Indian rivers support agriculture, industry, hydropower generation and settlement.

  • Provide irrigation and fertile alluvium
  • Enable inland navigation
  • Support hydroelectric projects

Conclusion:

River systems are lifelines of India’s economy, requiring sustainable management.


Q4. Draw a map showing monsoon paths and explain the mechanism of Indian monsoon.

Map to Draw:

  • South-West Monsoon branches
  • Arabian Sea branch
  • Bay of Bengal branch

Answer:

The Indian monsoon results from seasonal wind reversal caused by differential heating of land and sea.

  • Brings nearly 75% of annual rainfall
  • Determines agricultural calendar
  • Controls water availability

Conclusion:

Monsoon remains the backbone of India’s economy and food security.


Q5. Draw a map showing major drought-prone regions of India and explain their causes.

Map to Draw:

  • Rajasthan
  • Bundelkhand
  • Vidarbha
  • Rayalaseema

Answer:

Drought-prone regions of India experience low and erratic rainfall.

  • Monsoon variability
  • High evapotranspiration
  • Over-extraction of groundwater

Conclusion:

Integrated drought management and water conservation are essential for resilience.


Examiner’s Rule:
Draw first → Label clearly → Explain concisely → Conclude smartly


End of Map-Based PYQs – Page 1
Shaktimatha 369 Learning

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