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Geography Optional Paper II – Page 19

Indian Drainage System: Himalayan & Peninsular Rivers

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1. Concept of Drainage System

A drainage system refers to the network of rivers and streams that drain an area. Indian drainage evolved under the influence of geological structure, slope, climate, and tectonics.

2. Major Drainage Divisions of India

• Himalayan Rivers
• Peninsular Rivers
• Coastal Rivers
• Inland Drainage (Arid regions)

3. Himalayan Rivers – Characteristics

• Snow-fed and rain-fed
• Perennial rivers
• Long courses with large basins
• Meandering and braided channels

Major Himalayan River Systems

• Indus River System
• Ganga River System
• Brahmaputra River System

4. Peninsular Rivers – Characteristics

• Rain-fed rivers
• Seasonal flow
• Short and shallow courses
• Fixed river valleys

Major Peninsular Rivers

• Godavari
• Krishna
• Kaveri
• Mahanadi
• Narmada & Tapi (west-flowing)

5. East-Flowing vs West-Flowing Rivers

• East-flowing rivers form deltas
• West-flowing rivers form estuaries
• Western Ghats control drainage direction

6. Drainage Patterns in India

• Dendritic
• Trellis
• Radial
• Centripetal

7. River Capture & Tectonic Control

River capture in Peninsular India reflects past tectonic movements and slope changes, especially along rift valleys.

8. Problems of Indian Rivers

• Floods in Himalayan rivers
• Siltation and channel shifting
• Inter-state water disputes
• Pollution and over-extraction

9. Previous Year Question (Model)

“Compare the Himalayan and Peninsular river systems of India.”

10. Answer Writing Pointers

• Use comparative tables
• Draw river basin maps
• Link rivers with tectonics and climate

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🌊 Shaktimatha Learning | Geography Optional – Indian Drainage System