Understanding Peninsular Plateau Divisions

The Peninsular Plateau is a crucial physiographic division of India, known for its ancient geological structure and vast plateau formations. It lies south of the North Indian Plains and is characterized by old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks. Understanding its major divisions helps in comprehending India's diverse geography.

Identifying Peninsular Plateau's Major Divisions

The Peninsular Plateau is generally divided into two main parts:

• Central Highlands: This northern part of the plateau extends from the Narmada River northward. It comprises the Malwa Plateau and the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
• Deccan Plateau: This southern part is larger and triangular in shape. It stretches from the Narmada River southwards to the southernmost tip of India.

Northeastern Plateau as an Extension

The Northeastern Plateau, often referred to as the Meghalaya Plateau or Karbi-Anglong Plateau, is considered an eastward extension of the Peninsular Plateau. It shares similar geological characteristics, being composed of the same ancient rock systems, though it is separated by the fault created by the Malda fault.

The Case of Purvanchal Hills

The question asks to identify which option is NOT a major division of the Peninsular Plateau. Let's examine the options in light of the established divisions:

• Central Highlands: This is a primary division of the Peninsular Plateau.
• Deccan Plateau: This is another primary division of the Peninsular Plateau.
• Northeastern Plateau: This is recognized as an extension of the Peninsular Plateau.
• Purvanchal Hills: These hills are located in the northeastern border regions of India and form the southern extensions of the Himalayas. They are composed of young, folded sedimentary rocks, unlike the ancient crystalline rocks of the Peninsular Plateau. Therefore, the Purvanchal Hills are considered part of the Himalayan system, not a division of the Peninsular Plateau.

Based on geographical classification, the Purvanchal Hills are distinct from the major divisions of the Peninsular Plateau.