Consider the following statements regarding Paleo-channels and groundwater recharge in the Indo-Gangetic plains:
1. The 2002 National Water Policy identifies the paleo-channels of the Indus system as protected heritage sites, restricting any commercial groundwater extraction within a five-kilometer radius of identified paleocourses.
2. The 'Khadar' deposits are formed by the deposition of older alluvium during the Pleistocene epoch, and these formations provide the base flow for perennial rivers during the pre-monsoon season.
3. The Deccan Trap basaltic formations extend into the northern plains, providing a secondary porosity structure that supports the high-yielding tube wells found in the central Gangetic basin.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the National Water Policy does not designate paleo-channels as protected heritage sites with such specific extraction restrictions. Statement 2 is false as 'Khadar' refers to new, fertile alluvium deposited annually by floods in the Holocene, whereas 'Bhangar' constitutes the older Pleistocene alluvium. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Deccan Traps are restricted to the Peninsular Plateau and do not extend into the Indo-Gangetic plains, which are characterized by thick unconsolidated alluvial sediments rather than basaltic secondary porosity.
Consider the following statements regarding Erosion surfaces and planation levels of the Peninsular Plateau:
1. The Mysore Plateau, located at an average elevation of 600 to 900 meters, represents a significant erosion surface that reflects the late Tertiary planation cycles.
2. The Malwa Plateau is identified as a primary erosion surface of the early Eocene period, which was formed by the deposition of thick loessic sediments transported from the Thar Desert region.
3. The Shillong Plateau represents an extension of the Peninsular block, characterized by a uniform planation surface that was created by the continuous marine transgression during the late Jurassic period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Mysore Plateau is a high-level erosion surface (600-900m) resulting from Tertiary planation cycles. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Malwa Plateau is primarily composed of Deccan Trap basaltic lava flows, not loessic sediments from the Thar. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Shillong Plateau is a horst block of the Peninsular shield separated by the Malda Gap, and its surface is a remnant of an ancient peneplain, not a product of Jurassic marine transgression.
Consider the following statements regarding Chotanagpur Plateau radial drainage and rift valley systems:
1. The Son River flows through a tectonic rift valley located south of the Kaimur Range, acting as the primary drainage divide between the Chotanagpur and the Malwa Plateaus.
2. The Ranchi Plateau is separated from the Hazaribagh Plateau by the Hazaribagh fault, which was identified by geological surveys conducted during the 1920s.
3. The Damodar River flows through a rift valley formed by the down-faulting of the Gondwana rocks, separating the Ranchi Plateau from the Hazaribagh Plateau.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the Damodar River occupies a classic rift valley formed by the subsidence of Gondwana strata, effectively acting as the boundary between the Hazaribagh and Ranchi plateaus. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Son River flows through a fault-controlled valley north of the Chotanagpur Plateau, and it does not serve as a drainage divide between Chotanagpur and Malwa. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Hazaribagh and Ranchi plateaus are separated by the Damodar River's rift valley, not by a specific 'Hazaribagh fault' identified in the 1920s; the structural separation is a result of regional tectonic down-warping and faulting associated with the Damodar basin.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular block tectonic stability and horst-graben structures:
1. The Peninsular block is primarily composed of ancient gneisses and granites, dating back to the Archean Eon, which have remained tectonically stable since the end of the Precambrian period.
2. The Satpura range is geologically classified as a horst, flanked by the down-faulted rift valleys of the Narmada and Tapti rivers.
3. The Narmada-Son-Brahmaputra lineament acts as a major fault zone that divides the Indian Peninsular block into two distinct structural segments.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Peninsular block is a stable craton primarily composed of Archean gneisses and granites that has resisted major folding since the Precambrian. Statement 2 is correct because the Satpura range is a classic horst (uplifted block) bounded by the Narmada and Tapti rift valleys, which are grabens formed by tectonic subsidence. Statement 3 is correct because the Narmada-Son lineament is a major crustal fracture zone that serves as a structural boundary, separating the northern and southern segments of the Indian shield.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular river rejuvenation and antecedent drainage patterns:
1. The Son river originates near Amarkantak and flows northwards to join the Ganga, maintaining a pattern of antecedent drainage that predates the formation of the Vindhyan range.
2. The Chambal river exhibits incised meanders in its lower course, which geomorphologists attribute to the rejuvenation of the Peninsular block during the late Tertiary period.
3. The Sharavati river, which forms the Jog Falls, exhibits a rejuvenated profile characterized by knickpoints that align with the tectonic subsidence of the Western Ghats during the Pliocene epoch.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Chambal river's incised meanders are classic geomorphic indicators of rejuvenation caused by the uplift of the Peninsular block during the late Tertiary period. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Son river is a superimposed or consequent stream rather than an antecedent one, as its course was established on the sedimentary cover of the Vindhyan range. Statement 3 is incorrect because while the Sharavati river features knickpoints due to the Western Ghats' escarpment, these are primarily attributed to the faulting and differential uplift associated with the rifting of the Indian plate during the early Cenozoic, rather than Pliocene tectonic subsidence.
Consider the following statements regarding Deccan Traps basaltic volcanism and fissure eruptions:
1. The basaltic flows of the Deccan Traps exhibit a layered structure known as 'stepped topography', resulting from successive fissure eruptions that occurred over a span of several million years.
2. The Narmada rift valley marks the northern boundary of the Deccan Traps, representing a tectonic depression formed by the collision of the Indian plate with the Eurasian plate during the Miocene.
3. The Deccan Traps cover an area of approximately 500,000 square kilometers, primarily formed during the Late Cretaceous period around 66 million years ago.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Deccan Traps formed through successive fissure eruptions, creating a characteristic 'stepped' landscape (trappa means stairs in Swedish). Statement 3 is correct because the formation occurred during the Late Cretaceous, roughly 66 million years ago, covering a vast expanse of about 500,000 sq km. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Narmada rift valley is a pre-existing structural feature associated with the Gondwana breakup, and the Deccan volcanism was triggered by the Reunion hotspot as the Indian plate moved northward, not by the collision with the Eurasian plate.
Consider the following statements regarding Erosion surfaces and planation levels of the Peninsular Plateau:
1. The Ranchi Plateau is characterized by a series of three distinct planation surfaces, with the highest surface reaching elevations of approximately 1,000 meters above mean sea level.
2. The Chhattisgarh Plain is geologically classified as a structural basin, formed by the down-warping of the Gondwana formations during the late Paleozoic era.
3. Lester King’s geomorphological studies identified the 'End-Cretaceous' surface as a major planation level that truncates the older geological structures of the Peninsular Plateau.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
The Ranchi Plateau features a well-documented tripartite erosion surface (1,000m, 600m, and 300m) resulting from successive cycles of uplift and denudation. The Chhattisgarh Plain is a classic structural basin formed by the down-warping of the Gondwana-bearing rocks, while Lester King’s geomorphological model of the Indian Peninsula confirms the 'End-Cretaceous' surface as a widespread pediplanation level that truncates diverse older geological formations. As all three statements accurately reflect established geomorphological consensus regarding the evolution of the Peninsular Plateau, no statements are incorrect.
Consider the following statements regarding Kutch-Kathiawar peninsula tectonic and saline marsh evolution:
1. The Allah Bund, a natural embankment formed during the 1819 Rann of Kutch earthquake, resulted in the upliftment of a 50-mile-long strip of land.
2. The Kathiawar Peninsula is characterized by the presence of the Girnar hills, which are composed of igneous rocks dating back to the late Cretaceous period.
3. The Rann of Kutch is a saline marshland formed by the recession of the Arabian Sea and the subsequent deposition of sediments by the Luni River and other ephemeral streams.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the 1819 Rann of Kutch earthquake created the 'Allah Bund,' a 50-mile-long natural embankment caused by crustal uplift. Statement 2 is correct because the Girnar hills are a prominent volcanic feature of the Kathiawar Peninsula, formed by intrusive igneous activity during the late Cretaceous period associated with the Deccan Traps. Statement 3 is correct as the Rann of Kutch originated from the recession of the Arabian Sea, transforming a shallow marine inlet into a saline marshland through the accumulation of sediments from ephemeral rivers like the Luni.
Consider the following statements regarding Dharwar and Cuddapah supergroup geological significance:
1. The Cuddapah Supergroup derives its name from the Kadapa district in Andhra Pradesh, where these rock formations were first studied in detail.
2. The Papaghni Group, located in the Cuddapah basin, serves as the basal unit of the Cuddapah Supergroup and consists mainly of quartzites and shales.
3. The Kolar Gold Fields are situated within the Dharwar Supergroup, specifically associated with the greenstone belts of the region.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
The Cuddapah Supergroup is named after the Kadapa district, where its sedimentary sequences were first identified, and the Papaghni Group represents its oldest basal unit, primarily composed of quartzite and shale deposited unconformably over the older basement. The Dharwar Supergroup, which is the oldest metamorphic sedimentary rock system in India, hosts significant gold deposits, most notably within the schistose greenstone belts of the Kolar Gold Fields. All three statements are factually accurate, as they correctly identify the nomenclature, stratigraphic composition, and mineralogical significance of these Precambrian geological formations.
Consider the following statements regarding Piedmont zone sediment depositional processes:
1. The Bhabar zone is defined by the presence of fine-grained clay deposits, which facilitate the retention of surface water and support the dense, perennial vegetation observed in the northern Himalayan foothills.
2. The Pothwar Plateau, situated in the northwestern Piedmont zone, is characterized by extensive loess deposits that originated from the aeolian transport of glacial flour during the Holocene interglacial periods.
3. The Terai region, located immediately south of the Bhabar, exhibits a rise in the water table due to the reappearance of streams that had previously disappeared into the permeable sub-surface of the northern Piedmont zone.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the Terai region acts as a resurgence zone where streams disappearing in the porous Bhabar belt reappear, creating marshy conditions. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Bhabar zone is composed of coarse, highly permeable pebbles and boulders, not fine-grained clay, which causes surface streams to disappear underground. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the Pothwar Plateau features loess, these deposits are primarily associated with Pleistocene glacial activity rather than the Holocene interglacial periods.
Consider the following statements regarding Dharwar and Cuddapah supergroup geological significance:
1. Economic minerals such as gold, silver, and manganese are found in the Schistose rocks of the Dharwar Supergroup.
2. The Dharwar Supergroup represents the oldest metamorphosed sedimentary rocks in India, primarily distributed across the Karnataka craton.
3. The Cuddapah Supergroup is characterized by non-fossiliferous sedimentary formations that unconformably overlie the Archean basement rocks.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
The Dharwar Supergroup, dating back to the Archean Eon (2.5-3.5 billion years ago), is the oldest metamorphosed sedimentary sequence in India, rich in metallic minerals like gold (Kolar fields) and manganese due to intense volcanic and sedimentary activity. The Cuddapah Supergroup consists of Proterozoic sedimentary rocks (approx. 1.4-1.7 billion years old) that unconformably rest upon the eroded Archean basement and, like the Dharwar, are devoid of macro-fossils. Since all three statements accurately reflect the geological characteristics and economic significance of these cratonic formations, all are correct.
Consider the following statements regarding Piedmont zone sediment depositional processes:
1. In the eastern section of the Peninsular Piedmont, the depositional processes are dominated by the formation of deep-seated karst topography, which influences the groundwater recharge patterns of the Mahanadi basin.
2. The piedmont plains of the Aravalli range are historically noted for the accumulation of thick, marine-derived limestone strata, which were deposited during the retreat of the Tethys Sea in the late Tertiary period.
3. During the Pleistocene epoch, glacial outwash plains in the northern Himalayan Piedmont were significantly modified by high-energy fluvial processes, resulting in the formation of extensive alluvial fans.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the northern Himalayan Piedmont (Bhabar zone) was shaped by high-energy fluvial deposition during the Pleistocene, creating extensive alluvial fans as mountain streams lost velocity upon reaching the plains. Statement 1 is incorrect because the eastern Peninsular Piedmont is primarily characterized by crystalline rocks and alluvial deposits, not karst topography, which is typical of limestone-rich regions. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Aravalli piedmont deposits are primarily terrestrial (alluvial/colluvial) in origin, and the Tethys Sea retreated from the Himalayan region long before the late Tertiary, having no role in forming Aravalli piedmont strata.
Consider the following statements regarding Indo-Gangetic trough subsidence and sediment provenance:
1. The Indo-Gangetic trough originated as a foreland basin during the Miocene epoch, formed by the flexural subsidence of the Indian plate lithosphere in response to the orogenic loading of the rising Himalayas.
2. The Vindhyan range acts as a major watershed for the Peninsular rivers, and its lithology consists of metamorphic rocks that were subjected to intense folding during the Hercynian orogenic cycle.
3. The Meghalaya Plateau is a structural extension of the Peninsular Plateau, separated from the main block by the Malda fault, which formed due to the tectonic collision between the Indian and Eurasian plates in the early Eocene.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct because the Indo-Gangetic trough is a classic foreland basin formed by the flexural downwarping of the Indian plate under the Himalayan load starting in the Miocene. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Vindhyan range is primarily composed of sedimentary rocks (sandstone, shale, limestone) of the Proterozoic era, not metamorphic rocks, and it was not affected by the Hercynian orogeny. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Meghalaya Plateau is separated from the Peninsular block by the Malda Gap (a rift valley or fault zone), which formed due to subsidence related to the Rajmahal-Garo fault, not as a direct result of the early Eocene collision.
Consider the following statements regarding Bhabar-Terai-Bhangar-Khadar morpho-stratigraphy:
1. The Bhabar belt is a narrow, 8 to 16 km wide strip of alluvial fans that runs parallel to the Shiwalik foothills from the Indus to the Tista river.
2. In the Terai region, the streams and rivers that disappear in the Bhabar belt re-emerge to create a marshy and swampy tract, historically characterized by dense forests and wildlife.
3. The Bhangar represents the older alluvium of the Northern Plains, lying above the flood levels of the rivers and often containing calcareous deposits locally known as kankar.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
All three statements are correct: the Bhabar is a porous, pebble-strewn alluvial fan belt (8-16 km wide) stretching along the Shiwaliks, where rivers disappear underground. In the Terai region, these rivers re-emerge to form a marshy, moisture-rich zone due to the lack of proper drainage, while the Bhangar consists of older, elevated alluvial deposits characterized by 'kankar' (calcareous nodules) that remain beyond the reach of annual river floods.
Consider the following statements regarding Dharwar and Cuddapah supergroup geological significance:
1. The Vindhyan Supergroup is the primary geological formation underlying the Cuddapah basin, and it contains significant coal seams formed during the Proterozoic eon.
2. The Nallamalai Group represents the youngest sequence within the Cuddapah Supergroup, consisting of thick deposits of limestone and dolomite.
3. Igneous intrusions of mafic and ultramafic rocks are observed within the Dharwar Supergroup, contributing to the formation of complex mineral deposits.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Cuddapah basin is not underlain by the Vindhyan Supergroup, and coal seams are characteristic of the Gondwana period, not the Proterozoic eon. Statement 2 is correct as the Nallamalai Group represents the youngest sequence of the Cuddapah Supergroup, characterized by extensive carbonate sedimentation including limestone and dolomite. Statement 3 is correct because the Dharwar Supergroup contains significant igneous activity, including mafic and ultramafic intrusions, which are responsible for the primary gold and base metal deposits found in the region.
Consider the following statements regarding Western Ghats (Sahyadri) orographic and escarpment geomorphology:
1. The formation of the Western Ghats is linked to the rifting of the Gondwanaland supercontinent approximately 150 million years ago, which created the steep western scarp face.
2. The Thal Ghat pass, located at an elevation of 583 meters, connects the city of Nashik to Mumbai and serves as a vital transport link through the northern section of the Sahyadri range.
3. The Bhor Ghat pass, which links Mumbai to Pune at an elevation of 625 meters, was constructed by the British in 1830 to facilitate the movement of basaltic rock samples for geological survey.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Western Ghats are a fault-scarp formed by the rifting of Gondwanaland during the Cretaceous period, creating the steep western slope. Statement 2 is correct because the Thal Ghat (Kasara Ghat) is a major pass in the Sahyadri range connecting Nashik and Mumbai at an elevation of approximately 583 meters. Statement 3 is incorrect because while Bhor Ghat does connect Mumbai and Pune, it was developed primarily for trade and military transport to the Deccan Plateau, not for the collection of basaltic rock samples.
Consider the following statements regarding Meghalaya Plateau (Shillong) structural continuity with Peninsular block:
1. The Shillong Peak, reaching an elevation of 1,965 meters, serves as the primary watershed for the Brahmaputra basin and marks the northernmost limit of the Deccan Trap volcanic activity.
2. Geological surveys indicate that the Cherrapunji region consists of Gondwana coal seams that were deposited during the Carboniferous period, providing evidence of a direct structural link to the Chota Nagpur Plateau.
3. The Garo-Rajmahal Gap was formed by the northward movement of the Indian plate during the Eocene epoch, resulting in the complete subduction of the Tethys crust beneath the plateau.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Meghalaya Plateau is an extension of the Peninsular block and is composed of ancient crystalline rocks, not Deccan Trap volcanic activity. Statement 2 is incorrect as the coal seams in the Cherrapunji region belong to the Tertiary period (Eocene), not the Carboniferous period, which characterizes the main Gondwana coalfields of the Chota Nagpur Plateau. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Garo-Rajmahal Gap was formed by faulting and subsidence during the late Mesozoic/early Tertiary period, rather than the subduction of the Tethys crust, which occurred at the Himalayan plate boundary.
Consider the following statements regarding Eastern Ghats-Western Ghats convergence at Nilgiris:
1. The Eastern Ghats maintain a uniform average elevation of 2,500 meters throughout their stretch, and they merge with the Western Ghats at the Anaimudi peak in the Annamalai range.
2. The Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in 1986, was the first biosphere reserve in India to be included in the UNESCO World Network of Biosphere Reserves.
3. The Palghat Gap, a major break in the Western Ghats located south of the Nilgiris, spans approximately 30 kilometers in width and facilitates moisture-laden winds from the Arabian Sea to reach the interior of Tamil Nadu.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Eastern Ghats are discontinuous, lower in elevation (average 600-900m) than the Western Ghats, and converge with them at the Nilgiri Hills, not Anaimudi. Statement 2 is correct as the Nilgiri Biosphere Reserve, established in 1986, holds the distinction of being India's first UNESCO-recognized biosphere reserve. Statement 3 is correct because the Palghat Gap is a significant 30km-wide mountain pass south of the Nilgiris that acts as a climatic corridor, allowing Arabian Sea moisture to influence the climate of interior Tamil Nadu.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular block tectonic stability and horst-graben structures:
1. The Malwa Plateau represents a transition zone between the Aravalli range in the west and the Bundelkhand upland in the east, characterized by its basaltic lava cover.
2. The Chota Nagpur plateau is considered a rejuvenated horst structure that underwent significant block uplift during the Eocene epoch, coinciding with the initial collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates.
3. The Aravalli range, which originated during the Delhi Supergroup orogeny, is characterized by a series of graben structures formed due to extensional tectonic forces in the late Mesozoic era.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Malwa Plateau is a lava-covered region acting as a transition zone between the Aravalli and Bundelkhand blocks. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Chota Nagpur plateau is a 'peneplain' formed by multiple cycles of erosion and uplift, not a horst structure formed during the Eocene. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Aravalli range is one of the world's oldest fold mountains, originating in the Proterozoic era (Precambrian), and is not defined by late Mesozoic graben structures.
Consider the following statements regarding Bhabar-Terai-Bhangar-Khadar morpho-stratigraphy:
1. The Khadar, or New Alluvium, is deposited by the annual floods of the river systems, providing fertile soil that is renewed every year for intensive agriculture.
2. The Deccan Trap, a distinct feature of the Peninsular Plateau, consists of black soil areas resulting from volcanic activity that occurred during the late Cretaceous period.
3. The Peninsular Plateau is a tableland composed of old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, formed due to the breaking and drifting of the Gondwana landmass.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as Khadar consists of fresh, nutrient-rich silt deposited annually by floods, making it the most fertile zone for agriculture. Statement 2 is correct because the Deccan Trap was formed during the late Cretaceous period (approx. 66 million years ago) through fissure volcanic eruptions, creating basaltic rocks that weather into fertile black soil (Regur). Statement 3 is correct as the Peninsular Plateau is a stable shield of ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, which emerged as a fragment of the supercontinent Gondwanaland following its tectonic breakup.
Consider the following statements regarding Aravalli-Delhi fold belt structural evolution:
1. The Aravalli Supergroup, situated to the west of the Great Boundary Fault, records sedimentation history spanning the Paleoproterozoic era, approximately 2.5 to 1.8 billion years ago.
2. The South Delhi Fold Belt is separated from the older Aravalli Craton by the Great Boundary Fault, which marks a significant tectonic discontinuity in the region.
3. The Great Boundary Fault serves as the eastern limit of the Vindhyan Basin, and its tectonic reactivation during the late Cretaceous period facilitated the extensive basaltic flows of the Deccan Traps.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Aravalli Supergroup, located west of the Great Boundary Fault (GBF), represents Paleoproterozoic sedimentation (c. 2.5-1.8 Ga) deposited on the Bundelkhand Craton. Statement 2 is correct because the GBF acts as a major crustal-scale tectonic boundary separating the Proterozoic fold belts from the stable cratonic blocks of the Indian shield. Statement 3 is incorrect because the GBF marks the eastern boundary of the Vindhyan Basin, but it is unrelated to the Deccan Traps, which were triggered by the Reunion hotspot plume activity during the northward drift of the Indian plate in the late Cretaceous.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular river rejuvenation and antecedent drainage patterns:
1. The Subarnarekha river displays evidence of river capture in the Chota Nagpur plateau, where its headwaters were diverted from the Damodar basin due to the post-Miocene uplift of the Rajmahal hills.
2. The Godavari river system features a series of incised meanders in the Dandakaranya region, which are considered primary indicators of the river's antecedent origin during the early Cretaceous era.
3. The Narmada river follows a rift valley formed by block faulting, and its characteristic straight course is the result of antecedent drainage patterns established during the Gondwana period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Subarnarekha's drainage evolution is primarily linked to the uplift of the Chota Nagpur plateau rather than the Rajmahal hills. Statement 2 is incorrect as the incised meanders of the Godavari are attributed to regional tectonic uplift during the Tertiary period, not antecedent origin during the Cretaceous. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Narmada's straight course is a consequence of its flow through a structural rift valley formed by post-Gondwana faulting, not an antecedent pattern established during the Gondwana period.
Consider the following statements regarding Deccan Traps basaltic volcanism and fissure eruptions:
1. The regur soil found in the Deccan region is derived from the weathering of granite-gneiss complexes, which provide the high iron and magnesium content necessary for cotton cultivation.
2. The Chota Nagpur Plateau shares a similar geological origin with the Deccan Traps, having been formed by the same fissure eruption events that occurred during the early Tertiary period.
3. The Deccan Traps are classified as an example of explosive volcanism, where high-viscosity magma resulted in the formation of prominent volcanic cones across the Maharashtra plateau.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the Deccan Traps originated from the weathering of basaltic lava, not granite-gneiss complexes, and are renowned for their fertility for cotton cultivation. The Chota Nagpur Plateau is a part of the ancient Peninsular shield composed of crystalline rocks like granite and gneiss, predating the Deccan Traps which formed during the late Cretaceous to early Tertiary period. Furthermore, the Deccan Traps are a classic example of quiet fissure eruptions involving low-viscosity basaltic lava, which created vast horizontal lava plateaus rather than explosive volcanic cones.
Consider the following statements regarding Eastern Ghats-Western Ghats convergence at Nilgiris:
1. The Shevaroy Hills are considered the southern-most extension of the Nilgiri massif, and they contain the highest concentration of iron ore deposits found within the Eastern Ghats chain.
2. The Nilgiri plateau is primarily composed of sedimentary rock formations dating back to the Gondwana period, which explains the high frequency of seismic activity recorded in the region since 1900.
3. The Cauvery River originates from the Brahmagiri range, flows eastward through the Nilgiri convergence zone, and forms the boundary between the states of Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Shevaroy Hills are located in Tamil Nadu, distinct from the Nilgiri massif, which is the actual convergence point of the Ghats. Statement 2 is false as the Nilgiri plateau is primarily composed of ancient crystalline rocks (charnockites) of the Precambrian era, not Gondwana-period sedimentary rocks, and the region is relatively stable compared to the Himalayan seismic zones. Statement 3 is incorrect because while the Cauvery originates in the Brahmagiri range, it flows through Karnataka and Tamil Nadu, and it does not form a boundary between Kerala and Andhra Pradesh.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular plateau inselbergs and tors formation:
1. The weathering of the Peninsular Plateau's crystalline basement is facilitated by the high concentration of limestone, which dissolves to leave behind resistant granite pillars known as tors.
2. The formation of inselbergs in the Vidarbha region is linked to the intense volcanic activity of the late Cretaceous, which deposited thick layers of granite that were later sculpted by aeolian erosion.
3. The granite tors of the Aravalli range are primarily attributed to the depositional action of ancient rivers, which deposited rounded boulders in the valleys before the subsequent uplift of the mountain chain.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because Peninsular tors and inselbergs are primarily products of chemical weathering and mass wasting of granitic rocks, not limestone dissolution, volcanic deposition, or fluvial processes. Statement 1 is false as tors form from the deep chemical weathering of granite joints, not limestone; Statement 2 is incorrect because Vidarbha's volcanic activity relates to Deccan Traps (basalt), not granite sculpting by wind; and Statement 3 is wrong because Aravalli tors are erosional features of ancient basement rocks, not fluvial deposits.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular plateau inselbergs and tors formation:
1. The formation of bornhardts, a specific type of inselberg, is primarily influenced by the spacing of vertical and horizontal joints within the massive igneous rock bodies of the Deccan shield.
2. Tors are large piles of rounded granite blocks formed through the process of two-stage weathering, where chemical decomposition occurs along joint planes before the removal of the regolith.
3. The Peninsular Plateau's characteristic granite domes, such as those found in the Hyderabad region, are often the result of exfoliation where outer layers of rock peel off due to pressure release.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as bornhardts form when vertical and horizontal joints in massive igneous rocks facilitate differential weathering, leaving behind resistant, dome-shaped cores. Statement 2 is correct because tors result from two-stage weathering: initial deep chemical decomposition along joint planes (saprolitization) followed by the stripping of the loose regolith to expose rounded boulders. Statement 3 is correct as the granite domes of the Peninsular Plateau, particularly in the Hyderabad region, are classic examples of exfoliation, where the unloading of overlying pressure causes outer rock shells to expand and peel away.
Consider the following statements regarding Satpura-Vindhya range tectonic uplift and block mountain characteristics:
1. The Satpura Range is geologically classified as a horst, formed by the tectonic uplift of the crust between the Narmada and Tapti rift valleys.
2. The Vindhya Range is primarily composed of ancient sedimentary rocks, including sandstones and shales, which were deposited during the Proterozoic Eon.
3. The Vindhya Range serves as a major watershed divide, with the Chambal and Betwa rivers originating from its southern slopes to flow directly into the Bay of Bengal.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Satpura Range is a classic horst formed by block faulting between the Narmada and Tapti rift valleys. Statement 2 is correct because the Vindhya Range consists of ancient, indurated sedimentary formations (Vindhyan Supergroup) dating back to the Proterozoic Eon. Statement 3 is incorrect because, while the Vindhyas act as a watershed divide, the Chambal and Betwa rivers originate from its northern slopes and flow into the Yamuna, which is part of the Ganga river system draining into the Bay of Bengal, rather than flowing directly from the southern slopes.
Consider the following statements regarding Black soil (Regur) pedogenesis and parent rock correlation:
1. Black soil distribution in the Godavari valley is associated with the alluvial deposition of sediments from the Deccan Traps, which are then enriched by the high iron content found in the underlying Dharwar craton.
2. The formation of Regur soil is primarily attributed to the weathering of basaltic lava flows associated with the Deccan Traps, which cover an area of approximately 500,000 square kilometers.
3. Black soils are characterized by high clay content, often exceeding 30 percent, which contributes to their significant moisture-retention capacity and self-ploughing property.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as Regur soil is derived from the in-situ weathering of basaltic rocks of the Deccan Traps, which cover roughly 500,000 sq km across western and central India. Statement 3 is correct because the high montmorillonite clay content leads to swelling and shrinking, causing 'self-ploughing' and exceptional moisture retention. Statement 1 is incorrect because black soil in the Godavari valley is primarily derived from the weathering of Deccan Trap basalts transported or weathered in situ, not from the Dharwar craton, which is composed of older metamorphic rocks unrelated to the basaltic pedogenesis of Regur.
Consider the following statements regarding Chotanagpur Plateau radial drainage and rift valley systems:
1. The Brahmani River originates from the northern slopes of the Hazaribagh Plateau and flows through the Singhbhum shear zone to reach the Odisha plains.
2. The Subarnarekha River originates near Piska Nagri in Ranchi district and exhibits a radial drainage pattern as it flows towards the Bay of Bengal.
3. The Barakar River is the primary tributary of the Damodar, originating from the southern slopes of the Pat region and flowing through the Tenughat rift basin.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Subarnarekha originates near Piska Nagri and its tributaries create a radial drainage pattern atop the plateau. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Brahmani originates from the confluence of the South Koel and Sankh rivers in the Chotanagpur Plateau, not the Hazaribagh northern slopes. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Barakar originates from the northern Hazaribagh Plateau, not the southern Pat region, and it flows through the Giridih-Barakar coalfields rather than the Tenughat rift basin.
Consider the following statements regarding Central Highlands (Malwa, Bundelkhand, Baghelkhand) plateau morphology:
1. The Bundelkhand region is separated from the Malwa Plateau by the Vindhyan scarp, and it serves as the primary catchment area for the Ken River, which joins the Yamuna near Chilla village.
2. The Malwa Plateau extends into the Aravalli range to the west and is drained by the Chambal River, which originates from the Janapav Hills near Mhow at an elevation of 854 meters.
3. The Baghelkhand Plateau is composed of horizontal beds of sandstone and limestone, and it is marked by the presence of the Kaimur Range which runs parallel to the Narmada valley.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Bundelkhand Upland is separated from the Malwa Plateau by the Dhasan River, not the Vindhyan scarp. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Malwa Plateau is bounded by the Aravalli range in the northwest and the Vindhyan range in the south, not extending into the Aravallis. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Baghelkhand Plateau is primarily composed of ancient granites and gneisses, and the Kaimur Range acts as a watershed between the Son and Yamuna drainage systems rather than running parallel to the Narmada valley.
Consider the following statements regarding Kutch-Kathiawar peninsula tectonic and saline marsh evolution:
1. The coastal fringes of the Kathiawar Peninsula exhibit significant marine transgression features, including the presence of fossiliferous limestone deposits from the Miocene epoch.
2. The Girnar mountain complex in Kathiawar is a sedimentary formation consisting of stratified sandstone layers, which were uplifted during the Himalayan orogeny in the Tertiary period.
3. The Great Rann of Kutch functions as a perennial freshwater wetland fed by the Indus River system, which maintains the low salinity levels observed in the northern marshy tracts.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Kathiawar Peninsula contains extensive Miocene-era marine fossiliferous limestone, reflecting historical sea-level fluctuations and marine transgressions. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Girnar complex is a volcanic formation composed of igneous rocks like basalt and syenite, not sedimentary sandstone. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Great Rann of Kutch is a seasonal, hypersaline salt marsh formed by the recession of the Tethys Sea and is not fed by the Indus River, which currently flows significantly further north.
Consider the following statements regarding Indo-Gangetic trough subsidence and sediment provenance:
1. The Peninsular Plateau is characterized by the presence of the Malwa Plateau, which is composed of ancient sedimentary rocks deposited during the Gondwana period through the process of marine transgression.
2. The sediment provenance of the Indo-Gangetic plains is dominated by the Siwalik group, which provides the primary source of fine-grained alluvial clays transported by the Indus-Ganga-Brahmaputra river system since the late Pliocene.
3. The Bundelkhand upland is a classic example of a block mountain structure, formed by the vertical displacement of the Aravalli craton during the early Proterozoic orogeny.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Malwa Plateau is primarily composed of Deccan Trap basaltic lava flows from the Cretaceous period, not Gondwana sedimentary rocks. Statement 2 is incorrect as the primary sediment provenance for the Indo-Gangetic plains is the Himalayan orogenic belt (the rising Himalayas), not the Siwalik group alone, which represents only the youngest, outermost foothills. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Bundelkhand Upland is a stable, ancient granitic-gneissic shield area (part of the Peninsular Craton), not a block mountain formed by Proterozoic displacement of the Aravalli craton.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular plateau inselbergs and tors formation:
1. Inselbergs are isolated residual hills of granite or gneiss that rise abruptly from the surrounding plains, often reaching heights of 30 to 100 meters in the Bundelkhand region.
2. The Malwa Plateau features extensive tor landscapes created by the rapid cooling of basaltic lava flows, which underwent intense glacial scouring during the Pleistocene epoch.
3. In the Chota Nagpur Plateau, the Ranchi Peneplain is characterized by widespread inselbergs formed by the tectonic uplift of sedimentary sandstone layers during the early Eocene period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as inselbergs in the Bundelkhand region are classic examples of residual hills formed by the weathering of ancient granitic rocks. Statement 2 is incorrect because tors are primarily products of chemical weathering and exfoliation in crystalline rocks, not basaltic lava cooling, and the Malwa Plateau lacks evidence of Pleistocene glacial scouring. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Ranchi Peneplain's inselbergs are remnants of ancient crystalline basement rocks, not tectonic uplift of Eocene sedimentary layers.
Consider the following statements regarding Deccan Traps basaltic volcanism and fissure eruptions:
1. The Godavari River valley contains significant deposits of Gondwana coal, which were formed through the thermal metamorphism of basaltic lava cooling beneath the surface during the Eocene epoch.
2. The Western Ghats act as the primary drainage divide for the Peninsular Plateau, with the majority of the Deccan basaltic lava originating from central vents located near the modern-day Nilgiri Hills.
3. The Malwa Plateau is considered a northern extension of the Deccan Traps, characterized by extensive metamorphic rock formations that date back to the Precambrian era.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because Gondwana coal formed from organic matter in sedimentary basins during the Carboniferous-Permian periods, long before the Deccan volcanism of the late Cretaceous. Statement 2 is incorrect as Deccan Traps resulted from fissure eruptions, not central vents, and the lava originated from the Reunion hotspot rather than the Nilgiri Hills. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Malwa Plateau consists of basaltic lava flows similar to the Deccan Traps, not Precambrian metamorphic rocks.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular river rejuvenation and antecedent drainage patterns:
1. The Luni river flows through the arid landscape of the Thar desert, and its drainage pattern is classified as antecedent because it maintains a course that cuts across the Aravalli range's structural grain.
2. The Cauvery river displays a terraced valley profile in its upper reaches, a geomorphic feature linked to the base-level changes caused by the rapid volcanic activity of the Deccan Traps in the late Eocene.
3. The Indus, Sutlej, and Brahmaputra rivers are classified as antecedent drainage systems because their transverse gorges across the Himalayas were formed prior to the major uplift of the mountain range.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct because the Indus, Sutlej, and Brahmaputra are classic antecedent rivers that maintained their courses through tectonic uplift by incising deep transverse gorges across the rising Himalayas. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Luni is an ephemeral, inland-draining river that follows the regional slope of the Thar desert rather than cutting across the Aravalli grain. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Cauvery’s terraced profile is primarily attributed to episodic tectonic uplift of the Western Ghats and subsequent base-level adjustments during the Cenozoic, rather than volcanic activity from the Deccan Traps, which occurred much earlier during the Cretaceous-Paleogene transition.
Consider the following statements regarding Chotanagpur Plateau radial drainage and rift valley systems:
1. The Kharkai River, a major tributary of the Subarnarekha, originates in the Simlipal massif and follows a trellis drainage pattern across the iron-ore rich Singhbhum region.
2. The North Koel River, a tributary of the Son, originates from the Ranchi Plateau and follows a radial drainage path before joining the main river system.
3. The Chotanagpur Plateau is primarily composed of Precambrian crystalline rocks, with the Rajmahal Hills located on its northeastern edge consisting of basaltic lava flows.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Kharkai River originates from the northern slopes of the Simlipal massif but exhibits a dendritic drainage pattern rather than a trellis one. Statement 2 is correct as the North Koel originates from the Ranchi Plateau and flows in a radial pattern, radiating outward from the central highland before joining the Son. Statement 3 is correct because the plateau is a stable block of Precambrian crystalline rocks, while the Rajmahal Hills represent the eastern extension of the Deccan Traps, formed by basaltic lava flows during the Cretaceous period.
Consider the following statements regarding Piedmont zone sediment depositional processes:
1. In the Piedmont zone of the Peninsular Plateau, the transition from the Western Ghats to the coastal plains often features colluvial deposits formed by the gravitational downslope movement of weathered rock fragments.
2. The formation of the Piedmont alluvial fans in the Indo-Gangetic plains is primarily driven by the reduction in stream velocity as rivers transition from the Deccan Traps to the sedimentary basins of the North.
3. The Bhabar belt, extending 8 to 16 km in width along the foothills of the Shiwaliks, is characterized by the deposition of coarse, porous gravel and boulder-sized sediments.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the western margin of the Peninsular Plateau exhibits colluvial deposits (talus) resulting from gravity-driven weathering along the Western Ghats escarpment. Statement 3 is correct because the Bhabar belt is a narrow, porous zone of heavy boulder and gravel deposition formed where Himalayan rivers lose velocity upon entering the plains. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Piedmont alluvial fans of the Indo-Gangetic plains are formed by Himalayan rivers descending from the Himalayas, not by rivers transitioning from the Deccan Traps, which are located in the Peninsular region.
Consider the following statements regarding Meghalaya Plateau (Shillong) structural continuity with Peninsular block:
1. The Dauki Fault, which runs along the southern edge of the plateau, was created by the collision of the Indo-Burman ranges during the Pliocene, effectively isolating the plateau from the Bengal Basin.
2. The Khasi Hills are composed primarily of Archean granites and gneisses, which were uplifted during the same orogenic phase that formed the Aravalli range in the Proterozoic era.
3. The Tura Range, located in the western part of the Meghalaya Plateau, acts as a tectonic boundary that connects the Shillong massif to the Mikir Hills through a continuous fold belt.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Meghalaya Plateau was separated from the Peninsular block by the Malda Gap (a rift valley formed due to down-faulting) during the Pleistocene, not the Dauki Fault. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Khasi Hills are primarily composed of Archean rocks, but they were uplifted during the Himalayan orogeny, not the Proterozoic Aravalli phase. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Mikir Hills are separated from the Shillong plateau by the Kopili fault zone, and they do not form a continuous fold belt with the Tura Range.
Consider the following statements regarding Satpura-Vindhya range tectonic uplift and block mountain characteristics:
1. The Kaimur Range, forming the eastern extension of the Vindhya system, is characterized by steep escarpments overlooking the Son River valley.
2. The Satpura Range is characterized by extensive volcanic activity during the Cenozoic Era, which resulted in the formation of the Deccan Traps through basaltic fissure eruptions.
3. The Maikala Range, situated at the eastern extremity of the Satpura system, marks the tectonic junction where the range meets the Aravalli system near the Amarkantak plateau.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Kaimur Range acts as a prominent scarp-land along the northern edge of the Son Valley, formed by the erosion of sedimentary Vindhyan rocks. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Deccan Traps were formed during the late Cretaceous to early Paleocene periods (approx. 66 million years ago), not the Cenozoic Era. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Maikala Range marks the junction where the Satpura range meets the Eastern Ghats and Vindhyas near Amarkantak, not the Aravalli system, which lies significantly further to the northwest.
Consider the following statements regarding Satpura-Vindhya range tectonic uplift and block mountain characteristics:
1. The Satpura Range extends for approximately 900 kilometers across the states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh.
2. The Narmada River flows through a deep structural rift valley that separates the Vindhya Range to the north from the Satpura Range to the south.
3. Dhupgarh, located in the Mahadeo Hills of the Satpura Range, reaches an elevation of approximately 1,350 meters, making it the highest point in Madhya Pradesh.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
The Satpura Range is a series of seven mountains spanning about 900 km across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, and Chhattisgarh, confirming statement 1. The Narmada River occupies a classic structural rift valley formed by tectonic subsidence between the Vindhya and Satpura horsts, validating statement 2. Statement 3 is accurate as Dhupgarh, situated in the Mahadeo Hills of the Satpura Range, stands at approximately 1,350 meters and serves as the highest peak in Madhya Pradesh.
Consider the following statements regarding Ganga-Brahmaputra deltaic formation and distributary dynamics:
1. The Meghna estuary serves as the primary outlet for the combined flow of the Ganga and Brahmaputra, accounting for the discharge of over 38,000 cubic meters of water per second during the peak monsoon season.
2. The formation of Majuli, the world's largest river island, is attributed to the confluence of the Subansiri and the Brahmaputra, which has maintained a stable landmass area of 1,250 square kilometers since the 1950 Assam earthquake.
3. Tidal influence in the Sundarbans mangrove forest, which spans roughly 10,000 square kilometers, facilitates the constant reworking of deltaic islands through the process of sediment accretion and erosion.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Meghna estuary is the primary discharge point for the combined Ganga-Brahmaputra-Meghna system, handling massive seasonal water volumes. Statement 3 is correct because the Sundarbans are a dynamic, tide-dominated delta where constant sediment flux and tidal currents drive the continuous reshaping of islands. Statement 2 is incorrect because while Majuli is a major river island, its area has significantly shrunk from over 1,200 sq km in the 1950s to less than 400 sq km today due to severe riverbank erosion caused by the Brahmaputra's shifting course.
Consider the following statements regarding Aravalli-Delhi fold belt structural evolution:
1. The emplacement of the Erinpura Granite, dated to approximately 850 million years ago, signifies the terminal magmatic phase associated with the Delhi Orogeny.
2. The structural grain of the Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt exhibits a characteristic NNE-SSW trend, which is a reflection of the compressive forces exerted during the assembly of the Columbia supercontinent.
3. The Sendra-Ambaji Granulite Complex represents the high-grade metamorphic core of the Delhi Fold Belt, indicating crustal thickening during the terminal stages of the orogenic cycle.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Erinpura Granite (c. 850 Ma) marks the final phase of the Delhi Orogeny, signaling the cessation of magmatic activity. Statement 2 is correct because the NNE-SSW structural grain of the Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt (ADFB) is a hallmark of Proterozoic collisional tectonics linked to the assembly of the Columbia supercontinent. Statement 3 is correct because the Sendra-Ambaji Granulite Complex serves as a diagnostic indicator of high-pressure/high-temperature metamorphism, reflecting significant crustal thickening and deep-seated deformation during the terminal stages of the Delhi orogenic cycle.
Consider the following statements regarding Western Ghats (Sahyadri) orographic and escarpment geomorphology:
1. The Kudremukh peak, located in the Chikmagalur district of Karnataka, reaches an elevation of 1,892 meters and is characterized by its iron ore deposits that were first surveyed during the 1912 Geological Survey of India expedition.
2. The Western Ghats act as a primary orographic barrier, causing the windward side in Kerala to receive over 2,500 mm of annual rainfall while the leeward side experiences a significant rain-shadow effect.
3. The Mahabaleshwar plateau, situated at an altitude of 1,438 meters, serves as the primary source for the Krishna River and was established as a hill station during the 1824 administrative reforms of the Bombay Presidency.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 2 is correct as the Western Ghats act as a major orographic barrier to the southwest monsoon, resulting in heavy rainfall on the windward side and a pronounced rain-shadow effect in the interior. Statement 1 is incorrect because while Kudremukh is a significant peak, its iron ore deposits were primarily developed by the Kudremukh Iron Ore Company (KIOCL) in the 1970s, not surveyed in 1912. Statement 3 is incorrect because although Mahabaleshwar is the source of the Krishna River, it was established as a hill station in 1828 by Sir John Malcolm, the then Governor of Bombay, rather than through 1824 administrative reforms.
Consider the following statements regarding Bhabar-Terai-Bhangar-Khadar morpho-stratigraphy:
1. The Terai region is located between the Khadar and the river channels, where the deposition of new alluvium is most rapid due to the high velocity of Himalayan rivers during the monsoon season.
2. The Bhangar plains are primarily formed by the active floodplains of the Brahmaputra river system, where the continuous deposition of sediment creates a landscape that is geographically younger than the deltaic regions of the Ganges.
3. The Bhabar belt is characterized by fine-grained silt and clay deposits that facilitate high water retention, which historically supported the development of large-scale irrigation canals during the Mughal period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Terai is a marshy, damp tract south of the Bhabar where streams re-emerge, not an active floodplain of new alluvium. Statement 2 is incorrect because Bhangar consists of older alluvium deposited in the past, whereas Khadar represents the younger, active floodplains. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Bhabar is a narrow, porous belt of pebbles and boulders where streams disappear, making it unsuitable for agriculture or canal irrigation, unlike the fertile, fine-grained alluvial plains.
Consider the following statements regarding Central Highlands (Malwa, Bundelkhand, Baghelkhand) plateau morphology:
1. The Malwa Plateau features a radial drainage pattern where the rivers flow towards the north to join the Yamuna, and it maintains an average elevation of 600 meters above mean sea level.
2. The Bundelkhand Upland is bounded by the Yamuna River in the north and the Vindhyan range in the south, with the Dhasan River serving as its westernmost administrative boundary.
3. The Baghelkhand Plateau is characterized by the presence of coal-bearing Gondwana strata, and it is separated from the Chota Nagpur plateau by the Rihand River basin.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Malwa Plateau has an average elevation of 300-600 meters and features a radial drainage pattern only in parts, with most rivers like the Chambal and Betwa flowing north-northeast. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Betwa River, not the Dhasan, serves as the western boundary of the Bundelkhand Upland. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Baghelkhand Plateau is separated from the Chota Nagpur plateau by the Son River valley, not the Rihand River basin.
Consider the following statements regarding Indo-Gangetic trough subsidence and sediment provenance:
1. The subsidence of the Indo-Gangetic trough is primarily attributed to the mantle plume activity beneath the Tibetan Plateau, which caused the crustal thinning observed in the northern Indian shield.
2. The sediment load of the Ganga river system shows a high concentration of basaltic minerals, reflecting the erosion of the Deccan Trap rocks located in the upper reaches of the Himalayan catchment area.
3. The Chotanagpur Plateau represents a radial drainage pattern, and its geological evolution is linked to the volcanic eruptions of the Deccan Traps during the late Cretaceous period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the Indo-Gangetic trough is a foreland basin formed by lithospheric flexure due to the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates, not mantle plume activity. Statement 2 is incorrect as the Ganga sediment load is primarily derived from the erosion of Himalayan metamorphic and sedimentary rocks, not the Deccan Traps, which are located in central-western India. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Chotanagpur Plateau is a continental fragment composed of ancient Precambrian crystalline rocks (Gondwana-era formations) and is not a product of Deccan Trap volcanism.
Consider the following statements regarding Paleo-channels and groundwater recharge in the Indo-Gangetic plains:
1. The 1960 Indus Waters Treaty includes provisions for the joint management of paleo-channels in the Punjab plains, specifically governing the extraction of fossil groundwater from the Ravi-Beas interfluve.
2. The Tarai region, located south of the Bhabar belt, is defined by the re-emergence of streams and is characterized by highly permeable gravel deposits that facilitate rapid groundwater infiltration.
3. The Peninsular Plateau is formed by the Gondwana landmass, and the Narmada rift valley acts as a primary recharge zone for the Indo-Gangetic alluvial aquifer system.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 1960 Indus Waters Treaty focuses on the allocation of surface water flows between India and Pakistan and contains no provisions for the management of paleo-channels or fossil groundwater. Statement 2 is incorrect because while the Tarai region is defined by the re-emergence of streams, it is characterized by fine-grained, low-permeability alluvial deposits (silt and clay) rather than gravel, which is found in the upstream Bhabar belt. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Peninsular Plateau is a distinct geological entity separated from the Indo-Gangetic plains by the Indo-Gangetic trough, and the Narmada rift valley does not contribute to the recharge of the northern alluvial aquifer system.
Consider the following statements regarding Meghalaya Plateau (Shillong) structural continuity with Peninsular block:
1. The Meghalaya Plateau is separated from the main Peninsular block by the Malda Fault, a down-faulted trough formed during the late Cretaceous period.
2. The Shillong Plateau exhibits a radial drainage pattern, with rivers like the Umngot and Myntdu flowing southwards into the Surma Valley of Bangladesh.
3. The Jaintia Hills region features extensive limestone formations of the Sylhet stage, which were deposited in a marine environment during the Miocene and later elevated by the Himalayan orogeny.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Malda Fault, a down-faulted trough created by the subsidence of the Rajmahal-Garo gap, separates the Meghalaya Plateau from the Peninsular block. Statement 2 is correct because the plateau acts as a watershed, resulting in a radial drainage pattern where rivers like the Umngot and Myntdu flow southwards into the Surma Valley. Statement 3 is incorrect because the limestone formations of the Jaintia Hills belong to the Eocene period (Jaintia Group), not the Miocene, and were deposited during a marine transgression before the Himalayan orogeny.
Consider the following statements regarding Ganga-Brahmaputra deltaic formation and distributary dynamics:
1. The Brahmaputra River undergoes a significant change in its geomorphology upon entering the plains of Assam at Sadiya, where it begins to form a classic braided channel pattern due to high sediment load and reduced gradient.
2. The Barind Tract, located between the Mahananda and Karatoya rivers, represents an uplifted block of older alluvium that acts as a natural watershed separating the active deltaic plains of the Padma from the Brahmaputra floodplains.
3. The Meghna River originates from the Surma and Kushiyara confluence in the Sylhet region and serves as the primary distributary responsible for the eastward expansion of the deltaic front towards the Chittagong coastal plains.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Brahmaputra exhibits a classic braided pattern in Assam due to the sudden reduction in gradient and massive sediment load from the Himalayas. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Barind Tract is an uplifted block of older alluvium (Bhangar) located between the Mahananda and Karatoya rivers, but it is situated in North Bengal, not between the Padma and Brahmaputra floodplains. Statement 3 is incorrect because the Meghna is not a distributary of the Ganga-Brahmaputra system but a major independent river formed by the confluence of the Surma and Kushiyara, and it does not drive the eastward expansion of the delta toward Chittagong.
Consider the following statements regarding Erosion surfaces and planation levels of the Peninsular Plateau:
1. The Deccan Trap region features a series of stepped surfaces known as 'trap-topography', resulting from the differential weathering of alternating layers of basaltic lava flows.
2. The Hazaribagh Plateau exhibits a stepped topography, where the upper plateau is separated from the lower plateau by a prominent escarpment zone influenced by differential erosion.
3. The Aravalli range acts as a relict mountain system, with its summit levels indicating an ancient peneplain that underwent subsequent tectonic uplift during the Cenozoic period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Deccan Traps consist of horizontal basaltic lava flows where resistant layers form flat-topped mesas and softer layers create steps through differential weathering. Statement 2 is correct because the Hazaribagh plateau is divided into the Upper Hazaribagh (higher altitude) and Lower Hazaribagh (Koderma plateau) separated by a distinct escarpment formed by the erosional retreat of the plateau edge. Statement 3 is correct because the Aravallis are a classic relict mountain system whose accordant summit levels represent an ancient erosion surface (peneplain) that was uplifted during the Cenozoic era, leaving behind residual ridges.
Consider the following statements regarding Kutch-Kathiawar peninsula tectonic and saline marsh evolution:
1. The Banni grasslands, located to the north of the Bhuj region, represent a unique ecological transition zone formed by the accumulation of silt in the Great Rann.
2. The Rann of Kutch evolved primarily through the tectonic subsidence of the Aravalli range during the Pleistocene epoch, which created a deep-water basin that gradually filled with alluvial deposits.
3. Tectonic activity in the Kutch region is primarily attributed to the movement along the Kutch Mainland Fault, which remains a seismically active zone in the Indian plate.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Banni grasslands are a deltaic plain formed by the deposition of sediments from rivers like the Luni and others flowing into the Great Rann. Statement 3 is correct because the Kutch region lies in a high-seismic zone (Zone V) driven by the Kutch Mainland Fault and other active faults resulting from the northward movement of the Indian plate. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Rann of Kutch is a shallow marine embayment formed by tectonic uplift and sea-level fluctuations, not by the subsidence of the Aravalli range, which is a much older fold mountain system.
Consider the following statements regarding Black soil (Regur) pedogenesis and parent rock correlation:
1. The formation of black soil in the Malwa Plateau is linked to the deposition of wind-blown loess during the Pleistocene epoch, which provides the necessary silica for the development of montmorillonite clay minerals.
2. The dark coloration of Regur soil is primarily derived from the presence of titaniferous magnetite, which undergoes rapid oxidation in the high-humidity environments of the Western Ghats windward slopes.
3. Regur soil profiles frequently exhibit a distinct horizon of kankar nodules at depths of 1.5 meters, which originate from the hydrothermal alteration of granite-gneiss basement rocks during the Cretaceous period.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect. Statement 3 is incorrect.
All three statements are incorrect because the black soil (Regur) of the Deccan Trap is primarily derived from the in-situ weathering of basaltic lava flows, not wind-blown loess or hydrothermal alteration of granite-gneiss. The dark color is attributed to the presence of titaniferous magnetite and iron-rich clay minerals, but it is not dependent on high-humidity oxidation; rather, it is a characteristic of the parent basaltic rock itself. Furthermore, kankar nodules (calcium carbonate concretions) in Regur soil are formed through the pedogenic process of leaching and evaporation in semi-arid conditions, not from the hydrothermal alteration of basement rocks during the Cretaceous period.
Consider the following statements regarding Central Highlands (Malwa, Bundelkhand, Baghelkhand) plateau morphology:
1. The Baghelkhand Plateau acts as a transitional zone between the Maikal Range in the west and the Sonpar region in the east, with the Son River forming its northern drainage boundary.
2. The Bundelkhand Upland is defined by an uneven, undulating topography featuring granite and gneiss outcrops, with the Betwa River flowing through its central region.
3. The Malwa Plateau is characterized by a thick cover of basaltic lava flows, which gives rise to the black soil locally known as Regur.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Baghelkhand Plateau serves as a transitional zone between the Maikal Range and the Sonpar region, with the Son River defining its northern drainage. Statement 2 is correct because the Bundelkhand Upland is a dissected plateau composed of ancient granite and gneiss, characterized by a rugged, undulating landscape drained by the Betwa and Ken rivers. Statement 3 is correct as the Malwa Plateau is primarily formed by Deccan Trap volcanic activity, resulting in extensive basaltic lava flows that weather into fertile black cotton soil, locally referred to as Regur.
Consider the following statements regarding Peninsular block tectonic stability and horst-graben structures:
1. The Shillong Plateau is a detached segment of the Peninsular block that was separated from the main massif by the Malda fault, which experienced significant tectonic subsidence during the Pliocene period.
2. The Godavari rift valley, which trends in a north-west to south-east direction, is a classic example of a horst structure that developed during the sedimentation phase of the Gondwana period.
3. The western margin of the Peninsular plateau, known as the Western Ghats, experienced significant vertical displacement and subsidence during the separation of the Indian plate from Madagascar approximately 88 million years ago.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 3 is correct as the Western Ghats formed as a fault-scarp during the rifting of India from Madagascar/Seychelles around 88-90 million years ago, leading to significant crustal subsidence. Statement 1 is incorrect because the Shillong Plateau was separated from the Peninsular block by the Malda fault due to subsidence during the Pleistocene, not the Pliocene period. Statement 2 is incorrect because the Godavari rift valley is a classic example of a graben (a down-faulted block), not a horst (an up-faulted block).
Consider the following statements regarding Eastern Ghats-Western Ghats convergence at Nilgiris:
1. Doddabetta, situated at an elevation of 2,637 meters, represents the highest peak within the Nilgiri massif and the broader convergence zone of the two Ghat systems.
2. The Nilgiri Hills serve as the physical junction where the Western Ghats, trending north-south, meet the Eastern Ghats, which possess a more fragmented, discontinuous character.
3. The Moyar River flows through a deep gorge that separates the Nilgiris from the Mysore Plateau, acting as a significant geological boundary in the region.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Doddabetta is indeed the highest peak in the Nilgiri range at 2,637 meters, serving as the primary node where the continuous Western Ghats meet the fragmented Eastern Ghats. The Nilgiris act as a crucial orographic junction, while the Moyar River carves a deep tectonic gorge that physically demarcates the Nilgiri massif from the southern edge of the Mysore Plateau. All three statements are factually accurate, reflecting the established geological and geographical consensus regarding the convergence zone of these two mountain systems.
Consider the following statements regarding Paleo-channels and groundwater recharge in the Indo-Gangetic plains:
1. The Saraswati paleo-channel, identified through satellite imagery of the Ghaggar-Hakra river system, serves as a significant subsurface aquifer contributing to groundwater recharge in parts of Haryana and Rajasthan.
2. The Central Ground Water Board (CGWB) identifies the paleochannels of the Yamuna and Ganga rivers as high-potential zones for managed aquifer recharge due to their coarse-grained sandy lithology.
3. The Indo-Gangetic plains are characterized by the presence of 'Bhangar' deposits, which are older alluvium located above the flood level of rivers, often containing calcareous concretions known as Kankar.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
Statement 1 is correct as the Ghaggar-Hakra paleo-channel system acts as a major groundwater reservoir, confirmed by isotopic studies and satellite mapping in the arid regions of Haryana and Rajasthan. Statement 2 is correct because the CGWB prioritizes these paleochannels for Managed Aquifer Recharge (MAR) due to their high hydraulic conductivity resulting from coarse-grained, porous alluvial deposits. Statement 3 is correct as Bhangar represents the older alluvial terrace of the Indo-Gangetic plains, distinct from the younger Khadar, and is characterized by the presence of calcareous 'Kankar' nodules formed due to pedogenic processes.
Consider the following statements regarding Black soil (Regur) pedogenesis and parent rock correlation:
1. The self-ploughing mechanism of black soil is triggered by the seasonal expansion of kaolinite minerals, which contract during the pre-monsoon heat to form deep cracks in the soil surface.
2. In the context of the Indian subcontinent, the pedogenesis of black soil is closely linked to the climatic conditions of the semi-arid regions where high evaporation rates prevent the leaching of base-rich minerals.
3. The chemical composition of Regur soil typically includes high concentrations of calcium carbonate, magnesium, and potash, while remaining notably deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and organic matter.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the self-ploughing mechanism is caused by the expansion and contraction of montmorillonite clay minerals, not kaolinite, which is stable and non-expansive. Statement 2 is correct as the semi-arid climate and high evaporation rates in the Deccan trap region inhibit the leaching of essential nutrients, allowing for the accumulation of base-rich minerals. Statement 3 is correct because Regur soil is derived from weathered basaltic lava, making it rich in calcium carbonate, magnesium, and potash, while remaining characteristically deficient in nitrogen, phosphorus, and humus.
Consider the following statements regarding Western Ghats (Sahyadri) orographic and escarpment geomorphology:
1. The Western Ghats, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012, exhibit a continuous escarpment that rises abruptly from the Konkan coast to an average elevation of 1,200 meters.
2. The Anamudi peak, situated in the Eravikulam National Park, reaches an elevation of 2,695 meters and represents the highest point in the Peninsular Plateau region.
3. The Palghat Gap, a major break in the Sahyadri range located south of the Nilgiri Hills, serves as a significant corridor for moisture-laden monsoon winds reaching the interior of Tamil Nadu.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct.
The Western Ghats were inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2012 and feature a steep escarpment rising abruptly from the Konkan coast. Anamudi, located in Eravikulam National Park, is the highest peak in the Peninsular Plateau at 2,695 meters. The Palghat Gap acts as a crucial low-elevation corridor that facilitates the passage of moisture-laden monsoon winds into the interior regions of Tamil Nadu, making all three statements factually correct.
Consider the following statements regarding Ganga-Brahmaputra deltaic formation and distributary dynamics:
1. The Teesta River, which historically flowed into the Ganga, shifted its course to join the Brahmaputra following the major seismic event of 1787, a transition that effectively reduced the sediment load of the Bhagirathi distributary.
2. The Ganga-Brahmaputra delta, covering approximately 105,000 square kilometers, is primarily formed by the deposition of sediments carried by the Padma and Jamuna rivers before they enter the Bay of Bengal.
3. The Hooghly River acts as the westernmost distributary of the Ganga, branching off at the Farakka Barrage, which was commissioned in 1975 to regulate water flow into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly system.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 2 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 1 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is incorrect because the 1787 Teesta flood caused the river to shift from the Atrai-Ganga system to the Brahmaputra, which actually increased the sediment load and water volume of the Brahmaputra, not the Bhagirathi. Statement 2 is correct as the delta, spanning roughly 105,000 sq km, is formed by the massive sediment deposition of the Padma and Jamuna (the main channels of the Ganga and Brahmaputra) before reaching the Bay of Bengal. Statement 3 is correct because the Farakka Barrage, commissioned in 1975, was specifically engineered to divert water into the Bhagirathi-Hooghly system to flush out silt and improve the navigability of the Kolkata Port.
Consider the following statements regarding Aravalli-Delhi fold belt structural evolution:
1. The Aravalli-Delhi Fold Belt represents a Proterozoic orogenic sequence that evolved through the closure of the Delhi Basin between 1.7 and 1.4 billion years ago.
2. The Aravalli Craton underwent stabilization during the Archean Eon, and the subsequent deposition of the Marwar Supergroup occurred in a foreland basin setting during the early Proterozoic era.
3. The North Delhi Fold Belt, comprising the Alwar and Ajabgarh Groups, is primarily characterized by quartzite and phyllite lithologies deposited in a shallow marine environment.
How many of the statements given above are correct?
- Only one
- Only two
- All three
- None
Explanation: Statement 1 is correct. Statement 3 is correct. Statement 2 is incorrect.
Statement 1 is correct as the Delhi Fold Belt represents a major Proterozoic orogenic event resulting from the closure of the Delhi Basin roughly 1.7-1.4 billion years ago. Statement 3 is correct because the North Delhi Fold Belt (Alwar and Ajabgarh Groups) consists of sedimentary sequences like quartzite and phyllite formed in shallow marine shelf environments. Statement 2 is incorrect because, while the Aravalli Craton stabilized in the Archean, the Marwar Supergroup was deposited much later during the Neoproterozoic era (approx. 750-540 million years ago), not the early Proterozoic.