Table of Contents
The geological structure of India is diverse and complex, reflecting a rich geological history. Key features of the geological structure of India are as follows:
1. Peninsular Plateau:
- One of the oldest and most stable landmasses, primarily composed of Archaean and Proterozoic rocks.
- Features extensive basaltic lava flows (Deccan Traps), granitic rocks, and metamorphic formations.
- Includes major plateaus like the Deccan Plateau, Malwa Plateau, and Chotanagpur Plateau.
2. Himalayan Range:
- Formed from the collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate about 40-50 million years ago.
- Consists of three parallel ranges: the Great Himalayas, the Lesser Himalayas, and the Shivaliks.
- Composed of sedimentary rocks, metamorphic rocks, and igneous intrusions, reflecting ongoing tectonic activity.
3. Indo-Gangetic Plain:
- A vast alluvial plain formed by the deposition of sediments from the Himalayas by the Indus, Ganges, and Brahmaputra rivers.
- Characterized by fertile soils, predominantly of clay, silt, and sand.
4. Thar Desert:
- Located in the northwest, primarily composed of sand dunes, rocky outcrops, and salt flats.
- Formed due to the arid climate and lack of perennial rivers.
- Features ancient river beds and ephemeral streams.
5. Western and Eastern Ghats:
- The Western Ghats are older, predominantly composed of basaltic lava flows, granites, and gneisses.
- The Eastern Ghats are characterized by ancient metamorphic rocks and intrusive granites.
- Both ranges have significant elevation and impact the climate and biodiversity.
6. Coastal Plains:
- Western Coastal Plains are narrow and characterized by lagoons, estuaries, and small rivers.
- Eastern Coastal Plains are broader with extensive deltas formed by major rivers like the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri.
7. Islands:
- The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are of volcanic origin, part of the island arc system in the Bay of Bengal.
- The Lakshadweep Islands are coral atolls and reefs located in the Arabian Sea.
8. Tectonic Activity:
- India is tectonically active, with regions prone to earthquakes, especially in the Himalayan region and parts of the Indo-Gangetic Plain.
- The Indian Plate continues to move northwards, causing seismic activity and uplifting of the Himalayas.
Conclusion
This diverse geological structure has significant implications for India's natural resources, climate, agriculture, and biodiversity.
