Question map
Structurally, the Meghalaya region is a part of
Explanation
Structurally, the Meghalaya region is an extension of the main Peninsular Plateau [1]. It is a detached block of the Deccan Plateau, separated from the main Indian Shield by the Malda Gap (or Rajmahal-Garo Gap). This separation occurred due to faulting caused by the northeastward movement of the Indian plate during the Himalayan orogeny, which created a depression later filled by river sediments [2]. The plateau is composed of ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks, including the Archaean gneissic complex and the Shillong group, which are characteristic of the Gondwanaland landmass [2]. While it is located in the northeast, it is geologically distinct from the younger, flexible Himalayan ranges like the Shiwaliks or Greater Himalayas, belonging instead to the rigid and stable Peninsular Block [2].
Sources
- [1] INDIA PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 2: Structure and Physiography > The Northeastern Plateau > p. 13
- [2] CONTEMPORARY INDIA-I ,Geography, Class IX . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 2: Physical Features of India > The Peninsular Plateau > p. 12