Question map
Which of the following are correct with regard to Indian Monsoonal Rainfall ? 1. Largely governed by the topographical features 2. Regional and seasonal variation in the distribution of rainfall 3. Heavy downpour resulting in considerable runoff 4. Beginning and end of rain is regular and on time Select the correct answer using the code given below :
Explanation
Indian monsoonal rainfall is characterized by several distinct features. First, it is largely governed by topographical features, particularly orographic barriers like the Western Ghats and the Himalayas, which force moisture-laden winds to rise and precipitate [6]. Second, there is significant regional and seasonal variation; for instance, the windward side of the Western Ghats receives heavy rain while the Deccan Plateau remains in a rain shadow [3]. Third, the monsoon often involves heavy downpours that lead to considerable surface runoff and flooding [1]. However, statement 4 is incorrect because the monsoon is notoriously irregular; its onset and withdrawal are characterized by high variability and 'breaks' in rainfall rather than being regular and on time [3]. Therefore, only statements 1, 2, and 3 are correct.
Sources
- [3] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 4: Climate of India > RAINFALL DISTRIBUTION > p. 30
- [4] https://mausam.imd.gov.in/imd_latest/monsoonreport2024.pdf
- [6] https://etheses.whiterose.ac.uk/id/eprint/27659/1/lucyrecchia_thesis.pdf
- [2] INDIA PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT, Geography Class XI (NCERT 2025 ed.) > Chapter 4: Climate > Monsoon Winds of the Arabian Sea > p. 35
- [1] CONTEMPORARY INDIA-I ,Geography, Class IX . NCERT(Revised ed 2025) > Chapter 4: Climate > Advancing Monsoon (The Rainy Season) > p. 30