Geography — Set 16

Correct Answer: C. About 61%

The correct answer is 'About 61%'. The Thar Desert covers approximately 61% of Rajasthan's total geographic area, making it one of the world's most densely populated desert regions. The desert extends across western Rajasthan and into parts of Gujarat and Pakistan (Sindh and Punjab). Despite the harsh conditions, the Thar supports significant agriculture, animal husbandry, and human settlement due to the Indira Gandhi Canal and traditional water harvesting systems.

Correct Answer: B. Sam Sand Dunes (Dhanak)

The Sam Sand Dunes near Jaisalmer are the most famous and extensive sand dune formations in Rajasthan, attracting thousands of tourists for camel safari and desert camping experiences. These are true erg (sand sea) dunes formed by wind action. The area around Sam village is particularly popular for experiencing the sunset over the Thar Desert and is marketed as one of Rajasthan's top tourist attractions.

Correct Answer: A. Jarga Peak

Jarga Peak (Jargas) in the Udaipur district is the second highest peak in the Aravalli Range after Guru Shikhar, standing at approximately 1,431 metres elevation. The Aravallis are considered one of the oldest mountain ranges in the world, formed over 570 million years ago during the Precambrian era. The highest concentration of Aravalli peaks is in the Sirohi and Udaipur districts.

Correct Answer: B. Deccan Trap basaltic lava flows

The Kota Plateau (Hadoti Plateau) in southeastern Rajasthan is formed by the extension of the Deccan Trap basaltic lava flows, giving it a hard rocky terrain. The Chambal River has carved deep gorges and ravines (badlands) through this plateau. The plateau region is characterized by fertile black cotton soil and is known for agriculture, particularly soybean and mustard cultivation.

Correct Answer: C. Jaisalmer

Jaisalmer is the largest district by area in Rajasthan and also the largest district in India, covering approximately 38,401 square kilometres. It is located in the western part of Rajasthan and is largely covered by the Thar Desert. Despite its vast area, Jaisalmer has a relatively low population density due to the harsh desert conditions and limited agricultural potential.

Correct Answer: B. Sutlej and Beas rivers through Harike Barrage

The Indira Gandhi Canal (formerly Rajasthan Canal) draws water from the combined flow of the Sutlej and Beas rivers through the Harike Barrage in Punjab. The canal stretches about 649 km from the headworks at Harike to the tail end in Barmer district. It is one of the largest irrigation projects in the world and has transformed vast tracts of the Thar Desert into cultivable land.

Correct Answer: A. Arabian Sea via Gulf of Khambhat

The Mahi River originates in Madhya Pradesh, flows through the Banswara and Dungarpur districts of southern Rajasthan, and then enters Gujarat before emptying into the Gulf of Khambhat (Gulf of Cambay), which is an inlet of the Arabian Sea. The Mahi Bajaj Sagar Dam in Banswara district harnesses the river for irrigation and hydropower. The Mahi is considered a sacred river by the tribal communities of southern Rajasthan.

Correct Answer: B. An extinct volcano

Dhosi Hill (also called Chyavan Rishi Ashram) in Jhunjhunu district of Rajasthan is one of the few extinct volcanoes in the Aravalli region. It rises about 470 metres above the surrounding plains and is associated with the ancient sage Chyavan Rishi according to Hindu mythology. The hill has unique ecological significance as a rare geological formation in an otherwise sedimentary landscape.

Correct Answer: B. Radcliffe Line, approximately 1,070 km

Rajasthan's international border with Pakistan is part of the Radcliffe Line, which stretches approximately 1,070 kilometres and forms Rajasthan's western and northwestern boundary. This border runs through the Thar Desert across Barmer, Jaisalmer, Bikaner, and Sri Ganganagar districts. The border area is strategically important and is monitored by the Border Security Force (BSF).

Correct Answer: B. Salt production and minor fish culture

Lunkaransar Lake (also called Lunkaransar Salt Lake) in Bikaner district is primarily used for salt production and minor fish culture activities. It is a seasonal saline lake that fills during monsoon rains. Along with Sambhar, Pachpadra, and Didwana, Lunkaransar is one of the four major salt-producing lakes of Rajasthan and contributes to the state's position as a major salt producer in India.