UPSC Prelims 2010 · General Studies

Question 92: Geography

Which one of the following is the appropriate reason for considering the Gondwana rocks as most important of rock systems of India ?

aMore than 90% of limestone reserves of India are found in them

bMore than 90% of India’s coal reserves are found in them

cMore than 90% of fertile black cotton soils are spread over them

dNone of the reasons given above is appropriate in this context

AnswerThe answer is (b).

Gondwana rocks of peninsular India (Damodar, Mahanadi and Godavari valleys) hold over 90 per cent of India's coal reserves, mostly the valuable bituminous grades used for power and steel, which is why they are the most important rock system economically. Limestone occurs mainly in other systems such as the Vindhyan and Cuddapah, and black cotton soils form on the Deccan Trap lava. Remember: Gondwana = coal; Deccan Trap = black soil.

Why each option is right or wrong

(a) Limestone is mostly found in other systems such as the Vindhyan.
(b) Right: more than 90 per cent of India's coal is in the Gondwana system.
(c) Black cotton soils form on the Deccan Trap lavas.
(d) Option (b) gives a valid reason, so 'none' is wrong.

Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.

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Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 2010, General Studies, Series A. The paper on upsc.gov.in.