Structure and Physiography" from the Class 11 CBSE Geography

   3. **The Peninsular Plateau**

      - Comprises old crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.

      - Divided into two sections: the Central Highlands and the Deccan Plateau.

      - Important features: Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Satpura, and Vindhya ranges.

   4. **The Indian Desert (Thar Desert)**

      - Located in the western part of Rajasthan.

      - Characterized by sandy terrain, low rainfall, and xerophytic vegetation.

   5. **The Coastal Plains**

      - Western Coastal Plains: Narrow and divided into Konkan, Kannad, and Malabar coasts.

      - Eastern Coastal Plains: Wider and divided into Northern Circar and Coromandel coasts.

      - Significant for agriculture, fishing, and ports.

   6. **The Islands**

      - Andaman and Nicobar Islands in the Bay of Bengal.

      - Lakshadweep Islands in the Arabian Sea.

      - These islands have diverse ecosystems and are important for strategic and economic reasons.

#### 4. **Significance of Physiographic Divisions**

   - **Economic**: Agriculture, minerals, industries, and tourism.

   - **Cultural**: Diversity in lifestyle, languages, and traditions.

   - **Environmental**: Biodiversity, climate regulation, and natural resources.

5. **Conclusion**

   - The diverse physiographic features of India contribute to its unique natural and cultural landscape.

   - Understanding these features is crucial for planning and sustainable development.