Which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. Himalayan rive

Which of the following statements is/are correct?

  • 1. Himalayan rivers have their origin in the snow-covered areas, hence are dry in winter season.
  • 2. Rivers of the Peninsular Plateau have reached maturity.
  • 3. Himalayan rivers depict all the three stages of normal cycle of erosion.
2 only
1 and 3 only
2 and 3 only
1, 2 and 3
This question was previously asked in
UPSC CDS-2 – 2017
The correct answer is C) 2 and 3 only.
– Statement 1: Himalayan rivers originate from snow-covered areas (glaciers) and also receive significant rainfall during the monsoon season. They are perennial rivers, meaning they flow throughout the year. Their flow is highest during summer due to snow/glacier melt and monsoon rainfall, but they are *not* dry in winter, although the volume might be reduced. Thus, statement 1 is incorrect.
– Statement 2: Rivers of the Peninsular Plateau are generally older than Himalayan rivers. They flow through relatively stable and peneplained surfaces. Their valleys are wide and shallow, and the longitudinal profile has gentle gradients, indicating they have reached a mature or old stage of erosion. Thus, statement 2 is correct.
– Statement 3: Himalayan rivers originate from steep mountains (youthful stage with features like V-shaped valleys, rapids, waterfalls), flow through the plains (mature stage with features like floodplains, meanders, oxbow lakes), and finally form deltas before joining the sea (old stage with features like deltas and distributaries). They exhibit characteristics of all three stages of the normal cycle of erosion as described by William Morris Davis. Thus, statement 3 is correct.
The distinction between Himalayan and Peninsular rivers is a key aspect of India’s drainage system. Himalayan rivers are characterized by youthfulness, large catchment areas, and perennial flow, while Peninsular rivers are older, seasonal (mostly rain-fed), and have narrower, shallower valleys.