This chapter unveils India’s diverse landforms and their importance, offering downloadable NCERT PDFs for 2023-24 and 2025-26 exam preparation, readily available online!
Overview of the Chapter
This chapter provides a comprehensive study of India’s varied physical landscapes. It details the formation, extent, and significance of major features like the Himalayas, Indo-Gangetic Plain, Peninsular Plateau, Indian Desert, and Coastal Plains.
Students will explore drainage systems and island groups. NCERT PDFs, updated for 2023-24 and 2025-26, are readily accessible on platforms like AglaSem and Vedantu, aiding in exam preparation. The content emphasizes understanding how these physical features influence climate, resources, and the lives of people across India.
Resources include downloadable solutions and textbook materials in both Hindi and English mediums.
Importance of Studying Physical Features
Understanding India’s physical features is crucial for comprehending its climate, biodiversity, and economic activities. These features profoundly influence agricultural practices, settlement patterns, and transportation networks across the nation.
Studying these landscapes provides context for understanding regional variations and resource distribution. Accessible NCERT PDFs (2023-24 & 2025-26) from sources like AglaSem and Vedantu simplify learning. This knowledge is fundamental for excelling in Social Science exams and developing a holistic understanding of India’s geographical identity and its impact on societal development.
The Himalayan Mountains
NCERT Chapter 2 details the Himalayas’ formation, ranges, and significance, impacting climate and water resources – essential knowledge available in downloadable PDF formats.
Formation and Geological Structure
The NCERT Class 9 Geography textbook, available as a downloadable PDF, explains the Himalayas’ formation through the collision of the Indian and Eurasian plates. This tectonic activity created a complex geological structure, characterized by folded mountains composed of sedimentary and metamorphic rocks.
Students preparing for 2025-26 exams can access detailed explanations of these processes within the chapter on Physical Features of India. The PDF resource highlights the region’s susceptibility to earthquakes due to ongoing tectonic forces. Understanding this formation is crucial for grasping the Himalayas’ overall significance and impact on the Indian subcontinent.
Extent and Major Ranges
The downloadable NCERT Class 9 PDF detailing Physical Features of India outlines the Himalayas’ extensive reach, spanning approximately 2,400 kilometers from west to east. Major ranges, including the Greater Himalayas (Himadri), Lesser Himalayas (Himachal), and the Outer Himalayas (Shiwaliks), are clearly defined.
Students preparing for exams can utilize this resource to understand the varying altitudes and characteristics of each range. The PDF also illustrates the location of key peaks and passes. This geographical overview is essential for comprehending the Himalayas’ influence on India’s climate and drainage systems, as presented in the chapter.

Significance of the Himalayas ‒ Climate & Water Resources
The Class 9 NCERT PDF on Physical Features of India emphasizes the Himalayas’ crucial role in shaping India’s climate. They act as a barrier to cold winds, maintaining warmer temperatures. Furthermore, the ranges intercept monsoon winds, causing rainfall.
The PDF details how the Himalayas are the source of major river systems – Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra – providing vital water resources for irrigation, drinking, and hydropower. Understanding this significance is key for exam preparation, as the chapter highlights the interconnectedness of physical features and their impact on Indian life.

The Indian Plains
NCERT Class 9 PDFs detail the Indo-Gangetic Plain’s formation and divisions – Bhangar, Khadar, and Bhabar – alongside crucial river systems like the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra.
Formation of the Indo-Gangetic Plain
The Indo-Gangetic Plain’s formation, as detailed in Class 9 NCERT PDFs, is a fascinating geological story. This fertile expanse arose from the deposition of sediments carried by the Himalayan rivers – Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra – over millions of years.
These rivers, originating in the mountains, eroded vast quantities of silt, sand, and clay. As they flowed down the slopes, their velocity decreased, causing them to deposit these sediments. Repeated deposition and fluvial action gradually built up the plain, creating one of the world’s most productive agricultural regions.
NCERT resources emphasize understanding this process for exam preparation, highlighting the plain’s significance in Indian geography and history.
Divisions of the Indian Plains: Bhangar, Khadar, Bhabar
NCERT Class 9 Geography PDFs detail the Indo-Gangetic Plain’s three distinct sections: Bhabar, Bhangar, and Khadar. The Bhabar, a narrow, porous zone bordering the foothills, experiences rivers disappearing underground.
Bhangar represents older alluvial soil, characterized by terraces and a comparatively higher elevation. It’s known for its fertile, but uneven, terrain. Finally, Khadar consists of newer alluvial soil, forming the active floodplain.
This region is incredibly fertile due to frequent inundation and deposition. Understanding these divisions, as outlined in NCERT materials, is crucial for comprehending the plain’s diverse characteristics and agricultural potential for exam success.
River Systems of the Plains: Indus, Ganga, Brahmaputra
NCERT Class 9 Geography PDFs extensively cover the vital river systems shaping the Indian Plains: the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra. The Indus, originating in Tibet, flows through Pakistan, historically crucial but now largely outside India.
The Ganga, India’s most important river, rises in the Himalayas and supports a vast population. The Brahmaputra, originating as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet, joins the Ganga in Bangladesh, forming a massive delta.
These rivers, detailed in NCERT resources, are pivotal for irrigation, transportation, and fertile alluvial deposits, profoundly influencing the region’s landscape and livelihood, essential for exam preparation.
The Peninsular Plateau
NCERT Class 9 PDFs detail the Peninsular Plateau’s formation and geological composition, outlining the Deccan Plateau, Central Highlands, and Northeastern Plateau’s features.
Formation and Geological Composition
The NCERT Class 9 Geography materials, available as downloadable PDFs, explain the Peninsular Plateau’s ancient origins, formed from remnants of Gondwana land. These resources detail its composition, primarily ancient crystalline, igneous, and metamorphic rocks.
The plateau’s formation involved multiple stages of geological activity, resulting in a stable tableland. PDFs highlight the varying rock structures and mineral resources found across the Deccan Plateau, Central Highlands, and Northeastern Plateau. Understanding this geological history is crucial for comprehending the region’s diverse landscapes and resource distribution, as outlined in the chapter.
Divisions of the Peninsular Plateau: Deccan Plateau, Central Highlands, Northeastern Plateau
NCERT Class 9 PDFs comprehensively detail the Peninsular Plateau’s divisions. The Deccan Plateau, a large triangular landmass, dominates the south, while the Central Highlands, north of the Narmada River, exhibit varied terrains.
The Northeastern Plateau, a smaller extension, features both hilly and alluvial plains. These resources explain each division’s unique characteristics – elevation, geological structure, and river systems. Students can access detailed maps and descriptions within the downloadable PDFs, aiding in understanding the regional variations and overall landscape of the plateau.
River Systems of the Plateau: Godavari, Krishna, Kaveri
NCERT Class 9 Geography PDFs thoroughly cover the vital river systems of the Peninsular Plateau. The Godavari, the largest, flows eastward, creating a fertile delta. The Krishna, flowing westward, is known for its numerous tributaries. The Kaveri, originating in the Western Ghats, supports agriculture across South India.
These downloadable resources detail each river’s course, drainage basin, and economic significance. Students can find information on irrigation projects, water resources, and the impact of these rivers on the region’s landscape and livelihoods, enhancing their understanding of the plateau’s hydrology.

The Indian Desert
NCERT PDFs detail the Indian Desert’s location, arid climate, and unique features, alongside adaptations of its flora and fauna for effective exam preparation.
Location and Climate
The Indian Desert, also known as the Thar Desert, is geographically situated to the west of the Aravalli Range. NCERT PDFs comprehensively cover its location within Rajasthan, extending into parts of Gujarat, Haryana, and Punjab. The climate is characterized by extremely hot summers, with temperatures soaring to high levels, and cold winters with significant diurnal temperature variations.
Rainfall is scarce and erratic, typically below 250 mm annually. These resources explain how this aridity shapes the desert landscape and influences the lifestyle of its inhabitants. The region experiences strong winds and sand dunes are a prominent feature, constantly shifting due to these winds. Understanding these climatic conditions is crucial for exam preparation.
Formation and Features
NCERT Class 9 Geography materials detail the Indian Desert’s formation through the aridity of the region, caused by monsoon winds unable to reach it. PDF resources explain how the desert’s landscape is dominated by shifting sand dunes, known as ‘barchans’.
These features are created by wind action on loose sand. The desert also includes rocky outcrops and salt lakes. Exam preparation materials highlight the unique adaptations of flora and fauna to survive in this harsh environment. The region’s geological history and the impact of wind erosion are thoroughly covered in the downloadable PDFs.
Vegetation and Adaptation
NCERT Class 9 resources, available as PDFs, illustrate the sparse vegetation of the Indian Desert. Thorny bushes and shrubs are prevalent, adapted to retain water. Study materials emphasize plants like cacti and acacia, showcasing their deep roots and small leaves to minimize water loss.
These PDFs also detail animal adaptations – nocturnal habits, long ears for heat dissipation, and efficient water storage. Camels are highlighted as crucial for transportation. Exam preparation guides focus on understanding how these adaptations enable survival in the arid climate, demonstrating nature’s resilience.
The Coastal Plains

NCERT PDFs detail India’s Eastern and Western Coastal Plains, highlighting their significance for ports and fisheries, crucial for trade and economic activities.
Eastern Coastal Plain
The Eastern Coastal Plain, as detailed in NCERT PDFs for Class 9 Geography, is broader and extends from Tamil Nadu to West Bengal. Formed by the depositional work of rivers like the Mahanadi, Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, it’s characterized by deltas.
These plains are known for their fertile alluvial soil, supporting agriculture. NCERT resources emphasize the lagoons and backwaters along the coast, providing unique ecosystems. The region experiences cyclones frequently. Downloadable PDFs for 2023-24 and 2025-26 exams offer comprehensive coverage of this vital geographical feature, aiding student understanding of India’s diverse landscapes.
Western Coastal Plain
The Western Coastal Plain, as outlined in NCERT PDFs for Class 9, is narrower compared to its eastern counterpart, stretching from Gujarat to Kerala. It’s segmented into the Konkan Coast (rocky) and the Malabar Coast (sandy).
NCERT resources highlight the presence of lagoons, backwaters, and estuaries. This region supports significant port development and fisheries, crucial for trade and the economy. Downloadable PDFs for 2023-24 and 2025-26 provide detailed information on the geological formations and economic significance of this coastal strip, aiding students in grasping India’s geographical diversity.
Significance of Coastal Plains ⎯ Ports & Fisheries
NCERT Class 9 PDFs emphasize the vital role of India’s coastal plains. They are strategically important for establishing ports, facilitating trade and commerce – exemplified by Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata.
Furthermore, these plains are rich in fisheries, providing livelihoods for coastal communities and contributing significantly to the nation’s food supply. Downloadable resources for 2023-24 and 2025-26 detail how the unique coastal environments support diverse marine life. Understanding this significance is crucial for exam preparation and appreciating India’s economic geography.

Islands of India
NCERT Class 9 PDFs detail India’s strategic Andaman & Nicobar and Lakshadweep Islands, highlighting their economic importance and unique geographical features for exam success!
Andaman and Nicobar Islands
These islands, a part of India’s union territory, are detailed in Class 9 Geography NCERT PDFs. They represent an extension of the Himalayan range, formed due to tectonic activity. The PDF resources explain their strategic location in the Bay of Bengal, offering significant military advantages.
Furthermore, the downloadable materials cover the islands’ rich biodiversity and economic importance, including fisheries and tourism. Students preparing for 2025-26 exams will find comprehensive information on the islands’ geological composition, climate, and unique ecosystems within these readily available study guides.

Lakshadweep Islands
The Lakshadweep Islands, a coral formation, are thoroughly explained within the Class 9 Geography NCERT PDFs. These islands, located in the Arabian Sea, are formed due to volcanic activity and coral deposition. The downloadable resources highlight their unique geographical features, differing significantly from the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Students preparing for exams will find detailed information on the islands’ small size, low elevation, and dependence on monsoon rainfall. The PDF materials also cover their economic importance, particularly fisheries and emerging tourism, alongside their strategic significance for India’s maritime security.
Strategic and Economic Importance
NCERT Class 9 PDFs emphasize the crucial strategic and economic roles of India’s islands. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, for example, are vital for maritime security, controlling sea lanes in the Bay of Bengal. Downloadable resources detail their importance for naval bases and surveillance.
Economically, both island groups support fisheries, tourism, and unique biodiversity. The study materials highlight the potential for sustainable development and resource management. Understanding these aspects is key for exam preparation, as the PDFs cover India’s expanding influence in the Indian Ocean region and its economic prospects.
Drainage System of India
NCERT PDFs detail India’s Himalayan and Peninsular drainage systems, exploring river regimes and their impact on landscapes – essential for Class 9 geography studies!
Himalayan Drainage
Understanding the Himalayan drainage is crucial, and readily available NCERT PDFs provide comprehensive coverage for Class 9 students. These resources detail the major river systems originating from the Himalayas – the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra – and their tributaries.
The PDFs explain how these rivers are snow-fed and perennial, impacting the plains significantly. They also cover the formation of river regimes and the characteristics of these vital waterways. Students can access these materials from platforms like AglaSem and Vedantu, ensuring thorough preparation for exams in 2025-26 and beyond.
These NCERT solutions offer a structured approach to grasping the complexities of the Himalayan drainage system.
Peninsular Drainage
NCERT PDFs for Class 9 Geography comprehensively cover the Peninsular Drainage system, a key component of India’s physical features. These resources detail major rivers like Godavari, Krishna, and Kaveri, explaining their origins and flow patterns.
Students will learn about the characteristics of these rivers – often seasonal due to monsoon rainfall – and their impact on the Deccan Plateau and surrounding regions. Platforms like Vedantu offer updated NCERT solutions for 2025-26 exams, aiding in understanding river regimes and their influence.
These downloadable materials provide a structured learning experience for mastering this important geographical concept.
River Regimes and their Impact
NCERT Class 9 resources, available as PDFs, explain how India’s river regimes – patterns of flow – are heavily influenced by monsoon rainfall. These materials detail seasonal variations, impacting water availability and agricultural practices.
Students will learn how rivers shape the landscape through erosion and deposition, and their crucial role in irrigation and transportation. NCERT solutions from platforms like Vedantu for the 2025-26 exams, help grasp the impact of these regimes on the Indian economy and environment.
Understanding these dynamics is vital for comprehending India’s physical features.

NCERT Resources & Exam Preparation
Downloadable PDFs of Class 9 Geography, Chapter 2, are readily accessible from AglaSem and other platforms, supporting preparation for 2025-26 exams!
Availability of Class 9 PDF (2023-24, 2025-26)
NCERT Class 9 Social Science Chapter 2, “Physical Features of India,” is conveniently available as a downloadable PDF for both the 2023-24 and 2025-26 academic years. Resources like AglaSem.com provide direct access to these PDFs, ensuring students have readily available study material.
These PDFs are updated to align with the latest NCERT syllabus, making them ideal for exam preparation. Furthermore, various educational websites, including those offering NCERT solutions like Vedantu, also host these PDFs. Students can easily find and download the chapter in either English or Hindi medium, facilitating comprehensive learning and effective revision for upcoming examinations.
NCERT Solutions for Chapter 2

Comprehensive NCERT solutions for Class 9 Social Science, Chapter 2 – “Physical Features of India” – are readily accessible to aid student understanding and exam preparation. Platforms like Vedantu offer updated solutions in PDF format, specifically tailored for the 2025-26 academic year.
These solutions provide detailed explanations and answers to all textbook questions, covering topics from the Himalayas to coastal plains. Students can also find free solutions online in .txt format, offering alternative learning resources. Utilizing these solutions alongside the downloadable chapter PDF ensures a thorough grasp of India’s diverse physical landscape.

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