The Himalayan Mountains, known as the “house of snow,” are the world’s highest mountain ranges, spanning approximately 1,550 miles (2,500 km) and marking the northern border of India. These majestic mountains have played a crucial role as a protective sentinel for India, preventing foreign invasions from the north for centuries. In this article, we will explore the significance of the Himalayas and their impact on India.
Meaning and Geographical Extent of the Himalayas
The name “Himalaya” originates from the Sanskrit words “hima,” meaning snow, and “Alaya,” meaning abode. Indeed, these mountains are a realm of snow-capped peaks, awe-inspiring glaciers, and breathtaking landscapes. The Himalayas traverse various countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and southern Tibet in China. The mountain range starts from Nanga Parbat peak in the Pakistani-occupied Kashmir region and stretches all the way to the Namcha Barwa peak in the Tibet Autonomous Region of China. Within India, the Himalayas extend from the western borders with Pakistan and Afghanistan to the eastern frontier near Myanmar (Burma). The width of this mountainous region varies between 125 and 250 miles (200 and 400 km).
The Formation and Tectonic Activity of the Himalayas
The Himalayas owe their existence to the constant collision between the Indian peninsula and the Eurasian plate. This ongoing tectonic activity continues to uplift the mountains, making the region seismically active. Consequently, earthquakes, often accompanied by landslides, are a common occurrence. Some devastating earthquakes have struck the region, causing significant loss of life and damage to infrastructure. The seismicity has also sparked debates about the safety of various projects, such as hydroelectric and irrigation schemes.
Division of the Himalayas in India
The Indian portion of the Himalayas can be divided into three longitudinal belts: the Outer Himalayas, the Lesser Himalayas, and the Great Himalayas. Each of these belts presents unique characteristics and geographical features.
Also Read-Exploring Physical Geography: Understanding the Earth Natural Processes and Their Impacts
Outer Himalayas (Siwalik Range)
The southernmost range is known as the Outer Himalayas or the Siwalik Range. These mountains, with elevations averaging between 3,000 to 5,000 feet (900 to 1,500 m), rarely exceed 6,500 feet (2,000 m). As one moves eastward, the range narrows and becomes less visible beyond the Dooars in West Bengal’s plains. The Siwaliks contain fertile valleys, but they are also vulnerable to deforestation, heavy rainfall, and erosion, contributing to the sediment load carried into the Indo-Gangetic plain.
Lesser Himalayas
North of the Siwaliks and separated by a rift zone lies the Lesser Himalayas, also known as the Lower or Middle Himalayas. These mountains rise to elevations ranging from 11,900 to 15,100 feet (3,600 to 4,600 m) and are composed of a mix of ancient crystalline and young geological formations due to thrust faulting. Deep valleys formed by fast-flowing rivers, fed by glaciers and snowfields from the north, characterize the Lesser Himalayas.
Great Himalayas
The northernmost and most prominent range is the Great Himalayas, also referred to as the Higher Himalayas or Himadri in ancient times. These mountains boast peaks generally exceeding 16,000 feet (4,900 m) and are composed of ancient crystalline rocks and older marine sedimentary formations. The Great Himalayas feature fertile valleys, with the Valley of Kashmir being the most extensive in India, covering an area of approximately 1,700 square miles (4,400 km²). Some of the world’s highest peaks, including Mount Everest (29,035 ft [8,850 m]), Kangchenjunga (28,169 feet [8,586 m]), Nanda Devi (25,646 ft [7,817 m]), Kamet (25,446 ft [7,755 m]), and Trishul (23,359 ft [7,120 m]) reside in the Great Himalayas. This region is rich in glaciers and lies mostly above the permanent snow line.
Associated Ranges and Hills of the Himalayas
The Himalayas are flanked by various regional ranges and hills that generally run parallel to its main axis, enriching the diverse landscape of the Indian subcontinent. These associated ranges and hills play a vital role in shaping the geography of the region. Let’s explore some of these prominent features:
Northwestern Ranges:
In the northwest region, three significant ranges are found to the northeast of the Great Himalayas. These include:
Zaskar Range: Located in India-administered Kashmir, the Zaskar Range stretches in a northeastern direction, offering a stunning backdrop to the region.
Ladakh Range: Also situated in India-administered Kashmir, the Ladakh Range runs parallel to the Great Himalayas, contributing to the breathtaking scenery of the area.
Karakoram Range: Adjacent to the Ladakh Range, the Karakoram Range showcases majestic peaks and glaciers, making it a remarkable part of the landscape.
Also Read-300 Important Geography Questions and Answers for UP TGT PGT 2022
Pir Panjal Range:
Extending along the southwest of the Great Himalayas in the Kashmir region, the Pir Panjal Range forms the western and southern flanks of the Vale of Kashmir. Its verdant slopes add to the beauty of the valley.
Eastern Extremity Ranges:
Towards the eastern extremity of the Himalayas, smaller ranges run in a northeast-southwest direction along India’s borders with Myanmar and the southeastern panhandle of Bangladesh. These include:
Patkai Range: Covered in dense forests, the Patkai Range is a picturesque feature along the India-Myanmar border.
Naga Hills: The Naga Hills boast rugged terrain and are culturally rich, providing a unique identity to the northeastern states of India. The Logtak Lake, situated in the Manipur River valley within the Naga Hills, holds particular significance.
Mizo Hills: Running parallel to the Naga Hills, the Mizo Hills add to the enchanting landscape of the region.
Branching off from the Eastern Extremity Ranges:
To the northwest of the Naga Hills, the Mikir Hills form a distinct feature, contributing to the diverse topography of the area.
Jaintia, Khasi, and Garo Hills:
To the west, the Jaintia, Khasi, and Garo hills run just north of India’s border with Bangladesh. Collectively known as the Shillong (Meghalaya) Plateau, these hills are a vital part of India’s northeastern region.
Importance of Himalayas Mountains for India
The Himalayan Mountains are of immense importance to India, playing an important role in various aspects of the country’s geography, environment, economy, and culture. Here are some of the major reasons why the Himalayas are important to India:
Also Read-What is soil, types of soil, and measures for soil conservation
Natural Defense Sentinel: The Himalayas act as a natural guard, forming a formidable rampart across the northern frontier of India. This geographical feature has historically kept India safe from invasions and external threats, making it challenging for foreign invaders to enter from the north. The rugged terrain and high mountain passes create natural chokepoints, making it difficult for invaders and intruders to enter the region.
Source of fresh water: The Himalayas are often referred to as the “Water Tower of Asia” because of their abundant glaciers, snowfields, and the origin of rivers. Major rivers of the Indian subcontinent, such as the Ganges, the Yamuna, the Brahmaputra, and the Indus, originate in the Himalayas. These rivers are the lifelines of millions of people, providing water for irrigation, drinking, power generation, and industrial use. Meltwater from the Himalayan glaciers also contributes significantly to maintaining water levels in these rivers during the dry season.
Biodiversity and Ecosystem: The Himalayas are one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, home to a wide variety of flora and fauna. The diverse ecosystems preserve many plant and animal species, many of which are endemic and endangered. The mountains serve as important habitat for various wildlife including snow leopards, red pandas, Himalayan monal, and others. The region’s rich biodiversity plays an important role in ecological balance and ecosystem services, which benefit local communities and beyond.
Tourism and Recreation: The Himalayas are a major tourist attraction, attracting tourists from all over the world. Beautiful lofty peaks, picturesque landscapes, and opportunities for trekking, mountaineering, and adventure sports make the Himalayas a favorite destination for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts. Tourism in this region contributes significantly to India’s economy and provides livelihoods to many local communities.
Religious and Cultural Significance: The Himalayas hold deep religious and cultural significance for India. These are often considered sacred and are associated with many mythological and spiritual beliefs. Many Hindu pilgrimage sites are located in the Himalayas, attracting millions of devotees annually. Mountains also serve as a source of inspiration for art, literature, and cultural expression.
Climate regulation: The Himalayas play an important role in regulating the climate of the Indian subcontinent. They act as a barrier to cold northerly winds, moderating temperatures and creating diverse climatic zones across the region. The mountains also affect the distribution of the monsoon, determining the distribution of rainfall in different parts of India.
Natural Resources: The Himalayas are rich in natural resources, including minerals, timber, medicinal plants, and herbs. These resources contribute to various industries and traditional practices, providing sources of livelihood and local economies.
In short, the Himalayan Mountains are extremely important to India, serving as a protective shield, a water source, a biodiversity hotspot, a cultural and religious symbol, and a significant contributor to the country’s economy and environment. Conservation and sustainable management of the Himalayas are essential for India’s continued growth and prosperity.
Also Read-What is the difference between global warming and climate change?
FAQs
Q-1: What are the Himalayas?
Ans: The Himalayas are the world’s highest mountain ranges, marking the northern border of India and spanning several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and Tibet.
Q-2: How were the Himalayas formed?
Ans: The Himalayas were formed due to the tectonic collision between the Indian plate and the Eurasian plate, resulting in the uplifting of the mountain range.
Q-3: What is the significance of the Himalayas for India?
Ans: The Himalayas act as a natural barrier, protecting India from invasions, providing water resources for rivers and agriculture, hosting diverse ecosystems, and being a major tourist attraction.
Q-4: Which is the highest peak in the Himalayas?
Ans: Mount Everest, at 29,035 feet (8,850 meters) above sea level, is the highest peak in the Himalayas and the world.
Q-5: How do the Himalayas impact India’s climate?
Ans: The Himalayas influence India’s climate by blocking cold northern winds, moderating temperatures, and influencing the monsoon patterns, resulting in various climatic zones across the country.