The Deccan Plateau, a vast and ancient landform in India, is often referred to as the Peninsular Plateau. Understanding why requires a look at its geographical location, geological history, and how these factors contribute to its unique characteristics. So, let’s explore “Why Is Deccan Plateau Called As Peninsular Plateau” and uncover the reasons behind this dual nomenclature.
Decoding the Peninsular Nature of the Deccan Plateau
The primary reason “Why Is Deccan Plateau Called As Peninsular Plateau” lies in its geographical placement. A peninsula is a landmass surrounded by water on three sides. The Indian Peninsula perfectly fits this description, with the Arabian Sea to the west, the Bay of Bengal to the east, and the Indian Ocean to the south. The Deccan Plateau occupies the major portion of this peninsular India, thus inheriting the “Peninsular Plateau” designation. The shape of the Deccan plateau, broad in the north and tapering towards the south, mirrors the peninsular shape of the Indian landmass.
Furthermore, the geological history solidifies the “Peninsular Plateau” identity. The Deccan Plateau is composed of some of the oldest and most stable landmasses on Earth, primarily consisting of ancient igneous and metamorphic rocks. This contrasts with the relatively younger Himalayan mountain range, formed by tectonic activity. The Deccan Plateau’s geological stability and ancient origins link it directly to the Gondwana landmass, a supercontinent from which the Indian Peninsula separated millions of years ago. Consider these key characteristics that further define its peninsular nature:
- Stable landmass
- Ancient rock formations
- Part of the Gondwana landmass
Finally, the term “Deccan Plateau” specifically refers to the basaltic trap rock region that covers a significant portion of the Peninsular Plateau. However, the Peninsular Plateau encompasses a broader area, including other geological formations and geographical features like the Aravalli Range, the Chota Nagpur Plateau, and the Eastern and Western Ghats. Therefore, the Deccan Plateau can be viewed as a significant *part* of the larger Peninsular Plateau. The table below highlights the key differences.
| Feature | Deccan Plateau | Peninsular Plateau |
|---|---|---|
| Area | Smaller, primarily basaltic traps | Larger, includes various geological formations |
| Location | Central and Southern India | Covers most of Peninsular India |
Want to learn more? The Geological Survey of India provides exhaustive resources on the region. Make sure to check them out!