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UPSC Prelims 2012 · Indian Geography · Monsoon and Climate
Consider the following statements: Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
- The duration of the monsoon decreases from southern India to northern India.
- The amount of annual rainfall in the northern plains of India decreases from east to west.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 only
- (c) Both 1 and 2
- (d) Neither 1 nor 2
Show the answer and explanation
Answer: (c) Both 1 and 2
Both patterns are true.
Statement by statement
1. ✓ CORRECT The monsoon arrives in Kerala first (June) and leaves the north first (September), so it lasts longest in the south.
2. ✓ CORRECT Rain falls from ~150 cm+ in West Bengal to under 50 cm in west Punjab/Rajasthan.
The idea
Monsoon duration is the interval between the arrival and withdrawal of seasonal rain. Rainfall amount is a separate measure affected by distance travelled over land and by relief. Use the broad regional pattern, while allowing for local hills and rain shadows.
Rain reaches southern India → Monsoon advances northward → North-west begins withdrawal first → Rain continues later in the south → Bay winds travel west over the plain → Progressive rainfall reduces their moisture supply
Why the others are wrong
(a) Drops the east–west fall in rain.
(b) Drops the shorter duration in the north.
Also know
The south-west monsoon and north-east monsoon are separate seasonal phases. Tamil Nadu depends strongly on the latter, while the western coast depends mainly on the former. North-west India also gets winter rain from western disturbances, outside the summer monsoon season.
🔒 Monsoon duration: generally longer southward. Northern plains: generally drier westward; actual onset and withdrawal vary by year.
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