A land between two rivers
Explanation
The term 'Doab' is derived from the Persian words 'Do' meaning 'two' and 'Ab' meaning 'water' or 'river'. In geography, it specifically refers to the alluvial tract of land lying between two converging or confluent rivers. This feature is most prominently associated with the Northern Plains of India, particularly the Punjab region and the Ganga-Yamuna belt.
Option Analysis
- A landmass bounded by sea on three sides is incorrect: A landmass bounded by the sea on three sides is called a Peninsula (e.g., the Indian Peninsula).
- A region made up of two water bodies is incorrect: This description does not correspond to a specific geographical term in this context.
- A land between two rivers is correct: A Doab is the fertile land situated between two rivers. Famous examples include the Ganga-Yamuna Doab and the various Doabs of the Punjab plains (e.g., Bari Doab between Beas and Ravi, Bist Doab between Beas and Sutlej).
- A longitudinal valley in the Himalayas is incorrect: A longitudinal valley in the Himalayas is typically referred to as a Dun (e.g., Dehradun).
Key Takeaway
Doab signifies the inter-riverine fertile land between two rivers. The Punjab Plains are composed of five such doabs formed by the tributaries of the Indus.