Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The Peninsular Plateau constitutes one of the oldest landmasses on the earth’s surface. It is broadly divided into two major sections by the Narmada River: the Central Highlands to the north and the Deccan Plateau to the south.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The part of the Peninsular plateau lying to the north of the Narmada river, covering a major area of the Malwa plateau, is known as the Central Highlands. The Deccan Plateau lies to the south of this river.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Vindhyan range is bounded by the Satpura range on the south and the Aravalis on the northwest. The Himalayas are located far to the north of the Indian subcontinent and do not bound the Vindhyas on the south.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: The general slope of the Central Highlands is from southwest to northeast. Consequently, the rivers draining this region, such as the Chambal, the Sind, the Betwa, and the Ken, flow from southwest to northeast (not northeast to southwest) to join the Yamuna system.
Key Takeaway: The Central Highlands are located north of the Narmada River, bounded by the Aravalis in the northwest and the Vindhyas in the south, with a general slope from southwest to northeast.