Correct Option
The correct option is (a).
Explanation
The drainage systems of India are broadly classified into the Himalayan drainage and the Peninsular drainage. These two systems differ significantly in their origin, flow characteristics, and the nature of their river courses due to the distinct geological history of the regions they traverse.
Statement-wise Analysis
- Statement 1 is Correct: The Himalayan rivers, such as the Indus, the Ganga, and the Brahmaputra, are perennial. Their flow is maintained throughout the year because they are fed by melting snow and glaciers from the lofty mountains during the dry season and by heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
- Statement 2 is Incorrect: The Himalayan rivers have very long courses from their source to the sea and often flow through deep gorges. In contrast, the Peninsular rivers generally have shorter and shallower courses compared to their Himalayan counterparts.
- Statement 3 is Incorrect: While most major rivers of the Peninsular plateau (such as the Mahanadi, the Godavari, the Krishna, and the Kaveri) originate in the Western Ghats and flow towards the Bay of Bengal, this is not true for all. Notable exceptions include the Narmada and the Tapi, which originate in the Central Highlands and flow westwards into the Arabian Sea. Additionally, rivers like the Chambal, Betwa, and Ken originate in the Peninsular plateau but flow northwards to join the Ganga system.
Key Takeaway: The primary distinction between the two systems is that Himalayan rivers are perennial with long courses, whereas Peninsular rivers are seasonal with shorter courses. Furthermore, while the general slope of the Peninsula is from west to east, major rift-valley rivers like the Narmada and Tapi flow westwards.