The Indo-Gangetic Plain: Northern India's Fertile Heartland

Location and Extent

Northern Indian subcontinent, stretching from the Indus River (west) to the Brahmaputra River (east). Area: ~1.7 million km²; population: >400 million.

Boundaries

• North: Himalayas
• South: Deccan Plateau
• West: Aravalli Range
• East: Bay of Bengal

Climate

Tropical monsoon: hot summers, cool winters, monsoon rains June–September.

Agriculture and Cities

One of the world's most fertile regions; major crops include rice, wheat, sugarcane. Major cities: Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai (on fringes).

Cultural Diversity

Home to numerous ethnic groups, religions, and languages.