1. Location:
- The Central Plateau of India is a prominent physiographic region located in the central part of the country.
- It covers several states including Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Telangana and parts of Andhra Pradesh and Karnataka.
2. Elevation:
- The Central Plateau is a region of elevated land, with an average elevation ranging from 600 to 900 meters (2,000 to 3,000 feet) above sea level.
- Some of the highest points in the region include the Satpura Range in Madhya Pradesh (around 1,350 meters/4,429 feet) and the Maikal Range in Chhattisgarh (around 1,100 meters/3,609 feet).
3. Topography:
- The Central Plateau has a diversified topography characterized by hills, valleys, plateaus, and rivers.
- Prominent mountain ranges within the region include the Satpura Range, the Vindhya Range, and the Maikal Range. These ranges divide the plateau into sub-regions and river basins.
4. Rivers:
- The Central Plateau is drained by several major rivers and their tributaries.
- The Narmada River and the Tapti River are two significant rivers that flow through the region, forming deep gorges and valleys.
- Other notable rivers include the Godavari River, the Mahanadi River, and the Krishna River.
5. Geological Formation:
- The Central Plateau is primarily composed of ancient geological formations from the Deccan Traps and the Gondwana period.
- The Deccan Traps are volcanic lava flows that cover large areas of the plateau, while the Gondwana formations consist of sedimentary rocks such as sandstone, limestone, and shale. These formations give rise to unique landscapes and rock formations.
6. Flora and Fauna:
- The Central Plateau covers a range of forest types, from tropical to temperate.
- Dry deciduous forests are common, supporting a diverse range of plant species such as teak, sal, and bamboo.
- The region is also home to various wildlife, including big cats (tigers, leopards), bears, gaur, nilgai, and a variety of bird species.
7. Economic Importance:
- The Central Plateau is rich in mineral resources, including iron ore, manganese, coal, and bauxite.
- These resources have contributed to the development of industries such as steel, cement, and power generation in the region.
- Additionally, the fertile soils in parts of the Central Plateau support agriculture, with crops like cotton, wheat, and soybeans being cultivated.
