Peninsular river systems (east-flowing vs west-flowing)
G-2.2.2Core
0/5 stages complete · 0% coverage
Exam Strategy
UPSC consistently tests river classification, drainage patterns, and watershed characteristics through map-based and factual questions. Examiners focus on why certain rivers flow east vs west (Western Ghats as watershed divider), key river names in each system, and their tributaries. Common mistakes: confusing river directions, misidentifying Western Ghats role, or forgetting that east-flowing rivers are longer overall.
High-yield hooks
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Western Ghats = watershed divide: west-flowing short, east-flowing long
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East-flowing: Godavari, Krishna, Cauvery (Bay of Bengal)
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West-flowing: Narmada, Tapti, Periyar (Arabian Sea)
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East-flowing are longer; west-flowing steeper & swifter
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Deccan Plateau tilts east; gravity drives drainage pattern
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SCANGEOGRAPHY/DRAINAGE-SYSTEMSENVIRONMENT/WATER-RESOURCESGOVERNANCE/INTERSTATE-DISPUTES