Mountains, often referred to as the “water towers” of the Earth, are among the most vital ecosystems, covering about 20% of the planet’s surface and supporting approximately 15% of the global population. They are home to half of the world’s biodiversity hotspots and provide essential resources like freshwater, clean energy, and food security. Recognizing their critical role in sustaining life, the United Nations established International Mountain Day in 2003, observed annually on 11th December, to raise awareness about sustainable development in mountain regions.
In 2024, the theme for International Mountain Day, “Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future – Innovation, Adaptation, and Youth,” emphasizes the importance of creative strategies and youth involvement to safeguard mountain ecosystems and communities.
India, a land of diverse geographical features, boasts significant mountain ranges such as the Himalayas, Western Ghats, and Aravalli Range, each with unique ecological, cultural, and economic significance. The Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), spanning 13 states and union territories, is a biodiversity hotspot and a critical regulator of the subcontinent’s climate and water resources. However, the region faces challenges from unsustainable development, climate change, and rising tourism.
Protecting mountain ecosystems is not just essential for the well-being of the communities residing in these regions but also for ensuring global environmental stability and resilience.
International Mountain Day MCQs and Answers
1. When is International Mountain Day observed annually?
A. 22nd April
B. 11th December
C. 5th June
D. 21st March
Answer: B. 11th December
Explanation: International Mountain Day is observed on 11th December each year to raise awareness about sustainable development in mountain regions.
2. What is the theme for International Mountain Day 2024?
A. Sustainable Tourism for Future
B. Protecting Mountain Ecosystems
C. Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future – Innovation, Adaptation and Youth
D. Biodiversity and Sustainability
Answer: C. Mountain Solutions for a Sustainable Future – Innovation, Adaptation and Youth
Explanation: The 2024 theme emphasizes innovation and youth involvement in creating sustainable solutions for mountain ecosystems.
3. What percentage of the Earth’s surface is covered by mountains?
A. 10%
B. 15%
C. 20%
D. 25%
Answer: C. 20%
Explanation: Mountains cover about one-fifth (20%) of the Earth’s surface, hosting vital ecosystems and biodiversity.
4. Which Indian mountain range is the youngest and formed during the Tertiary period?
A. Aravalli Range
B. Himalayas
C. Vindhya Range
D. Western Ghats
Answer: B. Himalayas
Explanation: The Himalayas are the youngest mountain range in India, formed during the Alpine orogeny in the Tertiary period.
5. Which of the following is NOT a type of mountain based on its origin?
A. Volcanic Mountain
B. Dome Mountain
C. Fold Mountain
D. Plateau Mountain
Answer: D. Plateau Mountain
Explanation: Plateau Mountains are formed by colliding tectonic plates and erosion but are categorized differently compared to Volcanic, Dome, and Fold Mountains.
6. What is the highest peak of the Aravalli Range?
A. Guru Shikhar
B. Anamudi
C. Arma Konda
D. Dhupgarh
Answer: A. Guru Shikhar
Explanation: Guru Shikhar, at 1,722 meters, is the highest peak of the Aravalli Range.
7. What role does the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) play in climate regulation?
A. Reduces global temperatures
B. Acts as a barrier to cold Arctic winds
C. Prevents oceanic storms
D. Reduces atmospheric pressure
Answer: B. Acts as a barrier to cold Arctic winds
Explanation: The IHR helps regulate the Indian subcontinent’s climate by acting as a barrier to cold Arctic winds and influencing monsoon patterns.
8. Which mountain range is considered the oldest in India?
A. Vindhya Range
B. Aravalli Range
C. Satpura Range
D. Western Ghats
Answer: B. Aravalli Range
Explanation: The Aravalli Range is one of the oldest mountain ranges globally, dating back to the Precambrian era.
9. What is the major threat to the Indian Himalayan Region due to rising tourism?
A. Cultural revival
B. Increased biodiversity
C. Waste generation
D. Expansion of forests
Answer: C. Waste generation
Explanation: Tourism in the IHR generates approximately 8 million tonnes of waste annually, threatening the fragile mountain ecosystems.
10. Which of the following rivers originates from the Indian Himalayan Region?
A. Godavari
B. Krishna
C. Ganga
D. Kaveri
Answer: C. Ganga
Explanation: The Ganga River originates from the IHR and is one of the major rivers supported by the region’s glacial systems.
11. Which tectonic plates are responsible for the formation of the Himalayan mountains?
A. Indian Plate and Pacific Plate
B. Eurasian Plate and African Plate
C. Indian Plate and Eurasian Plate
D. North American Plate and South American Plate
Answer: C. Indian Plate and Eurasian Plate
Explanation: The Himalayas were formed due to the ongoing collision between the Indian Plate and the Eurasian Plate.
12. What percentage of India’s total geographical area does the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR) cover?
A. 10.5%
B. 12.8%
C. 16.2%
D. 18.7%
Answer: C. 16.2%
Explanation: The Indian Himalayan Region covers about 16.2% of the country’s total geographical area.
13. What is the primary reason for the IHR being tectonically active?
A. Volcanic activity
B. Plate collision and faulting
C. River erosion
D. Atmospheric pressure variations
Answer: B. Plate collision and faulting
Explanation: The collision of the Indian Plate and Eurasian Plate causes tectonic activity in the region, shaping the Himalayas.
14. Which of these is NOT a key characteristic of mountains?
A. High elevation
B. Steep slopes
C. Low biodiversity
D. Formation through tectonic activities
Answer: C. Low biodiversity
Explanation: Mountains are biodiversity hotspots, hosting a wide variety of plant and animal species.
15. The Western Ghats, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are an example of which type of mountain formation?
A. Dome Mountain
B. Fold Mountain
C. Block Mountain
D. Volcanic Mountain
Answer: C. Block Mountain
Explanation: The Western Ghats were formed due to the downwarping of land into the Arabian Sea, making them block mountains.
16. Which mountain range acts as a natural border between India and several neighboring countries, including Nepal and Bhutan?
A. Vindhya Range
B. Satpura Range
C. Himalayas
D. Aravalli Range
Answer: C. Himalayas
Explanation: The Himalayas form a natural border between India and its northern neighbors like Nepal, Bhutan, and China.
17. What is one major impact of climate change observed in the Indian Himalayan Region?
A. Decrease in glacial lake formation
B. Enhanced agricultural output
C. Melting glaciers and expanding lakes
D. Increased river flow throughout the year
Answer: C. Melting glaciers and expanding lakes
Explanation: Climate change causes glacial melting and lake expansion in the IHR, increasing the risk of floods and water shortages.
18. Which method can help protect the Indian Himalayan Region’s fragile ecosystems?
A. Increasing infrastructure projects
B. Implementing sustainable tourism practices
C. Promoting industrial zones
D. Clearing forest cover for development
Answer: B. Implementing sustainable tourism practices
Explanation: Sustainable tourism minimizes environmental impact while supporting local livelihoods and preserving ecosystems.
19. Which animal species, found in the Indian Himalayan Region, is considered iconic and endangered?
A. Bengal Tiger
B. Red Panda
C. Indian Peacock
D. Nilgiri Tahr
Answer: B. Red Panda
Explanation: The Red Panda is an endangered species native to the Indian Himalayan Region.
20. Which is the highest peak of the Western Ghats?
A. Guru Shikhar
B. Anamudi
C. Arma Konda
D. Dhupgarh
Answer: B. Anamudi
Explanation: Anamudi, at an elevation of 2,695 meters, is the highest peak in the Western Ghats.