RAS question
The Thar Desert in Rajasthan is also known as:
Correct answer: (D) Great Indian Desert.
The Thar Desert in Rajasthan is also known as the Great Indian Desert.
Explanation
The correct answer is Great Indian Desert. Rajasthan's official geographic profile describes the Thar Desert as extending across the state's north-western part and as also known as the Rajasthan Desert and the Great Indian Desert. Of the four options, only Great Indian Desert matches this description. The Thar covers about 70% of Rajasthan, so it is a major feature of the state's physical geography. The question asks for the recognised alternate name of Rajasthan's Thar, not for a comparison with deserts elsewhere in the world.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Saharan Desert is not an alternate name for the Thar; its alternate names include Rajasthan Desert and Great Indian Desert.
- (B) Karakum Desert is not an alternate name for the Thar; Rajasthan's Thar Desert is also called the Great Indian Desert.
- (C) Gobi Desert is not a name used for the Thar; the Thar's recognised alternate name is Great Indian Desert.
Concept
This question tests basic nomenclature in Rajasthan's physical geography, particularly the desert region that covers much of the state. RAS often asks such terms because they help identify locations, landforms and regions on the map.