Which of the following are correct with regard to Indian Monsoonal Rainfall ? 1. Largely governed by the topographical features 2. Regional and seasonal variation in the distribution of rainfall 3. Heavy downpour resulting in considerable runoff 4. Beginning and end of rain is regular and on time Select the correct answer using the code given below :

The correct answer is B, 1, 2 and 3. Indian monsoon rain is shaped by relief, varies widely by region and season, and falls in heavy bursts, but its onset and withdrawal are not regular.

Statement 1 is correct: mountains decide where the rain falls. The Western Ghats force the south-west monsoon winds to rise and shed heavy rain on the windward coast, while the leeward Deccan stays dry; the Garo-Khasi hills give Mawsynram and Cherrapunji the highest rainfall. Statement 2 is correct: about three-fourths of the yearly rain falls between June and September, and the amount ranges from over 1,000 cm in the north-east to under 15 cm in western Rajasthan. Statement 3 is correct: rain comes in short, heavy spells, so much of it runs off, causing floods and soil erosion. Statement 4 is wrong: the monsoon's onset and retreat often come early or late, with breaks in between.

A is wrong because it leaves out statement 3. C is wrong because it leaves out 1 and 2 and includes the false statement 4. D is wrong because it includes statement 4.

Exam tip: the Indian monsoon is uncertain, uneven and seasonal; relief decides where it rains most.