Q. Given below are two statements, one is labelled as Assertion (A) and the other as Reason (R).
Assertion (A): The Himalayas form source of several large perennial rivers.
Reason (R): The higher ranges of Himalayas are snow covered throughout the year.
Select the correct answer from the code given below :
a) Both (A) and (R) are true, but (R) is not the correct explanation of (A)
b) (A) is false, but (R) is true
c) (A) is true, but (R) is false
d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Correct Answer: d) Both (A) and (R) are true and (R) is the correct explanation of (A)
Question from UPPSC Prelims 2025
Explanation:
Assertion (A) is true: Major perennial rivers like the Indus, Ganga, and Brahmaputra (and their tributaries) originate in the Himalayas.
Reason (R) is also true: The higher ranges (especially the Great Himalaya/Himadri) are snow-covered and glacier-clad throughout the year. This perennial snow and extensive glaciation supply sustained meltwater, especially in the dry season, which—along with monsoonal rainfall—keeps these rivers flowing year-round.
Hence, (R) correctly explains why the Himalayan rivers are perennial. Therefore, Option 4 is correct.
