The Western Ghats are locally known by which name in Maharashtra?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Sahyadri.

Explanation:

• The Western Ghats, a mountain range running parallel to the western coast of India, are locally known as the Sahyadri in the state of Maharashtra. The term "Sahyadri" is derived from Sanskrit, where "Sahya" means "helper" or "support," and "Adri" means "mountain," which can be interpreted as "the mountains that support or help."
• The Sahyadri range is an important geographical feature of the Western Ghats, which extends through several states, including Maharashtra, Goa, Karnataka, Kerala, and Tamil Nadu. The range is known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystems, and cultural significance.

Information Booster:

1. Western Ghats: They are also known as the "Sahyadri Hills" in Maharashtra and other parts of India. The Western Ghats have been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to their ecological significance.

2. Sahyadri Range: In Maharashtra, the Sahyadri range forms a natural barrier between the coastal Konkan region and the Deccan Plateau. The Sahyadri mountains are known for their scenic beauty, hill stations (like Mahabaleshwar and Lonavala), and historical forts.

3. Other Names in Different Regions:

   • In the Nilgiris (Tamil Nadu), a part of the Western Ghats is called the Nilgiri Hills.
   • The Anaimalai Hills are another part of the Western Ghats located in the Kerala-Tamil Nadu border region, known for tea estates and wildlife sanctuaries.
   • Cardamom Hills is another name used in reference to the southern parts of the Western Ghats, especially in the region known for cardamom cultivation.

Ecological Significance:

• The Western Ghats/Sahyadri range is home to many endemic species of flora and fauna, including the Lion-tailed Macaque, Western Ghats Toad, and numerous species of plants and insects.
• These mountains play a crucial role in the monsoon weather patterns, acting as a barrier that causes heavy rainfall on the western side, enriching the coastal regions with water while making the interior more arid.anir