Which of the following is not responsible for rainfall in Rajasthan?

Correct option is A

Ans. (a)
Rajasthan receives most of its rainfall from the Bay of Bengal branch of the monsoon and Western Disturbances. The Arabian Sea branch of the monsoon moves towards the Western Ghats, causing heavy rainfall in Kerala, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Gujarat, but loses moisture before reaching Rajasthan. The Thar Desert and the Aravalli Range, which runs parallel to the monsoon winds, prevent significant rainfall from this branch.
Instead, Rajasthan’s monsoonal rainfall mainly comes from:
· The Bay of Bengal branch, which moves westward after striking the eastern Himalayas.
· Western Disturbances, which bring winter rainfall to northern and western Rajasthan.
· The Retreating Monsoon, which occasionally brings post-monsoon showers.
Information Booster
· The Arabian Sea branch does not cause significant rainfall in Rajasthan due to orographic blocking by the Aravalli Hills.
· The Bay of Bengal branch contributes to monsoon rains in eastern Rajasthan (e.g., Bharatpur, Jaipur).
· Western Disturbances bring winter rainfall, benefiting wheat crops.
· The Retreating Monsoon causes sporadic showers, especially in southeastern Rajasthan.
· Rajasthan’s annual rainfall varies from 100 mm (Thar Desert) to 800 mm (southeastern regions like Kota and Udaipur).
Additional Knowledge
1. Arabian Sea Branch – Incorrect (Not Responsible for Rainfall in Rajasthan)
· Causes heavy rainfall in Western Ghats but loses moisture before reaching Rajasthan.
· Aravalli Range runs parallel to wind direction, preventing orographic rainfall.
2. Bay of Bengal Branch – Responsible
· Moves westward, bringing rainfall to eastern Rajasthan.
· Significant rainfall occurs in Bharatpur, Alwar, and Jaipur.
3. Western Disturbances – Responsible
· Winter rains in North-Western India, including Rajasthan.
· Originates from the Mediterranean region and brings rainfall in December–February.
4. Retreating Monsoon – Partially Responsible
· Occasional rainfall in southeastern Rajasthan.
· Contributes to October-November showers, beneficial for crops.