In‑blowing winds from the Indian Ocean — UPSC Prelims PYQ 1996
High temperature and low pressure over the Indian subcontinent during the summer season draws air from the Indian Ocean, leading to the in-blowing of the:
- Southeast monsoon
- Southwest monsoon
- Trade winds
- Westerlies
Explanation
Option (b) is correct
- During the summer season, intense heating over the Indian subcontinent creates a low-pressure area over northwestern India and adjoining regions. At the same time, relatively higher pressure persists over the Indian Ocean. As winds move from high pressure to low pressure, moisture-laden winds blow from the Indian Ocean towards India. These winds approach India mainly from the southwest direction, and hence are known as the Southwest Monsoon. They bring the majority of India’s annual rainfall.
Answer: (b) Southwest Monsoon
