With reference to the impact of Himalayas on Indian climate, which of the following statements is/are correct? 1. They act as an effective physical barrier for rain bearing south-west monsoon winds. 2. They protect India from cold and dry air masses of Central Asia. Select the correct answer using the codes given below:

[A] 1 only

[B] 2 only

[C] Both 1 and 2

[D] Neither 1 nor 2

Answer: C

Notes:

The Himalayas act as a climatic divide between India and Central Asia.

During winter, Himalayas protect India from cold and dry air masses of Central Asia.
During monsoon months these mountain ranges act as an effective physical barrier for rain bearing south-west monsoon winds.

Himalayas divide the Bay of Bengal branch of monsoon winds into two branches – one branch flowing along the plain regions towards north-west India and the other towards South-East Asia.
If the Himalayas were not present, the monsoon winds would simply move into China and most of the north India would have been a desert.

Source: NCERT – India Physical Environment