To answer this question, we need to recall the geographical divisions of the Himalayas and identify which of the given hill stations falls within the Lesser Himalayas (also known as Himachal or Middle Himalayas).
Correct Option: A) Shimla is a prominent hill station situated in the Lesser Himalayas (Himachal range).
The question asks to identify which of the given ranges is NOT a part of the Lesser Himalayas. To answer this, one needs to have knowledge of the major Himalayan ranges and their subdivisions.
The Karakoram Range is part of the Trans-Himalayas, which lies to the north of the Greater Himalayas. It is one of the world's largest mountain ranges and is distinct from the Lesser Himalayas. Therefore, it is not a part of the Lesser Himalayas.
The question asks to identify the two Himalayan ranges between which 'Duns' (longitudinal valleys) are located. This requires knowledge of the physiographic divisions of the Himalayas and the specific location of Duns.
D) Lesser Himalayas (Himachal) and Shivalik (Outer Himalayas). This option correctly identifies the two ranges that flank the Duns. The Lesser Himalayas (also known as Himachal) lie to the north, and the Shivalik range (also known as Outer Himalayas) lies to the south of these valleys.
The question asks for the division of the Himalayas from west to east based on regional classifications. This classification is primarily based on river valleys that delineate different sections of the mountain range.
A) Punjab, Kumaon, Nepal and Assam Himalayas
This option correctly lists the regional divisions of the Himalayas from west to east, separated by major river valleys: Punjab Himalayas (between Indus and Satluj), Kumaon Himalayas (between Satluj and Kali), Nepal Himalayas (between Kali and Tista), and Assam Himalayas (between Tista and Dihang/Brahmaputra).
The question asks to identify which of the given options is NOT a part of the Purvanchal hills (Eastern hills of India). This requires knowledge of the geographical location of various hill ranges in India.
A) Aravalli Hills — The Aravalli Hills are located in Western India, primarily in Rajasthan, and are not a part of the Purvanchal (Eastern) hills.
The question asks for the officially recognized height of Mount Everest as per the 2020 Nepal-China joint announcement. This requires knowledge of recent geographical updates regarding the world's highest peak.
Correct Option: D) 8,848.86 m is the officially recognized height of Mount Everest as announced by Nepal and China in 2020.