PYQ Bank — UPSC Civil Services

Statement 1 is correct as the Thar Desert spans across Rajasthan (major portion), parts of Gujarat, Haryana, and extends into Pakistan (Sindh and Punjab provinces).

Statement 2 is correct as the Aravalli Range acts as a natural barrier that has limited the eastward expansion of the desert and creates a transition zone.

Statement 3 is correct as the western parts experience active sand dunes with minimal vegetation due to extreme aridity, while the eastern parts show stabilized dunes with vegetation cover due to relatively higher rainfall.

Statement 4 is incorrect because while the Thar is arid, rainfall varies significantly—some parts receive less than 100mm while eastern margins receive up to 500mm, so it's not uniform.

This question tests nuanced understanding of desert ecosystems and geography.