Which one of the following is the correct order of formation of geological systems in India in terms of their age? [Starting with the oldest]

A) Dharwars - Aravallis - Cuddapahs - Vindhyans
B) Aravallis - Dharwars - Cuddapahs - Vindhyans
C) Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis - Cuddapahs
D) Cuddapahs - Vindhyans - Dharwars - Aravallis

The geological systems of India follow a specific stratigraphic sequence based on their formation age. The Aravalli system is among the oldest, preserving a record of Precambrian evolution dating back approximately 3.6 to 3 billion years. Following the Archaean basement, the Dharwar system formed between 2500 and 1800 million years ago as the first metamorphosed sedimentary rock systems [1]. The Cuddapah system, consisting of quartzites and limestones, succeeded the Dharwars and is found in basins like the Chhattisgarh and Aravalli ranges [2]. Finally, the Vindhyan system is the youngest of the four, stratigraphically positioned above the Cuddapah and divided into groups like the Kaimur and Bhander [1]. This sequence—Aravallis, Dharwars, Cuddapahs, and Vindhyans—represents the chronological progression from the oldest Precambrian formations to the later Proterozoic sedimentary basins in the Indian subcontinent.

Sources

1. [1] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 1: Geological Structure and formation of India > DHARWAR SYSTEM (PROTEROZOIC FORMATIONS) > p. 7
2. [2] Geography of India ,Majid Husain, (McGrawHill 9th ed.) > Chapter 2: Physiography > 2. The Dharwar System > p. 50