In the context of global biogeography and tectonic history, the peninsular Indian landmass, including Kerala, separated from which ancient supercontinent during the Mesozoic era before drifting northward?

💡 Solution & Explanation

The peninsular Indian landmass drifted northward from the ancient southern supercontinent Gondwanaland during the Mesozoic era following the breakup of Pangea. Unlike Laurasia which formed the northern landmass, Gondwanaland encompassed present-day India, Africa, Australia, Antarctica, and South America. Understanding this tectonic migration explains the distinct biogeographical affinities shared between the Indian subcontinent and other southern hemisphere landmasses.