Part of: Punjab Gk set 10

The five rivers draining the plains of erstwhile undivided Punjab are Chenab, Ravi, Sulej and

Category: Punjab Gk

Hint: Consider the historical and geographical context of the Punjab region.

Correct Answer: A) Beas and Indus.

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The five rivers of Punjab, also known as the Punjab Doab, are a significant geographical feature of the region. These rivers are the Chenab, Ravi, Sulej (Sutlej), Beas, and Indus. The term "Punjab" itself means "land of five rivers" in Persian, with "panj" meaning five and "aab" meaning water.

Historically, the Punjab region was a fertile and agriculturally rich area due to the presence of these rivers. The rivers not only provided water for irrigation but also played a crucial role in the development of the region's culture and economy. The five rivers form a network that drains the plains of Punjab, which were part of the undivided Punjab before the partition of India in 1947.

The Chenab is the largest of the five rivers and is formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga rivers in Himachal Pradesh. The Ravi is another significant river that flows through the plains of Punjab. The Sulej (Sutlej) is the easternmost of the five rivers and is a major tributary of the Indus. The Beas is a smaller river that joins the Sutlej before it meets the Indus. The Indus, the fifth river, is the most significant of the five and is one of the longest rivers in Asia, flowing through Pakistan and joining the Arabian Sea.

It is important to note that while the Jhelum is a significant river in the broader region, it is not one of the five rivers that form the Punjab Doab. The Jhelum is a tributary of the Chenab and flows through the Kashmir Valley. The Nubra and Zanskar rivers, mentioned in the incorrect options, are tributaries of the Shyok River and are located in the Ladakh region of Jammu and Kashmir, not in the Punjab plains.

Understanding the geographical layout of these rivers is crucial for comprehending the historical and cultural significance of the Punjab region. The rivers have played a vital role in shaping the region's landscape, economy, and society, making them a key aspect of Punjab's geography and history.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. The five rivers of Punjab are Chenab, Ravi, Sulej (Sutlej), Beas, and Indus. These rivers form the fertile plains of Punjab and are significant for agriculture and historical importance.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. While Beas is one of the five rivers, Jhelum is not part of the five rivers of Punjab. The correct fifth river is the Indus.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Neither Jhelum nor Nubra are part of the five rivers of Punjab. The correct fifth river is the Indus.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Jhelum is not one of the five rivers of Punjab, and Zanskar is not part of the Punjab river system. The correct fifth river is the Indus.

Mnemonic: C-R-S-B-I (Chenab, Ravi, Sulej, Beas, Indus)

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