📚 Part of: Ancient Indian Mathematics Mcqs: Aryabhata & Mathematical Contributions

The middle box on this map is pointing to a river flowing across northeast India. Name this river.

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Correct Answer: C) Ganges River.

Exam Relevance: UPSC Civil Services, SSC CGL, Bank PO, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Concept notes:

The Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, is one of the most significant rivers in India, flowing through the northern part of the country. It originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas and flows through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The river is not only a major geographical feature but also holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus.

Common Mistakes:
  • Confusing the Ganges with other major Indian rivers like the Godavari or Krishna.
  • Misunderstanding the geographical location of the Ganges, thinking it flows only through the northern plains and not through northeast India.
  • Not recognizing the cultural and religious importance of the Ganges, which can lead to overlooking its significance in Indian geography.
Explanation:

The Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, is one of the most significant rivers in India, flowing through the northern part of the country. It originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Himalayas and flows through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. The river is not only a major geographical feature but also holds immense cultural and religious significance for Hindus. It is considered sacred and is a central figure in Hindu mythology and rituals.

The Ganges River flows through the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal, with a significant portion of its course passing through northeast India. This makes it a crucial river for the region, providing water for agriculture, industry, and domestic use. The river's importance is not just limited to its geographical and economic contributions; it also plays a vital role in the cultural and religious life of the people living along its banks.

The other options provided in the question are incorrect for the following reasons:

- The Godavari River is located in central India and flows through the states of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. It does not flow through northeast India.

- The Indus River primarily flows through Pakistan and only a small part of it is in India. It does not flow through northeast India.

- The Krishna River is located in southern India and flows through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It does not flow through northeast India.

Understanding the geographical distribution of major rivers in India is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations, as it forms a significant part of the geography section. The Ganges River, being one of the most important rivers in India, is a key topic that students should be familiar with, both in terms of its geographical course and its cultural significance.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: The Godavari River is incorrect. The Godavari River is located in central India and flows through the states of Maharashtra, Telangana, and Andhra Pradesh. It does not flow through northeast India. Students might confuse it with the Ganges due to its status as one of the major rivers in India.
  • Option B: The Indus River is incorrect. The Indus River primarily flows through Pakistan and only a small part of it is in India. It does not flow through northeast India. Students might confuse it with the Ganges due to both being major rivers in the Indian subcontinent.
  • Option C: The Ganges River is correct. The Ganges River flows through northeast India, particularly through the state of West Bengal, and is a significant geographical feature in this region. It is the most important river in India, both geographically and culturally.
  • Option D: The Krishna River is incorrect. The Krishna River is located in southern India and flows through the states of Maharashtra, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. It does not flow through northeast India. Students might confuse it with the Ganges due to its status as a major river in India.

Mnemonic: Ganges: G for Ganges, G for Ganga, G for Great

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