Which river is known as the “Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh”?
a) Chambal
b) Betwa
c) Narmada
d) Son
Answer: c) Narmada
Explanation
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Narmada River: The Narmada is widely revered and officially recognized as the “Lifeline of Madhya Pradesh” (as well as Gujarat) due to its immense economic, agricultural, and cultural contribution to the region.
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Key Features: Flowing westward through a rift valley between the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, it is the fifth-longest river in India and the largest west-flowing river in the country. It supports major hydroelectric and irrigation projects, including the Sardar Sarovar and Indira Sagar dams, transforming large arid and semi-arid tracts into fertile agricultural belts.
Overview of Other Options
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a) Chambal: A major southern tributary of the Yamuna, famous for its badland topography and ravines across Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Uttar Pradesh.
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b) Betwa: Another important tributary of the Yamuna, flowing through Madhya Pradesh and Uttar Pradesh (associated with the Ken-Betwa river linking project).
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d) Son: A major southern tributary of the Ganga that originates near Amarkantak (close to the Narmada’s source) but flows northward through Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Bihar.
