List of Rivers in India, Their Importance, Origin, Lengths, and More

India has a vast network of rivers flowing across many states in the country. These waterways not only shape the geography but also play an essential role in India’s history and civilization. This is evident from the fact that rivers in India have always been connected to cultures and traditions.

The list of rivers in India starts from the snow-capped Himalayas in the north and ends at the tropical shores of the south. These expansive river stretches are lifelines to the country that sustain ecosystems, agriculture, and countless communities. India’s rivers also contribute to biodiversity by serving as habitats for a wide range of plants and animals. 

This article aims to track these diverse water bodies. For instance, the sacred Ganges, are revered for their spiritual significance that attracts millions of pilgrims each year, the Brahmaputra is essential for irrigation and transportation that supports livelihoods along their banks.

Rivers in India

While some Indian rivers flow westward toward the Arabian Sea, many flow eastward into the Bay of Bengal. Certain rivers have internal drainage and do not empty into the Sea in areas like the Thar Desert, portions of Ladakh, and the northern Aravalli range. The Western Ghats, the Vindhya and Satpura mountains, the Himalayas and Karakoram range, and the Chhota Nagpur plateau are the three main river basins in India.

Relevance of Rivers for Competitive Exams

Questioning candidates about Rivers in India is one of the most asked topics in competitive exams (as per the latest trends) conducted throughout the country. It is therefore relevant to learn about the list of rivers in India to not miss out on such questions.

The reasons are as follows:

• Rivers have been essential parts of Indian civilization for ages.
• The rivers have a significant role in the development of physical, natural, and socioeconomic environments.
• They (tributaries, routes, and names) are crucial for Indian geography.

These concepts are especially important if a candidate is preparing for defense tests like NDA, CDS, AFCAT, CISF, CRPF, Indian Army Agniveer, Airforce, MNS Recruitment, and Territorial Army, among others.

List of Major Rivers in India

List of Rivers in India, Lengths, Origins, and Tributaries

Other Important Rivers in India

• Ulhas (Rajmachi Hills)
• Mandovi (Bhimgad, Karnataka)
• Netravati (Chikmagalur, Karnataka)
• Sharavati (Western Ghats, Karnataka)
• Periyar (Sivagiri Hills, Tamil Nadu)
• Pamba (Paluchimalai Hills, Wester Ghats)
• Chaliyar(Elambareli Hills, Western Ghats)
• Betwa (Tributary of Yamuna, MP)
• Son (Tributary of Ganga, Amarkantak)
• Kosi (Indo-Nepal Border)
• Tawa (Satpura Range, MP)
• Subarnarekha (near Ranchi, Jharkhand)
• Hemavati (Western Ghats, Karnataka)
• Amravati (Anamalai Hills)
• Sabari (Sinkaran Hills, Odisha)
• Tapti (Eastern Satpura Range, MP)

Longest Rivers of India

1. Ganga
2. Godavari
3. Krishna
4. Yamuna
5. Narmada
6. Indus
7. Brahmaputra
8. Mahanadi
9. Kaveri
10. Tapti

Ancient and New Names of Rivers in India

Importance of Indian Rivers

Rivers in India influence economies, cultures, civilizations, and landscapes. This marks the various importance of rivers as follows:

1. Agriculture and Water Supply: Rivers are the main supply of freshwater that is primarily used in irrigation, thus supporting the food chain in agriculture. India's agriculture is highly dependent on river water for raising cattle and growing crops.
2. Economic Lifelines: Trade and commerce have been made possible by rivers. Rivers like the Ganges and Brahmaputra continue to facilitate inland navigation, hence, improving connectivity and spurring economic growth in isolated regions.
3. Ecological Diversity: A variety of plants and animals can be found in river ecosystems, which provide important habitats for biodiversity. River deltas, floodplains, and wetlands serve as natural purifiers that also serve as breeding sites for a variety of species.
4. Cultural Significance: The rivers in India are significant religious centres and people in the country worship them. This is because some Indian rivers are considered sacred.
5. Hydropower Generation: Rivers are a source of hydropower generation in the country. Energy is produced by building reservoirs and dams on rivers.
6. Climate Regulation: Rivers affect the humidity and temperature of an area, which in turn regulates the local and regional climate. They also preserve the natural equilibrium.