The second largest river basin in India is that of

Correct option is B

Correct Answer: (b) Godavari

Explanation:

• The Godavari River basin is the second largest river basin in India, after the Ganga.

• It covers a drainage area of about 3.12 lakh square kilometers, which is larger than Krishna's.

• The river originates from Trimbakeshwar in Maharashtra and flows into the Bay of Bengal.

Information Booster:

• Known as the Dakshina Ganga or Ganga of the South, Godavari is the longest river in peninsular India (about 1,465 km).

• It supports agriculture, drinking water, and hydroelectric projects across Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Odisha.

Additional Information:

• (a) Mahanadi

  • Smaller basin; major river of Chhattisgarh and Odisha.

• (c) Narmada

  • West-flowing river; its basin is confined and much smaller in comparison.

• (d) Krishna

  • While extensive, its basin area (around 2.58 lakh sq. km) is less than Godavari’s.