Which of the following rivers forms the Majuli Island, the world's largest river island?

Correct option is D

The correct answer is (d) Brahmaputra

• Majuli Island, located in Assam, is the world’s largest river island.

• It is formed by the Brahmaputra River, one of the largest rivers in the world.

• The island is situated in the middle of the Brahmaputra River and has become famous not only for its size but also for its cultural significance and biodiversity.

• Majuli is an important cultural and religious hub, particularly known for the Satras, which are Vaishnavite monasteries.

Information Booster:

• Majuli Island: Majuli is located in the Brahmaputra River, in the northeastern state of Assam, India.
• Brahmaputra River:

• The Brahmaputra River is one of the largest and most important rivers in the world, with a total length of approximately 2,900 kilometers.

• It originates from the Tibetan Plateau (known as the Yarlung Tsangpo in Tibet) and flows through China, India, and Bangladesh, before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

• In India, it flows through the states of Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, and West Bengal.

• The Brahmaputra has been called the “sorrow of Assam” due to its annual flooding, but it is also known for its cultural and historical significance.

• Majuli and Brahmaputra:

• Majuli Island is formed as a result of the Brahmaputra River splitting into several branches as it flows through Assam. The island is situated in the heart of the river, and its position causes it to experience seasonal erosion and changes in its size.

• The Brahmaputra’s annual floods contribute to the island’s erosion, threatening its existence. Despite these challenges, the island continues to remain a symbol of cultural heritage and Brahmaputra's dominance over the region.

• The river is a crucial part of the Assamese culture, with its many ferries, flood plains, and river-based livelihood.

• Significance of Majuli Island:

• Majuli is home to several Vaishnavite Satras, which are monasteries founded by Srimanta Sankardeva in the 16th century. These Satras are known for their religious and cultural significance in the region.

• Majuli is also famous for its biodiversity, being a sanctuary for several species of birds and wildlife, particularly the greater adjutant stork.

Additional Information:

• Option (a) Godavari:

  • The Godavari River is the second longest river in India, flowing through Maharashtra, Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha before emptying into the Bay of Bengal. It is a crucial river for irrigation and agriculture in southern India.

• Option (b) Mahanadi:

  • The Mahanadi River originates in Chhattisgarh and flows through Odisha into the Bay of Bengal. It is vital for irrigation and hydropower generation in eastern India.

• Option (c) Ganga:

  • The Ganga River, one of the most sacred rivers in India, flows through India, Bangladesh, and China. The Ganga basin is extremely important for agriculture, trade, and religious purposes.