RAS question
Which canal is called the 'Lifeline of the Desert'?
Correct answer: (D) Indira Gandhi Canal.
The Indira Gandhi Canal is called the Lifeline of the Desert because it carries water to arid western Rajasthan from the Sutlej-Beas system.
Explanation
The Indira Gandhi Canal is known as the Lifeline of the Desert because it brings water from the Sutlej-Beas system into arid western Rajasthan. NCERT describes the Indira Gandhi Canal, earlier called the Rajasthan Canal, as one of India's largest canal systems, originating at Harike barrage in Punjab and running through the Thar Desert of Rajasthan. NCERT also notes that canal irrigation changed the ecology, economy and society of this dry region, increased soil moisture, greened land, reduced wind erosion and expanded cultivation. The Lifeline of the Desert label reflects the desert-transforming role of the Indira Gandhi Canal.
Why the other options are wrong
- (A) Gang Canal is historically important, but the Lifeline of the Desert label belongs to the Indira Gandhi Canal's role in arid western Rajasthan.
- (B) Narmada Canal is associated with Gujarat, not with the Sutlej-Beas-fed canal system serving Rajasthan's desert belt.
- (C) Bhakra Canal is important, but it is not called the Lifeline of the Desert.
Concept
Rajasthan irrigation geography includes major canal projects that altered settlement, agriculture and ecology in the Thar region. The Indira Gandhi Canal links physical geography with state development planning.