RAS question
Which river is known as the 'Dakshin Ganga' (Ganga of the South)?
Correct answer: (A) Godavari.
The Godavari is known as the Dakshin Ganga, or Ganga of the South, because of its length and religious importance in peninsular India.
Explanation
The Godavari is commonly identified as the Dakshin Ganga. India-WRIS Wiki also refers to it as the Vriddh Ganga or Dakshin Ganga. It is India's longest peninsular river and follows a long course across south-central India before entering the Bay of Bengal; its length and religious importance explain these names. Therefore, in RAS geography questions, the answer to Dakshin Ganga is Godavari, not Kaveri; Kaveri carries that name only in some traditions.
Why the other options are wrong
- (B) Kaveri is called the Ganga of the South in some traditions, but Godavari is more widely known as the Dakshin Ganga because of its greater length and religious importance.
- (C) Krishna is a major peninsular river and the second-longest peninsular river, but the title Dakshin Ganga is associated with Godavari.
- (D) Narmada is a major west-flowing river, whereas Dakshin Ganga refers to the Godavari, a long peninsular river with religious importance.
Concept
In RAS geography, river titles are often tested together with defining features such as length, flow direction, and cultural significance.