GANGA RIVER

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here are 20 questions and answers about the Ganga River:

1. What is the Ganga River?

   - The Ganga River, also known as the Ganges, is one of the major rivers in India and is considered sacred in Hinduism.

2. How long is the Ganga River?

   - The Ganga River is approximately 2,525 kilometers (1,569 miles) long.

3. Where does the Ganga River originate?

   - The Ganga River originates from the Gangotri Glacier in the Indian state of Uttarakhand.

4. Through which states in India does the Ganga River flow?

   - The Ganga River flows through the states of Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

5. What is the significance of the Ganga River in Hinduism?

   - The Ganga River is considered sacred in Hinduism, and many believe that taking a dip in its waters can purify the soul.

6. What are some major cities situated along the Ganga River?

   - Varanasi, Patna, Kolkata, Kanpur, and Allahabad (now Prayagraj) are some major cities along the Ganga.

7. What are some environmental issues facing the Ganga River?

   - Pollution, industrial waste, and untreated sewage have led to significant environmental degradation of the Ganga River.

8. What is the government initiative aimed at cleaning the Ganga River?

   - The Namami Gange program is an initiative by the Indian government to clean and rejuvenate the Ganga River.

9. What is the main economic activity associated with the Ganga River?

   - Agriculture is a significant economic activity along the Ganga River, with the river's water used for irrigation.

10. Which wildlife species are found in the Ganga River and its basin?

    - The Ganga River and its basin are home to various wildlife species, including the Ganges river dolphin and several fish species.

11. What is the Kumbh Mela, and how is it related to the Ganga River?

    - The Kumbh Mela is a major Hindu festival and pilgrimage that takes place at the banks of the Ganga River, where millions of people gather to take a ritual bath.

12. Which other rivers join the Ganga River during its course?

    - The Yamuna, Gandak, Son, and Kosi are some of the major rivers that join the Ganga River.

13. What is the historical significance of the Ganga River?

    - The Ganga River has played a crucial role in the history and culture of India, with many ancient civilizations flourishing along its banks.

14. What are some threats to the biodiversity of the Ganga River?

    - Overfishing, habitat destruction, and pollution are some of the threats to the biodiversity of the Ganga River.

15. What is the Ganga Action Plan?

    - The Ganga Action Plan was launched in 1986 to reduce pollution and improve the water quality of the Ganga River.

16. How does the Ganga River support the livelihoods of people?

    - The Ganga River supports fishing, agriculture, and tourism, contributing to the livelihoods of millions of people.

17. What is the Ganga basin, and how large is it?

    - The Ganga basin is the region drained by the Ganga River and its tributaries, covering an area of about 1,080,000 square kilometers.

18. What are some myths and legends associated with the Ganga River?

    - The Ganga is believed to have descended from heaven to Earth when Lord Shiva released it from his locks. It is also associated with the story of King Bhagirath and his penance to bring the river to Earth.

19. What is the Ganga Dolphin Sanctuary?

    - The Ganga Dolphin Sanctuary is a protected area in India to conserve the Ganges river dolphin, an endangered species.

20. What is the economic and cultural importance of the Ganga River for India?

    - The Ganga River is not only economically vital for agriculture and transportation but also holds immense cultural and religious significance in India, shaping its traditions and way of life.