UPSC Prelims 2016 Q28: Geography – Indian Rivers & Water Resources
Which of the following is/are tributary/tributaries of Brahmaputra?
1. Dibang
2. Kameng
3. Lohit
Select the correct answer
using the code given below.
- (a) 1 only
- (b) 2 and 3 only
- (c) 1 and 3 only
- (d) 1, 2 and 3
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3
Explanation
Tributaries of the Brahmaputra
The river enters India as the Siang (Dihang) in Arunachal Pradesh.
Near Sadiya it is joined by the Dibang and the Lohit, and is then called the Brahmaputra.
| River | Tributary of the Brahmaputra? | Bank | Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Dibang | Yes | Left | Joins near Sadiya |
| 2. Kameng | Yes | Right | Called Jia Bharali in Assam; joins near Tezpur |
| 3. Lohit | Yes | Left | Joins near Sadiya |
Main tributaries by bank:
| Bank | Tributaries |
|---|---|
| Right (north) | Subansiri, Kameng, Manas, Sankosh, Teesta |
| Left (south) | Dibang, Lohit, Burhi Dihing, Dhansiri, Kopili |
Answer: (d) 1, 2 and 3.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Kameng and Lohit are also tributaries of the Brahmaputra.
- (b) Incorrect. Dibang is also a tributary; it joins near Sadiya.
- (c) Incorrect. Kameng, the Jia Bharali of Assam, is also a tributary.
- (d) CORRECT. Dibang, Kameng and Lohit are all tributaries of the Brahmaputra.
Key point
Brahmaputra tributaries: Dibang and Lohit (left bank, near Sadiya); Subansiri, Kameng, Manas, Teesta (right bank).
Remember
Dibang, Lohit and Kameng all join the Brahmaputra.
Common mistakes
- Not knowing the Kameng, which is named Jia Bharali in Assam.
- Confusing Dibang (a tributary) with Dihang, the main stream itself.
- Thinking the Lohit flows into Myanmar; it joins the Brahmaputra.
Exam tip
Dihang + Dibang + Lohit meet near Sadiya to form the Brahmaputra.
Sources
- NCERT Class XI — India: Physical Environment, Ch 3 (Drainage System)
- Brahmaputra Board, Government of India — Master Plan of the Brahmaputra Basin