The River Narmada

The river that rises in the Amarkantak hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows towards the west in a rift valley formed due to faulting is the River Narmada. Let's delve into the details to understand why this is the correct answer.

Geographical Location
The Amarkantak hills, located in the state of Madhya Pradesh, serve as the source of several rivers, including the Narmada. These hills act as the watershed for various rivers, providing them with water and shaping their flow. The Narmada river, originating from the Amarkantak hills, flows through the central parts of India, passing through the states of Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Gujarat.

Rift Valley Formation
The Narmada river's course follows a rift valley, which is a result of faulting. A rift valley refers to a linear-shaped lowland between several highlands or mountain ranges. It is formed when the Earth's crust undergoes tensional forces and splits apart, creating a depression. In the case of the Narmada river, faulting caused the formation of a rift valley in its path, which the river subsequently occupies.

Westward Flow
The Narmada river flows towards the west due to the geological structure of the rift valley. The faulting that occurred in the region caused the landmass on one side of the fault to sink, creating a lower elevation. As a result, the river naturally follows the course of least resistance, which is towards the west, flowing through the rift valley.

Importance of Narmada River
The Narmada river holds immense cultural, ecological, and economic significance for the regions it traverses. It supports a diverse range of flora and fauna along its banks, serving as a lifeline for numerous species. Additionally, the river is a source of irrigation for agricultural activities, providing water for crops and sustaining livelihoods. Moreover, the Narmada river holds religious importance and is considered sacred by many communities, attracting pilgrims and tourists.

In conclusion, the river that rises in the Amarkantak hills in Madhya Pradesh and flows towards the west in a rift valley formed due to faulting is the River Narmada. Its course through the rift valley showcases the geological processes that have shaped the landscape of central India and highlights the significance of rivers in the region's ecology and economy.