Correct Answer: Option (4) All of the above.
Detailed Analysis:
Geographical analysis of Narmada River:
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Statement a is Correct:
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The Narmada flows westward through a linear tectonic rift valley (graben) flanked by the Vindhya Range to the north and the Satpura Range to the south.
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Due to this fault-trough topography, it cuts deep, narrow marble gorges (such as Bhedaghat gorge near Jabalpur) and plunges into spectacular cascades like the Dhuandhar Falls.
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Statement b is Correct:
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The upper/eastern Narmada basin around Amarkantak and Mandla highlands receives high orographic rainfall (120–140 cm) influenced by the Bay of Bengal branch of monsoons.
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In contrast, the lower/western basin in western MP and Gujarat lies in semi-arid plains receiving considerably lower precipitation (60–80 cm).
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Statement c is Correct:
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Narmada has 41 significant tributaries.
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Left-bank tributaries include: Burnhar, Banjar (Banjor), Sher, Shakkar, Dudhi, Tawa (longest tributary).
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Right-bank tributaries include: Hiran/Hirna, Barna, Choral, Kolar, Orsang.
All three statements (a, b, and c) are factually and geographically correct.
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Source: Amarkantak plateau in Anuppur district of Madhya Pradesh.
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Total length: 1,312 km (longest west-flowing river of peninsular India).
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Length in Maharashtra: 54 km along the northern boundary of Nandurbar district.
