The tributaries of the River Ganga play a vital role in the ecological, economic, and cultural landscape of the Indian subcontinent. The Ganga itself is one of the longest and most important rivers in the world, and its tributaries contribute significantly to its flow, fertility, biodiversity, and support to millions of people.

 Ecological Importance of Tributaries:

• Water Supply: The tributaries provide crucial water supply to the main Ganga and its basin, maintaining its flow, especially during dry seasons.
• Biodiversity Support: These rivers support diverse ecosystems, including wetlands, forests, and wildlife habitats, which are essential for various species, both aquatic and terrestrial.
• Flood Regulation: Tributaries help in the distribution of water across vast regions, preventing the Ganga from becoming too flood-prone in certain areas, though they also contribute to the flood risk.
• Silt Deposits: Many tributaries carry rich silt and sediments, enriching the soil in the Ganga basin, making it one of the most fertile regions in the world.
• Fisheries: These rivers provide livelihoods for millions of people engaged in fishing and aquaculture along their banks, supporting a rich tradition of river-based commerce.

ICAR-CIFRI under NMCG project (Phase III) have started ecological and biodiversity exploration in 14 tributaries exploratory surveys of River Ganga. The tributaries include River Rupnarayan, River Matla, River Haldi, River Adiganga, River Jalangi, River Ichamati, River Churni, River Damodar in West Bengal. River Gandak and River Koshi in Bihar. While Panchprayag, River Yamuna, River Ramganga, River Sarju, River Bhilangana, and River Nayar in Uttarakhand.