Why is the Ganges River important to India?

The Ganges River, also known as the Ganga, is considered one of the most sacred rivers in the world, and is extremely important to the people of India. The river runs over 1500 miles from the Himalayas in the north to the Bay of Bengal in the east, and provides water to over 400 million people who live along its banks.

But the Ganges is more than just a source of water. It is considered a goddess in Hinduism, and is believed to have the power to purify the soul and wash away sins. Many Hindus travel to the river to bathe in its waters and perform religious rituals, and the ashes of loved ones are often scattered in the river as a final act of purification.

The Ganges also plays an important role in India's economy, as it provides water for agriculture, hydroelectric power, and transportation. The river is home to a diverse array of wildlife, including the endangered Ganges River dolphin.

Despite its importance, the Ganges is also one of the most polluted rivers in the world, and efforts to clean up the river have been ongoing for decades. The Indian government has launched various initiatives to reduce pollution and improve the quality of the river's water, but the task remains a challenging one.