The correct option is Multai in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh.
Explanation
The Tapi (or Tapti) is the second-largest westward-flowing river of Peninsular India. It is known as "the twin" or "the handmaid" of the Narmada. It flows through a rift valley parallel to the Narmada but is shorter in length.
Option Analysis
- Mahabaleshwar in Maharashtra is incorrect: Mahabaleshwar in the Sahyadri (Western Ghats) is the source of the Krishna River, which flows eastwards into the Bay of Bengal.
- Multai in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh is correct: The Tapi river originates from Multai in the Betul district of Madhya Pradesh. It rises in the Satpura Range at an elevation of approximately 752 meters. The river flows westwards for about 724 km before draining into the Arabian Sea through the Gulf of Khambhat.
- Amarkantak plateau in Chhattisgarh is incorrect: The Amarkantak plateau is the radial drainage point for the Narmada River (flowing west) and the Son River (flowing north to join the Ganga).
- Trimbak plateau in Nashik is incorrect: The Trimbak plateau in the Nashik district of Maharashtra is the origin of the Godavari River, the largest river system in Peninsular India.
Key Takeaway: The Tapi river originates near Multai in the Betul district (Madhya Pradesh) and flows westwards through a rift valley located between the Satpura Range to the north and the Ajanta/Satmala hills to the south.