In which Indian state does the Brahmaputra river enter India, where it is locally known as the Dihang?

The correct option is

Arunachal Pradesh

Explanation

The Brahmaputra river system is one of the largest in the world, traversing three countries: China (Tibet), India, and Bangladesh. Its nomenclature changes significantly across different regions based on local geography and culture.

Detailed Analysis:

• Origin and Tibet Course: The river originates from the Chemayungdung glacier of the Kailash range near the Mansarovar lake. In Tibet, it flows eastwards parallel to the Himalayas and is known as the Yarlung Tsangpo.
• Entry into India: On reaching Namcha Barwa (7,757 m), the river takes a sharp U-turn and enters India in Arunachal Pradesh through a deep gorge. Here, it is locally known as the Siang or Dihang.
• Course in Assam: Flowing southwest, it is joined by two major tributaries, the Dibang (or Sikang) and the Lohit. From this confluence onwards, as it enters the Assam valley, it is known as the Brahmaputra.
• Other States:
  • Sikkim: The Teesta river flows through Sikkim and joins the Brahmaputra later in Bangladesh, but the main channel of the Brahmaputra does not pass through Sikkim.
  • Meghalaya: The river flows to the north of Meghalaya (in the Assam plains) but does not flow through the state itself.

Key Takeaway: The Brahmaputra is known as the Tsangpo in Tibet, the Siang/Dihang in Arunachal Pradesh, the Brahmaputra in Assam, and the Jamuna in Bangladesh.