Ichamati River

• Location: The Ichamati River is an important river of West Bengal.
• International River: It flows through India and Bangladesh, making it a transboundary river.
• Origin: It originates in the Munshiganj area of Bangladesh and flows through parts of West Bengal.
• Course: The river flows through the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal and enters Bangladesh.
• India–Bangladesh Border: A portion of the river forms the international boundary between India and Bangladesh.
• Confluence: The river ultimately joins the Kalindi–Raimangal river system before draining towards the Bay of Bengal.
• Sundarbans: Its lower course is associated with the Sundarbans deltaic region.
• Tidal Influence: The lower reaches are influenced by tides, characteristic of the deltaic environment.
• Historical Significance: The Ichamati is associated with the Indo-Bangladesh border region and has cultural significance in West Bengal.

Prelims Question

Q. Consider the following statements regarding the Ichamati River:

1. It is a transboundary river shared by India and Bangladesh.
2. It flows through West Bengal.
3. A portion of the river forms part of the India–Bangladesh international boundary.
4. It is a tributary of the Brahmaputra.

Which of the statements given above are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3 only
(b) 1 and 4 only
(c) 2 and 3 only
(d) 1, 2, 3 and 4

Answer: (a) 1, 2 and 3 only

Explanation: The Ichamati is a transboundary river of India and Bangladesh, flowing through West Bengal and forming part of the international boundary in stretches. It is associated with the deltaic and Sundarbans region, not the Brahmaputra basin.

→ Stay updated with UPSC Current Affairs 2026, covering important developments and editorial analysis relevant to both Prelims and Mains.

→ Strengthen your preparation with UPSC Prelims 2027 Preparation, including exam-focused study material, revision strategies and current affairs.

→ Build a focused strategy with UPSC Mains mentorship program, supported by expert guidance, answer-writing practice and personalised preparation support.