The river historically known as the Indus is located in the Asian subcontinent and played a critical role in the development of early civilizations. It flows through India and Pakistan, and its valley was one of the first regions to witness settled agriculture. The river has been essential for irrigation and sustaining the dense populations in its basin. Additionally, it is recognized in historical texts and has contributed to the area's rich cultural heritage, including the emergence of the ancient Indus Valley Civilization.