Rivers have always played a central role in sustaining human life and the environment, acting as dynamic ecosystems that support both biodiversity and livelihoods. The river ecosystem is a complex network comprising water, sediments, aquatic plants, fish, microorganisms, and the surrounding terrestrial environment. At the local level, rivers are indispensable for ensuring basic livelihood security because they provide water for drinking, irrigation, and sanitation, as well as resources for food, energy, and economic activities. Their significance transcends mere water supply; they function as ecological corridors, nutrient distributors, and cultural landscapes that shape human societies over generations. One of the primary ways rivers contribute to livelihood security is through water provision. Local communities, especially in rural areas, rely heavily on rivers for their daily water needs. Clean river water is crucial for drinking, cooking, and maintaining hygiene, directly impacting health outcomes. In regions where groundwater is scarce or seasonal rainfall is unpredictable, river water becomes the mainstay of survival. Moreover, rivers replenish groundwater tables through natural percolation, ensuring sustainable water availability for wells, boreholes, and agricultural fields. This hydrological support underpins the food security of communities by enabling consistent agricultural production. Agriculture, in turn, forms the backbone of many local economies, and river ecosystems are pivotal in sustaining it. River water is essential for irrigation, particularly in floodplain areas where traditional rain-fed farming may be insufficient. The nutrient-rich sediments deposited by rivers during seasonal flooding naturally fertilize the soil, reducing the dependence on synthetic fertilizers. This process enhances soil fertility and crop yield, ensuring that local communities have sufficient food and income from agricultural activities. In addition, riverbanks and adjoining wetlands provide grazing grounds for livestock, contributing further to the local food economy. Fisheries constitute another critical dimension of livelihood security tied to river ecosystems. Rivers are habitats for a diverse array of freshwater fish species, shellfish, and aquatic plants, forming the basis of local fisheries. Small-scale fishing activities provide both a source of protein for household consumption and a means of income generation. Many local economies, especially in South Asia, Africa, and Latin America, are intricately linked to river fisheries. Fish harvesting not only supports nutritional needs but also fosters market activities, trade, and seasonal employment for thousands of families. Moreover, traditional knowledge about sustainable fishing practices, passed through generations, helps maintain ecological