Chapter - 30 States and Union Territories

• 12 Nov 2024

States

Andhra Pradesh: 

• Believed to have originated from an Aryan race living in North India around 2000 BC. They migrated south of the Vindhyas and later mixed with non-Aryans. 
• The States Reorganisation Act, 1956, led to the merger of Hyderabad State and Andhra State, creating Andhra Pradesh on November 1, 1956. 
• The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, resulted in the bifurcation of Andhra Pradesh into two states: Telangana and residuary Andhra Pradesh.  
• Andhra Pradesh has the second longest coastline among all Indian states, after Gujarat. 
• Rice is a major food crop, contributing about 77% of the foodgrain production. Other important crops include jowar, bajra, maize, ragi, pulses, castor, tobacco, cotton, and sugarcane. 
• Forests cover 23% of the state's area, with important forest products such as teak, eucalyptus, cashew, casuarina, bamboo, and softwood. 
• Andhra Pradesh is globally renowned for its variety of rocks and minerals, earning it the nickname "Ratna Garbha".  
  • Minerals found in the state include crude oil, natural gas, barites, bauxite, asbestos, copper ore, manganese, mica, coal, black and coloured granites, and limestones. 

Arunachal Pradesh: 

• Became a full-fledged state on February 20, 1987. Until 1972, it was known as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA) and gained Union Territory status on January 20, 1972, before being renamed Arunachal Pradesh. 
• The capital is Itanagar in Papum Pare district, named after Ita fort, meaning "fort of bricks," built in the 14th century AD. 
• The majority of livelihoods depend on Jhum Cultivation, with forest cover accounting for 80.99% of the total area. 
• The state has twelve wildlife sanctuaries, one orchid sanctuary, and two national parks: Mouling National Park and Namdapha National Park.  
• Important festivals include Mopin, Solung, Lossar, Boori-boot, Dree, Si-Donyi, Reh, and Nyokum, with animal sacrifice being a common ritual. 

Assam: 

• Also known as the "Land of Red River and Blue Hills" and serves as the gateway to the northeastern states, sharing international borders with Bhutan and Bangladesh. 
• Historically known as Pragjyotisha or Kamrupa, Assam became a British protectorate in 1826 after the Burmese ceded it to the British under the Treaty of Yandaboo. 
• Assam contains three of India's six physiographic divisions: the Northern Himalayas (Eastern Hills), the Northern Plains (Brahmaputra Plain), and the Deccan Plateau (Karbi Anglong). 
• Bihu is the most important festival in Assam, with other significant festivals including Kherai puja and Bathow, celebrated by the Bodo community. 

Chhattisgarh: 

• Carved out of Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh became the 26th state of the Union in November 2000.  
  • In ancient times, the region was known as Dakshin-Kausal. 
• The main kharif crop is paddy, while other crops grown include maize, soybean, groundnut, urd, bean, pigeon pea, wheat, gram, chickpea, lathyrus, mustard, and linseed.  
  • The central plains of Chhattisgarh are known as the Rice Bowl of central India. 
• The state is renowned for its rich mineral resources such as coal, iron ore, limestone, bauxite, and dolomite, with districts like Surguja, Raigarh, Koriya, and Bilaspur known for huge coal deposits. 

Goa: 

• In the first century of the Christian era, it was part of the Satavahana empire, followed by various other dynasties including the Kadambas, Rashtrakutas, Chalukyas, and Silharas. 
• Liberated from Portuguese rule on December 19, 1961, and made a composite Union Territory with Daman and Diu. In May 1987, Goa was granted statehood, while Daman and Diu became a separate Union Territory. 
• Bounded by the Terekhol river to the north (separating it from Maharashtra) and the North Canara district of Karnataka to the south, with the Western Ghats to the east and the Arabian Sea to the west. 
• Rich in wildlife sanctuaries like Bondla, Cotigao, Molem, and Dr. Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary at Chorao. Additionally, it became the first state in the country to launch a diabetic registry. 

Gujarat: 

• Formed as a state in May 1960, Gujarat shares an international border with Pakistan and is known for its agricultural and industrial prowess. 
• Major producer of cotton, groundnut, tobacco, and other cash crops like paddy, wheat, and bajra. 
• Home to the world's largest petroleum refining hub at Jamnagar and a global leader in processed diamonds. Gujarat is also the world's largest producer of denim. 
• Second largest producer of wind power in India, a power-surplus state since 2010, and considered the LNG capital of the country. 
• Acquired status as an important maritime state with numerous ports, including the major port of Kandla. 
• Known for its vibrant festivals such as Navratri, Tarnetar fair, Ambaji fair, Janmashtami, Jagannath Rath Yatra, and Modhera Dance Festival, among others. 

Haryana: 

• Home to the legendary Bharata dynasty, after which the country was named Bharat. 
• Historically significant as the battleground for many wars, including invasions by the Huns, Turks, Tughlaqs, and Taimur, as well as the historic battles of Panipat. 
• Agriculture is the mainstay for over 81% of the population, with a significant contribution to the country's food production. 
• Significant irrigation projects include the Western Yamuna Canal System, Bhakra Canal System, and Gurgaon Canal System. 
• Achieved 100% rural electrification as early as 1970 and implemented the 'Mahara Gaon-Jagmag Gaon' scheme to provide 24-hour power supply to 5,300 villages. 
• Known for being the largest producer of various goods including passenger cars, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, and refrigerators, as well as the largest exporter of basmati rice. 
• Renowned for Panipat handlooms, carpets, and the flavorful 'panchranga' pickle. 

Himachal Pradesh: 

• Named for the Himalayas, Himachal Pradesh is divided into three zones: Outer Himalayas/Shivaliks, Inner Himalayas/Mid-Mountains, and Greater Himalayas/Alpine Zone. 
• Formed on April 15, 1948, through the integration of thirty erstwhile Princely Hill States. 
• Known as the "Fruit Bowl" of the country due to favourable climatic conditions supporting the production of a variety of fruits. 

Jharkhand: 

• Established in November 2000, Jharkhand is the homeland of tribals who had long sought a separate state. 
• Predominantly comprises forest tracks of Chhotanagpur plateau and Santhal Pargana with distinct cultural traditions. 
• Abundant in mineral resources including coal, iron ore, limestone, copper ore, bauxite, and more, contributing significantly to India's mineral wealth. 
• Major water resources include the Damodar, Maurakshi, Barakar, and Subarnarekha rivers, among others. 

Karnataka: 

• Mysore state was created in 1953, which was later renamed Karnataka in 1973 after unifying all Kannada-dominant areas. 
• Approximately 20.15% of the geographical area of the state is managed by the forest department, with various classifications of forests. 
• Red soil is the major soil type in the state, followed by black soil. 
• Karnataka is a major milk producer in India and was a pioneer in establishing hydroelectric projects. 
• Known as the largest bioclusters in the country, Karnataka, especially Bengaluru, is becoming a hub of tourist attractions in South India. 

Kerala: 

• Formed in November 1956 by integrating Travancore-Cochin state and Malabar under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956. 
• The fertile soil and warm humid tropical climate make Kerala ideal for cultivating a wide variety of crops. 
• Celebrates various festivals including Onam, Navarathri, Maha Shivaratri, Pooram, Christmas, Milade Shareef, Ramzan Id-ul-Fitr, and Bakrid. 

Madhya Pradesh: 

• Established in November 1956, Madhya Pradesh is the second largest Indian state by size. 
• Known for its historical women rulers like Queen Ahilyabai Holkar of Indore, Gond Maharani Kamalapati, and Queen Durgawati. 
• Leads the country in the production of pulses, oilseeds, soybean, gram, garlic, guava, and medicinal and aromatic herbs. 
• Celebrates various festivals including Bhagoriya, Shivratri, Ramnavami, Tansen Music Festival, Ustad Allauddin Khan Music Festival, and Narmada Festival. 

Maharashtra: 

• The Satavahanas were the first well-known rulers of Maharashtra (230 BC to 225 AD). 
• Principal crops include rice, jowar, bajra, wheat, tur, moong, urad, gram, soybean, cotton, sugarcane, turmeric, and vegetables. 
• India's most industrialised state, Maharashtra is a major producer of sugar and hosts various industries including food products, breweries, textiles, machinery, and electrical appliances. 
• Important tourist centres include Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta, Kanheri and Karla caves, and Mahabaleshwar. 

Manipur: 

• Came under British rule in 1891, regained independence in 1947, and merged into the Indian Union in 1950. 
• Initially set up as a Union Territory with a territorial council, Manipur became a full-fledged state with a Legislative Assembly in 1972. 
• Shares an international border with Myanmar. 
• Agriculture and allied activities form the backbone of the state's economy, with the handloom industry being the largest cottage industry. 
• Manipur is known for the brow-antlered deer called sangai, an endangered species found in Keibul Lamjao National Park. 
• Celebrates festivals like Lai Haraoba, Rasa Leela, Cheiraoba, Ningol Chak-Kouba, Rath-Jatra, Eid Ul Fitr, Imoinu Iratpa, and Gaan-Ngai. 

Meghalaya: 

• Formed as an autonomous state within Assam in 1970, became a full-fledged state in 1972. 
• Dominated by tribal populations like Khasis, Jaintias, and Garos. 
• Agriculture is the mainstay, with a focus on crops like rice, maize, fruits, and vegetables. 
• Rich forest cover with timber species like sal and teak; home to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries. 

Mizoram: 

• Became the 23rd state of the Indian Union in February 1987. 
• Was a district of Assam till 1972, later became a Union Territory. 
• Engaged in agriculture, mainly practising jhum cultivation; implementing sustainable policies like the New Land Use Policy. 
• Major horticultural crops include mandarin orange, banana, and spices like ginger and turmeric. 
• Flourishing floriculture industry, especially in anthurium cultivation. 
• Celebrates festivals like Chapchar Kut, Mim Kut, and Thalfavang Kut showcasing its rich cultural heritage. 

Nagaland: 

• Became the 16th state of the Indian Union in 1963; shares a border with Myanmar. 
• Home to various tribes including Angami, Ao, Konyak, and Sumi among others. 
• Agriculture is predominant, with around 70% of the population dependent on it; practices slash-and-burn cultivation (jhum). 
• Wildlife sanctuaries and national parks include Rangapahar, Fakim, Singphan, and Intanki National Park. 

Odisha: 

• Historically known as Kalinga, Utkal, and Odra, modern Odisha was established on April 1, 1936. 
• Agriculture remains the backbone of the economy, with a shift towards high-value crops and promotion of organic farming. 
• Chilika Lake, Asia's largest brackish water lagoon and a Ramsar site, is located in Odisha, supporting rich biodiversity. 
• Bhitarkanika National Park, the second-largest mangrove ecosystem in India, is home to diverse flora and fauna including migratory birds and mammals like spotted deer and fishing cats. 

Punjab: 

• Formed by merging eight princely states into PEPSU in 1956, later merged with Punjab; Haryana was carved out in 1966. 
• Key contributor to India's food security, producing significant amounts of wheat and rice, ranking highly in global productivity. 
• Agriculture and horticulture are vital sectors, with festivals like Maghi Mela, Basant, and Baisakhi celebrated alongside national ones. 

Rajasthan: 

• Largest state in India, formerly known as Rajputana; formally established in 1958. 
• Rich in agricultural diversity, cultivating crops like wheat, barley, millet, and cotton; significant mineral deposits contribute to the economy. 
• Known for vibrant festivals and fairs like Teej, Gangaur, and Rajasthan Divas, along with national festivals celebrated with enthusiasm. 

Sikkim: 

• Became a part of the Union of India in 1975; home to the world's third highest mountain, Khangchendzonga, and designated as a biodiversity hotspot. 
• Agriculture and horticulture sectors have seen significant advancements with the introduction of new crops. 

Tamil Nadu: 

• Successor to the old Madras Presidency, Tamil Nadu was formed through reorganisation. 
• Pioneering initiatives in agriculture include collective farming, integrated farming schemes, and IT initiatives like the Uzhavan mobile app. 

Telangana: 

• Formed in 2014 as India's 29th state, with Hyderabad as its capital, after being part of Andhra State since 1956. 
• Rich historical heritage with rule by various dynasties; situated on the Deccan plateau and drained by Godavari and Krishna rivers. 
• Major crops include rice, tobacco, mango, cotton, and sugarcane; known for its vibrant handicrafts and festivals like Bathukamma and Bonalu. 

Tripura: 

• Initially a centrally administered territory, Tripura became a full-fledged state in 1972. 
• Strategically situated between Myanmar and Bangladesh, its economy is primarily agriculture-dependent. 

Uttarakhand:

• Part of the United Province of Agra and Awadh, later renamed Uttar Pradesh in 1950, Uttarakhand became a separate state in 2000. 
• Located in the Himalayan foothills, rich in mineral deposits, with about 90% of the population dependent on agriculture. 
• Hosts famous festivals like the Kumbh Mela and numerous other fairs and melas. 

Uttar Pradesh: 

• Previously known as the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh, later renamed Uttar Pradesh in 1950. 
• Dominated by two distinct regions: Southern Hills and the Gangetic Plains, with agriculture as the main occupation for most of the population. 
• Abundant mineral resources and hosts world-famous festivals like the Kumbh Mela and Jhoola fair. 

West Bengal:

• Derived from the ancient kingdom of Vanga, Bengal has a rich historical legacy. 
• Jute, rice, tea, maize, tobacco, and sugarcane are major crops. 
• Abundant adventure attractions including Sunderbans and the Himalayan Mountains. 
• Celebrates festivals like Durga Puja, Poila Baishakh, Rathayatra, and Christmas. 

Union Territories  

Andaman and Nicobar Islands: 

• Inhabited by Negrito and Mongoloid tribes, known for hunting, fishing, and agriculture. 
• Cash crops include coconut, arecanut, and spices, while fruits and vegetables are grown on hilly terrain. 
• Rich diversity of forests and valuable timber species like padauk and gurjan. 

Chandigarh: 

• Constituted as a Union Territory on November 1, 1966, serving as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana. 
• Known for its efficient use of Information Technology for public services. 
• Developing Phase-III of the industrial area at village Mauli Jagran. 

Dadra & Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu: 

• Dadra and Nagar Haveli: 
  • Formerly ruled by the Portuguese until liberation in 1954, then merged with India in 1961. 
  • Predominantly rural with a 79% tribal population. 
  • Major crops include paddy, Nagli, and hill millets, along with fruits like mango and chiku. 
  • Festivals include Diwaso, Raksha Bandhan, Bhawada, Koli tribes, Khali Puja, and Gram Devi. 
• Daman and Diu: 
  • Former Portuguese colony integrated into India in 1961, became a separate union territory in 1987. 
  • Daman is bounded by Gujarat and the Arabian Sea, while Diu is an island on the Gujarat Peninsula. 
  • Major crops include paddy, ragi, bajra, jowar, groundnut, pulses, wheat, banana, mango, coconut, and sugarcane. 
  • No major forests in the territory. 

Delhi: 

• Made a union territory in 1956, obtained a Legislative Assembly through the 69th constitutional amendment in 1991. 
• Principal crops include wheat, bajra, jowar, gram, and maize, but there's a shift towards more remunerative options like vegetables, fruits, dairy, poultry, and floriculture. 
• Celebrates major festivals of India along with unique events like Roshnara Festival, Shalimar Festival, Qutab Festival, Winter Carnival, Garden Tourism Festival, Jahan-e-Khusrao Festival, and Mango Festival. 

Jammu and Kashmir: 

• Reorganised into two union territories - Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh - by the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. 
• Abolished the State Legislature, now known as the Legislative Assembly of the Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir. 
• Agriculture and horticulture are vital sectors, with exports of rare produce like saffron, honey, and basmati rice. 
• Known for temperate fruits like apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot, almonds, as well as subtropical fruits like mango, guava, and citrus, along with spices like saffron and zeera. 
• Implemented One Nation One Ration Card and launched My Town My Pride program to engage with people at the grassroots level. 
• Celebrates festivals like Diwali, Holi, Eid-ul-Fitr, Eid-ul-Azha, and Milad-un-Nabi. 

Lakshadweep: 

• Inhabited first by Amini, Andrott, Kavaratti, and Agatti islands. 
• Constituted into a single territory in 1956 and directly administered by the Union Government through an administrator. 
• Renamed Lakshadweep in 1973, consisting of 11 inhabited islands, 16 uninhabited islands, 3 reefs, and 6 submerged sandbanks. 
• Coconut is the major crop, with Lakshadweep coconuts having the highest oil content in the world (82%). 
• Ranks first in the country in per capita availability of fish. 

Ladakh: 

• Created as a separate union territory under the Jammu and Kashmir Reorganisation Act, 2019. 
• Comprises two districts, Kargil and Leh, each with its autonomous district council responsible for local governance. 
• Celebrates festivals like Losar, marking the beginning of the New Year, as well as Aryan festival, Ladakh festival, Ladakh Singge Khababs Sindhu festival, which attract locals and tourists alike. 

Puducherry: 

• Capital: Puducherry 
• Principal Languages: Tamil, Telugu, Malayalam, English, and French 
• The Union Territory comprises four isolated regions: Puducherry, Karaikal, Mahe, and Yanam. 
• Puducherry, the capital, was once the original headquarters of the French Government in India. The French Government transferred the administration of their territories in November 1954. 
• Puducherry region is bordered by the Bay of Bengal to the east and surrounded on three sides by Tamil Nadu, within the Cuddalore and Villupuram districts.