how many states in India: A full guide

India is the second most populous country in the world and is known for its rich culture and diversity. One question that often arises is, “how many states are there in India?” In this article, we will answer this question and provide some interesting facts about the states of India.

How Many States in India?

As of 2021, India has 28 states and 8 union territories. The states of India are divided based on language, ethnicity, and geography. Each state has its own unique culture, traditions, and history.

List of States in India:

Andhra Pradesh	Rajasthan	Uttar Pradesh	Uttarakhand	Tripura	West Bengal
Odisha	Punjab	Sikkim	Tamil Nadu	Mizoram	Karnataka
Kerala	Madhya Pradesh	Maharashtra	Manipur	Meghalaya	Nagaland
Jharkhand	Himachal Pradesh	Haryana	Gujarat	Goa	Chhattisgarh
Arunachal Pradesh	Assam	Bihar

Union Territories in India:

1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands
2. Chandigarh
3. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
4. Lakshadweep
5. Delhi
6. Puducherry
7. Jammu and Kashmir
8. Ladakh

Interesting facts about India

India, the seventh-largest country in the world, is known for its vibrant culture, diverse geography, and rich history. It has a population of over 1.3 billion people, making it the second-most populous country globally. In this article, we will explore some interesting facts about India that you may not have known before.

• Yoga originated in India:
  Yoga, a physical, mental, and spiritual practice, originated in India over 5,000 years ago. Today, it is practiced worldwide as a means of improving physical and mental health.
  
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• world’s largest film industry:
  Bollywood, India’s film industry, produces more than 1,000 movies each year, making it the largest film industry in the world. Bollywood movies are known for their colorful sets, elaborate dance numbers, and melodramatic storylines.
  
  
• Birthplace of four major religions:
  India is the birthplace of Hinduism, Muslim, Jainism, and Sikhism. These religions have shaped the country’s culture and traditions and have had a significant impact on the world.
  
  
• The world’s largest democracy:
  India has over 800 million eligible voters. Its democratic system has been in place since its independence from British rule in 1947.
  
  
• The Taj Mahal:
  The Taj Mahal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is one of the most famous landmarks in India. It was made by Mughal Emperor Shah Jahan in memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal.
  
  
• The world’s highest cricket ground:
  Chail Cricket Ground, located in Himachal Pradesh, is the highest cricket ground in the world. It is situated at an altitude of 2,444 meters (8,018 feet) above sea level.
  
  
• The Indian Railways:
  The Indian Railways is the largest employer in India, with over 1.4 million employees. It is also one of the largest rail networks in the world, covering over 67,000 kilometers (41,000 miles).
  
  
• The world’s largest producer of milk:
  India is the world’s largest producer of milk, with over 180 million metric tons produced annually. It is also the largest consumer of milk and ghee products in the world.
  
  
• The Himalayas:
  The Himalayas, the highest mountain range in the world, are located in India. They are home to several of the world’s tallest peaks, including Mount Everest.
  
  
• The Indian Ocean:
  The Indian Ocean, the third-largest ocean in the world, is named after India. It is home to a diverse range of marine life, including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.

An interesting fact about Uttarakhand

Uttarakhand is a state in northern India that is known for its beautiful landscapes, stunning mountain ranges, and spiritual significance. Here are some interesting facts about Uttarakhand that you may not have known before:

Before 2000, Uttarakhand was a part of the larger state of Uttar Pradesh. However, due to the region’s unique culture and geography, it was granted statehood in 2000.

Uttarakhand is known as the “Land of the Gods” due to its rich history of spirituality and religion. The state is home to several important Hindu pilgrimage sites, including the Char Dham Yatra and the Kumbh Mela.

Uttarakhand is home to the highest density of tigers in India, with over 340 tigers living in the state’s forests. The state has several tiger reserves, including the Jim Corbett National Park and the Rajaji National Park.

The Chipko movement, a nonviolent environmental movement that originated in the 1970s, was born in Uttarakhand. The movement was started by villagers who hugged trees to prevent them from being cut down.

Uttarakhand has a literacy rate of over 79%, which is higher than the national average. The state has several prestigious educational institutions, including the Indian Institute of Technology, Roorkee.

An interesting fact about Rajasthan

Rajasthan is a state located in the northwestern part of India and is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and stunning landscapes. Here are some interesting facts about Rajasthan:

• Rajasthan is the largest state in India by area, covering approximately 10.4% of the country’s total area.
  
  
• The Thar Desert, also known as the Great Indian Desert, covers a significant portion of Rajasthan and is one of the largest deserts in the world.
  
  
• Rajasthan is home to many historical forts and palaces, including the Amer Fort, Mehrangarh Fort, and the City Palace of Jaipur.
  
  
• The state is famous for its colorful and lively festivals, such as the Pushkar Camel Fair, the Desert Festival, and the Teej Festival.
  
  
• Rajasthan is known for its traditional handicrafts, such as block printing, tie-dye, and hand embroidery, which are popular all over the world.
  
  
• The state is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including Ranthambore National Park, Sariska Tiger Reserve, and Keoladeo National Park.
  
  
• Rajasthan has a rich cuisine that includes dishes like dal bati churma, laal maas, and gatte ki sabzi, which are famous for their unique flavors and spices.
  
  
• The state has a rich history and was ruled by various powerful dynasties, such as the Rajputs, Mughals, and Marathas.
  
  
• Rajasthan is also known for its traditional dance forms, including the Ghoomar, Kalbelia, and Kathak.
  
  
• The state has a vibrant culture and is famous for its hospitality and warmth toward guests.

An Interesting Fact of Goa

• Goa was once a Portuguese colony for over 450 years, till it was once annexed via India in 1961.
  
  
• Goa is the smallest state in India by area but has a higher GDP per capita than the national average.
  
  
• Goa is the only state in India where a majority of the population (over 66%) practices Christianity.
  
  
• The state has a unique blend of Indian and Portuguese cultures, reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and festivals.
  
  
• Goa has a long history of hosting music festivals, including the popular Sunburn Festival, which attracts electronic music fans from around the world.
  
  
• The state is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, which is home to a variety of endangered species.
  
  
• Goa is famous for its cashew nuts, which are grown locally and used in traditional Goan cuisine.
  
  
• The state is also known for its feni, a local alcoholic drink made from fermented cashew juice or coconut palm sap.
  
  
• The iconic Dudhsagar Falls, one of the highest waterfalls in India, is located in Goa.
  
  
• The state is home to several historic churches and temples, including the Basilica of Bom Jesus, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that contains the mortal remains of St. Francis Xavier.

Conclusion:

Indian states differ from each other in terms of language, cuisine, art, and music, making India a melting pot of different cultures. From the snow-capped mountains of the Himalayas to the tropical beaches of Kerala, from the deserts of Rajasthan to the lush green forests of Assam, India’s diversity is unparalleled.

The states of India are not just diverse but also dynamic, constantly evolving and adapting to new technologies and trends while still preserving their heritage and traditions. Whether it is the bustling streets of Mumbai or the serene backwaters of Kerala, each state has something unique to offer. India’s states are truly a testament to the country’s rich cultural heritage and its commitment to diversity and inclusivity.