Indian States and Union Territories

• India has 28 States and 8 Union Territories. Every state and Union Territories has its unique cultural sentiments. India, as a nation, is an amalgamation of diverse cultural identities.

Introduction

• India (Bharat) is located in the Southern part of the largest continent in the world, Asia, and is officially known as the Republic of India. It is governed by a parliamentary form of government. The list of states is Andhra Pradesh, Arunachal Pradesh, Assam, Bihar, Chhattisgarh, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Kerala, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Odisha, Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, Tripura, Uttarakhand, Uttar Pradesh and West Bengal.
• The 8 Union Territories of India are Ladakh, Jammu and Kashmir. Puducherry, Lakshadweep, Delhi, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu and Andaman and Nicobar Islands.

Andhra Pradesh

• The inception of Andhra Pradesh dates back to November 1956. The Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, receiving Presidential assent on March 1, 2014, led to the bifurcation of the erstwhile Andhra Pradesh into Andhra Pradesh and Telangana. Both Andhra Pradesh and Telangana operate under a bicameral legislature.
• Geography: Eastern Andhra encompasses the eastern part of the Deccan plateau and a substantial portion of the Eastern Ghats. The northern part is designated as the Telangana region, while the southern part is known as the Rayalaseema region. Lambasingi in Andhra Pradesh also referred to as the Kashmir of Andhra Pradesh, experiences snowfall.
• Rivers: Major rivers such as Krishna, Godavari, and Pennar shape deltas in the coastal area of Andhra Pradesh. The state boasts a 972 km coastline, ranking second only to Gujarat.
• Climate: Andhra Pradesh experiences a generally hot and humid climate, with significant rainfall during the onset of the South-West monsoon. Approximately one-third of the total rainfall is attributed to the North-East monsoon.
• Agriculture: Around 68% of the state's population is engaged in agriculture, with rice being the predominant food crop. Other crops include jowar, bajra, maize, ragi, and millets.
• Forests: Forests cover about 18.28% (29,784 sq km²) of the state's geographical area. Key forest products include teak, terminals, cashew, bamboo, and softwood.
• Power Projects: Noteworthy hydel power plants in Andhra Pradesh include Nagarjunasagar, Ramagundam Srisailam, and Penna Ahobilam.
• Minerals: Globally recognized for its diverse rocks and minerals, Andhra Pradesh is known as Ratna Garbha and holds the second position in terms of mica resources in India.
• Industries: Major industries encompass the manufacturing of machine tools, synthetic drugs, ships, fertilizers, electronic equipment, cement, chemicals, asbestos, and glass.
• Tourist Spots: Amaravati's Shiva temple, one of the Pancharamas, and the Thousand Pillars temple in Warangal are renowned for their intricate temple carvings.

Arunachal Pradesh

•  Arunachal Pradesh, known as the Land of the Dawn-Lit Mountains or the Land of the Rising Sun, attained full statehood on February 20, 1987. Previously, until 1972, it was referred to as the North-East Frontier Agency (NEFA). The region acquired Union Territory status on January 20, 1972, and was subsequently renamed Arunachal Pradesh.
• Geography: The topography of Arunachal Pradesh features an undulating hilly terrain nestled amid the foothills of the Shivalik ranges. It shares borders with Bhutan, China, and Myanmar.
• Main Mountains: Significant mountain ranges in the region include the Himalayas, Dafla Hills, Mishmi Hills, and Abor Hills.
• Passes: Key passes in Arunachal Pradesh include Bum La, Tse La, Yonggyap, Diphu, and Sela.
• Rivers: Arunachal Pradesh is intersected by major rivers such as the Brahmaputra, Dibang, Suban-Siri, Kameng, and Lohit.
• Climate The climate in Arunachal Pradesh varies from sub-tropical to temperate based on the altitude. Lower belts experience a hot and humid climate, while higher regions witness snowfall during winter.
• Agriculture: Jhum cultivation and terrace farming are the predominant agricultural practices in Arunachal Pradesh. Major crops include rice, millet, wheat, pulses, sugarcane, and potatoes. Fruits such as apples, pineapples, oranges, pears, plums, chestnuts, walnuts, and guava are cultivated. Horticulture products comprise bamboo, spices, aromatic and medicinal plants, ginger, cardamom, and mushrooms.
• Forests These occupy 79.33% (66607 sqm) geographical area, which includes different vegetation like pine forests, alpine forests, degraded forests, bamboo forests, grasslands, etc.
• Power Projects Major hydroelectric projects are at Changlang, Pasighat, Seppa, Tezu, etc. 
• Minerals Coal (Namchik-Namphuk, Dibang valley, Upper Suban-Siri) limestone, graphite, dolomite (Rupa, West Kameng), marble and pyrite.
• Industries Most of the industries are agro-based. Some of them are cane and bamboo work, weaving, mat making, etc. Some mineral-based industries like coal, limestone, graphite, dolomite, marble, pyrite, etc are also there.

Assam

• The term "Assam" finds its origin in the Sanskrit word "Asoma," signifying peerless or unparalleled.
• Another scholarly perspective suggests that the name could be linked to the Ahoms, who governed the region for approximately 600 years before British annexation.
• In 1825, Assam became a British protectorate when the Burmese ceded it to the British under the Treaty of Yandabo.
• Achieving independence on August 15, 1947, Assam stands as the sentinel of North-East India and a gateway to the North-Eastern states, closely bordering Bangladesh and Bhutan.
• Geography: Positioned almost separately from Central India by Bangladesh, Assam's geography is characterized by the Brahmaputra river spreading its rich alluvial plain from the North-Eastern corners to the West and further towards the South.
• Rivers: Brahmaputra, Dibang, Lohit, Torap, Suban-siri, Kapil, Diyun, Lot, and Seng phan are significant rivers contributing to the region's topography.
• Agriculture: Agriculture in Assam involves the cultivation of rice, tea, corn, oilseeds, sugarcane, potatoes, areca nuts, mangoes, jackfruits, and citrus fruits.
• Forests: Assam accounts for 3.28% of the total geographical area of India, hosting UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Kaziranga National Park and Manas, known for the rare Indian Rhinoceros.
• Power Projects: Noteworthy power projects in Assam include the Chandrapur Thermal Project, the Namrup Thermal Project, and the ongoing Karbi Langpi Project.
• Minerals: Assam holds historical significance with Asia's first mechanically drilled oil well in Makum (1867) and the establishment of Asia's first refinery in Digboi. Important minerals include limestone, coal, refractory clay, dolomite, and natural gas.
• Industries: Assam plays a significant role in global tea production, contributing 15.6% and 55% to the world's and the country's tea output, respectively. The state is also prominent in industries related to petroleum, petroleum products, natural gas, handloom, sericulture, bamboo, carpentry, brass, and silk production, including varieties like Endi, Muga, and Tussar.
• Tourist Spots: Kamakhya temple, Umananda (Peacock island, the inhabited riverine island in the world), Kaziranga National Park (known for the one-horned rhino), Manas Tiger Project, Pobitora and Orang Wildlife Sanctuaries, and Majuli (the largest riverine island in the world) are significant tourist destinations in Assam.

Bihar

• The name Bihar is derived from the Sanskrit and Pali word Vihara, meaning abode.
• Bihar holds historical significance as the main stage for the activities of Buddha and the 24 Jain Tirthankars. 
• The earliest myths and legends of Hinduism and the Sanatana (Eternal) Dharma are associated with Bihar.
• It remained part of the Bengal Presidency of British India until 1912 when it became a separate province known as the province of Bihar and Odisha.
• Since 2010, Bihar celebrates its foundation day as Bihar Diwas on 22nd March.
• Geography Bihar is a rich alluvial plain situated in the North, primarily consisting of the Gangetic Valley. 
• The three main types of soil in Bihar are Piedmont Swamp soil, Terai soil, and Gangetic Alluvium soil. The thick alluvium soil covers most of the state, concealing the Shivalik and older tertiary rocks.
• Rivers The Ganga is the most significant river, accompanied by others such as Sone, Bagmati, Ghaghara, Falgu, Mahananda, Punpun, Kosi, Gandak, etc.
• Climate Bihar experiences a continental monsoon climate due to its considerable distance from the sea.
• Agriculture Key food crops in Bihar include paddy, wheat, maize, and pulses. Principal cash crops comprise sugarcane, potato, tobacco, oilseeds, onions, chilies, jute, and mesta.
• Forests Forests cover 7.84% (7,381 sq km) of the state's area. Major forest products include timber, tendu leaves, lac, gum, seeds of sal, mahua, karanj, and kusum.
• Power Projects Barauni Thermal Power Station, Kanti Thermal Power Station, Koshi Hydel Power Station, etc.
•  Minerals Bihar possesses coal, iron, steel factories, copper, mica, pyrite, etc.
• Industries Key industrial facilities include the Indian Oil Corporation (Barauni), fertilizer factories, oil (petroleum) refinery plants, and agriculture-based industries, food, beverages, etc.
• Tourist Spots Important tourist destinations in Bihar include Rajgir, Nalanda, Vaishali, Pawapuri, Bodh Gaya, Vikramshila, Gaya, Patna, Sasaram, and Madhubani.

Chhattisgarh

• Chhattisgarh emerged as the 26th state of the Union on November 1, 2000, carved out of Madhya Pradesh. The name "Chhattisgarh" is derived from the 36 pillars of Chhattisgarhi Devi Temple (Chhattis meaning 36 and Garh meaning pillar).
• Geographically, the state features hilly Northern and Southern parts, with a fertile central plain. The Bailadilla range holds the distinction of being the highest point, and the renowned Amrit Dhara waterfall in Koriya adds to the natural beauty.
• The Indo-Gangetic plain in Chhattisgarh is exceptionally fertile, with the Satpura range, Vindhyachal mountain range, and the Maikal range contributing to the hilly terrain. The Chota Nagpur plateau is another significant topographical division.
• Major rivers flowing through the state include Mahanadi, Indravati, and Godavari, along with others like Rihand, Shivnath, Hasdeo, Kelo, etc.
• The climate is characterized by hot and dry summers, with a relatively lower temperature in winter. Dry winds prevail over most parts of the state during the summer.
• In terms of agriculture, approximately 34.60% of the state's total land is arable. A significant portion, 77%, of farm families comprise small and marginal farmers. The primary crops cultivated include paddy, maize, soybean, and others.
• Groundnut and pigeon peas are important crops that are grown during the Kharif season. During the Rabi season, the main crops include wheat, gram, lathyrus, mustard, and linseed.
• Forests cover a large part, about 41.21% (5,5717 sq km) of the total area. These forests are rich in resources like wood, tendu leaves, honey, and lac. The state's official animal is the wild water buffalo, locally known as "van bhainsa."
• There are various power projects like the Mahanadi Reservoir Project, Hasdeo Bango Project, Tandula, Kodar, Mariyani Project, Kharung, etc.
• The region is rich in minerals with large deposits of coal, iron ore, limestone, bauxite, and dolomite.
• Industries play a vital role in the area, particularly in cement mining, steel, aluminum, and power generation.
• Tourist spots include Akuri Nala and Amrit Dhara waterfalls, Gavar Ghat waterfall, Ramdaha waterfall in Koriya district, Tiger Point waterfall at Mainpat in Sarguja district, and Chitrakot and Tirathgarh waterfalls in Bastar district. Additionally, there is a hot spring, initially known as Tata Pani, believed to have medicinal properties.
• Famous caves in the region include Jogimara Cave in Surguja, Kutumsar in Bastar, Dandak Cave, Kailash Cave in Jagdalpur, and Chitwa Dongari in Raigarh.

Goa

• On December 19, 1961, Goa became free, and it joined with Daman and Diu to form a Union Territory. Later, on May 30, 1987, Goa became India's 25th state, while Daman and Diu remained a Union Territory.
• Goa has a natural border, the Terekhol River, which separates it from Maharashtra in the north. The Western Ghats are to the east, and the Arabian Sea is to the west. Important rivers include Mandovi, Zuari, Terekhol, Chapora, Sal, and Betul.
• The climate in Goa is moderate, with mild summers and winters. The main crops are rice, pulses, and ragi, while important cash crops include coconuts, cashews, mangoes, and sugarcane.
• Goa has diverse forests, including mixed deciduous, sub-tropical hill, and evergreen forests, covering 60.62% of the geographical area. There are ongoing power projects like the Tilari Dam.
• The region is rich in minerals, such as iron ore, manganese, bauxite, and limestone. 
• The mining industry is crucial, and there are also small-scale industries like printing presses, sawmills, bakeries, and soap manufacturing.
• Goa has decided not to allow more special economic zones, differing from the policies of other Indian states. 
• Tourist spots include Bandora temples, Aguada, Basilica of Bom Jesus, various wildlife sanctuaries, and the Salim Ali Bird Sanctuary on Chorao Island.
• Major seaports are Mormugao, Panaji, and Paula.
• Goa is connected by railways to Mumbai, Mangalore, and Thiruvananthapuram via the Konkan Railway.
  • Fishing is vital, supporting 90% of the population. 
  • Famous beaches include Palolem, Agonda, Betul, and Bogmal.

Gujarat

• Gujarat got its name from Gujjar-ratra. It became a state on May 1, 1960. At first, Ahmedabad was the capital, but it moved to Gandhinagar in 1970.
• Geography-wise, Gujarat has three parts: the peninsula (known as Saurashtra), a hilly area with two mountains, and the famous Rann of Kutch (a desert). 
• The main rivers are Sabarmati, Mahi, Narmada, and Tapi, with smaller ones like Banas, Kolak, and Daman Ganga.
• The climate is moist in the south and dry in the north. The Tropic of Cancer runs along the northern border. It's intensely hot overall, but winters are mild.
• Major crops include cotton, groundnut, tobacco, bajra, and jowar. 
• Forests cover 7.61% of the state, featuring dry deciduous, thorny, and moist deciduous forests.
• The Sardar Sarovar Narmada Project is the world's longest irrigation canal. Other projects include thermal, gas-based, solar power, and nuclear projects.
• Gujarat is rich in minerals like crude oil, gypsum, graphite, mica, asbestos, salt, lignite, manganese, dolomite, limestone, silica sand, and kaolin.
• Industries range from agro-based food processing to chemicals, petrochemicals, IT, plastics, ports, gems and jewelry, and mineral-based industries.
• Tourist attractions include religious centers like Dwarka, Somnath, Ambaji, Girnar, and Mahatma Gandhi's birthplace (Porbandar). There are also archaeological wonders like Siddhpur, Ghurnil, and Lothal, along with hill stations and the Gir forest.
• The state has 41 small and medium seaports, with Kandla being the main one. Other significant ports are Navlakhi, Magdalla, Pipavav, Porbandar, Veraval, and Mundra (privately owned).

Haryana

•  Haryana might come from the Sanskrit words Hari and Ayana, meaning Abode of God. Some scholars think it could be a combination of Hari (Harit green) and Ayana (forest).
• Today's Haryana is where the Vedic civilization started and grew along the banks of the Saraswati River.
•  Archaeological digs in places like Naurangabad, Mithathal, Kunal, and Rakhigari reveal evidence of pre-Harappan and Harappan culture. The state was once home to the legendary Bharata dynasty, from which the country got its name, Bharat.
• Geographically, it makes up only 1.37% of the country's total area, divided into hilly, plain, and sandy areas. Red soil is in the Sirsa district.
• Important rivers include Yamuna, Ghaggar, and Markanda.
• Notable lakes are Badkhal Lake (Faridabad), Dam Dam, Sultanpur Lake (Gurgaon), etc.
• Climate The climate here is like the continental type, with very hot summers and quite cold winters. Rainfall varies, with the Shiwalik Hill region being the wettest and the Aravalli Hills region being the driest.
• Agriculture: More than 65% of the population relies on farming, making it the second-largest source of food for the country. Haryana's main crops include wheat, sugarcane, cotton, pulses, oilseeds, bajra, maize, and Basmati rice.
• Forests: Forests cover 3.63% of the state's area, featuring trees like Babul, Khair, Neem, Indian Rosewood, and Java Plum. Thorny dry deciduous forests with pine and shrubs are found all over.
• Power Projects: Panipat Thermal Power Station, Rajiv Gandhi Thermal Power Project, WYC Hydro Electric Station in Yamuna Nagar, etc., contribute to Haryana being the first state in the country with 100% rural electrification.
• Minerals: Gravel, sand, gypsum, China clay, quartzite, feldspar, calcite, granite, tin, tungsten, iron ore (Mahendragarh), limestone (Ambala), and building materials (Gurgaon) are major minerals in Haryana.
•  Industries: Haryana is the largest producer of cars, tractors, motorcycles, bicycles, refrigerators, and scientific instruments. It's also the top exporter of Basmati rice. Faridabad is the biggest industrial city in Haryana and North India, known for Panipat handlooms and carpets.
• Tourist places: Karnal, Surajkund, Badkhal Lake, Morni Hills, Pinjore Gardens, Blue Bird Resort, and Sultanpur Bird Sanctuary are popular tourist spots. Haryana is a pioneer in highway tourism.

Himachal Pradesh

• According to the Mahabharata, the area that makes up present-day Himachal Pradesh was composed of several small republics known as Janapadas. Each of these was both a state and a cultural unit.
• It became a Union Territory in April 1948, and on January 26, 1950, it became a state. On January 25, 1971, Himachal Pradesh became the 18th state of the Indian Union.
• The name "Himachal" means Abode of Snow. It's located in the heart of the Western Himalaya, identified as Dev Bhoomi, believed to be the home of Gods and Goddesses.
• Geographically, the entire region is hilly, ranging from 350 meters to 7000 meters above sea level. The altitude increases from West to East and from South to North. Important peaks include Shilla, Shipki, Kinner, Kailash, Shigrila, Pir Panjal, Bara Kanda, etc. The state has numerous hot springs known for their medicinal properties, such as Manikaran, Khiraganga, Kasol, Vashist, Tattapani, and others.
• The dominant rivers in Himachal Pradesh are Satluj, Beas, Ravi, Chenab, Yamuna, and Parbati.
• Noteworthy lakes include Maharana Pratap Sagar, Gobind Sagar Lake, Khajjiar Lake, Mani Mahesh Lake, Prashar Lake, Dasaur Lake, Nako, Lama Dal, Suraj Tal, Chandra Tal, etc. Khajjiar in Chamba district is often referred to as Mini Switzerland due to its striking landscape similarity.
• The climate varies greatly due to the extreme variation in elevation. It ranges from hot and sub-tropical humid in the Southern tracts to warm and temperate, cool and temperate, and cold Alpine and glacial in the Northern and Eastern high mountain ranges.
• Agriculture: Farming is the main job here, with about 9.79 lakh hectares of land owned by 9.14 lakh farmers. They grow various fruits, from temperate to sub-tropical kinds. The main fruits include apple, pear, peach, plum, apricot, and citrus fruits like mango, litchi, guava, and strawberry. Agriculture makes up about 45% of the state's economy, and nearly 93% of the people work in agriculture.
• Forests: Forests cover 27.73% (15,443 sq km) of the state's area. The vegetation is divided into tropical (up to 1000 m), sub-tropical (1000 to 1500 m), temperate (1500 to 3200 m), sub-alpine, and alpine (3300 m and above) zones, often overlapping in altitude.
• Power Projects: The state is rapidly becoming a Power State of the country with a total of 23,230 MW hydropower projects. Notable ones include the Grinagar Hydel Project, the Carji Hydroelectric Project, and the Nathan Zhakri Project.
• Mountain Passes: Debsa, Rohtang Pass, Bara Lacha Pass, and Shipki-la Pass are some important mountain passes.
• Minerals: Important minerals include rock salt, gypsum, limestone, dolomite, and barite.
• Industries: There are two large cement factories, along with village industries like sheep-rearing, food processing, spinning, weaving, leather tanning, handicrafts, bamboo crafts, and metal crafts.
• Tourist Spots: Noteworthy tourist spots include temples at Bhima Kali, Chamunda Devi, Sarahan, Renuka, and Nanda Devi, and tourist complexes at Shimla, Palampur, Dalhousie, etc.
• Transportation: Una is the only broad-gauge railway station from Kalka to Shimla. 
• Airports are located in Bhuntar, Shimla, and Gaggal.
• Institutions: There are important institutions like the Central Potato Research Institute in Shimla and the Central Research Institute in Kasauli.

Jharkhand

• Jharkhand gets its name from the land of forests. In the post-independence period, the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha initiated a consistent protest that led the government to establish the Jharkhand Area Autonomous Council in 1995, eventually resulting in the formation of a full-fledged state.
• Geography: Most of Jharkhand is part of the Chota Nagpur plateau, with Parasnath as its highest peak. Various types of soil are present, including red soil in the Rajmahal area and Damodar valley, sandy soil in Hazaribagh and Dhanbad, black soil in Rajmahal, and laterite soil in Western Ranchi, Singhbhum, and Santhal Parganas.
• Rivers: Major rivers in the region include Koel, Damodar, Barakar, Brahmani, Kharkai, and Subarnarekha.
• Climate: The climate is warm and sub-humid, with an average annual rainfall of 1400 mm. The state also experiences dust storms, thunderstorms, and winds carrying dust during the hot season. The Chota Nagpur highlands receive more rainfall than the nearby Northern and North-Western plains due to their proximity to the moisture source in the Bay of Bengal.
• Agriculture: The majority of Jharkhand's population depends on agriculture for their livelihood. The primary food crops include paddy, wheat, maize, and pulses.
• Forests: Almost 30% (23,721 sq km) of the geographical area is covered by forests, which include tropical dry deciduous, moist deciduous, dry mixed deciduous, and dry peninsular forests.
• Power Projects: The total power capacity is 2590 MW, with facilities like Patratu Thermal Power Station, Damodar Valley Corporation thermal/hydel power, and Sikidiri hydel project.
• Minerals: The state is rich in minerals like copper, coal, iron, manganese, mica, bauxite, and more.
• Industries: Jharkhand has highly industrialized cities like Jamshedpur, Ranchi, Bokaro Steel City, and Dhanbad. It hosts significant industrial facilities, including the largest historical fertilizer factory in Sindri (now closed), the first iron and steel factory in Jamshedpur, Asia's largest steel plant in Bokaro Steel Plant, and the biggest explosives factory in Gomia, Bokaro. Additionally, the first methane gas well is in Parbatpur, Bokaro.
• Tourist Spots: Famous tourist spots in Jharkhand include temples like Jharkhand Dham and Bindhyabasini, Massanjore Dam, waterfalls, and hillocks around Ranchi. 
• The state has airports in Ranchi and Jamshedpur.

Karnataka

• Geography: The state is categorized into four regions:
  • The Northern region, primarily the Deccan Trap, forms a barren plateau with elevations between 300 to 600 meters.
  • The Coastal region encompasses the Western Ghats and the edges of the Karnataka plateau.
  • The Central region includes the Tungabhadra region, featuring elevations between 450 to 700 meters.
  • The Southern region is predominantly the Cauvery basin.
• Soil and Mountains: The major soil type is Red soil, followed by black soil. Notable mountains include Chitradurga Hills, Mysore Plateau, Nandi Hills, Gokak hills, and Badami hills.
• Rivers: The state is traversed by two major river systems: Krishna and its tributaries (Bhima, Malaprabha, Ghataprabha, Tungabhadra) in the North, and Cauvery and its tributaries (Hemavati, Shimsha, Arkavati, Tirtha, Kabini Sharavathi) in the South.
• Climate: Bengaluru is renowned as an air-conditioned city due to its consistently pleasant climate. It experiences both summer and winter showers. The Western Ghats, hills, and plateaus in Karnataka exhibit distinct climatic patterns compared to the plains, with the Western Ghats receiving more rainfall.
• Agriculture: Approximately 51.7% of the total land constitutes the net sown area, with 72% of the cultivable area being rainfed. Key food crops include paddy, jowar, wheat, and pulses. Noteworthy cash crops comprise cotton, coffee (the highest producer), silk, cashew nut, sugarcane, groundnut, and tobacco.
• Forests: About 20% (38,730 sq km) of the area is covered by forests. There are 5 National Parks and 23 Wildlife Sanctuaries, featuring different types like wet evergreen, semi-evergreen, moist deciduous, dry deciduous, and thorn forests.
• Power Projects: Key power projects include Kalinadi Stage I and Stage II, Sharavathi, Shiva Samudram Hydroelectric projects, and Raichur (Thermal) Power Station.
• Minerals: The state has important minerals like high-grade iron ore, copper, manganese, chromite, China clay, limestone, and magnesite. Karnataka is the biggest gold producer in India and leads in magnesite, garnet, and corundum production.
• Industries: Known as the Silicon Valley of India, Bengaluru is a hub for IT sectors. Other significant industries include iron and steel, power, solar photovoltaic plants, sugar, and medical industries.
• Tourist Spots: Karnataka is becoming a popular tourist destination in South India. The Golden Chariot, named after the famous stone chariot in Hampi (a world heritage site), Srirangapatna, Mysore Palace, Halebidu, Hoysala, Jog Falls, Magod Falls, etc., are important tourist attractions.
• Sea Ports: The main seaport is New Mangalore, along with Karwar and Tadimale as other significant ports.

Kerala

• During the reorganization of independent India, small states, along with Travancore and Cochin, were combined to form a single state named Travancore-Cochin on July 1, 1949. However, Malabar remained part of the Madras province. The State's Reorganisation Act of 1956 brought together Travancore-Cochin and Malabar to create the state of Kerala on November 1, 1956.

• Geography: Kerala is divided into three geographical regions: highlands, midlands, and lowlands. The highlands and slopes form the Western Ghats, featuring numerous peaks. The midlands consist of undulating hills and valleys, while the lowlands or coastal areas are characterized by river deltas, brackish waters, and a stretch along the Arabian Sea. The highest peak is Annaimudi (2695 m).

• Rivers: The state is blessed with 44 rivers, with 41 originating from the Western Ghats and flowing westward into the Arabian Sea. The Cauvery River, originating in Kerala, flows eastward into neighboring states. Important rivers include Valapattanam, Chaliyar, Kadalundi Puzha, Periyar, Pamba, and Kallada, among others. Key lakes include Vembanad and Ashtamudi Kayal.

• Climate: Kerala, known as the tropical paradise of India, experiences a coastal climate without a distinct dry period. The Western Ghats act as a barrier, causing abundant rainfall on the windward side and a dry belt on the leeward side during the Southwest monsoon. Winter (October to December) brings a slight drop in temperature, with occasional minimal rainfall. Kottayam receives the highest rainfall during the winter season.

• Agriculture: Kerala, often called "God's own country," boasts lush green paddy fields, coconut groves, and fragrant spice gardens. The fertile soil and warm, humid tropical climate make it ideal for cultivating a variety of crops, including coconut, rice, rubber, banana, spices, fruits, vegetables, cashew nuts, tubers, coffee, tea, medicinal plants, and areca nuts. Almost half of the state's population is involved in agriculture.

• Forests: Approximately 54.70% (21,253.49 sq km) of Kerala's total area is covered by forests.

• Forests: The region features various forest types, including tropical wet evergreen, moist deciduous, dry deciduous, mountain sub-tropical, and rolling grasslands.

• Power Projects: Thermal projects include NTPC at Kayam Kulam, and there's a wind farm at Kajikode. Hydropower projects, like those from Chalakudy or Sholayar dam, also contribute to the power sector.

• Minerals: Kerala is rich in minerals, with deposits of heavy minerals, sands (Ilmenite, Rutile, Zircon, Monazite), gold, iron ore, bauxite, graphite, silica sand, and more.

• Industries: While manufacturing isn't a major industry, the economy is driven by service sectors like business process outsourcing, banking, finance, and fisheries. Overseas Keralites sending remittances back home contribute around 20% to the state's GDP.

• Tourist Spots: Attractions include wildlife sanctuaries, the sea-side resort at Kovalam, the hill station of Ponmudi, the Padmanabhaswami temple, and Kaludi (birthplace of Adi Sankara).

• Beaches: Popular beaches in the area include Kovalam, Varkala, and Vizhinjam.

• Airports: Thiruvananthapuram and Nedumbassery (India's first private airport) serve as the main airports in the state.

Madhya Pradesh

• Madhya Pradesh has a rich history, being ruled by various famous empires of India, from the Mauryan empire to the Mughals. It is also the homeland of Kalidasa, a renowned Indian poet and dramatist.

• Geography: Centrally located in India and often referred to as the Heart of India, Madhya Pradesh features a vast plateau (Malwa plateau), stunning ranges, and numerous rivers. The Chambal River comprises a rocky surface, the Malwa plateau area, lowlands north of Malwa, and distinctive geographical features like the Vindhya and Satpura ranges, Kaimur hills, Mahadeo hills, and Maikala.
• Rivers: Major rivers include Narmada, Chambal, Sindh, Betwa, Ken, Sone, Tapi, Mahanadi, and Indravati.
• Climate: The state experiences a sub-tropical climate with a monsoon weather pattern. Summers are hot and dry, with temperatures reaching up to 42°C in June. The Eastern part receives higher precipitation compared to the Northern and Western parts. The Northern part experiences a relatively cold and dry winter.
• Culture: Fairs and festivals showcase the rich culture of Madhya Pradesh. Simhasta in Ujjain is one of the holiest fairs. Allami Tablighi Istima is a significant Muslim fair. Folk dances like Matki, Gangaur, and Ahirai are part of the state's diverse culture. Historical figures like Tansen, Rani Lakshmi Bai, Chandra Shekhar Azad, and Tantiya Bhil are legends from Madhya Pradesh.
• Agriculture: Agriculture is the backbone of the state's economy, with 74.73% of the population residing in rural areas. Major agricultural products include rice, wheat, jowar, gram, soybean, and cash crops like sugarcane and cotton.
• Forests: Approximately 25.14% (77,493 sq km) of the geographical area is covered by forests, categorized as sub-tropical.
• Madhya Pradesh boasts various types of forests, like hill forests, dry tropical forests, and moist and thorny tropical forests. It has earned the nickname "Tiger State of India" because it is home to 19% of India's tiger population and 10% of the world's tigers.
• Famous tiger reserves like Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Pench, and Panna Tiger Reserves play a crucial role in conserving these majestic creatures.
• Power project Madhya Pradesh is rich in low-grade coal, perfect for generating power, and has great potential for hydro energy. It is home to the country's largest solar plant, producing 130 MW of power in Neemuch district. Plans are in progress to set up the country's largest ultra-mega solar power plant in Rewa district.
• Minerals: The state is rich in minerals, including manganese, bauxite, limestone, diamonds (in the Panna region), phosphorite, tin, and more.
• Industries: Madhya Pradesh has embraced high-tech industries such as electronics, telecommunications, automobiles, IT, and optical fiber for telecommunication needs. Prominent Public Sector Units (PSUs) like Bharat Heavy Electronics Limited (BHEL) at Bhopal, Bank Note Press at Dewas, and Security Paper Mill at Hoshangabad contribute to the industrial landscape.
• Tourists The state offers diverse tourist attractions, including the Dhuandhar Falls at Bhedaghat, Kanha National Park, prehistoric caves and the National Park at Bandhavgarh, historical monuments at Gwalior, Mandu, Datia, Jabalpur, unique temples of Khajuraho, Bhojpur temple, and many more.

Maharashtra 

• Maharashtra's early rulers included the Maurya empire in the 3rd and 4th century BC. The Satvahana dynasty took over around 230 BC and played a significant role in shaping Maharashtra for 400 years.
• State Formation: Maharashtra's administrative structure evolved due to the linguistic reorganization of Indian states, effective from May 1, 1960.
• Geography: The Deccan plateau is Maharashtra's prominent physical feature, separated from the Konkan coastline by the Western ghats. The Sahyadri mountain range serves as a backbone on the west, while the Satpura hills form natural borders in the north to east. The soils, mainly regur (black-cotton soil), are derived from underlying basalts. Key rivers include Tapi, Indravati, Wardha, and more.
• Climate: Maharashtra experiences a tropical monsoon climate, with the Konkan and Sahyadari regions receiving the majority of rainfall. The summer months sometimes bring harsh climatic conditions, affecting the agricultural sector.
• Agriculture: Approximately 65% of the state's population relies on agriculture. The sector contributes around 12.9% to the state's income. Principal crops include rice, jowar, bajra, wheat, pulses, oilseeds like groundnut and soybean, and cash crops like cotton, sugarcane, turmeric, and vegetables.
• Forests: Maharashtra's forest cover is estimated at around 16.51% of the total geographical area, with dense forest tracts in the Western ghats and paddy fields along the Konkan coast.
• The coastal area is adorned with mango, coconut, and shrubs. It is also home to the Tarapuri and Jaitapur Nuclear Plants.
• Power Projects: Key hydropower plants like Bhivpuri and Koyna Khopoli, along with thermal power plants in Nashik, Chandrapur, Kaparkheda, and Deepnagar, contribute to the state's power generation.
• Minerals: Rich deposits of coal, limestone, manganese ore, bauxite, iron ore, dolomite, laterite, fluorine, chromite, etc., are found in the state.
• Industries: Maharashtra stands out as the most industrialized state in India. Industries such as food products, breweries, textiles, paper, printing, rubber, chemicals, machinery, and transport equipment significantly contribute to the state's industrial production. The state is a pioneer in promoting Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSME).
• Tourism: The state boasts important tourist destinations like Ajanta, Ellora, Elephanta, Kanheri, Karla Caves, Mahabaleshwar, Panchgani, Jawhar, Malshej Ghat, Amboli, Panhala Hill Station, and religious places like Nashik, Shirdi, Nanded, Kolhapur, etc.
• Airports: Maharashtra has two major airports in Mumbai, namely CSIA (formerly Bombay International Airport) and Juhu Airport. The state is served by 4 International and 5 Domestic Airports.
• Sea Ports: Mumbai and Jawaharlal Nehru Port, along with 48 smaller ports, contribute to the state's maritime connectivity.

Manipur

• Geography: Manipur is a state located at the crossroads of India and South-East Asia. The unique geography of Imphal, a small oval-shaped plain in the central part, slopes downwards to the South. The blue hill ranges surrounding the valley are higher in the North and gradually decrease in height towards the South.
• Rivers: The Barak River, the largest river in Manipur, originates in the Manipur hills and is joined by tributaries like Irang, Maku, and Tuivai. After merging with the Tuivai, the Barak River turns North, forming the border with Assam. Other rivers include Imphal, Ini Yu, and Lanye.
• Climate: The climate varies from tropical to temperate based on altitude. Influenced by winds from the Bay of Bengal, it brings heavy rainfall during the monsoon season.
• Agriculture: A majority of the population relies on agriculture. The valley zone is known as the Rice Bowl of the state, cultivating commercial crops like oilseeds, rubber, sugarcane, tea, paddy, soybean, sunflower, ginger, turmeric, fruits (pineapple, lime, banana, papaya, orange), and vegetables (cauliflower, cabbage, tomato, pumpkin, etc.).
• Forests: Approximately 74.34% of the geographical area is covered by forests, housing a variety of plants, including grasses, reeds, bamboo, and various tree species like teak, pine, oak, and cane.
• Power Projects: Key projects like the Loktak Downstream Hydroelectric Project, Tipaimukh Hydroelectric Project, and Irang Hydroelectric Project play a crucial role in power generation.
• Minerals: Important minerals found in Manipur include chromite, limestone, asbestos, and copper.
• Industries: The handloom industry is a prominent cottage industry, along with agro and food processing, horticulture, floriculture, handicrafts, IT, and mineral sectors. 
• Manipur pioneered the Oak Tassar silk industry in India and was referred to as the "Jewel of India" by Jawaharlal Nehru. The state also houses plastic and cement factories.
• Tourism Some important tourist centres are Kangla, Shree Shree Govindajee temple, Shaheed Minar, Napi Lan (Women's War) Memorial Complex, INA Memorial (Moirang), Siroy hills, India Peace Memorial (Red hill), Loktak lake, Zoological Gardens and Bishnupur

Meghalaya

• Meghalaya, meaning "abode of clouds," gained autonomy on April 2, 1970, and officially became a state of the Indian Union on January 21, 1972.
• Geography: The Khasi and Jaintia hills in the central and eastern parts of Meghalaya form an impressive plateau with rolling grasslands, hills, and river valleys. The southern face features deep gorges and abrupt slopes, leading to a narrow plain along the international border with Bangladesh.
• Rivers: Various rivers, including Ringgi, Kalu, Ajagar, Sarda, Daring Simsang in the Garo hills, and Krishnai, Tlitai, Digaru, Umkhri, Kynchiang, and Myntdu, traverse the region.
• Climate: The climate in Khasi and Jaintia hills is pleasantly unique, while the Garo hills experience warm and humid weather, except during winter. The average rainfall is around 2600 mm and varies over time.
• Agriculture: Meghalaya is primarily an agricultural state, with 80% of its population relying on agriculture. Apart from major crops like rice and maize, the state is renowned for fruits such as Khasi Mandarin oranges, pineapples, bananas, jackfruit, and temperate fruits like plum, pear, and peach. Cash crops include potato, turmeric, ginger, black pepper, areca nut, tapioca, cotton, jute, mustard, and rapeseed.

• Power Projects: Meghalaya boasts surplus power generation and has a hydroelectricity potential of nearly 1200 MW. Existing hydropower projects include Umtru (Stage I, II, III, IV), Umtru Power Station, Sonapani Mini Hydroelectric Project, Myntdu Leshka Project, etc.
• Minerals: The state is rich in minerals, including coal, limestone, kaolin, clay, granite, glass sand, and uranium, among others.
• Industries: Key industries encompass agriculture and food processing, floriculture, horticulture, mining, cement, tourism, hydroelectric power, handlooms, handicrafts, and sericulture.
• Tourism: Tourist spots like Shillong, Ward's Lake, Lady Hydari Park, Elephant Falls, Mawsyram, Cheerapunjee, Tidru, and Siju Caves attract visitors to Meghalaya.

Mizoram

• Geography: Mizoram's landscape is characterized by hills, valleys, rivers, and lakes. The state has 21 hill ranges running from North to South, with Palak Lake, formed due to an earthquake, being the largest. Phawngpuri stands as the state's highest peak.
• Rivers: Chhimtuipui or Kaladan, originating in Myanmar, is the largest river in Mizoram. Other notable rivers include Tlawng, Tut, Tuirial, Tlau, and Tuichang, among others.
• Climate: Mizoram experiences a moderate climate throughout the year, with heavy rainfall across the state from June to August.

• Forests: Forests cover 84.53% (17820 sq km) of the geographical area, classified into Tropical Wet Evergreen, Tropical Semi-Evergreen, and Montane Sub-tropical Pine.
• Power Projects: Mizoram faces a power deficit, partially addressed by central sector generating units. Plans for the 210 MW Tuivai Hydroelectric Project during the 12th Plan aim to reduce the shortfall. Memorandums of Understanding (MOUs) signed in 2014 target adding 835 MW through electricity generation projects.
• Minerals: Hard rock, primarily used for construction and road building, is the main mineral resource in Mizoram.
• Industries: Scientific tea cultivation is a notable industry, with a focus on small industries, including cottage industries, handlooms, and handicrafts. Industrial estates at Euogtui and Kolasib contribute to economic activities.
• Tourism: Aizawl, situated at 4000 ft above sea level, serves as Mizoram's religious and cultural hub. Tam Dil, a natural lake, Vantawang Falls, and other attractions make Mizoram an appealing tourist destination.

Nagaland

• Geography: Nagaland is predominantly mountainous, with the exception of areas bordering the Assam valley. Mount Saramati, Nagaland's highest peak, and its ranges naturally separate Nagaland from Myanmar.
• Rivers: Major rivers in Nagaland include Doyang, Dikhu, Bhansiri, Tizu, Nanung, Disal, Dzu, Manglu, Zunki, and more. These rivers follow a dendritic pattern. The Tizu River flows eastward, merging with the Chindwin River in Burma, while Dhansiri, Doyang, and Dikhu flow westward into the Brahmaputra.
• Climate: The temperature in Nagaland varies from 0°C in winter to approximately 40°C in summer, dependent on elevation. The majority of heavy rainfall occurs between June and September.

• Forests: Forests encompass 73.90% (12251 sq km) of the geographical area, with 82.21% being evergreen and mixed deciduous types. The remaining portion is covered by coniferous and bamboo forests. Nagaland is home to various species of orchids representing different forms like terrestrial, epiphytes, lithophytes, and saprophytes.
• Power Projects: As a power-deficient state, Nagaland primarily relies on power allocation from the Central Sector Power.
• The state's installed generation capacity is 27.8 MW from small hydroelectric power projects.
• Minerals Major minerals are limestone, marble and decorative stone, nickle, cobalt, chromium, basalt, dunite, pyroxenite, etc.
• Industries The process of industrialization in the state is in its infancy. Handloom and handicrafts are important cottage industries here.
• Tourism Nagaland is known as the Land of Festivals. Some of the important festivals celebrated here are Tsukhenvie, Mimkut, Bushu, Sekrenyi, Moatsu, Tuluni, Nyaknylum, Mongmong, Tokhu and Yemshe by the Pochuris. Hornbill festival was started by the Government of Nagaland in December 2000, to encourage inter-tribal interaction and to promote the cultural heritage of the state.

Odisha

• The name "Odisha" comes from the Sanskrit term "Odra Desa."
  • Modern Odisha was established on April 1, 1936. After gaining independence, nearby princely states willingly became part of the Indian government.
• On November 4, 2011, the official English name was changed from "Orissa" to "Odisha."
  • The Oriya language is now officially known as "Odia" in English.
• Geography: Odisha boasts diverse landscapes, including coastal plains, mountains, plateaus, river valleys, and areas with watersheds, springs, and lakes.
  • Coastal plains, known as the "Land of Six Deltas," are formed by six rivers bringing silt from their catchments, reclaiming the area from the Bay of Bengal.
• Rivers and Waterfalls: Major rivers include the Mahanadi, Subarnarekha, Brahmani, Baitarnani, Bahuda, Indravati, etc.
  • Notable waterfalls are Badaghagara, Barehipani, Harishankar, Hatipathar, Putudi, Khandadhar, Sanaghagara, Duduma, Joranda, etc.
• Important Lakes: Chilika (brackish water lagoon), Ansupa (sweetwater lake), Sara (sweetwater lake), and Kanjia (sweetwater lake).
• Climate: Odisha has a tropical climate due to its location just south of the Tropic of Cancer.
  • Coastal areas experience humid and equable weather, with temperatures ranging between 35 to 40°C.
• Winter is milder, with some areas experiencing minimum temperatures of 3 to 4°C.
  • The average rainfall is 150 cm, mainly during the South-West monsoon.
• Agriculture: Around 65% of the population depends on agriculture.
  • Paddy is a major cereal crop, and sugarcane is the main cash crop, along with pulses, oilseeds, jute, coconut, turmeric, etc.
• Forest Cover: Approximately 33.50% of the total geographical area is covered by forests. Sal, teak, kuran sisu, asana, timber species, orchards, medicinal and aromatic plants dominate the diverse forest cover.
• Power Projects Major power projects are Bhushan Power Project, Tata Power Company Limited, NTPC Limited, Jindal India Thermal Power, etc.
• Minerals Bauxite, lead, copper, chromite, coal, dolomite, iron ere, nickel ore, tin ore, etc are found here.
• Industries Steel, aluminium, power, cement, oil refinery, etc are major industries here. Under small scale industries, coir industry, salt industry, handicraft, boutique, etc are important.
• Tourism The famous Sun temple (Konark), Jagannath temple (Puri), Lingaraj temple (Bhubaneshwar) Chilika lake, etc are world famous tourist places.

Punjab

• Eight Princely States in East Punjab came together to form PEPSU (Patiala and the East Punjab States Union), with Patiala as its capital.
• PEPSU was merged with Punjab in 1956. In 1966, Haryana was created as a separate state, and the capital of Punjab shifted to Chandigarh.
• Geography and Soil: Punjab is characterized by fertile plains due to numerous rivers. The South-East region is semi-arid, gradually transforming into a desert landscape.
  • Central Punjab's soil ranges from sandy loam to clayey, with alkalinity and salinity challenges. The alluvial soil types are arid, brown, or tropical arid brown.
• Rivers and Climate: The Punjab region has two Doabs – Bist Jalandhar Doab between the Beas Rivers and Bari between the Beas and Ravi Rivers – which are now part of Pakistan.
  • The climate exhibits extremes, with temperatures ranging from 1°C to 16°C. The Northeast, near the Himalayan foothills, receives heavy rainfall.
• Agriculture: Punjab contributes significantly to India's agricultural production, producing 21% of wheat, 11% of rice, and 5% of cotton.
  • Known as the "Granary of India," the state has high fertilizer consumption at 243 kg/ha, double the national average.
• Forests and Power Projects: Forest cover is limited to 3.67% (1847 sqkm) of the geographical area, including tropical dry deciduous, temperate, and grassland forests.
  • Major hydropower projects include Ranjit Sagar Dam, Chohal Dam, Jainti Dam, and Bhakra Dam.
• Minerals and Industries: Punjab is not rich in minerals, with notable findings of quartz and silica sand.
• Industries play a vital role, encompassing machinery, animal husbandry, food processing, etc., alongside the predominantly agrarian economy.
• Tourism: Tourist attractions in Punjab include the Golden Temple, Jallianwala Bagh, Wagah Border, Bakra Dam, and Moti Bagh Palace, among others.

Rajasthan

• Many ancient republics, including the Mauryan empire, Arjunyas, Kushanas, Saha Satraps, Guptas, and Hunas, ruled over this region.
• The process of bringing together scattered states began from 1948 to 1956 with the States Reorganisation Act. The Matsya Union, formed in 1948, was the starting point, gradually merging other states. By 1949, major states like Bikaner, Jaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer joined, forming the United States of Greater Rajasthan. Finally, in 1958, the present state of Rajasthan officially came into existence.
• Geography and Climate: Rajasthan is divided by the Aravalli range, the oldest chain of fold mountains, into two zones: a desert on the leeward side and a forest belt on the other. Guru Shikhar Peak is the highest point in the Aravalli.
• Rivers and Lakes: Major rivers like Luni, Banas, Kali, Sindh, Chambal, and Sabarmati flow through Rajasthan. The Indira Gandhi canal covers a significant part of the state. Famous lakes include Sambhar salt lake and Didwana lake.
• Climate: Rajasthan experiences a tropical desert climate throughout the year.
• Power Projects: Key power projects in the state include the Chhabra Thermal Power Plant, the Kota Super Thermal Power Plant, the Giral Lignite Thermal Power Plant, and the Rajasthan Atomic Power Station. The state also contributes 2556.50 MW from wind, solar, and biomass projects.
• Agriculture: Principal crops cultivated in Rajasthan include rice, barley, jowar, millet, maize, gram, wheat, oilseeds, pulses, and cotton.
• Forests: Forest cover extends to 4.87% (16,655 sq km) of the geographical area, mostly to the east of the Aravalli range. Desert vegetation consists of slow-growing stunted trees, thorny shrubs, and some grasses.
• Minerals: Rajasthan is a leading mineral-producing state and is often referred to as a museum of minerals. Major minerals include zinc, jasper, wollastonite, garnet (gem), oil, natural gas, calcite, asbestos, copper, silver ore, and marble.
• Industry: Important industries in Rajasthan include the Hindustan Zinc Smelter Plant (Udaipur), Hindustan Copper Plant (Jhunjhuna), Hindustan Salt Limited (Jaipur), textiles, woolens, engineering goods, gems and jewelry, and marble slabs.
• Tourism: Udaipur is known as the Venice of India, and Mount Abu is a popular hill station with the famous Dilwara Jain temples. Jaipur, the Pink City of India, boasts attractions like Jantar Mantar, Chittorgarh Fort, Lake Palace, miniature paintings in Bundi, and numerous city palaces and havelis, contributing to India's architectural heritage.

Sikkim 

• This state is perhaps the most peaceful state of the Indian Union to promote communal harmony, a feat which is much to be expected in
• Sikkim is a unique and diverse region, much like India with its pluralistic society. Mt. Khangchendzonga, the world's third-highest mountain, is considered the guardian deity of Sikkim.
• Geography: Sikkim is known for its stunning landscapes, ranging from approximately 300 m to 8500 m above sea level. Mt. Khangchendzonga and the Singalila range influence the western part, while the Chola range shapes the eastern part of the state. The Sikkim plateau, also known as Tso Lhamo, is the smallest biogeographic province in India.
• Rivers: The state is a significant source of the Teesta River, originating from Tso Lhamo lake in the north. The Rangeet, a major tributary, flows from the Rathong glacier and meets the Teesta at the Sikkim-West Bengal border.
• Climate: Sikkim experiences tropical, temperate, and alpine climates due to its varying altitudes. The state is the most humid region in the Himalayas, influenced by the Bay of Bengal and the Southern monsoon. The intensity of rainfall during the South-West monsoon season decreases from south to north. Common features include fog from May to September, and notable glaciers include Zemu, Rathong, and Lonak.
• Passes and Lakes: Nathu La and Jelep La passes are significant in the Eastern Chola range. Important lakes in Sikkim include Gurudongmar, Tso Lhamo, Tshomgo, Khac-hoedpalri, and Kathok.
• Agriculture: Agricultural produce in Sikkim includes baby corn, sweet corn, buckwheat, millet, vegetables, fruits, and flowers.
• Forest: Sikkim is recognized as one of the biodiversity hotspots globally, hosting various species like angiosperms, different types of bamboo, wild orchids, rhododendrons, primulas, and more. The region is home to rare and globally threatened species such as the snow leopard, Tibetan argali sheep, red panda, yak, black-necked crane, and fairy slipper orchid.
• Power Projects: Sikkim has a significant hydroelectric power potential of 8000 MW. Teesta-IV and Rangit-II are among the commissioned projects, with 18 others in various stages of execution.
• Minerals and Industries: The state has diverse minerals like coal, quartzite, talc, dolomite, limestone, marble, copper, lead, zinc, and sillimanite.
• Key industries in Sikkim include pharmaceuticals, eco-tourism, food processing, breweries, and tea production.
• Tourism: Tourist destinations in Sikkim include Dubdi Monastery, Shiva Mandir in Legship, village tourism, Lha-ri nying Phu (old cave on Gods hill), Yumthang hot spring, Reshi hot spring, and the tallest statue of Guru Padmasambhava in the world.
• Airports: Gangtok, Bagdogra, and Palyang (New Green Field Airport) serve as important airports in the region.

Tamil Nadu

• Tamil Nadu, one of the earliest British settlements in India, traces its origins back to the Madras presidency. After gaining independence, the Madras presidency, initially encompassing present-day Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Northern Kerala, and the Southwest coast of Karnataka, underwent a linguistic division. In 1968, the state of Madras was renamed Tamil Nadu.
• Geography: Tamil Nadu boasts a lengthy coastline, with the Eastern Ghats running parallel to it. Coastal plains extend from North to South, and the Eastern and Western Ghats converge within the state, forming its Eastern and Western borders. Hill stations like Udhagamandalam (Ooty), Kodaikanal, Kotagiri, and Yercaud grace the hilly regions. Notably, there are only two major gaps, the Palakkad gap and the Shencottah gap, in the long chain of hills bordering Western Tamil Nadu. Unlike the low rocky hills of the Eastern Ghats, the Western Ghats' hills feature dense forests, with Doddabetta Peak standing as the state's highest point (2,639 m).
• Rivers Tamil Nadu is home to 17 major river basins, including the Chennai Basin Group, Cauvery, Palar, and Vaigai. Most rivers originate from the uplands of the Western and Eastern Ghats, with the Cauvery river basin being the widest.
• Climate: The state's climate, ranging from dry sub-humid to semi-arid, heavily relies on monsoon rains. Tamil Nadu experiences three distinct rainfall periods: South-West monsoon (June to September), North-East monsoons (October to December), and the dry season (January to May).
• Agriculture: With 70% of the population engaged in agriculture, it remains a vital sector. Key crops include paddy, millets, pulses, sugarcane, cotton, coconut, and more. The state excels in the production and application of bio-fertilizers.
• Forests: Approximately 20.31% of Tamil Nadu's geographical area is covered by forests, featuring various types such as tropical wet evergreen, tropical dry deciduous, and montane wet temperate forests.
• Power Projects: The state houses notable power projects like Neyveli Lignite Power Plant, Kalpakkam, Kundankulam Nuclear Plant, and several wind and hydropower plants.
• Minerals: Tamil Nadu contributes significantly to the country's mineral resources, including lignite, vermiculture, dunite, garnet, molybdenum, and titanium.
• Industries: Major industries encompass cotton, heavy commercial vehicles, auto components, railway coaches, leather tanning, cement, sugar, and knowledge-based sectors like IT and biotechnology.
• Tourism: Tourist destinations in Tamil Nadu include Courtallam, Catherine Falls, Suruli Falls, Tirparappu Waterfalls, and renowned beaches like Marina, Elliot, Mahabalipuram, Poompuhar, and Kanyakumari. Festival: Pongal, celebrated in January, is a harvest festival dedicated to thanking the Sun, Earth, and cattle for a bounteous harvest.

Telangana

• In December 1953, the States Reorganisation Commission (SRC) was established to create states based on linguistic considerations.

• After a prolonged movement for a separate Telangana state in February 2014, the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014 Bill was passed by the Indian Parliament for the formation of Telangana. The Bill received the President's assent and was published in the Gazette on March 1, 2014. Telangana officially came into existence on June 2, 2014.
• Geography: Telangana is located on the Deccan plateau in the central stretch of the Eastern seaboard of the Indian Peninsula, with most of the land being arid.
• Rivers: The region is drained by two major rivers, with approximately 79% of the Godavari river catchment area and about 69% of the Krishna river catchment area. Telangana is also drained by several minor rivers such as the Bhima, the Manjira, and the Musi.
• Climate: Classified as a semi-arid region with a predominantly hot and dry climate, Telangana is not among the most fertile regions of the country.
• Agriculture: Major agricultural produce includes rice, jowar, bajra, maize, ragi, small millets, redgram, pulses, chillies, tamarind, onion, groundnut, oilseeds, and tobacco.
• Forests: Approximately 18.93% (21,214 sq km) of the geographical area is covered by forests, with tropical dry deciduous vegetation and tropical thorny vegetation being predominant.
• Power Projects: Notable power projects include Lower Jurala Hydroelectric Power, Kothagudem Thermal Power Station Project-VII, Kakatiya Thermal Power Project Stage-II, and Pulichinthala Hydroelectric Project.
• Minerals: Important minerals found here are dolomite, feldspar, fireclay, iron ore, manganese ore, laterite, limestone, quartz, shale granite, etc.
• Industries: Key industries encompass pharmaceuticals, medicinal, chemical, botanical, rubber, machinery, chemical products, beverages, tobacco, etc.
• Wildlife: Pocharam Wildlife Sanctuary, Kawal Wildlife Sanctuary, Eturnagaram Wildlife Sanctuary.
• Fairs and Festivals: Major festivals include Sammakka Saralamma Jatara or Medaram Jatara, Bonalu festival, Bathukamma, Ugadi, Dusshera, Diwali, Christmas, Eid, etc.

• Other places of interest include Manthani, Elgandal Fort, Alampur, Kuntala Waterfalls, Mahabubnagar, Nava Brahma Temples, Kollapur, Somasila, Nizamabad Lake Asok Sagar, Quilla Ramalayam, Domakorda Fort, and Sri Laxmi Narshima Swamy Temple known for Astah Muki.

Tripura

• The Tripuri dynasty ruled Tripura for many centuries until October 15, 1949, when it merged with the Indian Union as a Part C state. In 1972, Tripura became a full-fledged state.
• Geography: The state has three distinct geographical areas – hill ranges, undulating plateau land, and low-lying alluvial land. The Easternmost range is Jampui, followed by Unokoti-Sakhantlang, Longthorai, and Baramura-Deotamura as you move towards the West. The highest peak is Betalongchip.
• Rivers: Major rivers like Gumati, Khowai, Longai, Dhalai, Muhuri, Feni, Juri, Manu, etc., are generally temporary.
• Climate: The climate is humid subtropical. Temperature decreases from West to East, and rainfall generally increases from South-West to North-East. There's a significant rainfall gap in the Southern central part around Amarpur.
• Agriculture: The majority of the population relies on agriculture. Farming includes growing paddy crops in the plains, bamboo trees, jhum cultivation on hills, and plantation of rubber, coffee, cashewnut, coconut, etc.
• Forests: About 73.64% of the geographical area is covered by forests, including evergreen, sal, moist deciduous mixed forests, bamboo cane and forest, garjan forest, grassland, and swamp vegetation.
• Power Projects: Key power sources are Gumti Hydroelectric Project, Baramura Gas Thermal Power Station, and Rokhia Gas Thermal Power Station.
• Minerals: Major minerals include hard rock, limestone, clay, glass sand, and crucially, oil and natural gas.
• Industries: Industries are centered around rubber, food processing, natural gas, tea, handplyboardy board, etc., primarily using bamboo as raw materials.
• Tourism: Tourist attractions include wildlife sanctuaries (Sipahijola Wildlife Sanctuary, Rajbari National Park), lakes (Sipahijala, Kamal Sagar, Radha Sagar), palaces (Neermahal, Kunjaban Palace), temples (Jagannath, Buddha Bihar, Benu Ban Bihar, Tripureswari temple), etc.

Uttrakhand

• Uttarakhand was initially part of the United Province of Agra and Awadh, established in 1902. In 1935, the state was renamed the United Province. In January 1950, it became Uttar Pradesh, with Uttarakhand as part of it until November 9, 2000, when Uttarakhand became the 27th state of India. On January 1, 2007, it was officially renamed Uttarakhand.
• Geography: Physiographically, the state is divided into three zones - Kumaon, Garhwal, and the Tarai region.
• Major Peaks: Nanda Devi, Mount Kamet, Abi Gamen, Mukut Parvat, Trishul, Chaukhamba, Kedarnath, Neelkanth, Bandarpoonch.
• Major Rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, Bhagirathi, Alaknanda, Mandakini, Pindar, and Kali (Sarda).
• Big Glaciers: Sunder Dhunga, Banderpunch, Chorabari, Dronagiri, Gangotri, Pindari, Milam, and Nanda Devi.
• Climate: The weather changes with height. In the foothills, summers are warm (30°C to 18°C), and winters are manageable. In the middle Himalayas, summer temperatures are around 15°C to 18°C, but winters can get very cold. The eastern Himalayan edges get lots of rain, while the west is drier. The Gangetic plain has extremely hot and humid summers, with temperatures above 40°C.
• Agriculture: Around 90% of the people depend on farming. Wheat, rice, sugarcane, ragi, potatoes, apples, mangoes, and more are grown.
• Forests: Forests cover 45.44% of the state and include various types like tropical moist deciduous, tropical dry deciduous, sub-tropical pine, sub-alpine forest, moist alpine, and dry alpine shrub.
• Power Projects: Several hydroelectric projects are on rivers Yamuna, Bhagirathi, Bhilangana, Alaknanda, Mandakini, and Kosi.
• Major Minerals: Limestone, marble, rock phosphate, dolomite, magnesite, copper, graphite, gypsum, etc.
• Industries: Focused on horticulture, agro and food processing, biotechnology, IT, hydro power, tourism, and forest products. Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs) include Indian Drug and Pharmaceutical Ltd (Rishikesh) and Bharat Heavy Electrical Limited (BHEL).
• Tourism: Key pilgrimage and tourist spots are Gangotri, Yamunotri, Badrinath, Kedarnath, Haridwar, Rishikesh, Hemkund Sahib, Nanakmatta, etc. Famous destinations include the Valley of Flowers, Pindari Glacier, Roop Kund, Davora Bugyal, Auli, and hill stations like Mussoorie, Dehradun, Chakrata, Nainital, Ranikhet, Bageshwar, Bhimtal, Kausani.

Uttar Pradesh

• The British combined Agra and Oudh into one province, naming it the United Provinces of Agra and Oudh.
• In 1935, the name was shortened to the United Provinces. By January 1950, it was renamed Uttar Pradesh.
• Geography: The state can be divided into three main geographical regions:
  • The Himalayan region in the North
  • The Gangetic plain in the center
  • The Vindhya hills and plateau in the South
• Rivers: With over 32 large and small rivers, the Ganges, Yamuna, Saraswati, Saryu, Betwa, Ghaghara, and Ramganga hold religious significance in Hinduism.

• Agriculture: Agriculture is the primary occupation for most of the population. Activities include cultivating paddy, spices, wheat, fruits, vegetables, medicinal plants, and honey production.
• Forests cover only 6.15% (14,818 sqkm) of the state's geographical area, including Tropical moist deciduous forest (found in most Tarai regions), Tropical dry deciduous forest (common in the Central, Eastern, and Western regions), and Tropical thorny forest (found in South and South-West regions).
• Power Projects: The major sources of power in the state include:
  • Coal-based: Singrauli, Rihand, and Feroze Gandhi
  • Gas-based: Auraiya and Dadri
  • Hydro-based: Singrauli CW
  • Solar power-based: Unchahar
• Major Minerals: Limestone, magnesite, coal, rock phosphate, dolomite, pyrophyllite, diaspore, etc.

• Tourism: Apart from ancient pilgrimage sites like Varanasi, Vindhyachal, Ayodhya, Chitrakoot, Prayag, Naimisharanya, Mathura, Vrindavan, Dewa Sharief, Dargah of Sheikh Saleem Chisti in Fatehpur Sikri, Sarnath, Shravasti, Kushinagar, Sankisa Kampil, Piprahwa, and Kaushambi, places like Agra, Ayodhya, Sarnath, Lucknow, Jhansi, Gorakhpur, Jaunpur, Kannauj, Mahoba, Devgarh, and Bithur showcase rich treasures of Hindu and Islamic architecture and culture.

West Bengal