The political map of India has undergone significant changes in recent years. Students often get confused between the old numbers (29 states) and the current, updated numbers.
Rajasthan is the largest state in India by geographical area, while Goa is the smallest state. Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state.
As of 2020 (and remaining the same through 2022, 2023, and today), India officially consists of:
Many older textbooks say India has 29 states and 7 UTs. Here is why that changed:
The 2019 Change (Jammu & Kashmir): The state of Jammu & Kashmir was officially stripped of its statehood and bifurcated (split) into two separate Union Territories: J&K and Ladakh. (This reduced the number of states from 29 to 28, and increased the UTs from 7 to 9).
The 2020 Change (Daman & Diu): To improve administrative efficiency, the Central Government merged two existing Union Territories (Daman & Diu) with (Dadra & Nagar Haveli) into a single, merged UT. (This reduced the number of UTs from 9 back down to 8).
The newest state formed in India is **Telangana**, which was officially carved out of Andhra Pradesh on June 2, 2014.
Does It Snow in South India?
True snowfall in South India is very rare. Ooty, Munnar, Kodaikanal get frost. High altitude areas of Western Ghats rarely see snow. Sandakphu gets snowfall.
What are the Duars (Dooars) in Geography?
Learn about the Duar (Dooars) region in Indian geography. Understand its location in the Himalayan foothills of West Bengal and Assam, and its famous tea gardens.
Difference Between Eastern Ghats and Western Ghats
Understand the geographical differences between the Western Ghats and Eastern Ghats of India. Compare their height, continuity, and highest peaks.
The Easternmost Longitude of India
Find the easternmost and westernmost longitudes of India. Learn that India's eastern boundary (97°25'E) passes through Arunachal Pradesh.
Major Effects of an Earthquake
Learn about the devastating effects of earthquakes. Understand how seismic waves cause ground shaking, tsunamis, landslides, and infrastructure damage.
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