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| Union Territories of India |
Capital: Port blair
Area: 8,249 Km²
Population: 3,80,581
Literacy Rate: 86.27%
Sex Ratio: 878
State Animal: Dugong or Sea cow
State Bird: Andaman Wood Pigeon
State Tree: Andaman Padauk
Official Language: English, Hindi
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, a mesmerizing union territory of India, are a breathtaking archipelago nestled in the Bay of Bengal. Known for their stunning beaches, clear turquoise waters, and lush rainforests, these islands offer a serene escape from the bustle of mainland life. Comprising around 572 islands, of which only a few are inhabited, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are rich in biodiversity and home to unique flora and fauna. The islands also hold a deep cultural and historical significance, from being a colonial prison site to showcasing the traditions of indigenous tribes.
Despite their natural beauty, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands are more than just a tropical paradise. They are a blend of diverse cultures, where settlers from different parts of India live harmoniously alongside the native tribes, creating a fascinating mosaic of languages, traditions, and cuisines. The capital, Port Blair, serves as the gateway to these islands and is a hub of historical landmarks, including the infamous Cellular Jail, which stands as a poignant reminder of India’s struggle for independence.
Also read: States of India. Capitals, Area, Population, Literacy Rate.
Capital: Chandigarh
Area: 114 Km²
Population: 12,40,000
Literacy Rate: 86.43%
Sex Ratio: 818
State Animal: Indian Grey Mongoose
State Bird: Indian Grey Hornbill
State Tree:Mango Tree
Chandigarh is a unique city in northern India, serving as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, yet it is itself a Union Territory directly governed by the Central Government. Designed by the renowned Swiss - French architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh is famous for its modernist architecture and urban planning. Known as "The City Beautiful," it boasts well-planned sectors, expansive greenery, and iconic landmarks like the Capitol Complex and Rock Garden. Chandigarh also stands out for its high standard of living, cleanliness, and being one of the most organized cities in India, making it a model of urban development.
Capital:Silvassa
Area: 491 Km²
Population: 3,44,000
Literacy Rate: 77.65%
Sex Ratio: 775
State Bird: Hill Myna
Dadra and Nagar Haveli is a Union Territory in western India, situated between the states of Gujarat and Maharashtra. Known for its picturesque landscapes, it features lush greenery, rolling hills, and the Daman Ganga River that flows through the region. The territory is a fusion of tribal cultures, with a significant portion of its population belonging to indigenous communities like the Warlis and Dhodias. Historically, it was a Portuguese colony until its liberation in 1954, and it was later merged with India. Dadra and Nagar Haveli has a rich cultural heritage, blending local traditions with remnants of Portuguese influence, evident in its architecture and customs. Administratively, in 2020, it was merged with the nearby Union Territory of Daman and Diu, forming the single entity of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu. This region is also known for its unique biodiversity, and a growing industrial sector due to its proximity to major cities like Mumbai.
Capital: Daman
Area: 112 Km²
Population: 2,42,911
Literacy Rate: 87.07%
Sex Ratio: 618
Daman and Diu is a union territory in western India, known for its blend of Portuguese and Indian cultural influences. Situated along the Arabian Sea, it consists of two separate geographical regions: Daman, located on the Gujarat coast, and Diu, an island near the Kathiawar Peninsula. Both regions were under Portuguese control for over 450 years before being integrated into India in 1961.
Daman and Diu are popular tourist destinations, offering picturesque beaches, historical forts, and colonial architecture. The culture here is a mix of Gujarati and Portuguese heritage, evident in the local cuisine, festivals, and traditional practices. The territory officially merged with Dadra and Nagar Haveli in 2020 to form the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.
Capital: Kavaratti
Area: 32 Km²
Population: 64,429
Literacy Rate: 92.28%
Sex Ratio: 946
State Animal: Butterfly Fish
State Bird: Noddy Tern
State Tree: Bread Fruit
Lakshadweep is a union territory of India, consisting of a group of 36 islands scattered over the Arabian Sea, around 200 to 440 kilometers off the southwestern coast of India. With a total land area of just 32 square kilometers, it is India's smallest union territory. The name "Lakshadweep" translates to "one hundred thousand islands" in Sanskrit, though the territory only includes 10 inhabited islands.
Lakshadweep is renowned for its stunning coral reefs, pristine beaches, and clear blue waters, making it a popular tourist destination. The islands are also home to unique marine life and are rich in biodiversity. The population is predominantly Muslim, and the primary language spoken is Malayalam, with Mahl also spoken in some parts. The economy of Lakshadweep is largely dependent on fishing, coconut cultivation, and tourism.
Administratively, Lakshadweep is governed directly by the President of India, with a Lieutenant Governor overseeing its administration. The islands are known for their peaceful and simple way of life, with a strong emphasis on environmental conservation due to the delicate ecosystem surrounding them.
Capital: Puducherry
Area: 483 Km²
Population: 13,94,467
Literacy Rate: 86.55%
Sex Ratio: 1038
State Animal: Squirrel
State Bird: Koel
State Tree:Vilva Tree
Puducherry, often referred to as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory located on the southeastern coast of India. It is known for its unique blend of French colonial heritage and traditional Indian culture. Puducherry comprises four distinct districts: Puducherry, Karaikal (both located on the east coast), Mahe (on the western coast), and Yanam (in Andhra Pradesh). The Union Territory was a former French colony, and the influence of French architecture, cuisine, and language is still evident in its charming streets and cultural landscape.
The region enjoys a special administrative status in India, governed directly by the central government, but also has a locally elected legislative assembly with limited powers. Puducherry is renowned for its serene beaches, tree-lined boulevards, vibrant art scene, and spiritual centers, most notably the internationally famous Aurobindo Ashram and the experimental township of Auroville. Its economy thrives on tourism, agriculture, fishing, and small-scale industries, with French heritage being a significant draw for international visitors.
Capital: Srinagar (Summer), Jammu (Winter)
Area: 42,241 Km²
Population: 1,22,67,013
Literacy Rate: 67.17%
Sex Ratio: 889
State Animal: Kashmiri Stag (Hangul)
State Bird: khalij Pheasant
State Tree: Chinar Tree
The Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir, located in the northern part of India, is renowned for its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and strategic geopolitical importance. Formed on October 31, 2019, after the bifurcation of the former state of Jammu and Kashmir, it is now governed as a Union Territory, along with Ladakh. Bordered by Pakistan in the west and China in the north and east, Jammu and Kashmir is a region of stunning natural beauty, with picturesque valleys, majestic mountains, and serene lakes.
The region's diverse geography ranges from the temperate climate of the Kashmir Valley to the rugged terrain of Jammu, which includes the Pir Panjal mountain range. Jammu and Kashmir is also home to various religious and ethnic communities, including Hindus, Muslims, Sikhs, and Buddhists, contributing to its vibrant cultural mosaic.
Historically, Jammu and Kashmir has been a region of political complexity, with longstanding territorial disputes between India and Pakistan. Despite these challenges, it remains a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors for its scenic beauty, rich traditions, and spiritual significance.
Under its new administrative status, Jammu and Kashmir continues to undergo political, economic, and social transformations aimed at fostering peace and development in the region.
Capital: Leh, Kargil
Area: 59,146 Km²
Population: 2,74,289
Literacy Rate: 62.45%
State Animal: Snow Leopard
State Bird: Black Necked Crane
State Tree: Juniper Tree/ Ladakhi- Shukpa
Ladakh, a high-altitude region in the northernmost part of India, is known for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and unique geography. On October 31, 2019, Ladakh was formally separated from the state of Jammu and Kashmir and declared a Union Territory (UT). It is now administered directly by the central government of India, a status that grants it a degree of autonomy in governance, while key areas like defense, law, and order are under central control.
Geography and Climate
Ladakh is bordered by the Tibetan Plateau to the east, the Himalayas to the south, and Pakistan administered Gilgit- Baltistan to the west. The region is divided into two main districts: Leh and Kargil. Leh, the largest district, is a popular tourist hub known for its monasteries, trekking routes, and striking mountains, while Kargil is historically known for the 1999 Kargil War between India and Pakistan.
Historical and Cultural Significance
Ladakh has a rich cultural history shaped by its position on ancient trade routes linking India with Central Asia and Tibet. The people of Ladakh, predominantly Buddhist and Muslim, have preserved their unique traditions and customs. Buddhism, particularly Tibetan Buddhism, has a deep-rooted influence in the region, visible through its numerous monasteries like Hemis, Thiksey, and Diskit.
Economy and Tourism
Ladakh’s economy primarily revolves around agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts. Barley, wheat, and peas are the main crops, grown in the short summer months. With its pristine natural beauty, Ladakh has become a global tourist destination, especially for adventure enthusiasts. Activities like trekking, mountaineering, and river rafting attract visitors, while cultural tourism thrives due to its monasteries and festivals.
In recent years, the Indian government has invested in infrastructure to promote tourism and connectivity. Pangong Lake, Nubra Valley, and the Zanskar Range are some of the most visited tourist destinations. The Siachen Glacier, the highest battlefield in the world, also lies in Ladakh.
Strategic Importance
Ladakh holds immense strategic importance for India due to its proximity to China and Pakistan. The region shares a sensitive border with China, known as the Line of Actual Control (LAC), which has seen disputes and military standoffs, particularly in recent years. The Indian Army maintains a significant presence in the region to safeguard national security, especially in high-altitude areas like Siachen and along the LAC.