Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries​
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Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

India is a country of diverse geography, comprising of various states and union territories, and blessed with numerous rivers, mountains, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. This unique geographical diversity makes India a fascinating and exciting place to explore. In this article, we will cover each of these topics in detail for students preparing for various exams in India.

States and Union Territories

India is a vast country that is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has its own distinct culture, language, history, and geography. The states of India are:

  1. Andhra Pradesh
  2. Arunachal Pradesh
  3. Assam
  4. Bihar
  5. Chhattisgarh
  6. Goa
  7. Gujarat
  8. Haryana
  9. Himachal Pradesh
  10. Jharkhand
  11. Karnataka
  12. Kerala
  13. Madhya Pradesh
  14. Maharashtra
  15. Manipur
  16. Meghalaya
  17. Mizoram
  18. Nagaland
  19. Odisha
  20. Punjab
  21. Rajasthan
  22. Sikkim
  23. Tamil Nadu
  24. Telangana
  25. Tripura
  26. Uttar Pradesh
  27. Uttarakhand
  28. West Bengal

The union territories of India are:

  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

Rivers

India is home to several major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Indus, and Godavari. These rivers play an important role in the lives of millions of people who depend on them for drinking water, irrigation, and transportation.

  1. The Ganges: The Ganges is the most sacred river in India and is worshipped as a goddess by the people of India. It originates from the Gangotri glacier in Uttarakhand and flows through several states, including Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and West Bengal before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

  2. The Brahmaputra: The Brahmaputra is one of the longest rivers in the world, and it flows through India, Tibet, and Bangladesh. It originates from the Mansarovar Lake in Tibet and flows through Assam before merging with the Ganges in Bangladesh.

  3. The Indus: The Indus is one of the longest rivers in Asia, and it flows through India, Pakistan, and China. It originates from the Tibetan Plateau and flows through Ladakh before entering Pakistan.

  4. The Godavari: The Godavari is the second-longest river in India after the Ganges. It originates from the Western Ghats in Maharashtra and flows through several states, including Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

Mountains

India is home to several major mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Western Ghats, and Eastern Ghats. These mountain ranges are not only breathtakingly beautiful, but they also have an important ecological significance.

  1. The Himalayas: The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world and are spread across several countries, including India, Nepal, Bhutan, and China. The Indian part of the Himalayas is home to several high peaks, including Mount Everest, Kanchenjunga, and Nanda Devi.

  2. The Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India, stretching from Gujarat to Kerala. They are home to several important wildlife reserves, including the Silent Valley National Park and the Periyar

Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

  1. The Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are a mountain range that runs parallel to the east coast of India, stretching from Odisha to Tamil Nadu. They are home to several important wildlife reserves, including the Simlipal National Park and the Papikonda National Park.

National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

India is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to a wide variety of animals, birds, and plants. These protected areas not only help conserve India’s rich biodiversity but also provide opportunities for tourists to experience India’s natural beauty up close.

  1. Jim Corbett National Park: Located in Uttarakhand, the Jim Corbett National Park is India’s oldest national park and is home to several species of animals, including tigers, elephants, and deer.

  2. Kaziranga National Park: Located in Assam, the Kaziranga National Park is home to the one-horned Indian rhinoceros and several species of birds.

  3. Bandhavgarh National Park: Located in Madhya Pradesh, the Bandhavgarh National Park is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and deer.

  4. Gir National Park: Located in Gujarat, the Gir National Park is home to the Asiatic lion, one of the rarest big cats in the world.

  5. Sundarbans National Park: Located in West Bengal, the Sundarbans National Park is home to the Bengal tiger and is the largest mangrove forest in the world.

Apart from national parks, India is also home to several wildlife sanctuaries that are equally important for the conservation of India’s rich biodiversity. Some of the important wildlife sanctuaries in India include:

  1. Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Kerala, the Periyar Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including elephants, tigers, and wild boar.

  2. Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Rajasthan, the Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is home to several species of animals, including tigers, leopards, and antelopes.

  3. Keoladeo National Park: Located in Rajasthan, the Keoladeo National Park is home to several species of birds and is a popular destination for birdwatchers.

  4. Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary: Located in Jammu and Kashmir, the Dachigam Wildlife Sanctuary is home to the Kashmir stag and the Himalayan black bear.

Conclusion

In conclusion, India is a land of diverse geography, comprising of several states and union territories, and blessed with several major rivers, mountains, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries. This rich diversity not only makes India a fascinating and exciting place to explore but also provides numerous opportunities for students preparing for various exams in India to gain knowledge and insights into India’s unique culture and natural beauty.

Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

States and Union Territories

India is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has its own unique culture, language, cuisine, and customs, making India a diverse and fascinating country to explore. Here are some key details about each state and union territory:

  1. Andhra Pradesh: Andhra Pradesh is located in the southeastern part of India and is known for its beaches, temples, and spicy cuisine.

  2. Arunachal Pradesh: Arunachal Pradesh is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty and diverse tribal cultures.

  3. Assam: Assam is located in northeastern India and is known for its tea plantations, wildlife reserves, and Brahmaputra River.

  4. Bihar: Bihar is located in eastern India and is known for its ancient history, Buddhist pilgrimage sites, and rich culture.

  5. Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh is located in central India and is known for its dense forests, waterfalls, and tribal culture.

  6. Goa: Goa is located on the western coast of India and is known for its beaches, nightlife, and Portuguese influence.

  7. Gujarat: Gujarat is located in western India and is known for its rich history, handicrafts, and cuisine.

  8. Haryana: Haryana is located in northern India and is known for its agricultural prosperity and historic sites.

  9. Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh is located in northern India and is known for its snow-capped mountains, scenic landscapes, and adventure tourism.

  10. Jharkhand: Jharkhand is located in eastern India and is known for its mineral wealth, forests, and tribal culture.

  11. Karnataka: Karnataka is located in southwestern India and is known for its temples, beaches, and rich cultural heritage.

  12. Kerala: Kerala is located in southwestern India and is known for its backwaters, beaches, Ayurveda, and traditional dance forms.

  13. Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh is located in central India and is known for its wildlife reserves, historic sites, and tribal culture.

  14. Maharashtra: Maharashtra is located in western India and is known for its capital city Mumbai, historic sites, and cuisine.

  15. Manipur: Manipur is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty, handicrafts, and cultural festivals.

  16. Meghalaya: Meghalaya is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty, waterfalls, and living root bridges.

  17. Mizoram: Mizoram is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty, handicrafts, and cultural festivals.

  18. Nagaland: Nagaland is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty, handicrafts, and cultural festivals.

  19. Odisha: Odisha is located in eastern India and is known for its ancient temples, beaches, and handicrafts.

  20. Punjab: Punjab is located in northern India and is known for its agriculture, vibrant culture, and historic sites.

  21. Rajasthan: Rajasthan is located in northwestern India and is known for its palaces, forts, deserts, and handicrafts.

  22. Sikkim: Sikkim is located in northeastern India and is known for its snow-capped mountains, scenic beauty, and Buddhist culture.

  23. Tamil Nadu: Tamil Nadu is located in southern India and is known for its temples, beaches, and traditional dance forms.

  24. Telangana: Telangana is located in southern India and is known for its rich history, culture, and cuisine.

  25. Tripura: Tripura is located in northeastern India and is known for its scenic beauty, handicrafts, and cultural festivals.

  26. Uttar Pradesh: Uttar Pradesh is located in northern India and is known for its rich history, ancient monuments, and religious sites.

    1. Uttarakhand: Uttarakhand is located in northern India and is known for its snow-capped mountains, adventure tourism, and pilgrimage sites.

    2. West Bengal: West Bengal is located in eastern India and is known for its cultural diversity, tea plantations, and historic sites.

Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

Union Territories:

  1. Andaman and Nicobar Islands: The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and are known for their beautiful beaches, coral reefs, and tropical rainforests.

  2. Chandigarh: Chandigarh is a union territory located in northern India and is known for its modern architecture, gardens, and museums.

  3. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu: This union territory is located on the western coast of India and is known for its Portuguese influence, historic sites, and beaches.

  4. Lakshadweep: Lakshadweep is a group of islands located off the southwestern coast of India and is known for its coral reefs, lagoons, and marine life.

  5. Delhi: Delhi is the capital of India and is known for its rich history, monuments, and vibrant culture.

  6. Puducherry: Puducherry is a union territory located on the southeastern coast of India and is known for its French influence, beaches, and spiritual retreats.

  7. Jammu and Kashmir: Jammu and Kashmir is a union territory located in northern India and is known for its scenic beauty, snow-capped mountains, and rich culture.

  8. Ladakh: Ladakh is a union territory located in northern India and is known for its rugged landscapes, Buddhist culture, and adventure tourism.

Rivers

India is home to several major rivers, each of which plays a significant role in the country’s ecology, economy, and culture. Here are some of the major rivers in India:

  1. Ganga: The Ganga is the most sacred river in India and is worshipped by millions of Hindus. It originates in the Himalayas and flows through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

  2. Yamuna: The Yamuna is a major tributary of the Ganga and flows through several states, including Delhi, before joining the Ganga in Uttar Pradesh.

  3. Brahmaputra: The Brahmaputra is a trans-boundary river that originates in Tibet and flows through several northeastern states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

  4. Godavari: The Godavari is the second-longest river in India and flows through several states in southern and western India before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

  5. Narmada: The Narmada is a west-flowing river that originates in Madhya Pradesh and flows through several states before emptying into the Arabian Sea.

  6. Krishna: The Krishna is a major river in southern India and flows through several states before emptying into the Bay of Bengal.

  7. Cauvery: The Cauvery is a major river in southern India and is known for its scenic beauty and important role in agriculture.

  8. Tapti: The Tapti is a west-flowing river that originates in Madhya Pradesh and flows through several states before emptying into the Arabian Sea.

Indian Geography States Union Territories rivers mountains national parks and wildlife sanctuaries

Mountains

India is home to several mountain ranges, each of which is unique in terms of its geography, ecology, and cultural significance. Here are some of the major mountain ranges in India:

  1. Himalayas: The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world and form the northern boundary of India. The range is home to several of the highest peaks in the world, including Mount Everest and Kanchenjunga.

  2. Western Ghats: The Western Ghats are a mountain range that runs parallel to the western coast of India and is known for its rich biodiversity, including several endemic species.

    1. Eastern Ghats: The Eastern Ghats are a mountain range that runs parallel to the eastern coast of India and is known for its scenic beauty and cultural significance.

    2. Aravalli Range: The Aravalli Range is a mountain range that runs through several states in western India and is known for its mineral deposits and historic sites.

    3. Satpura Range: The Satpura Range is a mountain range that runs through several states in central India and is known for its scenic beauty and wildlife.

    4. Vindhya Range: The Vindhya Range is a mountain range that runs through several states in central India and is known for its historic significance and rich biodiversity.

    National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries

    India is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, each of which is dedicated to the conservation of its unique flora and fauna. Here are some of the major national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India:

    1. Jim Corbett National Park: Jim Corbett National Park is located in Uttarakhand and is known for its tiger population and scenic beauty.

    2. Kanha National Park: Kanha National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its tigers, leopards, and sloth bears.

    3. Ranthambore National Park: Ranthambore National Park is located in Rajasthan and is known for its tiger population and historic sites.

    4. Kaziranga National Park: Kaziranga National Park is located in Assam and is known for its one-horned rhinoceros population and grasslands.

    5. Bandhavgarh National Park: Bandhavgarh National Park is located in Madhya Pradesh and is known for its tiger population and historic sites.

    6. Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary: Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary is located in Rajasthan and is known for its tigers and historic sites.

    7. Sunderbans National Park: Sunderbans National Park is located in West Bengal and is known for its mangrove forests and Bengal tigers.

    8. Periyar National Park: Periyar National Park is located in Kerala and is known for its elephant population and scenic beauty.

    9. Gir National Park: Gir National Park is located in Gujarat and is known for its Asiatic lion population.

    Conclusion:

    India is a diverse country with a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Studying the geography of India, including its states and union territories, rivers, mountains, and national parks and wildlife sanctuaries, can be helpful for students preparing for various exams in India. By understanding the unique features of each region, students can gain a deeper appreciation for the beauty and diversity of their country.

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Here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) about Indian geography, states, union territories, rivers, mountains, national parks, and wildlife sanctuaries:

  1. What are the largest states in India by area?

The largest states in India by area are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

  1. What are the smallest states in India by area?

The smallest states in India by area are Goa, Sikkim, and Tripura.

  1. How many union territories are there in India?

There are eight union territories in India: Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Chandigarh, Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, Lakshadweep, Delhi, Puducherry, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh.

  1. What are the major rivers in India?

The major rivers in India are the Ganges, Brahmaputra, Yamuna, Godavari, Krishna, Narmada, and Tapti.

  1. What are the major mountain ranges in India?

The major mountain ranges in India are the Himalayas, Western Ghats, Eastern Ghats, Aravalli Range, Satpura Range, and Vindhya Range.

  1. What are the major national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India?

Some of the major national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India include Jim Corbett National Park, Kanha National Park, Ranthambore National Park, Kaziranga National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, Sariska Wildlife Sanctuary, Sunderbans National Park, Periyar National Park, and Gir National Park.

  1. What is the significance of the Ganges river in India?

The Ganges river is considered sacred by Hindus and is often referred to as the “mother river” of India. It is believed to have the power to cleanse sins and bring salvation. The river is also an important source of water for agriculture and industry in India.

8. What is the highest mountain peak in India?

The highest mountain peak in India is Mount Kanchenjunga, which is located in the Himalayas and has an elevation of 8,586 meters (28,169 feet).

9. What is the longest river in India?

The longest river in India is the Ganges, which flows for about 2,525 kilometers (1,569 miles) from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal.

10. What is the capital of India?

The capital of India is New Delhi.

11. How many states are there in India?

There are 28 states in India.

12. How many official languages are there in India?

There are 22 official languages in India, including Hindi, English, Bengali, Telugu, and Tamil.

13. What is the importance of national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India?

National parks and wildlife sanctuaries are important for the conservation of India’s unique biodiversity, including endangered species such as tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. They also provide opportunities for eco-tourism, research, and education.

14. What is the significance of the Western Ghats in India?

The Western Ghats are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and are known for their rich biodiversity, including several endemic species. They also provide important ecosystem services, such as regulating water flow and providing habitat for wildlife.

15, What is the significance of the Sundarbans National Park in India?

The Sundarbans National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique mangrove forest ecosystem, which provides habitat for the Bengal tiger and other endangered species. It is also an important carbon sink and plays a crucial role in mitigating the impacts of climate change.

16. What is the significance of the Aravalli Range in India?

The Aravalli Range is the oldest mountain range in India and is known for its rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. It is home to several species of wildlife, including leopards, hyenas, and sloth bears. The range also has several important historical sites, such as the Dilwara Temples in Rajasthan.

17. What is the significance of the Great Himalayan National Park in India?

The Great Himalayan National Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and is known for its unique high-altitude ecosystem, which provides habitat for several endangered species of wildlife, including the snow leopard and Himalayan tahr. It is also an important source of freshwater for several rivers in northern India.

18. What is the significance of the Narmada river in India?

The Narmada river is considered sacred by Hindus and is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. It provides water for irrigation and supports several industries in central India. The river is also an important source of hydroelectric power, with several dams built along its course.

19. What is the significance of the Western Ghats in India?

The Western Ghats are known for their rich biodiversity and unique ecosystem services, such as regulating water flow and providing habitat for wildlife. They are also home to several indigenous communities who have traditionally relied on the forests for their livelihoods.

20. What is the significance of the Sundarban Delta in India?

The Sundarban Delta is the largest delta in the world and is known for its unique mangrove forest ecosystem, which provides habitat for several endangered species of wildlife, including the Bengal tiger and saltwater crocodile. The delta also plays an important role in regulating the flow of the Ganges and Brahmaputra rivers.

21. What is the significance of the Thar Desert in India?

The Thar Desert is the largest desert in India and is known for its unique ecosystem, which supports several species of wildlife, including the Great Indian Bustard and the Indian Gazelle. It is also home to several indigenous communities who have traditionally relied on the desert for their livelihoods.

22. What is the significance of the Brahmaputra river in India?

The Brahmaputra river is one of the largest rivers in the world and is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. It provides water for irrigation and supports several industries in northeastern India. The river is also an important source of hydroelectric power, with several dams built along its course.

23. What is the significance of the Indian Ocean in India?

The Indian Ocean is the third-largest ocean in the world and is important for India’s maritime trade and security. It is also home to several species of marine wildlife, including whales, dolphins, and sea turtles.

24. What is the significance of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands in India?

The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands in the Bay of Bengal and are known for their unique ecosystem, which supports several species of wildlife, including the Nicobar Megapode and the Andaman wild pig. They are also home to several indigenous communities who have traditionally relied on the islands for their livelihoods.

25. What is the significance of the Dhauladhar range in India?

The Dhauladhar range is a sub-range of the Himalayas and is known for its scenic beauty and rich biodiversity. It provides habitat for several species of wildlife, including the snow leopard and the Western Tragopan. The range is also an important source of freshwater for several rivers in northern India.

  1. Indian Geography: India is located in South Asia and is the seventh-largest country in the world. It has a diverse landscape that includes mountains, rivers, deserts, and coastal plains. The country is home to several different climate zones and is known for its rich cultural heritage.

  2. States and Union Territories: India is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories. Each state has its own capital, government, and language. The union territories are governed by the central government and are usually smaller in size compared to the states.

  3. Rivers: India is home to several major rivers, including the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Yamuna. These rivers are an important source of freshwater for irrigation and support several industries. They also have religious significance for many Indians and are considered sacred.

  4. Mountains: India is home to several major mountain ranges, including the Himalayas, Aravalli Range, and Western Ghats. These mountains provide habitat for several species of wildlife and are an important source of freshwater for several rivers in India.

  5. National Parks and Wildlife Sanctuaries: India has several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that are home to several species of wildlife, including tigers, elephants, and rhinoceroses. These parks and sanctuaries are important for conservation efforts and provide opportunities for eco-tourism.

Some important national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in India are:

  • Bandhavgarh National Park, Madhya Pradesh
  • Kaziranga National Park, Assam
  • Sundarbans National Park, West Bengal
  • Gir National Park, Gujarat
  • Jim Corbett National Park, Uttarakhand
  • Kanha National Park, Madhya Pradesh
  • Sariska Tiger Reserve, Rajasthan
  • Periyar National Park, Kerala

Students in standard 10 should also be familiar with the political and physical map of India and its neighboring countries. They should also have a basic understanding of the climate zones in India and how they influence the agriculture and economy of the country.

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