Who was made the Chief Minister of Greater Rajasthan (30 March, 1949)?

Correct option is C

 
On 30 March 1949, the foundation of Greater Rajasthan was laid by Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel in Jaipur. During this historic moment, Hiralal Shastri was appointed as the first Chief Minister of Greater Rajasthan. Hiralal Shastri played a pivotal role in the consolidation of princely states into the modern state of Rajasthan. His leadership ensured the administrative setup of the newly formed state was effectively established.
Rajasthan Foundation Day:
· On 30 March 2023, the 74th Foundation Day of Rajasthan was celebrated.
· On 30 March 1949, Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel inaugurated Greater Rajasthan in Jaipur, marking the merger of princely states like Jaipur, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.
Pre-Independence Status:
· Rajasthan was earlier known as 'Rajputana'.
· The term 'Rajputana' is believed to have been coined by George Thomas (1800 AD), while Colonel James Tod named the state Rajasthan.
· At independence, Rajasthan comprised 22 princely states, with 19 ruled by kings and 3 as chiefships (Neemrana, Luv, and Kushalgarh).
Integration Process:
· The merger of princely states took place in seven phases from 18 March 1948 to 1 November 1956.
· The Ajmer-Merwara province (British-ruled) was merged with Rajasthan on 1 November 1956 following the States
· Reorganization Commission's recommendations.
Administrative Developments:
· Jaipur was declared the capital of Rajasthan on 7 September 1949 based on the Rao Committee's recommendations.
· In 2023, CM Ashok Gehlot announced the formation of 19 new districts and 3 new divisions, increasing the total to 50 districts and 10 divisions (notification awaited).
Geographical Facts:
· Rajasthan is India's largest state, with an area of 342,239 sq. km, accounting for 1/10th of India’s land.
· It shares a 1,070 km international border with Pakistan (districts: Jaisalmer, Barmer, Bikaner, Sriganganagar).
· Rajasthan borders Punjab, Haryana, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, and Gujarat within India.
Demographics and Population:
· As per the 2011 Census, Rajasthan's population is 6.89 crore, making up 5.66% of India's population, ranking 7th in terms of population.
Tourism and Heritage:
· Rajasthan is globally renowned for its forts and palaces, with 13 main forts including Amer, Jaigarh, Mehrangarh,
· Kumbhalgarh, Ranthambhore, and Junagarh.
· Cities like Udaipur (City of Lakes) and Jaipur (Pink City) are major tourist attractions. Camel rides in Jaisalmer are especially popular.
Historical Significance:
· Known as the Land of Heroes, Rajasthan is the birthplace of warriors like Prithviraj Chauhan, Maharana Pratap, Rana Sanga, and Rana Kumbha.
· Key battles, including Haldi Valley, Chittor, Khanwa, Tarain, and Ranthambhore, were fought in Rajasthan.