List of Union Territories in India: India is a country with a diverse culture and a vast landmass. It has 28 states and 8 union territories, which are administered directly by the central government. Union territories in India are smaller in size as compared to states and have limited powers of self-governance. In this article, we will explore more about these union territories in India. In this article, we will explore the concept of union territories in India and provide a comprehensive list of all the union territories in the country.
Union Territories in India
Union Territories in India are regions directly governed by the central government of the country. Unlike states, union territories do not have their own separate state governments but are administered by officials appointed by the President of India. These territories play a crucial role in the administrative and political framework of the nation. Some of the notable union territories include Delhi, which serves as the capital of India and is a major hub of political and economic activities, and Puducherry, known for its French colonial influence and picturesque coastal beauty. Chandigarh, another union territory, serves as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, showcasing a harmonious blend of urban planning and modern infrastructure. The union territories contribute to the diverse fabric of India, each with its unique characteristics and significance.
List of Union Territories in India
The table above presents a comprehensive list of the Union Territories in India along with their respective years of formation. The Union Territories play a unique role in the administrative framework of the country.
| List of Union Territories in India | |
|---|---|
| Union Territory | Year of Formation |
| Andaman and Nicobar Islands | 1956 |
| Chandigarh | 1966 |
| Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu | 2020 |
| Lakshadweep | 1956 |
| Delhi | 1956 |
| Puducherry | 1964 |
| Ladakh | 2019 |
| Jammu and Kashmir | 2019 |
Of these, the Union Territories of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu were merged into a single Union Territory in 2020. Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were created in 2019 by bifurcating the previous state of Jammu and Kashmir.
Union Territories in India: Geography
- Andaman and Nicobar Islands are located in the Bay of Bengal and consist of around 570 islands. The islands are known for their scenic beauty and are a popular tourist destination. The local population consists of various tribes, and the islands have a significant naval base.
- Chandigarh is the capital of two states, Punjab and Haryana, and is a union territory administered by the central government. It is known for its planned architecture and urban design and is a hub for education, business, and culture.
- Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu are two separate territories that were merged into one in 2020. Located on the west coast of India, these territories are known for their scenic beauty and historical significance.
- Lakshadweep is a group of islands located in the Arabian Sea. It is known for its rich biodiversity, coral reefs, and white sandy beaches. The local population consists of various ethnic groups, and the territory has its own unique cultural identity.
- Delhi is the capital of India and is a union territory with its own legislative assembly and elected government. It is known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and as a hub for politics, education, and business.
- Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is a former French colony and has a unique blend of Indian and French cultures. It is known for its picturesque architecture, French cuisine, and beaches.
- Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh were previously part of the state of Jammu and Kashmir, which was reorganized into two separate union territories in 2019. Jammu and Kashmir is known for its rich cultural heritage and scenic beauty, while Ladakh is known for its rugged terrain, snow-capped mountains, and unique culture.
Union territories in India have limited powers of self-governance as compared to states. They are directly administered by the central government, which appoints an administrator as the head of the territory. The administrator is assisted by a council of ministers and a legislative assembly in some cases.
Union Territories in India: Map
The Union Territories in India are diverse regions that are directly governed by the central government. While they may not have the same level of autonomy as states, they still hold unique cultural, historical, and geographical significance. A map of the Union Territories of India showcases the spread of these territories across the country.
Map of Union Territories in India: Andaman and Nicobar Islands
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, situated in the Bay of Bengal, form a picturesque Union Territory in India. This archipelago is known for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and diverse marine life. The islands are a paradise for nature lovers and offer opportunities for adventurous activities like snorkeling and scuba diving.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аChandigarh
Chandigarh, a Union Territory in India, is renowned for its unique urban planning and modern infrastructure. Serving as the shared capital of Punjab and Haryana, Chandigarh is a vibrant city that seamlessly blends nature with architectural brilliance. Designed by renowned architect Le Corbusier, the city is divided into well-organized sectors, each with its own green spaces and amenities.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аDadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu, together forming a Union Territory in India, are located on the western coast of the country. This region boasts a rich blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. Dadra and Nagar Haveli, nestled amidst the Western Ghats, offer picturesque landscapes, lush greenery, and a tranquil ambiance.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аLakshadweep
Lakshadweep, a Union Territory in India, is a captivating archipelago located in the Arabian Sea. Known for its stunning coral reefs, turquoise lagoons, and untouched beaches, Lakshadweep is a paradise for nature enthusiasts and water sports enthusiasts alike. The islands, with their tranquil and secluded atmosphere, provide a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аDelhi
New Delhi, on the other hand, is the modern part of the city and is home to government buildings, embassies, and luxury hotels. The area is characterized by wide, tree-lined boulevards and majestic colonial architecture. The city’s most famous landmark, India Gate, is located in New Delhi and is a war memorial that commemorates the Indian soldiers who died in World War I.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аPuducherry
Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory located in the southern part of India.
Map of Union Territories in India:┬аJammu and Kashmir and Ladakh
Jammu and Kashmir is a union territory in northern India, which was formed after the abrogation of Article 370 of the Indian Constitution on August 5, 2019. Prior to that, it was a state of India.
Union Territories in India: Andaman and Nicobar
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are a group of islands located in the Bay of Bengal, which are a Union Territory of India. These islands are known for their exotic beauty, pristine beaches, and vibrant marine life. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands are spread over an area of 8,073 sq km and consist of 572 islands, out of which only 38 are inhabited.
The history of these islands dates back to ancient times, with the first human settlement on the islands believed to have taken place around 26,000 years ago. The islands were ruled by various kingdoms, including the Chola dynasty and the Maratha Empire, before they were annexed by the British in the 18th century.
Union Territories in India: Chandigarh
Chandigarh, the capital of two Indian states, Punjab and Haryana, is a city that boasts a unique blend of modernity and tradition. Designed by the renowned Swiss-French architect Le Corbusier, Chandigarh is known for its urban planning, architecture, and lush greenery. The city is divided into several sectors, each with its own market, park, and residential areas, making it an efficient and well-organized city.
Chandigarh was established in 1947 as a new capital for the Indian states of Punjab and Haryana, after the partition of India. The city was designed to be a modern, planned city, with a focus on sustainability and green spaces. Le Corbusier and his team of architects drew inspiration from the principles of modernism, which emphasized functionality and simplicity, and integrated these principles into the design of the city.
Union Territories in India: Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu are two union territories of India located in the western part of the country. They were merged together on January 26, 2020, to form a single entity. The union territory is bordered by the states of Gujarat to the north and Maharashtra to the south. Despite being small in size, these union territories have a unique history, culture, and attractions.
Dadra and Nagar Haveli were under Portuguese rule for over 450 years until it was liberated by the Indian government in 1954. Similarly, Daman and Diu were also under Portuguese rule until it was annexed by India in 1961. Both territories were merged together to form a single union territory on January 26, 2020.
Union Territories in India: Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is a group of islands located off the southwestern coast of India in the Arabian Sea. This archipelago comprises 36 islands, 10 of which are inhabited. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and clear blue waters, making it a popular tourist destination.
The name “Lakshadweep” means “a hundred thousand islands” in Sanskrit. However, the actual number of islands in the archipelago is only 36, out of which 10 are inhabited by a total population of around 70,000 people. The islands are located around 200 to 440 km off the coast of Kerala and are spread over an area of 32 sq km.
Union Territories in India: Delhi
Delhi, the capital city of India, is a vibrant and bustling metropolis that blends the country’s rich heritage with modernity. The city is a melting pot of different cultures, traditions, and languages, making it one of the most diverse and cosmopolitan cities in the world. Delhi has a rich history, having served as the capital of various empires and kingdoms throughout its existence.
The city is divided into two parts, Old Delhi and New Delhi. Old Delhi, also known as the Walled City, is the historic center of Delhi and is home to some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, such as the Red Fort, Jama Masjid, and Chandni Chowk. This area is characterized by narrow streets, bustling bazaars, and the aroma of delicious street food. The colorful markets and narrow alleyways of Old Delhi are a treat for the senses and offer a glimpse into the city’s rich past.
Union Territories in India: Puducherry
Puducherry is situated on the eastern coast of the country and is bordered by Tamil Nadu on all sides except for the eastern coast. Puducherry was a French colony until 1954, and this has influenced its culture and architecture.
Puducherry is a popular tourist destination, attracting visitors from all over the world. It is known for its beautiful beaches, scenic landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. The city is also famous for its spiritual and religious significance and has many temples, churches and ashrams.
Union Territories in India: Jammu and Kashmir
The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir is composed of two regions, namely Jammu and Kashmir Valley.
The capital city of the union territory is Srinagar, which is also the largest city in the Kashmir Valley. Jammu, located in the Jammu region, is the winter capital of the union territory. The official language of the union territory is Urdu, while Hindi and English are also widely spoken.
Union Territories in India: Ladakh
Ladakh is a Union Territory of India that was created on October 31, 2019, by bifurcating the former state of Jammu and Kashmir into two separate Union Territories: Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh. Ladakh is located in the northernmost part of India and shares borders with Tibet to the east, the Indian state of Himachal Pradesh to the south, and the Pakistani-administered territory of Gilgit-Baltistan to the west.
The Union Territory of Ladakh consists of two districts: Leh and Kargil. Leh is the largest district in Ladakh and is known for its stunning landscapes, including high-altitude deserts, snow-capped mountains, and crystal-clear lakes. Kargil, on the other hand, is situated along the Line of Control (LoC) that separates India and Pakistan and is known for its strategic importance.
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