List of Union Territories of India, Check New UT List 2024

As of now, India consists of 8 union territories, following recent changes in its administrative divisions. These alterations included the reorganization of the state of Jammu & Kashmir into a distinct union territory and the creation of Ladakh as a separate union territory. These changes were implemented on October 31, 2019.

Moreover, on January 26, 2020, the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman & Diu was formed by merging the former union territories of “Daman & Diu” and “Dadra and Nagar Haveli.” Consequently, India now has 8 union territories instead of 9.

Union Territories of India

Union Territories (UTs) in India are directly governed by the central government, distinguishing them from states with their own separate administrations. Appointed officials oversee these territories under the authority of the President of India. UTs hold significant importance in India’s administrative and political framework.

Delhi is the capital of India, which also stands out of UT, serving as a hub for political and economic activities. Puducherry, famed for its French colonial heritage and picturesque coastal landscapes, is another noteworthy UT. showcases a seamless integration of urban planning and modern infrastructure. Each UT in India adds to the country’s diverse tapestry, offering unique characteristics and contributions.

List of Union Territories of India

The table above presents a comprehensive list of the Union Territories of India along with their respective years of formation. The Union Territories play a unique role in the administrative framework of the country.

Union Territories of 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 legislative assembly and elected government. It is known for its rich history, and 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 are known for their 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 of India on Map

India’s Union Territories are varied regions under the direct administration of the central government. Although they might not possess the identical degree of self-governance as states, they do possess distinct cultural, historical, and geographical importance. An illustration depicting the distribution of India’s Union Territories on a map highlights the dispersion of these territories throughout the nation.

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.

Chandigarh

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.

Dadra 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.

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 them 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.

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.

Puducherry

Puducherry, also known as Pondicherry, is a Union Territory located in the southern part of India.

Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Indian States and Capital

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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