States and Capitals

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States and Capitals – How Many States in India?

India, a vast South Asian nation and the world’s seventh-largest by land area, is divided into 28 states and 8 union territories, each with its own capital. These states and territories are further segmented into districts. New Delhi, situated in the National Capital Territory of Delhi, serves as India’s administrative, political, and cultural hub.

The states and capitals of India weave a rich and diverse tapestry, reflecting the country’s deep cultural heritage, traditions, and innovations. Exploring these regions offers a fascinating journey through time, blending ancient legacies with modern advancements, tradition with contemporary influence, and showcasing India’s remarkable unity in diversity.

In 1956, India reorganized its states according to linguistic demographics. Today, the country consists of 28 states and 8 Union Territories, home to nearly 400 cities. Among these, eight major metropolitan cities—Kolkata, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Bangalore, Ahmedabad, and Pune—are prominent. The Prime Minister has introduced a plan to develop 100 smart cities across the nation, with Indore being recognized as the Smart City for four consecutive years. Discover India’s dynamic urban landscape and its focus on modernization.

How many states in India?

India is the 7th largest country in the world by land area and the 2nd most populated. The country is divided into states and union territories so that the government can function properly. Below is a list of all 28 states, their capitals and the year they were formed.

S.NO	State	Capital	CM	Governor
1	Andhra Pradesh	Amaravati	Sri Nara Chandrababu Naidu	S. Abdul Nazer
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Itanagar	Pema Khandu	Kaiwalya Trivikram Parnaik
3	Assam	Dispur	Himanta Biswa Sarma	Lakshman Prasad Acharya
4	Bihar	Patna	Nitish Kumar	Arif Mohammed Khan
5	Chhattisgarh	Raipur	Vishnu Deo Sai	Ramen Deka
6	Goa	Panaji	Pramod Sawant	P.S. Sreedharan Pillai
7	Gujarat	Gandhinagar	Bhupendra Patel	Acharya Dev Vrat
8	Haryana	Chandigarh	Nayab Singh Saini	Bandaru Dattatraya
9	Himachal Pradesh	Shimla	Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu	Shiv Pratap Shukla
10	Jharkhand	Ranchi	Hemant Soren	Santosh Kumar Gangwar
11	Karnataka	Bengaluru	Siddaramaiah	Thaawarchand Gehlot
12	Kerala	Thiruvananthapuram	Pinarayi Vijayan	Rajendra Vishwanath Arlekar
13	Madhya Pradesh	Bhopal	Mohan Yadav	Mangubhai Chhaganbhai Patel
14	Maharashtra	Mumbai	Devendra Fadnavis	C.P. Radhakrishnan
15	Manipur	Imphal	N. Biren Singh	Ajay Kumar Bhalla
16	Meghalaya	Shillong	Conrad Kongkal Sangma	C H Vijayashankar
17	Mizoram	Aizawl	Lalduhoma	General (Dr.) Vijay Kumar Singh, PVSM, AVSM, YSM (Retd.)
18	Nagaland	Kohima	Neiphiu Rio	La. Ganesan
19	Odisha	Bhubaneswar	Mohan Charan Majhi	Dr. Hari Babu Kambhampati
20	Punjab	Chandigarh	Bhagwant Singh Mann	Gulab Chand Kataria
21	Rajasthan	Jaipur	Bhajan Lal Sharma	Haribhau Kisanrao Bagde
22	Sikkim	Gangtok	PS Golay	Om Prakash Mathur
23	Tamil Nadu	Chennai	M. K. Stalin	R. N. Ravi
24	Telangana	Hyderabad	Anumula Revanth Reddy	Jishnu Dev Varma
25	Tripura	Agartala	Dr. Manik Saha	Indra Sena Reddy Nallu
26	Uttar Pradesh	Lucknow	Yogi Aditya Nath	Anandiben Patel
27	Uttarakhand	Dehradun	Pushkar Singh Dhami	Lt. Gen. Gurmit Singh
28	West Bengal	Kolkata	Mamata Banerjee	Dr. C.V. Ananda Bose

Union Territories of India and Their Capitals

India has 8 union territories that are managed by the central government. Some of them have their own legislative assemblies. Below is the of these union territories and their capitals:

S.NO	Union Territories	Capital	CM	Lt. Governor
1	Andaman and Nicobar Island	Port Blair	NA	D K Joshi
2	Chandigarh	Chandigarh	NA	Banwarilal Purohit
3	Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu	Daman	NA	Praful Patel
4	Delhi	Delhi	Rekha Gupta	Vinai Kumar Saxena
5	Ladakh	NA	NA	B. D. Mishra
6	Lakshadweep	Kavaratti	NA	Praful Patel
7	Jammu and Kashmir	NA	Omar Abdullah	Manoj Sinha
8	Puducherry	Pondicherry	N. Rangaswamy	C. P. Radhakrishnan

Difference Between States and Union Territories

India is divided into states and Union Territories for administrative purposes. They are in different in how they are governed.

Basis of Difference	States	Union Territories
Head of Administration	Governor	Administrator or Lieutenant Governor
Government Type	Elected by the People	Managed by the central government
Powers	Shares power with the central government.	Controlled directly by the central government.

Indian States and their Languages

India is a country with a rich and diverse linguistic heritage. There are over 121 languages spoken in India, and each state has its unique linguistic landscape. The Indian Constitution recognizes 22 languages as “scheduled languages,” which are given special status in government and education.

S. No.	States	Language
1	Andhra Pradesh	Telugu and Urdu
2	Arunachal Pradesh	Miji, Apotanji, Merdukpen, Tagin, Adi, Honpa, Banging-Nishi
3	Assam	Assamese
4	Bihar	Hindi
5	Chhattisgarh	Hindi
6	Goa	Marathi Konkani
7	Gujarat	Gujarati
8	Haryana	Hindi
9	Himachal Pradesh	Hindi and Pahari
10	Jharkhand	Hindi
11	Karnataka	Kannada
12	Kerala	Malayalam
13	Madhya Pradesh	Hindi
14	Maharashtra	Marathi
15	Manipur	Manipuri
16	Meghalaya	Khashi, Jaintia, And Garo
17	Mizoram	Mizo and English
18	Nagaland	Ao, Konyak, Angami, Sema, and Lotha
19	Odisha	Oriya
20	Punjab	Punjabi
21	Rajasthan	Rajasthani and Hindi
22	Sikkim	Bhutia, Hindi, Nepali, Lepcha, Limbu
23	Tamil Nadu	Tamil
24	Telangana	Telugu
25	Tripura	Bengali, Tripuri, Manipuri, Kakborak
26	Uttar Pradesh	Hindi
27	Uttarakhand	Hindi
28	West Bengal	Bengali

Some Key Facts About Indian States

Each state in India is unique and has something special. Here are some interesting facts about a few states:

Andhra Pradesh: Famous for spicy food and historical sites like Charminar.
Assam: Know for tea gardens and Kaziranga National Park, home to the one-horned rhinoceros.
Bihar: A place with a rich history, home to Bodh Gaya and the ancient city of Pataliputra.
Goa: Popular for beautiful beaches and a lively nightlife.
Kerala: Famous for its backwaters, Ayurveda treatments and lush green nature.
Maharashtra: Mumbai, the financial capital, is also home to Bollywood.
Himachal Pradesh: Known for stunning hill stations and adventure sports.
Tamil Nadu: Famous for classical dance forms and grand temples.

Gallantry Awards 2025: Here is The Full List of 127 Awardees

On August 14, 2025, on the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu formally approved a series of gallantry and service recognitions honoring the valor and dedication of the Indian Armed Forces and Central Armed Police Forces. These include 127 gallantry awards, 40 distinguished service awards, and 290 mentions‑in‑des‑patches, reflecting India’s unwavering commitment to acknowledging exceptional bravery and service in the line of duty

Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal

Awarded for exceptionally distinguished wartime service,

Lieutenant General Pratik Sharma, Northern Command
Lieutenant General Rajiv Ghai, DGMO
Vice Admiral Sanjay Jasjit Singh, Navy
Air Marshal Narmdeshwar Tiwari, Vice Chief of Air Staff
Air Marshal Nagesh Kapoor, AOC-in-C South Western Air Command
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra, AOC-in-C Western Air Command
Air Marshal Awadhesh Kumar Bharti, Director General of Air Operations

Kirti Chakra

Awarded for conspicuous gallantry otherwise than in the face of the enemy,

Captain Lalrinawma Sailo, 4 Para (Special Forces), Army
Lieutenant Shashank Tiwari, ASC, Sikkim Scouts, Army
Lance Naik Meenatchi Sundaram A, Regiment of Artillery, Army
Sepoy Janjal Pravin Prabhakar, Mahar Regiment, Army

Vir Chakra

Awarded for acts of gallantry in the presence of the enemy,

Colonel Koshank Lamba, 302 Medium Regiment, Army
Lieutenant Colonel Sushil Bisht, 1988 (Independent) Medium Battery, Army
Naib Subedar Satish Kumar, 4 Dogra, Army
Rifleman Sunil Kumar, 4 Jammu & Kashmir Light Infantry, Army

Additionally, nine IAF fighter pilots were also awarded the Vir Chakra for their valor during Operation Sindoor.

Shaurya Chakra

For gallantry otherwise than in the face of the enemy,

Lieutenant Colonel Neetesh Bharti Shukla, 19 Sikh, Army
Major Bhargav Kalita, Kumaon Regiment, Army
Major Ashish Kumar, 7 Para (Special Forces), Army
Major Aditya Pratap Singh, Assam Rifles, Army
Assistant Commandant Mohd Shafiq, Assam Rifles, Army
Subedar Shamsher Singh, 4 Para (Special Forces), Army
Lance Naik Rahul Singh, 4 Para (Special Forces), Army
Rifleman Bhoj Ram Sahu, Assam Rifles, Army

Yudh Seva Medal

For distinguished service in an operational context,

Major General Sandeep Sudarshan Sharda, Army
Brigadier Rakesh Nair, Army
Brigadier Vivek Goel, Army
Brigadier Surjeet Kumar Singh, Army
Brigadier Sonender Singh, Army
Brigadier Vivek Puri, Army
Brigadier Mudit Mahajan, Army
Subedar Vinod Kumar, Army
Naib Subedar Ratneswar Ghosh, Army

BSF Gallantry Awards

16 personnel of the Border Security Force were awarded gallantry medals for exceptional bravery during Operation Sindoor.

IAF and Missile System Awards

Gallantry awards were also extended to top IAF officers, fighter pilots, and S‑400 system operators involved in Operation Sindoor.

Operation Sindoor: Gallantry Awards Announced for Armed Forces Heroes

On the eve of Independence Day 2025, the Government of India announced gallantry awards for officers of the Indian Armed Forces who played pivotal roles in Operation Sindoor—a tri-services mission targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The awards recognise exceptional bravery, operational excellence, and distinguished service during one of India’s most decisive counter-terrorism missions.

Background: Operation Sindoor

Operation Sindoor was launched in retaliation for the Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 civilians. The attack was claimed by The Resistance Front (TRF), a proxy for Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT).

The operation involved coordinated Army, Navy, and Air Force action,

The Indian Army destroyed nine terrorist bases linked to Jaish-e-Mohammed, Lashkar-e-Taiba, and Hizbul Mujahideen in Pakistan and PoK.
The Indian Air Force executed precision strikes on four targets inside Pakistan and five in PoK.
The Indian Navy provided operational support from Indian soil.

Major Awards Announced

1. Sarvottam Yudh Seva Medal (SYSM) – Highest wartime distinguished service award

Awarded to four officers, including senior IAF leadership,

Air Marshal Narnadeshwar Tiwari – Air Staff
Air Marshal Jeetendra Mishra – Western Air Commander
Air Marshal Awadhesh Bharti – DG Air Operations
Vice Admiral SJ Singh – Former Western Naval Commander

Additionally, two senior Indian Army officers were selected for SYSM.

2. Uttam Yudh Seva Medal (UYSM)

Vice Admiral Tarun Sobti – Deputy Chief of Naval Staff

3. Yudh Seva Medal (YSM) – For distinguished service during war

Thirteen IAF officers, including,

Air Vice Marshal Joseph Suares
Air Vice Marshal Prajual Singh
Air Commodore Ashok Raj Thakur

4. Vayu Sena Medal (VM) – For exceptional courage in air operations

Awarded to 26 officers, such as,

Group Captain Ankur Hakim
Group Captain Varun Bhoj (Flying)
Wing Commander Mayank Paliwal (Flying)
Squadron Leader Kaustubh Nalawade (Flying)
Flight Lieutenant A. Naveen Chandar (Administration/Fighter Controller)

5. Veer Chakra – Gallantry award for acts of exceptional bravery

Awarded to officers including,

Group Captain Ranjeet Singh Sidhu
Group Captain Manish Arora
Squadron Leader Sarthak Kumar
Flight Lieutenant Arshweer Singh Thakur

Significance

These honours not only commend individual bravery and skill but also mark Operation Sindoor as a milestone in India’s counter-terrorism operations. The mission showcased,

Tri-services coordination
Indigenous operational capability under Atmanirbhar Bharat
Strategic precision strikes without crossing international borders

1,090 Personnel Awarded Gallantry and Service Medals on Independence Day 2025

On the occasion of Independence Day 2025, the Government of India has honoured 1,090 personnel from Police, Fire, Home Guard & Civil Defence (HG&CD), and Correctional Services with Gallantry and Service Medals. The awards recognise exceptional bravery, distinguished records of service, and meritorious contributions in maintaining public safety and national security.

Breakdown of Awards

1. Gallantry Medals (GM)

Total Awarded: 233
Police Service: 226
Fire Service: 6
Home Guard & Civil Defence: 1
Criteria: Awarded for rare and conspicuous acts of gallantry in saving lives and property, preventing crime, or arresting criminals—often under significant personal risk.

Regional Distribution of GM Awards

Jammu & Kashmir: 152
Left Wing Extremism (LWE) affected areas: 54
North-East region: 3
Other regions: 24

2. President’s Medal for Distinguished Service (PSM)

Total Awarded: 99
Police Service: 89
Fire Service: 5
Civil Defence & Home Guard: 3
Correctional Service: 2
Criteria: Awarded for a special and distinguished record of service.

3. Medal for Meritorious Service (MSM)

Total Awarded: 758
Police Service: 635
Fire Service: 51
Civil Defence & Home Guard: 41
Correctional Service: 31
Criteria: Recognises valuable service marked by resourcefulness and devotion to duty.

Significance of the Awards

The Gallantry Medals highlight acts of extraordinary courage, particularly in conflict zones like Jammu & Kashmir and LWE-affected regions, reflecting the dedication of India’s security forces in high-risk environments.
The PSM and MSM awards underscore the importance of consistent excellence and professional dedication in public safety services.

President Droupadi Murmu’s Address on the Eve of the 79th Independence Day

On the eve of India’s 79th Independence Day, President Droupadi Murmu extended greetings to citizens and paid homage to the freedom fighters whose sacrifices won India its independence in 1947. She reflected on the journey from colonial rule to a thriving democracy, underscoring the values of justice, liberty, equality, and fraternity enshrined in the Constitution.

Key Themes of the Address

1. Economic Growth and Development

India’s GDP grew 6.5% in the last fiscal, making it the fastest-growing major economy.
Inflation under control, exports rising, and strong domestic demand.
Infrastructure expansion under Bharatmala Pariyojana, metro rail network growth, and historic rail link to the Kashmir Valley.
Social welfare schemes like Jal Jeevan Mission and Ayushman Bharat improving living standards.
Over 55 crore people covered under Ayushman Bharat, with recent extension to all citizens above 70 years.

2. Technology and Digital Economy

Near-universal 4G connectivity; digital transactions lead globally.
India-AI Mission launched to make India a global AI hub by 2047.
Direct Benefit Transfers ensuring leakage-free welfare delivery.

3. Social Empowerment

Focus on youth, women, and marginalized communities.
NEP aligning skills with values; booming job and startup opportunities.
Nari Shakti Vandan Adhiniyam strengthening women’s representation.
Rise in women’s achievements in sports, defence, and governance.

4. Defence and National Security

Operation Sindoor hailed as a decisive response to terrorism in Kashmir.
Demonstrated India’s strategic clarity, indigenous defence capability, and unity in the face of threats.
Strengthened Atmanirbhar Bharat in defence manufacturing.

5. Governance and Ethics

Call for zero tolerance towards corruption, quoting Mahatma Gandhi’s warning against corruption in democracy.
Emphasis on good governance and inclusive development.

6. Environmental Responsibility

Appeal for lifestyle changes to combat climate change.
Urged citizens to protect rivers, forests, and biodiversity for future generations.

ICICI Bank Reduces Minimum Balance Requirement After Public Outrage

ICICI Bank, India’s second-largest private lender, has revised its minimum average balance (MAB) requirement for new savings account holders after facing widespread criticism. The bank had recently raised the MAB from ₹10,000 to ₹50,000 for new customers in urban areas, but public backlash forced a rollback. As of now, the new MAB for urban customers has been reduced to ₹15,000.

Details of the Revised Policy

The initial hike to ₹50,000 was announced just days earlier, drawing negative reactions from customers and financial experts alike. Critics argued that the increase was excessive, especially when compared to other banks that have either lowered MAB thresholds or eliminated them altogether.

Responding to the criticism, ICICI Bank issued a revised policy,

Urban areas: MAB revised to ₹15,000 (from ₹50,000)
Semi-urban areas: MAB reduced to ₹7,500 (from ₹25,000)
Rural and semi-urban old customers: MAB remains at ₹5,000
While the new urban MAB is still ₹5,000 higher than the original ₹10,000, it marks a significant rollback from the steep ₹50,000 threshold.

Comparison with Other Banks

ICICI Bank’s earlier hike had stood out, particularly when most Indian banks maintain MAB levels between ₹2,000 and ₹10,000. For example, State Bank of India (SBI)—India’s largest lender—removed its minimum balance rule in 2020, setting a customer-friendly precedent.

Banks like HDFC, Axis, and Kotak Mahindra have generally opted for more moderate MAB requirements, making ICICI’s ₹50,000 move appear disproportionate. This likely added to the intensity of the backlash and led to the subsequent policy correction.

Public Reaction and Policy Implications

The rapid revision shows the power of customer response in influencing banking policies in a competitive market. Financial inclusion advocates had warned that such a high MAB would discourage low-income individuals and new account holders from engaging with formal banking.

By reducing the MAB, ICICI Bank aims to restore public trust, while still maintaining a higher-than-average threshold. The move also raises questions about banking transparency, regulatory oversight, and the need for balance between profitability and inclusivity.

Which is the Richest Country of Asia in 2025?

Asia is home to some of the world’s fastest-growing economies and wealthiest nations. Each country’s prosperity is shaped by its natural resources, industries, technology, and trade. In this article, we look at the richest country in Asia in 2025, based on its GDP per capita and overall economic strength, and explore the factors that contribute to its remarkable wealth.

Richest Country in Asia in 2025

In 2025, Singapore achieved the title of the richest country in Asia based on GDP per capita (purchasing power parity), with an impressive figure exceeding $153,000. What makes this achievement remarkable is that Singapore reached the top without relying on abundant natural resources like oil and gas, unlike Qatar or the UAE. Instead, it built its success on finance, international trade, advanced manufacturing, and innovation.

Singapore’s Path to Wealth

Strong Governance and Stability: Singapore’s government is known for being efficient, transparent, and corruption-free. This stability has created a secure environment for investors and businesses, enabling long-term economic growth.
Strategic Geographic Location: Situated between major global trade routes and close to two oceans, Singapore has one of the busiest ports in the world. This makes it a global hub for shipping and logistics.
An Open and Competitive Economy: The country follows a pro-business approach with low taxes, free trade policies, and supportive regulations, attracting multinational companies from around the globe.

Key Pillars of Singapore’s Economic Success

Education and Skilled Workforce: By investing heavily in world-class education, Singapore has built a highly skilled and innovative workforce, capable of driving high-tech industries and productivity.
Global Connectivity: Strong diplomatic and trade relationships have allowed Singapore to integrate deeply into the global economy, making it a trusted partner for business and investment.
Economic Diversification: Unlike resource-dependent nations, Singapore’s economy thrives in finance, technology, manufacturing, and tourism. This diversification reduces risks from market fluctuations.
Modern Infrastructure: With advanced transport systems, efficient urban planning, and reliable communications, Singapore ensures smooth business operations and a high standard of living for its residents.

Why Singapore is a Global Model?

Singapore’s story is a blueprint for sustainable development. It shows how long-term planning, economic discipline, and strategic global partnerships can turn a small, resource-poor nation into an economic powerhouse.

Krishna Janmashtami 2025, When and How it is Celebrated?

Krishna Janmashtami is one of the most loved and important festivals in Hinduism, marking the birth of Lord Krishna, the eighth incarnation of Lord Vishnu. Celebrated with joy and devotion by Krishna followers all over the world, this day falls on the Ashtami Tithi of Krishna Paksha in the month of Bhadrapada. In 2025, the festival will be extra special as it marks the 5252nd birth anniversary of Lord Krishna.

Krishna Janmashtami 2025 – Date and Time

This year, Janmashtami will be celebrated on two consecutive days – August 15 and August 16, 2025.

Important things:

Ashtami Tithi Begins: August 15, 2025 – 11:49 PM
Ashtami Tithi Ends: August 16, 2025 – 09:34 PM
Rohini Nakshatra Begins: August 17, 2025 – 04:38 AM
Rohini Nakshatra Ends: August 18, 2025 – 03:17 AM
Nishita Puja Time: August 16, 2025 – 12:03 AM to 12:46 AM
Midnight Moment: August 16, 2025 – 12:25 AM
Parana Time: August 16, 2025 – After 09:34 PM

Significance of Janmashtami

Lord Krishna was born to Mata Devaki and Vasudeva in Mathura under very difficult conditions. At the time, they were imprisoned by the cruel king Kansa, who was Krishna’s maternal uncle. It is believed that Lord Krishna took birth at midnight under the Rohini Nakshatra to protect the world from evil. His life and teachings, especially from the Bhagavad Gita, continue to inspire millions.

Main Puja Rituals of Krishna Janmashtami 2025

Morning Preparation – Devotees wake up early, take a bath, and clean their homes.
Decoration – The puja area is beautifully decorated with flowers, lights, and sometimes balloons.
Bathing the Idol – The idol of Laddoo Gopal (child form of Krishna) is bathed in milk, curd, honey, and holy water.
Dressing the Idol – Laddoo Gopal is dressed in new clothes, jewellery, and adorned with a peacock feather crown.
Offerings – Devotees offer flowers, sweets, fruits, and panchamrit to Lord Krishna.
Devotional Activities – Singing bhajans, chanting mantras, and reading stories from the Bhagavad Gita.
Midnight Celebration – The exact time of Krishna’s birth is celebrated with prayers, aarti, and breaking of the fast.

Dahi Handi Tradition

In Maharashtra and Gujarat, Dahi Handi is an exciting part of Janmashtami celebrations. A clay pot filled with butter or curd is hung high, and teams form human pyramids to break it. This event reflects Krishna’s playful love for butter and teaches teamwork and courage.

Dahi Handi 2025 Date: August 16, 2025 (Saturday)

Popular Janmashtami Mantras

Om Kleem Krishnaye Namah
Om Namo Bhagavate Vasudevaya

These mantras are chanted to seek blessings, peace, and prosperity.

Janmashtami 2025 – Wishes

May the blessings of Lord Krishna fill your life with love, joy, and endless happiness. Happy Janmashtami 2025!
On this holy day, let’s remember the teachings of Lord Krishna and walk on the path of truth and righteousness. Wishing you a blessed Janmashtami!
May Lord Krishna’s flute bring the melody of love into your life and guide you towards eternal peace. Happy Janmashtami!
Let’s celebrate the birth of the divine with devotion in our hearts and joy in our souls. Jai Shri Krishna!
May the spirit of Janmashtami bring light to your home, peace to your soul, and love to your heart.

Unsung Heroes of Freedom Struggle: Kanaklata Barua

Unsung Freedom Fighters of India: Kanaklata Barua

India’s independence was achieved through the sacrifice of many brave hearts, including those whose names are not as widely known. One such courageous young woman was Kanaklata Barua, who gave her life for the nation’s freedom. Her story is one of determination, patriotism, and youthful bravery during the Quit India Movement.

Who was Kanaklata Barua?

Kanaklata Barua, often referred to as Birbala and Shaheed, was a prominent Indian independence activist. Born on December 22, 1924, in the undivided Darrang district of Assam, Barua made significant contributions to the Quit India Movement. Her bravery and ultimate sacrifice became symbols of the Indian struggle for independence.

Early Life of Kanaklata Barua

Kanaklata Barua was born in Borangabari village, Darrang district, Assam, to Krishna Kanta and Karneshwari Barua. Her family hailed from the Dolakasharia Barua kingdom of the Ahom state. After her mother’s death when she was five, and her father’s death at thirteen, Barua was forced to leave school after class three to support her younger siblings.

Role in India’s Independence

During the Quit India Movement of 1942, Barua joined the Mrityu Bahini, a group of youth committed to the cause of independence. On September 20, 1942, she led a procession carrying the nationalist flag towards the local police station in Gohpur. Despite warnings from the police, the procession continued. Barua was shot and killed by the police, along with Mukunda Kakoti, who also carried the flag. Barua was just 17 years old at the time of her death.

Legacy of Kanaklata Barua

Kanaklata Barua’s sacrifice is commemorated in various ways. The Indian Coast Guard vessel ICGS Kanak Lata Barua, commissioned in 1997, is named in her honor. A life-size statue of Barua was unveiled in Gauripur in 2011, and her powerful speech remains an enduring source of inspiration.

Barua’s story was depicted in the film “Epaah Phulil Epaah Xoril,” directed by Chandra Mudoi. The Hindi version, “Purab Ki Awaz,” was also released to reach a broader audience, highlighting her contributions and legacy in Indian cinema.

General Knowledge Quiz on Qutab Minar, Questions and Answers

The Qutab Minar, a famous symbol of India’s history, rises high in Delhi and is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Built in 1193 AD by Qutb-ud-din Aibak, this tall minaret is well known for its beautiful carvings and grand design. This article shares interesting facts about its history, construction, and importance through a GK quiz on Qutab Minar.

An Overview of Qutab Minar

The Qutab Minar, located in Delhi’s Mehrauli area, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a prominent example of early Islamic architecture in India. Built between 1199 and 1220, this towering minaret stands 73 meters tall and features intricate inscriptions and geometric patterns. It is renowned for its elaborate decoration and historical significance as part of the Qutab complex, Delhi’s oldest fortified city, Lal Kot.

Recently, the Qutab Minar has gained attention for its special illuminations. In September 2023, it was lit in the colors of the Mexican flag to celebrate Mexico’s Independence Day, and in October, it displayed the Turkish flag to mark the 100th anniversary of the Republic of Turkey. These events highlighted the monument’s role in international relations and cultural celebrations.

GK Quiz on Qutab Minar, Questions and Answers

This General Knowledge quiz on the Qutab Minar will test your knowledge about one of India’s most iconic historical monuments. The questions cover various aspects of the Qutab Minar, including its history, architecture, and significance, offering an engaging way to learn more about this historic monument.

Q1. In which year was the Qutab Minar designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

a) 1985

b) 1990

c) 1993

d) 1997

S1. Ans. (c)

Q2. Who started the construction of the Qutab Minar?

a) Iltutmish

b) Ala-ud-Din Khalji

c) Firuz Shah Tughlaq

d) Qutb ud-Din Aibak

S2. Ans. (d)

Q3. Which architectural style does the Qutab Minar represent?

a) Mughal Architecture

b) Dravidian Architecture

c) Islamic Architecture

d) Indo-Saracenic Architecture

S3. Ans. (c)

Q4. How many steps are there inside the Qutab Minar?

a) 350

b) 375

c) 379

d) 399

S4. Ans. (c)

Q5. What is the diameter of the Qutab Minar’s base?

a) 10.3 meters

b) 12.5 meters

c) 14.3 meters

d) 16.7 meters

S5. Ans. (c)

Q6. Who added a pillared cupola to the Qutab Minar during its restoration in 1828?

a) Firuz Shah Tughlaq

b) Sikandar Lodi

c) Major Robert Smith

d) Viscount Hardinge

S6. Ans. (c)

Q7. Which ruler completed the construction of three more stories after Qutb ud-Din Aibak?

a) Ala-ud-Din Khalji

b) Firuz Shah Tughlaq

c) Shamsuddin Iltutmish

d) Sikandar Lodi

S7. Ans. (c)

Q8. What is the name of the pillar in the courtyard near Qutab Minar?

a) Ashoka Pillar

b) Iron Pillar

c) Stone Pillar

d) Victory Pillar

S8. Ans. (b)

Q9. What is the height of the Qutab Minar?

a) 70.5 meters

b) 72.5 meters

c) 74.5 meters

d) 76.5 meters

S9. Ans. (b)

Q10. Which of the following monuments is located at the foot of the Qutab Minar?

a) Taj Mahal

b) Quwat Ul Islam Mosque

c) Red Fort

d) Humayun’s Tomb

S10. Ans. (b)

General Knowledge Quiz on Red Fort, Questions and Answers

The Red Fort in Delhi is one of India’s most famous monuments and a symbol of the country’s rich history. Built during the Mughal era, it has witnessed many important events, including the country’s Independence Day celebrations. This article presents a general knowledge quiz with questions and answers to help you learn more about the Red Fort’s history, architecture, and significance.

An Overview of Red Fort

The Red Fort, or Lal Qila, is a historic fort in Delhi, India, commissioned by Emperor Shah Jahan in 1639 when he moved his capital from Agra to Delhi. Designed by Ustad Ahmad Lahori, the architect of the Taj Mahal, the fort is a remarkable example of Mughal architecture, blending Persian and Indian styles.

Over the centuries, the fort has witnessed significant events, including its plunder by Nader Shah in 1739 and its use as a British garrison post-1857. Today, it is celebrated annually on Independence Day, when India’s Prime Minister hoists the national flag and delivers a speech. The Red Fort was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2007.

GK Quiz on Red Fort, Questions and Answers

The Red Fort, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is an iconic symbol of India’s rich history and architecture. This quiz explores various aspects of the Red Fort, from its construction and historical significance to architectural features and cultural impact. Test your knowledge with our GK quiz on Red Fort in the form of questions and answers.

Q1. Who commissioned the construction of the Red Fort?

a) Aurangzeb

b) Jahangir

c) Shah Jahan

d) Akbar

S1. Ans. (c)

Q2. In which year was the construction of the Red Fort completed?

a) 1639

b) 1648

c) 1654

d) 1666

S2. Ans. (b)

Q3. Which architect is credited with the design of the Red Fort?

a) Ustad Ahmad Lahori

b) Mirza Ghiyas Beg

c) Abdul Rahim Khan-I-Khana

d) Saadiq Khan

S3. Ans. (a)

Q4. What is the height range of the Red Fort’s walls?

a) 10-25 meters

b) 18-33 meters

c) 20-45 meters

d) 15-30 meters

S4. Ans. (b)

Q5. What significant event took place at the Red Fort on 15 August 1947?

a) The end of Mughal rule

b) The first Indian Independence Day flag hoisting

c) The signing of the Indian Constitution

d) The demolition of the fort

S5. Ans. (b)

Q6. Which gate is used as the main entrance to the Red Fort?

a) Delhi Gate

b) Ajmeri Gate

c) Lahori Gate

d) Kashmiri Gate

S6. Ans. (c)

Q7. What year was the Red Fort designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site?

a) 1987

b) 2000

c) 2007

d) 2015

S7. Ans. (c)

Q8. Who plundered the Red Fort in 1739?

a) Ahmad Shah Durrani

b) Nadir Shah

c) Babur

d) Sher Shah Suri

S8. Ans. (b)

Q9. What was the original name of the Red Fort as the residence of the imperial family?

a) Qila-i-Mubarak

b) Diwan-i-Khas

c) Rang Mahal

d) Moti Masjid

S9. Ans. (a)

Q10. Which architectural style is the Red Fort known for?

a) Gothic

b) Indo-Islamic

c) Romanesque

d) Baroque

S10. Ans. (b)