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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.

States and Capitals

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.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as Sonanchal?

In Uttar Pradesh, there is a district known for its rich mineral resources, beautiful landscapes and historical sites. This region is famous for its scenic hills, flowing rivers and ancient forts. It also plays a key role in electricity production due to its power plants. The area attracts tourists with its waterfalls, temples and natural beauty, making it a significant place in the state.

An Overview of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh is a state in northern India and the most populated in the country, with over 241 million people. It covers an area of 243,286 square kilometers, making it the fourth-largest state. UP shares borders with Rajasthan, Bihar, Nepal and Madhya Pradesh. Lucknow is its capital, while Prayagraj is the judicial capital. The state has 75 districts and plays a key role in India’s economy and culture.

Number of Districts of Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, has 75 districts. For better governance, these districts are divided into 18 administrative divisions. This division helps in managing the large population and ensuring efficient administration.

Which District of Uttar Pradesh is Known as Sonanchal?

Sonbhadra, the southernmost district of Uttar Pradesh, is famously known as Sonanchal. This region is rich in natural beauty and mineral wealth, making it significant for the state’s economy. The district is also called the “Energy Capital” due to its major power plants.

Why is Sonbhadra Called the Sonanchal?

Here are some reasons why Sonbhadra earned the title of “Sonanchal”:

  • Flow of the Son River: The name “Sonanchal” comes from the Son River, which flows through the district. The river adds to the region’s identity and gives it this name.
  • Mineral-Rich Land: Sonbhadra is known for its abundant mineral resources. The district has deposits of coal, gold, bauxite, limestone and granite, making it an important mining region.
  • Energy Production Hub: Sonbhadra is called the “Energy Capital” of Uttar Pradesh. It has several thermal power plants, hydro power projects and solar energy plants, contributing significantly to electricity production.

Cabinet Approves 2% Hike in DA for Government Employees

On March 28, 2025, the Union Cabinet, chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, approved a 2% increase in Dearness Allowance (DA) for central government employees and Dearness Relief (DR) for pensioners. This hike, effective from January 1, 2025, raises the DA from 53% to 55% of Basic Pay/Pension, benefiting approximately 48.66 lakh employees and 66.55 lakh pensioners. The revision follows the established formula based on the 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations and aims to counter inflationary pressures.

Key Points

Increase in DA/DR

  • DA and DR increased by 2% from 53% to 55% of Basic Pay/Pension.
  • Effective date: January 1, 2025.

Beneficiaries

  • 48.66 lakh central government employees.
  • 66.55 lakh pensioners.

Financial Impact

  • Estimated burden on the exchequer: ₹6,614.04 crore per annum.

Background

  • DA is revised twice a year (January and July) based on the All India Consumer Price Index for Industrial Workers (AICPI-IW).
  • Last increase: July 2024, when DA rose from 50% to 53%.
  • The increase aligns with the 7th Central Pay Commission’s recommendations.

Purpose

  • DA is designed to offset inflation and maintain the real value of government employees’ salaries.
  • Anticipation of the 8th Pay Commission has increased interest in DA hikes.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Cabinet Approves 2% Hike in DA for Government Employees
Approval Date March 28, 2025
Effective Date January 1, 2025
DA Increase 2% (from 53% to 55%)
Beneficiaries 48.66 lakh employees, 66.55 lakh pensioners
Financial Impact ₹6,614.04 crore per annum
Last Increase July 2024 (from 50% to 53%)
Basis for Revision 7th Central Pay Commission, AICPI-IW

Richest Man in the World by March 2025, Know About the Top-10 Richest Men

The world’s richest men have built massive fortunes through technology, retail and investments. Their companies influence global markets and shape industries. From tech giants like Tesla and Amazon to luxury brands like LVMH, these billionaires control vast empires. Their wealth comes from stocks, business expansions and smart investments. In this article, we will explore the top-10 richest men in the world by March 2025.

World’s Richest Persons by March 2025

As of March 2025, the world’s richest individuals include Elon Musk, with a net worth of $359.5 billion, followed by Jeff Bezos at $230.7 billion. Other top names include Larry Ellison, Mark Zuckerberg and Bernard Arnault. These business leaders made their fortunes through companies in tech, luxury goods and finance. Their wealth is often tied to the success of their companies and they hold significant influence in global markets.

World’s Richest Man by March 2025

By March 2025, Elon Musk remains the world’s richest man with a net worth of $359.5 billion. His wealth comes from Tesla, the leading electric vehicle company, and SpaceX, which is transforming space travel. Musk also leads xAI, competing with OpenAI and Google DeepMind in artificial intelligence. However, Tesla faces growing competition from Chinese automakers and stricter U.S. and European regulations, making the market more challenging.

Net Worth of Elon Musk

As of March 2025, Elon Musk’s net worth is estimated at $359.5 billion, making him the wealthiest person in the world. His wealth comes mainly from his companies, Tesla and SpaceX, along with his investment in X (formerly Twitter). Musk’s success in technology and space exploration has driven his remarkable rise in wealth.

Age and Citizenship of Elon Musk

Elon Musk was born on June 28, 1971. As of now, he is 53 years old. He is known for being one of the most influential entrepreneurs in the world, leading companies like Tesla and SpaceX.

Elon Musk was born in Pretoria, South Africa, in 1971. He later became a Canadian citizen because his mother was born in Canada. In 2002, he became a US citizen, and he now lives and works in the United States.

Top-10 Richest Men in the World by March 2025

Elon Musk of United States, the CEO of Tesla, SpaceX and X, stands as the richest man in the world as of 2025 with an impressive net worth of $359.5 billion, followed by Jeff Bezos and Larry Ellison.

Here is the list of top-10 richest men in the world by March 2025:

Rank Name Net Worth (in $ billions) Source of Wealth Country 
1. Elon Musk $359.5 billion Tesla, SpaceX, X United States
2. Mark Zuckerberg $230.7 billion Meta (Facebook) United States
3. Jeff Bezos $226.7 billion Amazon United States
4. Larry Ellison $204.6 billion Oracle United States
5. Bernard Arnault $186.4 billion LVMH France
6. Warren Buffett $161.1 billion Berkshire Hathaway United States
7. Larry Page $141.5 billion Google United States
8. Sergey Brin $135.4 billion Google United States
9. Amancio Ortega $121.9 billion Zara-parent Inditex Spain
10. Steve Ballmer $118.9 billion Microsoft United States

Second Richest Person of the World – Mark Zuckerberg

Country: United States

Net worth: $230.7 billion

In late February, Mark Zuckerberg became the second richest person in the world for the first time. He overtook Jeff Bezos, whose wealth dropped by 11%. According to Forbes, Zuckerberg is now $4 billion richer than Bezos.

Zuckerberg co-founded Facebook (now Meta) in 2004 while studying at Harvard University. Meta owns Facebook, Instagram, and WhatsApp. He still owns 13% of the company.

Third Wealthiest Person of the World – Jeff Bezos

Country: United States

Net worth: $226.7 billion

Jeff Bezos founded Amazon and stepped down as CEO in 2021, although he still holds a strong influence as chairman. He also founded Blue Origin, a space company, and made a trip to space in 2021. Bezos’ wealth comes mainly from Amazon, which continues to be a leader in online retail.

IPL Winners & Runners-Up (2008-2025): Check the Full List of All-Time Champions

This article provides a complete IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2025, covering all 18 seasons, past champions, runner-ups, and match results—all in one place! Stay updated with every twist and turn as IPL 2025 continues to keep cricket lovers on the edge of their seats!

Since its kickoff on March 22, 2025, the tournament has already seen some intense rivalries, unexpected upsets, and stellar performances from both seasoned players and rising stars. With teams strengthening their squads and young talents making their mark, this season is shaping up to be one of the most competitive in IPL history.

Want to relive the journey of IPL champions over the years? Check out our complete IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2025, covering all 18 seasons, past champions, runner-ups, and match results—all in one place! Stay updated with every twist and turn as IPL 2025 continues to keep cricket lovers on the edge of their seats!

IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2025

IPL Winners List has been listed below for the readers along with the runner-up and the venues. Let’s have a look at the table of IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2025.

Year IPL Winners List Runner up Venue
2008 Rajasthan Royals Chennai Super Kings Mumbai
2009 Deccan Chargers Royal Challengers Bangalore Johannesburg
2010 Chennai Super Kings Mumbai Indians Mumbai
2011 Chennai Super Kings Royal Challengers Bangalore Chennai
2012 Kolkata Knight Riders Chennai Super Kings Chennai
2013 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings Kolkata
2014 Kolkata Knight Riders Kings XI Punjab Bangalore
2015 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings Kolkata
2016 Sunrisers Hyderabad Royal Challengers Bangalore Bangalore
2017 Mumbai Indians Rising Pune Supergiants Hyderabad
2018 Chennai Super Kings Sunrisers Hyderabad Mumbai
2019 Mumbai Indians Chennai Super Kings Hyderabad
2020 Mumbai Indians Delhi Capitals Dubai
2021 Chennai Super Kings Kolkata Knight Riders Dubai
2022 Gujarat Titians Rajasthan Royals Ahmedabad
2023 Chennai Super Kings Gujarat Titians Ahmedabad
2024 Kolkata Knight Riders Sunrisers Hyderabad Chennai
2025 Update Soon Update Soon Update Soon

Purple Cap Winners List from 2008 to 2025, Updated List

Most IPL Trophy Winners Team

Mumbai Indians (MI) and Chennai Super Kings (CSK) both are the most successful IPL team, having won the IPL tournament five times. The below given table describes the IPL Teams which have the maximum number of trophies in all seasons of IPL.

IPL Team IPL Trophy  IPL Winner
Mumbai Indians 5 times 2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020
Chennai Super Kings 5 times 2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023
Kolkata Knight Riders 3 times 2012, 2014, 2024
Sunrisers Hyderabad 1 time 2016
Rajasthan Royals 1 time 2008
Deccan Chargers 1 time 2009
Gujarat Titans 1 time 2022

IPL 2025 Schedule Announced

IPL 2025 Winners List: Man of the Match & Player of the Series

Let’s have a look at the IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2024 with Captain, Man of the Match in the final, and Player of the Series. The table given below gives a brief about the man of the match and player of the series:

IPL Winners List from 2008 to 2024 with Captain, Man of the Match in the final, and Player of the Series
Year Winner Captain Man of the Match Player of the Series
2008 Rajasthan Royals Shane Warne Yusuf Pathan Shane Watson
2009 Deccan Chargers Adam Gilchrist Anil Kumble Adam Gilchrist
2010 Chennai Super Kings MS Dhoni Suresh Raina Sachin Tendulkar
2011 Chennai Super Kings MS Dhoni Murali Vijay Chris Gayle
2012 Kolkata Knight Riders Gautam Gambhir Manvinder Bisla Sunil Narine
2013 Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma Kieron Pollard Shane Watson
2014 Kolkata Knight Riders Gautam Gambhir Manish Pandey Glenn Maxwell
2015 Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma Rohit Sharma Andre Russell
2016 Sunrisers Hyderabad David Warner Ben Cutting Virat Kohli
2017 Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma Krunal Pandya Ben Stokes
2018 Chennai Super Kings MS Dhoni Shane Watson Sunil Narine
2019 Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma Jasprit Bumrah Andre Russell
2020 Mumbai Indians Rohit Sharma Trent Boult Jofra Archer
2021 Chennai Super Kings MS Dhoni Faf du Plessis Harshal Patel
2022 Gujarat Titans Hardik Pandya Hardik Pandya Jos Butler
2023 Chennai Super Kings MS Dhoni Devon Conway Shubman Gill
2024 Kolkata Knight Riders Shreyas Iyer Mitchell Starc Sunil Narine
2025 Update Soon Update Soon Update Soon Update Soon

IPL Orange Cap Winner’s History

Shubman Gill of Gujarat Titans took the honours last season when he scored 890 runs in 17 innings which included three centuries. Here is the season-wise list of Orange Cap winners in IPL history ahead of the 2024 season.

Year Winners (Player) Innings Runs Highest Score Average Strike Rate 50 100 4s 6s
2008 Shaun Marsh (PBKS) 11 616 115 68.44 139.68 5 1 59 26
2009 Matthew Hayden (CSK) 12 572 89 52 144.81 5 0 60 22
2010 Sachin Tendulkar (MI) 15 618 89 47.53 132.61 5 0 86 3
2011 Chris Gayle (RCB) 12 608 107 67.55 183.13 3 2 57 44
2012 Chris Gayle (RCB) 14 733 128 61.08 160.74 7 1 46 59
2013 Michael Hussey (CSK) 17 733 95 52.35 129.5 6 0 81 17
2014 Robin Uthappa (KKR) 16 660 83 44 137.78 5 0 74 18
2015 David Warner (SRH) 14 562 91 43.23 156.54 7 0 65 21
2016 Virat Kohli (RCB) 16 973 113 81.08 152.03 7 4 83 38
2017 David Warner (SRH) 14 641 126 58.27 141.81 4 1 63 26
2018 Kane Williamson (SRH) 17 735 84 52.5 142.44 8 0 64 28
2019 David Warner (SRH) 12 692 100 69.2 143.87 8 1 57 21
2020 KL Rahul (PBKS) 14 670 132* 55.83 129.34 5 1 58 23
2021 Ruturaj Gaikwad (CSK) 16 635 101* 45.35 136.26 4 1 64 23
2022 Jos Buttler (RR) 17 863 116 57.53 149.05 4 4 83 45
2023 Shubman Gill 17 890 129 59.33 157.80 4 3 85 33
2024 Virat Kohli 15 741 113 61.75 154.7 5 1 62 38

IPL Purple Cap Winner’s History

The Purple Cap is awarded to the bowler who secures the highest number of wickets by the end of the tournament, although it frequently shifts among players throughout the matches. Mohammed Shami from Gujarat Titans bagged the Purple Cap in IPL 2023 for picking 28 wickets in 16 games.

YEAR PLAYER TEAM WICKETS
2008 Sohail Tanvir Rajasthan Royals 22
2009 RP Singh Deccan Chargers 23
2010 Pragyan Ojha Deccan Chargers 21
2011 Lasith Malinga Mumbai Indians 28
2012 Morne Morkel Delhi Daredevils 25
2013 Dwayne Bravo Chennai Super Kings 32
2014 Mohit Sharma Chennai Super Kings 23
2015 Dwayne Bravo Chennai Super Kings 26
2016 Bhuvneshwar Kumar Sunrisers Hyderabad 23
2017 Bhuvneshwar Kumar Sunrisers Hyderabad 26
2018 Andrew Tye Kings XI Punjab 24
2019 Imran Tahir Chennai Super Kings 26
2020 Kagiso Rabada Delhi Capitals 30
2021 Harshal Patel Royal Challengers Bangalore 32
2022 Yuzvendra Chahal Rajasthan Royals 27
2023 Mohammed Shami Gujarat Titans 28
2024 Harshal Patel Kings XI Punjab 24

Additional IPL Team Statistics

These statistics highlight the performances of the teams across various IPL seasons, showcasing their achievements and contributions to the league’s competitive landscape. ​​Here are the detailed statistics of various IPL teams, including their best results, number of titles, seasons played, and playoff qualifications:

Team Best Result Number of Titles Seasons First Latest Playoff Qualifications
Chennai Super Kings 1st (2010, 2011, 2018, 2021, 2023) 5 15 2008 2024 12
Mumbai Indians 1st (2013, 2015, 2017, 2019, 2020) 5 17 2008 2024 10
Kolkata Knight Riders 1st (2012, 2014) 2 17 2008 2024 8
Rajasthan Royals 1st (2008) 1 15 2008 2024 7
Sunrisers Hyderabad 1st (2016) 1 12 2013 2024 7
Deccan Chargers 1st (2009) 1 5 2008 2012 2
Gujarat Titans 1st (2022) 1 3 2022 2024 2
Royal Challengers Bangalore 2nd (2009, 2011, 2016) 0 17 2008 2024 9
Delhi Capitals 2nd (2020) 0 17 2008 2024 6
Punjab Kings 2nd (2014) 0 17 2008 2024 2
Rising Pune Supergiant 2nd (2017) 0 2 2016 2017 1
Gujarat Lions 3rd (2016) 0 2 2016 2017 1
Lucknow Super Giants 4th (2022) 0 3 2022 2024 2
Pune Warriors India 8th (2013) 0 3 2011 2013 0
Kochi Tuskers Kerala 8th (2011) 0 1 2011 2011 0

Who won IPL 2024?

Kolkata Knight Riders secured their third IPL title after delivering a commanding performance against Sunrisers Hyderabad in the IPL 2024 final at the MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai. Their dominant all-round display saw them dismiss SRH for just 113 runs, the lowest total ever recorded in an IPL final. With this resounding victory, KKR reaffirmed their strength in the tournament, showcasing excellence in both batting and bowling.

 

States and Capitals - How Many States in India?_8.1

Smallest State in India in terms of Area and Population

India, a country renowned for its rich diversity in cultures, languages and terrains, showcases a captivating tapestry of geographical features. Within its vast array of states, Goa distinguishes itself as the smallest state of India in terms of area or size, yet it possesses profound historical, cultural and natural significance. Famed for its pristine beaches, vibrant nightlife, enduring Portuguese influences and verdant scenery, Goa serves as a compelling testament to the notion that “small wonders can yield extraordinary experiences.” This article aims to unveil captivating insights about Goa, delving into the intricacies of India’s smallest state, considering both its land area and population.

How many States are there in India?

India has 28 states and 8 Union Territories. Each state has its own government and capital, while the Union Territories are governed by the Central Government. The states vary in size, population and culture, making India a diverse country. Some states are large like Rajasthan, while others, like Goa, are small.

Smallest State of India in Terms of Area

Goa is the smallest state in India by area, covering 3,702 square kilometers (1,429 square miles). It is located in the south-west corner of the country along the coast. Despite its small size, Goa is famous for its beautiful beaches, tourism and vibrant culture. It is a popular destination for travelers from around the world.

Here is the list of the smallest states of India by area:

S. No. State Area (sq. km)
1. Goa 3,702
2. Sikkim 7,096
3. Tripura 10,486
4. Nagaland 16,579
5. Mizoram 21,081
6. Manipur 22,327
7. Meghalaya 22,429
8. Kerala 38,963
9. Haryana 44,212
10. Punjab 50,362
11. Uttarakhand 53,483
12. Himachal Pradesh 55,673
13. Assam 78,438
14. Jharkhand 79,714
15. Arunachal Pradesh 83,743
16. West Bengal 88,752
17. Bihar 94,163
18. Telangana 112,077
19. Tamil Nadu 130,058
20. Chhattisgarh 135,191
21. Odisha 155,707
22. Andhra Pradesh 162,968
23. Karnataka 191,791
24. Gujarat 196,024
25. Uttar Pradesh 240,928
26. Maharashtra 307,713
27. Madhya Pradesh 308,245
28. Rajasthan 342,239

Key Facts about the Smallest State in Terms of Area, Goa

Some of the interesting facts about the smallest state, Goa are as follows:

  • Goa is India’s smallest state, covering just 3,702 sq. km.
  • Its coastline stretches for 105 km along the Arabian Sea.
  • Goa was a Portuguese colony for over 400 years, leading to a unique blend of Indian and European Cultures.
  • The Basilica of Bom Jesus in Goa houses the remains of St. Francis Xavier and showcases intricate Baroque architecture.
  • Goa’s Carnival, a legacy of its Portuguese past, is a vibrant pre-Lenten festival celebrated with colorful processions and music.
  • Goa is renowned for its palm-fringed beaches, including popular spots like Baga, Anjuma, and Palolem.
  • Dudhsagar Waterfalls, located in the state, is one of India’s highest waterfalls and a popular tourist attraction.
  • Goa is home to the Bhagwan Mahavir Wildlife Sanctuary, housing diverse wildlife including tigers and panthers.
  • The state is known for its cashew plantations and the production of feni, a traditional liquor made from cashew apples.
  • Sustainable tourism efforts are being promoted to preserve Goa’s natural beauty and cultural heritage amidst its popularity as a tourist destination.

India’s Smallest State in Terms of Population

Sikkim is the smallest state in India by population, with around 610,577 people. It is located in the northeast part of the country. Known for its beautiful mountain landscapes and peaceful environment, Sikkim attracts many tourists. Despite its small population, it is rich in culture and natural beauty.

Here is the list of India’s smallest states in terms of population:

S. No. State Population
1. Sikkim 610,577
2. Mizoram 1,097,206
3. Arunachal Pradesh 1,458,545
4. Goa 1,458,502
5. Nagaland 1,978,502
6. Manipur 2,855,794
7. Meghalaya 2,966,889
8. Tripura 3,673,917
9. Himachal Pradesh 6,864,602
10. Uttarakhand 10,086,292
11. Chhattisgarh 25,351,462
12. Haryana 25,545,198
13. Punjab 27,743,338
14. Assam 31,205,576
15. Jharkhand 32,988,134
16. Kerala 33,406,061
17. Telangana 35,198,978
18. Odisha 41,974,218
19. Gujarat 60,439,692
20. Karnataka 61,095,297
21. Rajasthan 68,548,437
22. Tamil Nadu 72,147,030
23. Madhya Pradesh 72,626,809
24. Andhra Pradesh 84,580,777
25. West Bengal 91,276,115
26. Bihar 104,099,452
27. Maharashtra 112,372,333
28. Uttar Pradesh 199,812,341

Key Facts Related to Smallest State By Population – Sikkim

Here are some interesting facts you must know about the smallest state of India in terms of population, Sikkim:

  • Sikkim is the smallest Indian state by population, with 671,720 residents (January 2020).
  • It is the second smallest state by area.
  • The state has a hilly terrain with limited fertile land, contributing to its small population.
  • Sikkim’s economy relies on agriculture and tourism.
  • It has the third-smallest GDP among Indian states.
  • Sikkim shares borders with China, Bhutan, Nepal, and West Bengal.
  • Gangtok is the capital city.
  • Khangchendzonga National Park, situated in Sikkim, covers nearly 35% of the state.

Today IPL Match: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 kicks off with an electrifying contest between Chennai Super Kings (CSK) and Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB) at the iconic MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai. This opening clash is scheduled for March 28, 2025, at 7:30 PM (Local Time) and promises an exhilarating start to the season.

With both teams boasting a stellar lineup of international and domestic stars, cricket fans can expect a thrilling battle between the two powerhouses of the IPL. The CSK vs RCB rivalry has always been one of the most anticipated fixtures, and this encounter is no exception.

Match Details

  • Match: Chennai Super Kings vs Royal Challengers Bengaluru
  • Series: Indian Premier League 2025
  • Venue: MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai
  • Date & Time: March 28, 2025, 07:30 PM IST

Team Previews

Chennai Super Kings (CSK)

CSK, under the captaincy of Ruturaj Gaikwad, enters the IPL 2025 season with a mix of experienced campaigners and young talents. MS Dhoni, the legendary wicketkeeper-batsman, remains a crucial part of the squad, providing leadership and experience. With the likes of Ravindra Jadeja, Sam Curran, and Rachin Ravindra, CSK has a strong all-rounder unit that ensures balance in the team.

Key Players for CSK

  • Ruturaj Gaikwad (C) – A dependable opener and emerging leader.
  • MS Dhoni (WK) – The veteran wicketkeeper-batsman known for his finishing skills.
  • Sam Curran & Ravindra Jadeja – All-rounders capable of making an impact with both bat and ball.
  • Noor Ahmad & Nathan Ellis – Key bowlers who can trouble RCB’s strong batting lineup.

Royal Challengers Bengaluru (RCB)

RCB, led by Rajat Patidar, enters the tournament with high hopes of securing their maiden IPL title. The presence of Virat Kohli, one of the most consistent performers in IPL history, adds tremendous firepower to the batting lineup. The team also boasts match-winners like Liam Livingstone, Philip Salt, and Tim David, making their batting lineup one of the strongest in the league.

Key Players for RCB

  • Virat Kohli – A batting maestro who holds multiple IPL records.
  • Philip Salt (WK) – An explosive wicketkeeper-batsman.
  • Liam Livingstone & Tim David – Power-hitters who can change the course of the match.
  • Josh Hazlewood & Bhuvneshwar Kumar – Experienced bowlers leading the pace attack.

Squads for the Match

Chennai Super Kings Squad

  • Batsmen: Ruturaj Gaikwad (C), Rahul Tripathi, Shaik Rasheed, Devon Conway, Andre Siddarth C
  • Wicketkeepers: MS Dhoni (WK), Vansh Bedi
  • All-rounders: Rachin Ravindra, Deepak Hooda, Shivam Dube, Sam Curran, Ravindra Jadeja, Ramakrishna Ghosh, Anshul Kamboj, Vijay Shankar
  • Bowlers: Ravichandran Ashwin, Noor Ahmad, Nathan Ellis, Khaleel Ahmed, Kamlesh Nagarkoti, Jamie Overton, Shreyas Gopal, Mukesh Choudhary, Matheesha Pathirana, Gurjapneet Singh

Royal Challengers Bengaluru Squad

  • Batsmen: Rajat Patidar (C), Virat Kohli, Devdutt Padikkal, Tim David, Swastik Chikara
  • Wicketkeepers: Jitesh Sharma (WK), Philip Salt (WK)
  • All-rounders: Liam Livingstone, Krunal Pandya, Romario Shepherd, Manoj Bhandage, Jacob Bethell, Mohit Rathee, Swapnil Singh
  • Bowlers: Rasikh Dar Salam, Suyash Sharma, Josh Hazlewood, Yash Dayal, Abhinandan Singh, Bhuvneshwar Kumar, Lungi Ngidi, Nuwan Thushara

Pitch & Weather Report

Pitch Analysis

The pitch at MA Chidambaram Stadium, Chennai, is known for being a slow and turning wicket, favoring spin bowlers. Batters will need to apply themselves to score big, while spinners like Ravindra Jadeja and Ravichandran Ashwin could play a pivotal role.

Weather Conditions

The weather in Chennai on March 28 is expected to be warm and humid, with temperatures around 30°C. Dew might play a factor in the second innings, making the toss crucial as captains may prefer to chase.

Key Battles to Watch Out For

  • Virat Kohli vs Ravichandran Ashwin – A classic contest between a top batter and an experienced off-spinner.
  • MS Dhoni vs Bhuvneshwar Kumar – A battle between one of the best finishers and a seasoned pacer.
  • Ruturaj Gaikwad vs Josh Hazlewood – Can the CSK captain tackle the Australian pace machine?
  • Liam Livingstone vs Noor Ahmad – A power-hitter against a rising Afghan spinner

Match Prediction & Expected Outcome

Considering the strong squad depth of CSK and their home advantage, they might have the upper hand in this contest. However, RCB’s formidable batting lineup led by Virat Kohli can turn the game in their favor.

Possible Scenarios

  • If CSK bats first, they should aim for a total of 170-180 to challenge RCB’s strong batting.
  • If RCB bats first, a score above 185 will be competitive given Chennai’s pitch.
  • Toss Factor: Teams winning the toss might opt to chase due to potential dew in the second innings.

Orange Cap Holder in IPL 2025: Nicholas Pooran Leads the Run-Scorers List

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has already witnessed some breathtaking performances with the bat. Several players have displayed their batting prowess, securing top positions in the run-scorers list. As the tournament progresses, we take a closer look at the leading batsmen who have made a significant impact.

Nicholas Pooran has emerged as the leading run-scorer so far in IPL 2025. Representing Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), he has played two matches and scored 145 runs at a strike rate of 258. His highest score of 75 runs has set the tone for his team’s batting order. Pooran’s ability to hit big sixes, having already smashed 13 sixes, makes him one of the most dangerous batsmen in the tournament.

Orange Cap Holder In IPL 2025

Rank Player Team Runs Strike Rate Matches Innings Not Outs Highest Score Average 30s 50s 100s 6s
1 Nicholas Pooran LSG 145 258 2 2 0 75 72.0 0 2 0 13
2 Mitchell Marsh LSG 124 185 2 2 0 72 62.0 0 2 0 8
3 Travis Head SRH 114 193 2 2 0 67 57.0 1 1 0 6
4 Ishan Kishan SRH 106 220 2 2 1 106* 106.0 0 0 1 6
5 Dhruv Jurel RR 103 163 2 2 0 70 51.0 1 1 0 6
6 Quinton de Kock KKR 101 153 2 2 1 97* 101.0 0 1 0 6
7 Shreyas Iyer PBKS 97 230 1 1 1 97* 0 1 0 9
8 Sanju Samson RR 79 164 2 2 0 66 39.0 0 1 0 4
9 Sai Sudharsan GT 74 180 1 1 0 74 74.0 0 1 0 6
10 Ajinkya Rahane KKR 74 160 2 2 0 56 37.0 0 1 0 5

Key Highlights of IPL 2025 Batting Performances

  • Nicholas Pooran (LSG) currently leads the Orange Cap race with 145 runs at a staggering strike rate of 258.
  • Ishan Kishan (SRH) has the highest individual score of 106 in IPL 2025*, making him the only centurion so far.
  • Mitchell Marsh (LSG) and Travis Head (SRH) have been consistent performers, both scoring crucial fifties for their teams.
  • Shreyas Iyer (PBKS) remains unbeaten with a score of 97 at an exceptional strike rate of 230*.
  • Quinton de Kock (KKR) and Dhruv Jurel (RR) have also made a significant impact with their explosive batting.

As the tournament progresses, the battle for the Orange Cap is expected to intensify, with top batsmen aiming to lead their teams to victory. Stay tuned for more updates on IPL 2025’s top performers!

Purple Cap Holder In IPL 2025: Shardul Thakur Leads the Wicket-Takers List

The Indian Premier League (IPL) 2025 has been a thrilling season so far, showcasing exceptional performances from both batters and bowlers. While batters have dominated with power-hitting, bowlers have played a crucial role in restricting the opposition and turning games in their teams’ favor. Among them, Shardul Thakur (LSG) has emerged as the leading wicket-taker, followed closely by other notable bowlers like Noor Ahmad, Khaleel Ahmed, and Krunal Pandya.

Shardul Thakur, playing for Lucknow Super Giants (LSG), has been the standout performer with the ball. His ability to take crucial wickets at key moments has made him a match-winner for his team. With 6 wickets in 6 matches, he has maintained an impressive average of 8 and an economy rate of 6.0. His best bowling figures this season stand at 4/34, making him a force to reckon with in the tournament.

Purple Cap Holder In IPL 2025

Rank Player Team Matches Wickets Average Overs Runs Best Figures Economy Strike Rate 3W 5W Maidens
1 Shardul Thakur LSG 6 6 8.0 6 53 4/34 8.0 6.0 1 0 0
2 Noor Ahmad CSK 4 4 4.0 4 18 4/18 4.0 6.0 1 0 0
3 Khaleel Ahmed CSK 3 3 9.0 4 29 3/29 7.0 8.0 1 0 0
4 Krunal Pandya RCB 3 3 9.0 4 29 3/29 7.0 8.0 1 0 0
5 Sai Kishore GT 3 3 10.0 4 30 3/30 7.0 8.0 1 0 0
6 Varun Chakaravarthy KKR 3 3 20.0 8 60 2/17 7.0 16.0 0 0 0
7 Vignesh Puthur MI 3 3 10.0 4 32 3/32 8.0 8.0 1 0 0
8 Digvesh Singh LSG 3 3 23.0 8 71 2/31 8.0 16.0 0 0 0
9 Tushar Deshpande RR 3 3 17.0 5 51 3/44 10.0 10.0 1 0 0
10 Harshal Patel SRH 3 3 20.0 6 62 2/34 10.0 12.0 0 0 0

 

Sunita Williams Age, Biography, Education, Husband, Career, Salary and Birth Place

Sunita Lyn “Suni” Williams is a distinguished American astronaut, former U.S. Navy officer, and one of the most accomplished spacewalkers in history. Born on September 19, 1965, she has spent numerous days in space, completed several spacewalks, and even ran a marathon aboard the International Space Station. Williams has had a remarkable career in both the Navy and NASA, earning recognition for her dedication, bravery, and groundbreaking achievements in space exploration.

Sunita Williams Early Life and Family

Sunita Williams was born in Euclid, Ohio, USA, but she considers Needham, Massachusetts, as her hometown. Her father, Deepak Pandya, was from Gujarat, India and worked as a neuroanatomist. Her mother, Ursuline Bonnie Pandya, was of Slovene origin. Williams has two older siblings, a brother named Jay Thomas and a sister named Dina Anand.

Since she comes from a mixed cultural background, Williams proudly carries both her Indian and Slovenian heritage. She has even taken a Slovenian flag, samosas and a traditional Slovenian sausage to space as a tribute to her roots.

Sunita Williams Education

Williams completed her schooling at Needham High School in 1983. She then joined the United States Naval Academy, where she earned a Bachelor’s degree in Physical Science in 1987. Later, in 1995, she completed a Master’s degree in Engineering Management from the Florida Institute of Technology.

Sunita Williams Birth Place

Sunita Williams, a famous NASA astronaut, was born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, but she considers Needham, Massachusetts, her hometown. She is of Indian-American and Slovenian American descent.

Sunita Williams Age

Sunita Williams, born on September 19, 1965, in Euclid, Ohio, is a distinguished American astronaut and retired U.S. Navy officer. As of today, she is 59 years old. Throughout her illustrious career, Williams has completed three space missions, spending a total of 608 days in space. Notably, she holds the record for the most spacewalk time by a woman, with nine spacewalks totaling 62 hours and 6 minutes.

In March 2025, after an extended mission aboard the International Space Station, Williams and her crew safely returned to Earth. Her remarkable contributions have earned her numerous accolades, including the Defense Superior Service Medal and the Legion of Merit.

Sunita Williams Nationality

Sunita Williams is an American astronaut and a retired U.S. Navy officer. She has Indian and Slovenian heritage. Known for her multiple space missions, she holds the records for the most time spent spacewalking by a female astronaut. Her achievements have made her a prominent figure in space exploration.

Sunita Williams Military Career

After completing her education, Williams joined the U.S. Navy as an officer in 1987. She trained as a Navy pilot and became a helicopter pilot in 1989. She was assigned to several important missions, including operations in the Mediterranean, Red Sea and Persian Gulf during Operation Desert Shield and Operation Provide Comfort.

Williams played a key role in disaster relief operations as well. In 1992, she helped during the Hurricane Andrew relief efforts in Florida. Later, she became a test pilot and instructor at the U.S. Naval Test Pilot School. Over her career in the Navy, she flew more than 3,000 hours in over 30 different aircraft. She retired from the Navy in 2017.

Astronaut Career at NASA

Sunita started her training as an astronaut in 1998 at the Johnson Space Center. She became a part of several space missions and broke records for spacewalks by a woman.

Expeditions 14 and 15

Sunita was launched into space on December 9, 2006, abroad the Space Shuttle Discovery. She joined the ISS as part of Expeditions 14 and 15. She performed her first spacewalk during this mission. During one spacewalk, a camera became loose and floated away into space.

She also became the first person to run a marathon in space on April 16, 2007. She completed the Boston Marathon while running on a treadmill in the ISS in 4 hours and 24 minutes.

Expeditions 32 and 33

Williams went to space again on July 15, 2012, abroad a Russian Soyuz spacecraft. She became the commander of Expedition 33, making her only the second woman to lead the ISS.

During this mission, she performed another spacewalk, where she appeared to “touch” the Sun in a famous photograph. She also became the first person to complete a triathlon in space, simulating running, cycling and swimming using the ISS’s fitness equipment.

She returned to Earth on November 19, 2012, landing in Kazakhstan after a four-month stay on the ISS.

Spacewalking Achievements

Sunita Williams is one of the most experienced spacewalkers. She has completed nine spacewalks, totaling 62 hours and 6 minutes in space. She held the record for the most spacewalk hours by a woman until 2017.

Commercial Crew Program

In 2015, NASA selected Williams for the Commercial Crew Program, which aims to develop private space travel with companies like Boeing and SpaceX. She was assigned to the Boeing CST-100 Starliner’s first crewed mission, which was launched in 2014.

Her mission faced delays and her return to Earth is scheduled for March 18, 2025.

Awards and Honors Presented to Sunita Williams

Williams has received several awards for her contributions to space exploration, including:

  • Defense Superior Service Media
  • Legion of Merit
  • Navy Commercial Medal
  • Navy and Marine Corps Achievements Medal
  • NASA Spaceflight Medal
  • Medal “For Merit in Space Exploration” by Government of Russia
  • Padma Bhushan by Government of India
  • Honorary Doctorate, Gujarat Technological University
  • Golden Order for Merits by Government of Slovenia
  • Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel Vishwa Pratibha
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