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.

Current Affairs 17th July, 2025

Current Affairs In Short (17th July, 2025)

National News

India’s Second Longest Cable-Stayed Bridge Inaugurated in Karnataka

Union Minister Nitin Gadkari inaugurated the Sigandur bridge on July 16, 2025.
The bridge is located in the Shivamogga district of Karnataka.
It is India’s second longest cable-stayed bridge.
The bridge spans 2.44 km across the Sharavathi backwaters.
It has been built at a cost of over ₹470 crore.
The bridge connects Sagara town with Marakutika, improving connectivity.
It provides better access to the famous Sigandur Chowdeshwari Temple.
Minister Gadkari officially named the bridge after Goddess Chowdeshwari Devi.
The bridge restores road links that were lost after the Linganamakki dam was built.
Gadkari noted that National Highway length in Karnataka grew from 6,707 km in 2014 to 9,424 km in 2025.
The Bengaluru-Chennai Expressway is expected to be completed in six months.
The Surat-Chennai highway will be completed by next year, reducing travel distance to Bengaluru and Chennai.

Delhi Ranked World’s Most Affordable Student City in QS 2026 Rankings

The QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2026 have been released, showing strong gains for major Indian cities.
Delhi was named the world’s most affordable student city globally, achieving a top score of 96.5.
Mumbai re-entered the global top 100, securing the 98th position.
Bengaluru made a significant jump of 22 spots to rank 108th, while Chennai climbed to 128th.
The rankings evaluate cities on affordability, university quality, student diversity, and Employer Activity.
Both Delhi and Mumbai featured in the global top 50 for the ‘Employer Activity’ metric.
The progress is linked to the high quality of institutions like the IITs and central universities in these cities.

International News

Chinese Scientists Develop World’s Lightest Mind-Control Device for Bees

Scientists in China have developed the world’s lightest brain controller for bees.
The device was created by a team at the Beijing Institute of Technology.
Weighing just 74 milligrams, it turns bees into controllable cyborgs.
The device sends electronic signals to the bee’s brain to control its flight.
Potential applications include military reconnaissance, counterterrorism, and rescue missions.
The project was led by Professor Zhao Jieliang.
A major challenge for the device is its limited battery life.
The concept was inspired by earlier research in Singapore, but the Chinese device is three times lighter.

Israel Launches its Most Advanced Communications Satellite Dror-1

On July 13, 2025, Israel successfully launched its communications satellite, Dror-1.
The launch was conducted using a SpaceX Falcon 9 rocket from Cape Canaveral, USA.
The satellite was developed by the state-owned Israel Aerospace Industries (IAI).
Dror-1 is designed to serve Israel’s national communication needs for the next 15 years.
It will provide secure communication for military, government, and civilian purposes.
It will be positioned in a geostationary orbit at an altitude of approximately 36,000 kilometres.
The satellite weighs 4.5 tonnes and features two 2.8-meter-wide antennas.
IAI confirmed that initial signals from the satellite were successful, indicating normal operation.

South Asia Achieves Highest-Ever Child Immunisation Coverage in 2024

A new report by UNICEF and the WHO shows record immunisation coverage in South Asia for 2024.
Coverage for the third dose of the DTP vaccine reached an all-time high of 92% in the region.
The number of ‘zero-dose’ children (unvaccinated) fell by 27%, from 2.5 million to 1.8 million.
India achieved a notable 43% drop in its zero-dose population, reducing it to 0.9 million.
Pakistan recorded its highest-ever DTP3 coverage at 87%.
Measles cases in the region declined by 39%, while HPV vaccine coverage rose from 2% to 9%.
India and Pakistan are set to launch their national HPV vaccination programs by the end of 2025.
Despite the progress, 2.9 million children in the region remain unvaccinated or under-vaccinated.

China Creates World’s Lightest Mind-Control Device for Bees

Scientists at the Beijing Institute of Technology have built the world’s lightest brain controller for bees.
The device, weighing just 74 milligrams, turns bees into “cyborgs” that can be remotely controlled.
It is strapped to a bee’s back and uses tiny needles to send electronic signals to its brain.
The signals can guide the bee to fly left, right, forward, or back with a 9 out of 10 success rate.
Potential applications include military reconnaissance, counterterrorism, and rescue operations in disaster areas.
The technology creates illusions in the bee’s brain, making it follow commands.
The primary challenge for the device is its limited battery life.
The design was inspired by earlier research but is three times lighter than previous models.

State News

Andhra Pradesh Revives Historic Machilipatnam Port

A new greenfield port is being constructed at Manginapudi, near Machilipatnam in Andhra Pradesh.
The port is expected to begin operations by the end of 2026.
Construction is being carried out by Megha Engineering and Infrastructure Ltd (MEIL).
The project follows the Landlord Model, where the government owns the port and private companies operate it.
A 2.5 km long breakwater is being built to protect the port from sea waves.
Special concrete blocks called tetrapods are being used for coastal protection.
The port will also provide significant economic benefits to the neighboring state of Telangana.
Telangana is planning a dry port and a freight corridor to connect to Machilipatnam.
The project aims to create jobs and bring economic growth to the region.

Meghalaya Celebrates Traditional Behdeinkhlam Festival

The annual Behdeinkhlam Festival was celebrated in Jowai, Meghalaya.
It is an important festival for the Pnar tribal community, a sub-tribe of the Jaintias.
The festival is held in July to pray for a good harvest.
The name ‘Behdeinkhlam’ means “driving away the plague”.
It is central to the traditional Niamtre religion of the Pnars.
A key ritual involves carrying a sacred wooden post, the ‘Symbud Khnong’.
A football-like game called ‘Dad-lawakor’ is also part of the celebrations.
The festival is now a platform to spread social awareness on issues like drug abuse and climate change.

Goa Launches India’s First RoRo Ferry Service on Mandovi River

Goa launched India’s first RoRo (Roll-on/Roll-off) ferry service on July 14, 2025.
The service operates on the Mandovi River between Chorao Island and Ribandar.
Two new high-speed ferries, named Gangotri and Dwarka, were introduced.
The ferries were designed by Vijai Marine Shipyards.
Each ferry can carry 100 passengers, 15 cars, and about 30-40 two-wheelers.
The project operates under the Built-Own-Operate-Transfer (BOOT) model.
This model means the project was developed at zero cost to the state government.
The service reduces travel time from 30 minutes to about 12-13 minutes.
The initiative was launched by Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.

India’s First Aqua Tech Park Inaugurated in Assam

Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma inaugurated India’s first Aqua Tech Park.
The park is located in Sonapur, near Guwahati, Assam.
It will promote modern fish farming technologies like aquaponics and the biofloc system.
The park was established by the NGO Kolong Kopili with support from NABARD and ICAR-CIFA.
The initiative aims to boost fish production and farmers’ income in the state.
Between 2019 and 2024, Assam doubled its fish production to 4.99 lakh metric tonnes.
This makes Assam the fourth-largest fish-producing state in India.
The state has also launched 10 fishery cluster development projects worth ₹8 crore.

Himachal Pradesh Launches ‘My Deed’ NGDRS Pilot Project

The project was launched on July 11, 2025, by Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu.
Its primary objective is to modernise the process of land registration in the state.
The initiative uses the NGDRS (National Generic Document Registration System) platform.
The pilot project is active in ten tehsils across ten different districts.
It enables online applications, requiring citizens to visit the tehsil office only once for finalisation.
As part of the reforms, land records (Jamabandi) will now be written in simple Hindi.
A digital diary for Patwaris, called ‘e-Roznamcha Vakyati’, was also introduced.
The government also announced a mission for simplifying joint land ownership, called ‘Khangi Takseem’.
The ultimate goal is to move towards a ‘Single Khata, Single Owner’ concept to reduce disputes.

Economy News

Machilipatnam Port Project to Boost Regional Economy

The first phase of the Machilipatnam Port project will cost ₹5,155 crore.
Initially, the port will have four berths for docking ships.
It has the potential for future expansion to 16 berths.
The port will have a total handling capacity of 36 million tonnes per year.
It is designed to accommodate large ships weighing up to 80,000 tonnes.
The port will handle key exports such as coal, cement, pharmaceuticals, and fertilisers.
The Andhra Pradesh Maritime Board is overseeing the project’s economic aspects.
The development is expected to significantly boost the regional economy and create job opportunities.

Indian Luxury Fashion Market Shows Strong Revival

India’s luxury apparel market is showing a strong rebound after a subdued performance in 2024.
The market was valued at $7.5 billion in 2024, according to a report by the IMARC Group.
Projections indicate the market will grow to $10.7 billion by 2033.
This growth is fueled by rising disposable incomes and growing fashion consciousness.
In May 2025, Aditya Birla Group demerged its fashion business for better segment focus.
Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. (ABFRL) will now concentrate on ethnic and luxury wear.
Western wear brands like Van Heusen have been moved to a new entity, Aditya Birla Lifestyle Brands.
The restructuring is designed to achieve targeted growth in the Indian fashion market.

Appointments News

Sanjay Kaul Appointed as MD and CEO of GIFT City

Sanjay Kaul has been appointed as the new Managing Director and CEO of GIFT City.
GIFT City (Gujarat International Finance Tec-City) is located in Gandhinagar, Gujarat.
He is a 2001-batch IAS officer of the Kerala cadre.
His appointment is on deputation for a period of three years.
He was previously serving as a Joint Secretary in the Union Ministry of Culture.
GIFT City is India’s first smart city focused on international finance.
He has prior administrative experience in Gujarat with the Tourism Corporation and Gujarat Informatics Ltd.
He will replace the outgoing CEO, Tapan Ray, a retired Gujarat-cadre IAS officer.

Manish Chopra Appointed as CEO of Sabyasachi Couture

Manish Chopra has been named the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Sabyasachi Couture.
He was previously a key executive at Shein India and also held senior roles at Meta.
Sabyasachi Couture is a leading Indian luxury fashion house.
The brand is majority-owned by Aditya Birla Fashion and Retail Ltd. (ABFRL).
ABFRL acquired a 51% stake in the company in 2021 for ₹398 crore.
This leadership appointment is aimed at strengthening the brand for global expansion.
ABFRL’s portfolio also includes other designer brands like Tarun Tahiliani and Masaba.

Obituaries News

Renowned Queer Poet Andrea Gibson Passes Away

Celebrated American poet Andrea Gibson passed away on July 14, 2025, at the age of 49.
Gibson was the Poet Laureate of Colorado and a powerful voice in the LGBTQ+ community.
They were known for their emotional spoken-word poetry exploring themes of gender, love, and mental health.
Gibson identified as genderqueer and became an icon for non-binary individuals.
Their debut book, ‘Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns’, was released in 2008.
In 2021, they were diagnosed with ovarian cancer, which heavily influenced their later work.
Gibson was appointed Poet Laureate by Colorado Governor Jared Polis in 2023.
They were also recognised as an Out100 honoree in 2022 for their activism and influence.

List of Countries Starting with Letter ‘G,’ Check the List

There are many countries in the world, and each has one has its own name, culture and location. Some countries start with the same letter. In this article, we will look at the countries that begin with the letter ‘G.’ This list is helpful for learning geography in a simple and understanding a little about each country that starts with this letter.

List of Countries Starting with the Letter ‘G’

There are several countries in the world whose names begin with the letter ‘G.’ These countries are found across different continents and have their own unique culture, landscapes and history. Let’s explore each of these countries with simple facts to help you understand them better.

Here are the names of countries that start with the letter ‘G’:

Gabon
The Gambia
Georgia
Germany
Ghana
Greece
Grenada
Guatemala
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
Guyana

Gabon

Continent: Africa
Capital: Libreville
Currency: Central Africa CFA franc

Gabon is a country in Central Africa, located on the Atlantic coast along the equator. It shares borders with Equatorial Guinea, Cameroon and the Republic of the Congo. The country has forests, coastal plains, mountains and savannas. Its capital and largest city is Libreville.

The Gambia

Continent: Africa
Capital: Banjul
Currency: Gambian Dalasi

The Gambia is a small country in West Africa and the smallest on the African mainland. It is almost completely surrounded by Senegal, except for its western coast, which touches the Atlantic Ocean. The Gambia is narrow and long, mostly following the Gambia River through its length.

Georgia

Continent: Asia
Capital: Tbilisi
Currency: Georgian Lari

Georgia is a country located between Europe and Asia. It is known for its beautiful Caucasus Mountains, old wine-making traditions and unique alphabet. The country has many mountains and a coastline along the Black Sea. It shares borders with Russia, Turkey, Armenia and Azerbaijan.

Germany

Continent: Europe
Capital: Berlin
Currency: the euro

Germany is a country in Central Europe, located between the North and Baltic Sea in the north and the Alps in the south. It has 16 states and over 82 million people, making it the most populous country in the European Union. Berlin is the capital and Germany borders nine countries, including France and Poland.

Ghana

Continent: Africa
Capital: Accra
Currency: Ghanaian Cedi

Ghana is a country in West Africa, bordered by Côte d’Ivoire, Burkina Faso and Togo, with the Atlantic Ocean to the south. It has varied landscapes, from coastal savannas to tropical rainforests. With about 35 million people, it is the second-most populous country in West Africa. The capital and largest city is Accra.

Greece

Continent: Europe
Capital: Athens
Currency: euro

Greece is a country in Southeast Europe, located at the Southern tip of the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Albania, North Macedonia, Bulgaria and Turkey, and is surrounded by several seas. Known for its many islands and long Mediterranean coastline, Greece has over 10 million people. Athens is the capital and largest city.

Grenada

Continent: North America
Capital: St. George’s
Currency: East Caribbean Dollar

Grenada is an island country in the eastern Caribbean Sea, part of the West Indies. It is the southernmost of the Windward Islands, located just south of Saint Vincent and about 100 miles north of Trinidad and the South American coast. Grenada is known for its beaches and spice production.

Guatemala

Continent: North America
Capital: Guatemala City
Currency: Guatemalan Quetal

Guatemala is a country in Central America, bordered by Mexico, Belize, Honduras and EI Salvador. It has coastlines along the Pacific Ocean and the Gulf of Honduras. Known for its volcanoes and Mayan heritage, Guatemala has a rich culture and diverse landscapes, including mountains, forests and tropical beaches.

Guinea

Continent: Africa
Capital: Conakry
Currency: Guinean Franc

Guinea is a country in West Africa with a coastline along the Atlantic Ocean. It borders Guinea-Bissau, Senegal, Mali, Côte d’Ivoire, Sierra Leone and Liberia. To avoid confusion with nearby countries, it is often called Guinea-Conakry, after its capital. Guinea has about 14 million people and covers 245,857 square kilometers.

Guinea-Bissau

Continent: Africa
Capital: Bissau
Currency: West African CFA franc

Guinea-Bissau is a small country in West Africa, covering about 36,125 square kilometers. It has a population of around 2 million people. The country borders Senegal to the north and Guinea to the southeast. Known for its coastal islands and low-lying land, its capital and largest city is Bissau.

Guyana

Continent: South America
Capital: Georgetown
Currency: Guyanaese dollars

Guyana is a country on the northern coast of South America, with strong ties to the Caribbean. It was once part of the British West Indies. The capital and largest city is Georgetown. Guyana borders the Atlantic Ocean to the north, Brazil to the south, Venezuela to the west and Suriname to the east.

President Murmu Confers Kalinga Ratna Award 2024 to Dharmendra Pradhan

President Droupadi Murmu presented the Kalinga Ratna Award-2024 to Union Education Minister Dharmendra Pradhan at an event in Cuttack, Odisha. The award ceremony was held during the 600th birth anniversary celebrations of Adikabi Sarala Das, a revered 15th-century Odia poet, organized by the Sarala Sahitya Sansad. The event highlighted the literary contributions of Sarala Das and celebrated the promotion of Indian languages and culture.

Background and Context

Sarala Das, often referred to as Adikabi (first poet) of Odia literature, is credited with composing the Odia Mahabharata, a pioneering work that brought classical Indian literature into the regional linguistic fold. His contributions laid the foundation for the growth of literary tradition in Odisha and enriched India’s linguistic diversity. The Sarala Sahitya Sansad, a literary organization, commemorates his legacy through awards and scholarly events.

Aim and Highlights of the Event

The event was aimed at paying homage to Sarala Das’s life and literary work while promoting the values of linguistic inclusiveness and cultural pride. President Murmu emphasized the unity found in India’s linguistic diversity and highlighted how literature serves as a powerful bridge connecting culture, language, and education. She noted the significance of the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020, which promotes education in the mother tongue, enabling children to better connect with their roots and traditions.

The Kalinga Ratna Award 2024

The Kalinga Ratna Award, presented annually by the Sarala Sahitya Sansad, recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions in the fields of education, literature, culture, or public service. This year’s recipient, Dharmendra Pradhan, was honoured for his commitment to educational reforms and efforts to elevate Indian languages.

Additional Honours

During the same event, noted short story writer Bijaya Nayak was conferred with the Sarala Samman, one of the state’s prestigious literary awards, recognizing his contribution to contemporary Odia literature.

What is the Old Name of Delhi? Know About It

Delhi, the capital of India, is a city with a rich and long history. Over thousands of years, it has been ruled by many kings and emperors, each leaving their mark on its culture and name. The city has been known by different names in different time periods. In this article, we will explore the old names of Delhi and what they mean.

Old Name of Delhi

Delhi, India’s bustling capital today, has gone by many names over thousands of years. From epic tales to mighty empires, every name Delhi has had tells a part of its long and colorful story. Let’s travel back in time and uncover the hidden names and faces of this historic city.

Indraprastha

Long Before it was called Delhi, this land was known as Indraprastha. According to the Mahabharata, one of India’s oldest epics, Indraprastha was the magnificent capital of the Pandavas. This city was said to be built along the Yamuna River. Many experts believe that today’s Delhi stands on or near this ancient site. A famous old fort called Purana Qila is believed to be built on the ruins of Indraprastha, keeping the city’s mythical past alive.

Dilli, A Name From Ancient Kings

In the time of the Delhi Sultanate (13th to 16th centuries), the city came to be known as Dilli, a name that people still use today. Some say the word ”Dilli” came from Raja Dhilu, a ruler from around 50 BCE. Over time, his name may have turned into ”Dilli.” During this time, different rulers built their own towns – Mehrauli, Siri and Tughlaqabad – but together they were all called Dilli by locals.

Shahjahanabad, The Mughal Masterpiece

In the 1600s, the Mughal emperor Shah Jahan made his own royal city and called it Shahjahanabad. Today, we call it Old Delhi. It became the heart of the Mughal Empire, full of beauty and life. Shahjahanabad had grand buildings like the Red Fort, Jama Masjid and the famous shopping street Chandni Chowk. Even today, walking through its narrow lanes feels like stepping into history.

Delhi, the Modern Name Takes Over

During the British rule, the city officially became known as Delhi. In 1911, the British made Delhi the capital of India instead of Kolkata. After Indian gained independence in 1947, Delhi continued to grow. Today, New Delhi is the seat of India’s government, but the whole area is still proudly called Dilli – carrying centuries of history in its name.

Fascinating Facts About Delhi’s Old Names

Indraprastha is believed to be more than 3,000 years old.
Purana Qila might be standing on the exact place where Indraprastha once stood.
”Dilli” may have been come from the name of Raja Dhilu, who ruled in ancient times.
Delhi has been built and rebuilt at least seven times by different rulers.
Shahjahanabad, or Old Delhi, was a walled city with 14 grand gates, some of which still remain today.

UPI-PayNow Expanded To 13 More Indian Banks Join Cross-Border Remittance Network

National Payments Corporation of India (NPCI) International will launch the expanded UPI-PayNow linkage, enhancing cross-border remittance services between India and Singapore. With the addition of 13 new Indian banks, the service will now include 19 participating banks, offering greater convenience and reach for users. This move is part of a broader initiative supported by the Reserve Bank of India (RBI) and the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) to promote secure, real-time, and cost-effective international payments.

Background and Objective

The UPI-PayNow linkage was originally launched as a pathbreaking initiative to simplify cross-border money transfers between India and Singapore. The goal was to allow users in both countries to send and receive funds using just a mobile number or Virtual Payment Address (VPA). The service builds on India’s homegrown success with Unified Payments Interface (UPI) and aims to make international transactions as seamless as domestic ones.

Recent Developments and Expansion

In a major step forward, 13 additional Indian banks have joined the UPI-PayNow network, taking the total to 19. Banks like HDFC Bank, ICICI Bank, State Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Punjab National Bank, and Kotak Mahindra Bank are now part of this ecosystem. This expansion allows users from India and Singapore to conduct real-time remittances more broadly and securely.

The service will go live on July 17, 2025, with NPCI highlighting its potential to boost financial connectivity between the two countries. It will especially benefit the Indian diaspora in Singapore, including migrant workers and students, by making everyday remittances easier and faster.

Key Features and Technology

The UPI-PayNow platform uses cloud-based technology, making it the world’s first cloud-native, real-time international payment system. The system supports transactions within seconds and ensures data security through robust encryption and compliance protocols. It allows for direct bank transfers without needing intermediary payment platforms, keeping costs low and the process efficient.

The remittance services can now be accessed using mobile banking apps, and even through QR code-based merchant payments in select outlets in Singapore. In India, remittances can be initiated via banks like HDFC and ICICI, while in Singapore, users from DBS SG and Liquid Group can access the platform.

Impact and Significance

This expansion of the UPI-PayNow linkage is a significant development in the global financial ecosystem. It strengthens the India-Singapore economic relationship and provides a model for similar linkages with other countries in the future. The system helps reduce remittance costs, encourages formal banking practices, and enhances the ease of conducting personal and business payments across borders. The focus on real-time transactions and broader bank participation ensures that millions of users now have better access to international financial services.

Cabinet clears PM Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana 2024-31

On July 16, 2025, the Union Cabinet approved a major new scheme called the Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana. The scheme is set to run for six years starting 2025-26, with an annual outlay of ₹24,000 crore. It aims to improve agriculture and allied sectors in 100 selected districts by increasing productivity, irrigation, storage, and credit support. This decision marks an important step toward addressing rural development and food security goals at the national level.

Background and Context

The new scheme builds on the success of the Aspirational Districts Programme, focusing on comprehensive development in regions lagging behind in key agricultural indicators. Despite India being a major agricultural country, several districts still face low productivity and poor access to financial and technological support. This initiative targets those gaps to ensure more balanced and inclusive growth in the agriculture sector.

Aim and Objectives

The Prime Minister Dhan-Dhaanya Krishi Yojana (PM-DDKY) has been launched to bring fast-paced improvement in agricultural infrastructure and output in identified districts. The core objectives include increasing agricultural productivity, promoting crop diversification, expanding irrigation facilities, enhancing storage capacity, and ensuring greater access to agricultural credit. These efforts aim to empower local farmers, improve food production, and generate rural employment.

Key Features and Implementation

The scheme will cover 100 agricultural districts, identified based on factors like low cropping intensity, low productivity, and low credit flow. Each state will have at least one selected district, and the number of districts per state will depend on the net cropped area and land holdings. The programme will operate through convergence of 36 schemes across 11 ministries, integrating both central and state government efforts as well as private sector partnerships.

Each district will formulate a District Agriculture and Allied Activities Plan, guided by the DDKY Samiti under the District Collector. Central Nodal Officers and a committee-based structure at national, state, and district levels will ensure effective implementation. Progress will be monitored monthly through a dashboard tracking 117 performance indicators, with NITI Aayog providing strategic guidance. Each district will also have a technical partner, such as a Central or State Agriculture University.

Expected Benefits and Significance

The scheme is projected to benefit 1.7 crore farmers directly. It will help bridge regional disparities in agriculture, promote value-added farming, and increase self-reliance in food production. By focusing on district-specific solutions based on local agro-climatic conditions, it ensures relevance and effectiveness. The overall strategy aligns with India’s goals of doubling farmers’ income and achieving rural sustainability through technology and policy convergence.

In Which State is Balpakram National Park Located?

India is home to many beautiful national parks that protect wild animals and nature. One such park is found in the northeastern part of the country. It is known for its deep valleys, thick forests and amazing wildlife. This park is also connected to old local stories and beliefs. Many people visit to enjoy the peaceful environment and spot rare animals in their natural home.

Location of Balpakram National Park

Balpakram National Park is located in the South Garo Hills district of the Indian state of Meghalaya. It sits at an altitude of about 910 meters (3,000 feet) and lies close to the Bangladesh border. This park is one of the most beautiful and peaceful places in northeast India.

When was It Inaugurated?

Balpakram National Park was inaugurated in December 1987. Since then, it has been protecting rare animals, birds and plants. The park is part of the Garo Hills Conservation Area, which the Indian government has nominated for UNESCO World Heritage Site status.

Animals You Can Find Here

The park is home to many animals, including:

Bengal Tiger
Red Panda
Asian Golden Cat
Wild Water Buffalo
Marbled Cat
Barking Deer
Indian Elephant

These animals live in peace among the forests, hills and rivers of the park.

Plants in the Balpakram National Park

Balpakram has many different types of plants like:

Tropical deciduous trees
Bamboo forests
Subtropical grasslands
Carnivorous plants like pitcher plants and Drosera

The area is full of greenery and natural beauty.

Local Myths and Beliefs

The Garo people believe that Balpakram means the ”land of the eternal wind.” They say that spirits rest under certain trees in the park. One famous tree has a hollow mark on its trunk, believed to be made by spirits tying their animals on the way to the afterlife.

Significance of Balpakram National Park

Balpakram is not only rich in biodiversity, but also important for its cultural stories and mythology. Its quiet, untouched beauty makes it a perfect place for nature lovers, researchers and anyone seeking peace in the wild.

Celebrated Queer Poet Andrea Gibson Passes Away at 49

On July 14, 2025, the world lost Andrea Gibson, a renowned queer spoken-word poet and Poet Laureate of Colorado, at the age of 49. Known for their deeply emotional and identity-driven work, Gibson passed away at home, surrounded by loved ones. Their death marks a significant moment in the global literary and LGBTQ+ communities, as they were a powerful voice for gender expression, love, and personal resilience.

Background and Literary Contributions

Andrea Gibson gained international recognition for their spoken word poetry that explored themes like gender identity, mental health, cancer survival, and love. Their first book, Pole Dancing to Gospel Hymns, was released in 2008 and became a powerful introduction to their poetic style. Over their career, Gibson published seven books and released seven poetry albums, each gaining a strong following for its heartfelt language and truth-telling.

Gibson identified as genderqueer, and much of their work aimed to challenge societal norms around gender and sexuality. In a 2017 essay, they wrote about never feeling completely like a boy or a girl, embracing life in the in-between. Their creative expression gave voice to many who found themselves outside traditional gender labels, and they became an icon in LGBTQ+ poetry circles.

Personal Journey and Health Struggles

In 2021, Gibson was diagnosed with ovarian cancer, a diagnosis that deeply influenced their later works. Despite the illness, they continued writing and advocating for inner peace and joy. A key message they often shared was finding beauty in pain and hope in hardship. Their final years, though filled with challenges, were described as full of love, gratitude, and presence.

Their journey was documented in the 2025 Sundance-winning film Come See Me in the Good Light, which followed Gibson and their wife, Meg Falley, as they navigated cancer together. Even during their illness, Gibson remained active in speaking and performing, inspiring many with their courage.

Recognition and Legacy

In 2023, Colorado Governor Jared Polis named Gibson the state’s Poet Laureate, recognising their artistic excellence and contribution to social dialogue. Governor Polis paid tribute to them after their death, describing them as a unique poet who inspired through words and action. Gibson was also honoured as an Out100 honoree in 2022, acknowledging their influence as both a poet and an activist.

Gibson’s passing leaves behind a powerful legacy of emotional honesty, social advocacy, and literary brilliance. Their poetry continues to serve as a source of comfort and inspiration for many, particularly within the LGBTQ+ community.

Delhi Ranked World’s Most Affordable Student City in QS 2026 Rankings

In a significant recognition of India’s growing status in global education, the QS Best Student Cities Rankings 2026 saw four major Indian cities—Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai—make strong upward progress. Most notably, Delhi was named the world’s most affordable student city, marking a major boost to India’s reputation as an attractive destination for higher education. The rankings reflect improvements in factors such as university quality, cost of living, and graduate employability.

Background and Context

The QS Best Student Cities Rankings, published annually by Quacquarelli Symonds, are based on several indicators that matter to students and universities alike. These include academic reputation, student diversity, affordability, employer activity, and desirability of the city. With Indian institutions making notable gains in global university rankings in recent years, it was only a matter of time before Indian cities also started climbing in student city rankings. The 2026 edition shows that Indian metros are now not only housing top institutes but are also becoming more student-friendly in terms of quality and affordability.

Aim and Objective of the Rankings

The main goal of the QS Best Student Cities Rankings is to help students and education stakeholders evaluate cities based on how suitable they are for higher education. These rankings also aim to encourage cities and governments to improve their academic, social, and economic environments. For countries like India, improving rankings can be linked to policy objectives such as internationalisation of education under the National Education Policy (NEP) 2020 and attracting foreign students under Study in India initiatives.

Key Features and India’s Performance

In the 2026 rankings, Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai all improved their positions from the previous year. Delhi, in particular, stood out by topping the affordability index globally with a score of 96.5. Mumbai re-entered the top 100 cities globally by rising to the 98th position. Bengaluru recorded a remarkable jump of 22 spots, now ranking 108th, and Chennai climbed to 128th, up from 140 last year.

This progress reflects the strength of academic institutions in these cities. Mumbai is home to IIT Bombay and the University of Mumbai, Delhi hosts IIT Delhi and University of Delhi, Bengaluru boasts IISc and IIM Bangalore, while Chennai features IIT Madras and Anna University. These institutions play a central role in shaping the academic landscape and international recognition of the cities.

Affordability and Employment Prospects

A key factor behind India’s improved rankings is the relatively low cost of education and living in its cities, especially when compared to popular destinations like the USA, UK, or Australia. In the QS affordability score, Delhi ranked first globally, followed by Bengaluru and Chennai, with strong scores of 84.3 and 80.1, respectively.

Beyond affordability, Indian cities are also showing stronger employer activity. This metric measures how employable graduates from a city are, and both Delhi and Mumbai entered the global top 50 in this category. Bengaluru improved by 41 positions, reaching 59th, while Chennai moved up 29 places, demonstrating increased trust from industries and businesses in India’s education system.

Policy and Educational Context

The rise of Indian cities in global education rankings aligns with the vision of NEP 2020, which promotes internationalisation, research, and quality enhancement in higher education. These improvements also coincide with upward trends seen in the QS World University Rankings 2025, where almost half of Indian institutions climbed in global positions. Notably, IIT Delhi improved by 27 ranks and remains India’s top university, further supporting Delhi’s rise in city rankings.

Significance

India’s performance in the QS Best Student Cities 2026 is a reflection of its steady transformation into a global education hub. It signals that Indian cities are not only affordable but also competitive in terms of academic quality and career prospects. As the government continues to implement education reforms and invest in public institutions, Indian metros are likely to become even more attractive to both domestic and international students in the future.

South Asia Achieves Highest-Ever Child Immunisation Coverage in 2024

South Asia has achieved its highest-ever immunisation coverage for children in the year 2024, as per new data released by UNICEF and the World Health Organization (WHO). This progress marks a major milestone in protecting millions of children from deadly but preventable diseases such as diphtheria, measles, and rubella. The region’s success reflects sustained government commitment, innovative delivery models, and renewed efforts to reach every child—even in remote areas.

Background and Context

Childhood immunisation has long been a cornerstone of public health strategies in South Asia, a region home to a large share of the world’s population. However, setbacks during the COVID-19 pandemic caused disruptions in routine vaccination services. With 2024 showing a strong rebound and even surpassing pre-pandemic levels, it signals a return to full-strength public health initiatives focused on children’s survival and development.

Aim and Objective

The overall objective behind South Asia’s vaccination push is to ensure universal access to life-saving vaccines for children, reduce preventable disease outbreaks, and lower child mortality. Vaccines like DTP (Diphtheria, Tetanus, and Pertussis) and measles remain essential indicators of healthcare outreach and national health policy effectiveness. The goal is not only high coverage but also equity—ensuring that zero-dose children (those who have never received any vaccine) are reached.

Key Highlights of the 2024 Data

In 2024, 92% of infants in South Asia received the third dose of DTP, up from 90% in 2023. The first-dose DTP coverage also rose to 95%. One of the most important developments was the 27% reduction in zero-dose children, from 2.5 million in 2023 to 1.8 million in 2024. India achieved a 43% drop in its zero-dose population, going from 1.6 million to 0.9 million, while Nepal reported a 52% reduction.

Pakistan achieved its highest-ever DTP3 coverage at 87%, but Afghanistan remains behind, with the lowest coverage in the region and a slight drop in performance. In measles immunisation, the region reached 93% coverage for the first dose and 88% for the second, contributing to a 39% fall in measles cases from 90,000 to 55,000 in one year.

Focus on HPV Vaccination

The region also made strides in HPV vaccination, which protects against cervical cancer. Coverage rose from 2% in 2023 to 9% in 2024. Countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Maldives, and Sri Lanka made notable progress. Nepal launched its HPV programme in February 2025, already reaching 1.4 million girls. India and Pakistan are set to begin their HPV vaccination programmes by the end of 2025.

Government Action and Collaboration

The success across South Asia stems from a combination of strong government leadership, financial investments, and frontline health worker engagement, especially women-led community workers. Governments also used digital tracking tools, ran targeted awareness campaigns, and improved data monitoring systems to ensure children and adolescents were not left behind. Backed by donors, local manufacturers, and global organisations like UNICEF and WHO, these efforts have helped restore public trust and build resilience in the healthcare system.

Significance

Although the numbers show solid progress, challenges remain. Over 2.9 million children across the region are still under-vaccinated or unvaccinated. WHO and UNICEF have urged governments to increase domestic financing, extend HPV coverage, and invest in health workforce capacity to reach remote and marginalised populations. The 2024 immunisation success shows what is possible when political will, community trust, and international partnerships come together.