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.

Indian Tea Industry Charts New Growth Path at Vanijya Bhawan Convention

On the occasion of International Tea Day on May 21, 2025, a high-level convention was organized at Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi, by the Ministry of Commerce & Industry to deliberate on the future of the Indian Tea Industry. The event featured engaging panel discussions, an Indian Tea Appreciation Zone, and a professional tea tasting session. Minister of State for Commerce & Industry, Shri Jitin Prasada, addressed the gathering and urged the industry to focus on innovation, branding, and global expansion, reinforcing India’s identity as a leading tea exporter.

Why in News?

India commemorated International Tea Day with a convention spotlighting the future roadmap of the tea industry, showcasing its diversity, cultural richness, and economic potential. The event was significant in re-emphasizing India’s role in the global tea trade and its commitment to promoting sustainability, quality, and youth engagement.

Objectives and Highlights

Promote Indian Tea globally through innovation and branding.
Improve stakeholder facilities across the entire supply chain.
Raise tea literacy among the masses.
Explore sustainable practices and new market avenues.

Key Events & Features

Keynote Address by Jitin Prasada

Emphasized tea’s socio-economic importance.
Called for innovative varieties targeting youth and niche markets.
Urged improvements in grower-to-consumer supply chains.

Special Address by Commerce Secretary Sunil Barthwal

Highlighted tea-growing regions like Darjeeling, Assam, Kangra, and Uttarakhand.
Advocated for promotional awareness and deeper appreciation of Indian tea diversity.

Tea Tasting Session

Led by a renowned professional tea taster.
Engaged the Minister and Secretary in a hands-on tasting experience.

Panel Discussions on

Organic Teas & Sustainability
Youth-Oriented Blends & Global Trends
Future Roadmap for Indian Teas

India Tea Appreciation Zone

Included producers, exporters, STGs, FPOs, and startups.
Displayed varieties like Darjeeling, Assam, Nilgiri, Sikkim, Kangra teas.
Showcased flavored, organic, and masala chai blends.
Attracted high footfall and wide appreciation.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Indian Tea Industry Charts New Growth Path at Vanijya Bhawan Convention
Event	International Tea Day Convention
Date & Venue	May 21, 2025 – Vanijya Bhawan, New Delhi
Organised By	Ministry of Commerce & Industry, Government of India
Chief Guest	Shri Jitin Prasada, MoS for Commerce & Industry
Key Focus Areas	Innovation, Export Growth, Branding, Tea Literacy
Tea Zones & Varieties Featured	Assam, Darjeeling, Nilgiri, Kangra, Sikkim, Masala Chai, Flavored Teas
Additional Features	Tea Tasting Session, Panel Discussions, Tea Appreciation Zone
Strategic Significance	Strengthens India’s tea export presence and domestic value recognition

Justice K. Somashekar Appointed Chief Justice of Manipur High Court

In a significant judicial development, President of India has appointed Justice Kempaiah Somashekar, Judge of the Karnataka High Court, as the new Chief Justice of the Manipur High Court. The appointment follows the impending retirement of Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar on May 21, 2025. Justice Somashekar brings with him over three decades of judicial experience and legal service across Karnataka.

Why in News?

Justice K. Somashekar’s elevation to Chief Justice of Manipur High Court was officially announced on May 20, 2025, just days after a Supreme Court collegium, led by Chief Justice of India B.R. Gavai, recommended his name. The recommendation and appointment fill the vacancy created by the retirement of incumbent Chief Justice D. Krishnakumar.

Key Points

Appointment Date: May 20, 2025
Appointed by: President of India, after consultation with Chief Justice of India
Recommended by: 3-member SC collegium headed by CJI B.R. Gavai
Replaces: Justice D. Krishnakumar, retiring on May 21, 2025
Announced by: Union Law Minister Arjun Ram Meghwal via X (formerly Twitter)

Justice K. Somashekar – Profile

Began legal practice in 1990 in Mysore and Chamarajanagar (civil and criminal side).
Appointed District and Sessions Judge in 1998 through direct recruitment.
Elevated as Additional Judge of Karnataka High Court in July 2016.
Became Permanent Judge in July 2018.

Significance of the Appointment

The Chief Justice plays a pivotal role in judicial administration and in ensuring speedy justice delivery in the High Court.
Manipur High Court, one of the newer high courts in India (established in 2013), benefits from experienced judicial leadership.
Ensures continuity in legal oversight during sensitive times in the Northeast region.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Justice K. Somashekar Appointed Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
Name of Appointee	Justice Kempaiah Somashekar
Appointed as	Chief Justice of Manipur High Court
Appointing Authority	President of India
Recommended by	SC Collegium headed by CJI B.R. Gavai
Predecessor	Justice D. Krishnakumar
Service Background	District Judge (1998), Karnataka HC Judge

PM Modi Inaugurates 103 Amrit Stations Across 18 States Under ₹1,100 Crore Plan

On May 22, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 103 redeveloped Amrit Stations across 86 districts in 18 states, marking a major milestone under the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. Developed at a cost of over ₹1,100 crore, these modernized stations aim to transform the passenger experience by enhancing comfort, connectivity, and convenience while celebrating India’s rich cultural and architectural heritage. This initiative is part of a broader national effort to modernize over 1,300 railway stations and uplift infrastructure in line with India’s growing transit needs.

Why in News?

On May 22, 2025, Prime Minister Narendra Modi inaugurated 103 redeveloped Amrit Stations located in 86 districts across 18 states as part of the Amrit Bharat Station Scheme. The project was completed at a cost of over ₹1,100 crore. This marks a significant milestone in modernizing India’s railway infrastructure while celebrating regional architecture and cultural heritage.

Key Objectives and Aims

To modernize railway stations with world-class infrastructure.
To improve passenger amenities with a focus on Divyangjan-friendly facilities.
To preserve and highlight regional architectural styles and cultural heritage.
To ensure sustainability and energy efficiency in station design.
To enhance connectivity, safety, and travel comfort for millions.

Event Highlights

PM Modi inaugurated Deshnoke Station in Bikaner, Rajasthan.
Flagged off Bikaner-Mumbai Express Train.
Laid foundation stones for rail, road, and state infrastructure projects worth ₹26,000 crore.

Amrit Bharat Station Scheme – Background

Launched by the Indian Railways to redevelop 1,300+ stations across India.
Focus on integrating modern facilities with the cultural identity of each region.
Designed to meet future growth in passenger traffic and improve operational efficiency.

Key Infrastructure Projects Inaugurated/Dedicated

Railway Electrification Projects (Total ~999 km)

Churu–Sadulpur (58 km) – Foundation stone laid.

Suratgarh–Phalodi (336 km)
Phulera–Degana (109 km)
Udaipur–Himmatnagar (210 km)
Phalodi–Jaisalmer (157 km)
Samdari–Barmer (129 km)

Road Infrastructure Projects

Three vehicle underpasses and widening of national highways.
Seven roadway projects in Rajasthan worth ₹4,850 crore.
Roads extend up to the Indo-Pak border, strengthening defence infrastructure and logistics movement.

State Development Initiatives

25 key state projects in Rajasthan inaugurated/foundation laid.
Focus areas: health, water, connectivity, electricity, and infrastructure.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	PM Modi Inaugurates 103 Amrit Stations Across 18 States Under ₹1,100 Crore Plan
Event Date	May 22, 2025
Scheme	Amrit Bharat Station Scheme
Stations Inaugurated	103 in 86 districts across 18 states
Total Project Cost	₹1,100 crore (Amrit Stations), ₹26,000 crore (total infra projects)
Railway Electrification	999 km across 6 routes
Road Projects	7 highway projects + 3 underpasses worth ₹4,850 crore
Cultural Significance	Stations reflect regional architecture and heritage
Environmental Focus	Indian Railways targets 100% electrification

Arunachal Pradesh Welcomes New Butterfly Species: Euthalia malaccana Recorded for the First Time

Arunachal Pradesh’s Leparada district has added a remarkable new member to India’s butterfly family with the confirmed sighting of Euthalia malaccana. Previously considered a subspecies or restricted to Southeast Asia, this butterfly species’ definitive presence in India extends the known range of Euthalia malaccana in the Indo-Australian region. This discovery, verified through extensive fieldwork and photographic documentation, enriches the biodiversity record of the northeastern region and highlights the importance of citizen science in wildlife research.

Why in News?

The recent confirmation of Euthalia malaccana in Arunachal Pradesh has generated interest due to its taxonomic significance and the broadening of India’s butterfly diversity. For years, the butterfly’s presence in India was uncertain, making this discovery a crucial update for entomologists, conservationists, and biodiversity experts. It underscores the growing role of citizen scientists in documenting rare species and contributes to deeper understanding of the ecological richness of India’s northeastern frontier.

Background and Taxonomy

Euthalia malaccana was once thought to be a subspecies of Euthalia adonia but has since been classified as a distinct species.
This butterfly is primarily found in Southeast Asia, including northern Thailand, the Malay Peninsula, and the Sunda Islands.
Its occurrence in India was questionable until this new discovery.

Discovery and Documentation

The butterfly was recorded in Basar, the headquarters of Leparada district in Arunachal Pradesh, at about 685 meters above sea level.
Citizen scientist and Arunachal Pradesh policeman Roshan Upadhaya, along with Taslima Sheikh, a Lucknow-based citizen science expert, conducted fieldwork involving remote locations with local guides.
Five individuals of the species were documented between 2023 and 2024.
The findings were published in SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia, an international journal focused on butterfly research.

Identification Features

Males have a distinctive blue apical spot on the forewings; females have larger apical spots.
Hindwings display reduced red spots, helping distinguish Euthalia malaccana from related species like Euthalia lubentina.
Identification was confirmed through photographic evidence and comparison with existing scientific literature.

Significance

The record extends the known geographical range of Euthalia malaccana to India.
Enhances knowledge of Papilionoidea (butterfly superfamily) diversity in the northeastern region.
Demonstrates the effectiveness of citizen science in biodiversity discovery.
Provides valuable data for conservation planning in Arunachal Pradesh and adjacent regions.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	Arunachal Pradesh Welcomes New Butterfly Species: Euthalia malaccana Recorded for the First Time
Species Name	Euthalia malaccana
Location	Basar, Leparada district, Arunachal Pradesh
Altitude	Approximately 685 meters above sea level
Discovery Period	Between 2023 and 2024
Identification Method	Photographic evidence, field observations, morphological study
Published In	SHILAP Revista de Lepidopterologia
Significance	Extends butterfly diversity in India, confirms species range

Top-5 Indian Forts that the British Could Never Conquer, Know About Them

India is home to many forts that tell stories of courage, strength and smart planning. Some of these forts were so strong and well-protected that even the powerful British army could not capture them. These forts stands as proud symbols of India’s rich history. In this article, we will learn about five such amazing forts that the British could never conquer during their rule.

Top-5 Indian Forts that the British Could Never Conquer

India has many strong forts, but only a few were never conquered by the British. These forts stayed safe because of smart design, strong walls and brave soldiers. They tell proud stories of India’s history and are now popular places for visitors and history lovers.

Here are the names of top-5 Indian forts that the British could never conquer:

Janjira Fort
Mehrangarh Fort
Kumbhalgarh Fort
Jaisalmer Fort
Bhainsrorgarh Fort

Janjira Fort, Maharashtra

Janjira Fort stands in the Arabian Sea, surrounded by water. It was built by the Siddis and is one of the strongest sea forts in India. The British tried many times to capture it but failed. Its thick walls, secret paths and hidden freshwater ponds made it very hard to attack. You can only reach the fort by boat, making the visit feel like an adventure into the past.

Mehrangarh Fort, Rajasthan

Mehrangarh Fort is located high above the city of Jodhpur. Its steep cliffs and strong walls made it impossible to attack directly. The British didn’t even try to fight here; instead, they signed a peace treaty. Today, the fort is full of beautiful palaces, museums and views of the ”Blue City” below. It is a true example of Rajput strength and architecture.

Kumbhalgarh Fort, Rajasthan

Kumbhalgarh Fort is known for its huge wall, which is over 36 kilometers long – second only to the Great Wall of China. Hidden in the Aravalli hills, it was used as a safe place for the rulers of Mewar. The British never tried to capture it because of its tough location and thick forest cover. The evening light and sound show here tells its brave history in a magical way.

Jaisalmer Fort, Rajasthan

Jaisalmer Fort is built with golden sandstone and shines in the sunlight. It is not just a fort – it is a whole city with homes, temples and shops inside. Located deep in the Thar Desert, it was protected by its surroundings and local support. The British could not break through. Walking through the fort feels like stepping back in time.

Bhainsrorgarh Fort, Rajasthan

Bhainsrorgarh Fort is built on top of a cliff, overlooking the Chambal River. Its natural position and strong soldiers made it very difficult to attack. The British never conquered it. Today, the fort is a heritage hotel where visitors can stay and enjoy beautiful views of the river and forests. The sunset here is breathtaking and full of history.

Which Indian District is Known as the Copper City? Know About It

India is a land full of natural resources, including many including many valuable metals. One such metal is copper, which is used in wires, coins and machines. Some parts of India are rich in copper and play a big role in its mining. Among them, one district is especially famous for its copper production and is often called the ”Copper City” of India. Let’s learn more about this special place.

An Overview of India

India is a large and diverse country in South Asia, known for its rich history, culture and growing economy. It is the world’s most populated democracy and the seventh-largest country by land area. India is surrounded by oceans on the south and shares borders with countries like Pakistan, China, Nepal and Bangladesh. Its unique location and heritage make it an important country in the world.

Number of Districts in India

India has around 780 to 806 districts across its 28 states and 8 Union Territories. This number keeps growing as new districts are created for better governance and development. The exact number can change over time, depending on how the government plans and manages different regions of the country.

Copper City in India

Balaghat is a district in the Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. It is famous across the country as the ‘‘Copper City of India.” This name is given because it has the largest copper mine in the country, known as the Malanjkhand Copper Project. Along with copper, Balaghat is also a leading producer of manganese, contributing around 80% of India’s manganese production.

Why is Balaghat Called the Copper City?

Balaghat is called the ”Copper City” because it has the largest copper mine in India. The district produces a large amount of copper, which is very important for the country’s metal industry.

Home to Malanjkhand Copper Mine

The Malanjkhand Copper Project is located in the Balaghat district. It is the largest copper mine in India. This mine is also the biggest base metal mine in the country. Because of this, Balaghat became famous for copper mining.

High Copper Production

Balaghat produces a large amount of copper. It supplies a major part of India’s total copper. This makes the district very important in India’s metal industry.

Boost to Local Economy

The copper mines in Balaghat provide jobs and income to thousands of people. This helps the local economy grow. It also supports the economy of Madhya Pradesh as a whole.

World Day for Cultural Diversity: Fostering Unity in Diversity

World Day for Cultural Diversity for Dialogue and Development, observed every year on May 21, is a global celebration recognizing the richness of the world’s cultures and the vital role intercultural dialogue plays in achieving peace and sustainable development. Established by the United Nations following the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity (2001), the day emphasizes the importance of embracing cultural differences and working together to promote inclusion, understanding, and global cooperation.

Origin and Establishment

The United Nations proclaimed this day in 2002 after adopting the Universal Declaration on Cultural Diversity in 2001. The day was created to deepen our understanding of the values of cultural diversity and to highlight the need for international dialogue to support peace and sustainable development.

Objectives of the Day

The celebration is rooted in the UNESCO Convention on the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions (2005). The four main goals of this convention are,

Support sustainable systems of governance for culture – Encourage strong institutional and policy frameworks that support the cultural sector.
Achieve a balanced flow of cultural goods and services and promote artist mobility – Strengthen the global exchange of artistic ideas, practices, and professionals.
Integrate culture in sustainable development frameworks – Recognize culture as an essential component of social and economic development.
Promote human rights and fundamental freedoms – Ensure that cultural expression is free, inclusive, and respects all identities.

Ways to Celebrate Cultural Diversity

Organizations and communities worldwide are encouraged to celebrate and recognize cultural differences through a range of activities that promote inclusivity,

Sharing cultural resources: Companies can share country-specific guides or information to enhance intercultural understanding.
Showcasing staff diversity: Highlighting and celebrating cultural backgrounds of employees through storytelling or events.
Cultural awareness training: Hosting workshops or training sessions that explore cultural norms, values, and work styles.
Interactive team-building exercises: Using tools like GlobeSmart® Profiles or team cards to understand culturally influenced collaboration styles.
Leadership messaging: Leaders can use the day to reaffirm their commitment to a respectful, inclusive work culture.
Global Diversity Toolkits: Use structured toolkits with exercises and tips to engage teams and enhance cultural competence.

Helpful Resources

To support organizations and individuals in celebrating this day, several tools and guides are available,

Global Diversity Toolkit
Collaboration Catalysts
Team Breakthrough Cards
Guide to Giving Feedback Across Cultures
Overcoming Bias in Multicultural Teams
Common Workplace Micro-Inequities
Exploring Identity in the Workplace
These resources promote empathy, awareness, and practical strategies for navigating multicultural environments effectively.

Top 10 Crypto-Friendly Countries for Investment and Living in 2025

In 2025, global interest in cryptocurrencies has surged to unprecedented levels. With the rise of blockchain innovation, decentralized finance (DeFi), and crypto-based entrepreneurship, nations are racing to attract investors, developers, and businesses. But not all countries are created equal when it comes to crypto.

This article explores the top 10 crypto-friendly countries in 2025, offering the best environments for crypto investment, taxation, regulation, and innovation.

What Makes a Country Crypto-Friendly?

A crypto-friendly country is one that promotes the adoption and integration of digital assets by ensuring:

Clear regulatory frameworks for digital currencies
Low or zero capital gains tax on cryptocurrency profits
Access to crypto-friendly banking infrastructure
High crypto adoption and ownership rates
A supportive ecosystem for blockchain startups and R&D

These nations not only legalize crypto transactions but also foster a climate of innovation, economic inclusivity, and financial modernization.

Top 10 Crypto-Friendly Countries in 2025

Rank	Country	Capital Gains Tax	Regulatory Clarity	Crypto-Friendly Banks	Adoption Level	Notable Highlights
1	Switzerland	No tax for individuals	Very high (DLT Act, FINMA)	Yes (SEBA, Sygnum)	High	Home to Crypto Valley, integrated CBDC pilot
2	Singapore	No capital gains tax	High (MAS licensing)	Yes (DBS, Sygnum)	Very high	Stablecoin rules, high startup support
3	Germany	Tax-free after 1 year hold	High (BaFin regulation)	Yes (Solarisbank, Nuri)	High	Crypto custody regulated, tokenized securities
4	Portugal	No tax on long-term gains	Moderate (EU MiCA aligned)	Limited but improving	Growing	Crypto-friendly expat hub, blockchain education
5	El Salvador	No tax on crypto income	Bitcoin Legal Tender Law	Yes (state-supported wallets)	Increasing	First Bitcoin-legal nation, geothermal mining
6	United States	Taxed (tiered short/long-term)	Mixed (federal/state split)	Yes (Anchorage, Silvergate)	Very high	ETFs approved, leading in innovation and mining
7	UAE (Dubai/Abu Dhabi)	No capital gains or VAT	High (VARA, ADGM)	Yes (Emirates NBD, DIB)	Very high	VASP licenses, crypto zones, public sector interest
8	Estonia	Flat 20% income tax	High (VASPs licensed)	Yes (LHV Bank, TBB)	Medium	Blockchain used in governance, skilled workforce
9	Malta	No long-term capital gains	Very high (Blockchain laws)	Some banks support crypto	Growing	Clear crypto laws, known as Blockchain Island
10	Australia	Taxed, but exemptions apply	Clear (AUSTRAC guidelines)	Yes (ING, UBank)	High	High adoption in cities, blockchain use in real sectors

1. Switzerland

Switzerland remains the undisputed leader in the global crypto space in 2025. The country’s Financial Market Supervisory Authority (FINMA) has implemented one of the most transparent and mature regulatory structures.

Why it’s crypto-friendly:

Zero capital gains tax on long-term crypto holdings for individuals
Home to “Crypto Valley” in Zug, where over 1,000 blockchain firms operate
Licensed crypto banks like Sygnum and SEBA Bank offer custody, tokenization, and trading
Swiss cities like Lugano accept Bitcoin and stablecoins for tax payments

Switzerland’s DLT Act and forward-thinking legislation ensure it continues to set the standard for legal certainty and ecosystem strength in crypto.

2. Singapore

With a balanced regulatory approach, Singapore ranks among the best places to live and build in crypto. The Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS) provides clarity through licensing and stablecoin guidelines.

Key benefits:

No capital gains tax on crypto investments
Thriving exchange ecosystem with firms like Crypto.com and DBS
Government grants for blockchain startups engaged in R&D
Strong crypto adoption and education levels

Though Binance exited due to compliance tightening, Singapore still boasts a tech-centric and highly sustainable crypto economy.

3. Germany

Germany is one of the few EU countries to formally regulate crypto custody through BaFin, offering tax-friendly conditions for long-term holders.

What makes Germany stand out:

Zero tax on crypto profits held for over one year
Licensed crypto banks (e.g., Solarisbank) provide custody and lending services
BaFin allows fund managers to allocate up to 20% of portfolios to digital assets
Strong infrastructure for crypto ATMs and payment solutions

With Frankfurt as a financial hub and Berlin as a startup magnet, Germany is fast becoming a central crypto powerhouse in Europe.

4. Portugal

Portugal is a favorite for crypto expats and digital nomads due to its lenient tax regime and open blockchain ecosystem.

Highlights:

No capital gains tax on crypto held over 12 months (for non-primary income)
Flat 28% tax on short-term gains, but no VAT
Blockchain-friendly cities like Lisbon have vibrant communities and meetups
No licensing requirement for basic crypto activities

Portugal’s Digital Transitional Action Plan aims to integrate blockchain across government services, making it one of the most livable crypto-friendly nations in 2025.

5. El Salvador

El Salvador made history by making Bitcoin legal tender, and in 2025, it continues to be a bold and unique experiment in crypto governance.

Key advantages:

No tax on crypto gains or transactions
Government-sponsored residency and business incentives for crypto entrepreneurs
Public wallet system for fee-free Bitcoin transactions
Geothermal-powered Bitcoin mining projects

Despite IMF criticism, El Salvador’s Bitcoin-first economy has attracted businesses and crypto tourism, showing how national adoption impacts ecosystem growth.

6. United States

The U.S. remains a global crypto leader, not only due to its innovation but also the sheer volume of crypto users, exchanges, and blockchain projects.

Current status:

ETFs for Bitcoin and Ethereum approved by the SEC
State-level crypto havens: Wyoming, Texas, Florida
Tiered taxation: 10–37% on short-term gains; 0–20% on long-term, depending on income
Massive institutional involvement (Fidelity, BlackRock, Coinbase)

While federal regulation is still evolving, the U.S. crypto infrastructure is unmatched, from mining to venture capital to developer activity.

7. United Arab Emirates (UAE)

The UAE has emerged as a Middle Eastern crypto hub, especially with Dubai and Abu Dhabi leading in regulation and infrastructure.

UAE strengths:

No capital gains or corporate tax for crypto companies in free zones
Regulatory authorities like VARA and ADGM offer clear licensing for VASPs
Banks like Emirates NBD offer crypto services
Hosting major blockchain events like the Future Blockchain Summit

With a high adoption rate and government-led innovation, the UAE is well-positioned to become a global Web3 hub.

8. Estonia

Estonia combines e-governance, digital literacy, and blockchain adoption to create a supportive environment for crypto businesses.

Key advantages:

Registered crypto licenses for VASPs
20% flat tax rate with favorable corporate exemptions
Blockchain used in public services, including voting and identity
Banks like LHV support crypto transactions

Estonia is ideal for entrepreneurs looking for digital integration and government-supported blockchain tools.

9. Malta

Often dubbed the “Blockchain Island”, Malta was one of the first countries to draft a comprehensive crypto regulatory framework.

Why Malta?

Zero capital gains tax for long-term crypto gains
Corporate tax starts at 35% but drops with deductions
Open banking and partnerships with major exchanges like Binance and OKX
Active promotion of Web3 initiatives

Malta’s crypto-friendly laws and transparent licensing structure keep it in the top 10 year after year.

10. Australia

Australia’s clear tax guidance, educational institutions, and blockchain integration in real-world sectors make it a growing crypto hub.

Australian highlights:

Capital gains tax applies, but exempt for purchases under AUD 10,000
Banks like ING and UBank support crypto users
Government grants for blockchain-based startups
Active communities in Sydney and Melbourne

Although compliance can be complex, Australia’s pro-innovation stance and active fintech scene make it one of the most promising crypto-friendly countries.

Bonus: Emerging Crypto Hubs to Watch

Hong Kong

Clear licensing for VASPs
Crypto ETFs now available
High adoption and fintech investment

Kazakhstan

Crypto mining powered by renewable energy
No capital gains tax for personal investors
Clear framework by AFSA

Panama

Minimal regulation encourages organic crypto growth
No capital gains tax
Increasing business acceptance of Bitcoin and Ethereum

Top 10 Strongest Currencies in the World in 2025 (Highest Valued in INR)

The United Nations recognizes 180 official currencies across 195 countries, yet only a handful of them qualify as the strongest currencies based on their actual value, not just popularity. While the United States Dollar and Euro dominate global transactions, their real exchange rate strength is often outshined by lesser-known but more valuable currencies.

This article ranks the top 10 highest-valued currencies in the world, measured against the Indian Rupee (INR) in 2025, and explores the economic and geopolitical factors that contribute to their high value.

Understanding Currency Strength

A currency’s value is determined by its purchasing power—the ability to buy goods and services or to be exchanged for other currencies. Key factors that influence a currency’s strength include:

Foreign exchange reserves
Oil exports and trade surpluses
Inflation and interest rates
Central bank policies
Economic and political stability

Top 10 Highest Valued Currencies in the World (2025)

Rank	Currency Name	Value in INR	Value in USD
1	Kuwaiti Dinar	278.41	3.26
2	Bahraini Dinar	226.43	2.65
3	Omani Rial	221.65	2.60
4	Jordanian Dinar	120.33	1.41
5	Gibraltar Pound	113.53	1.33
6	British Pound Sterling	113.53	1.33
7	Cayman Islands Dollar	102.49	1.20
8	Swiss Franc	103.34	1.21
9	Euro	97.01	1.14
10	United States Dollar	85.34	1.00

1. Kuwaiti Dinar

The Kuwaiti Dinar is the strongest currency in the world by exchange rate. Introduced in 1961, it benefits from Kuwait’s massive oil reserves, low inflation, and stable governance.

Why it’s strong: Oil wealth, limited circulation, and strong sovereign economy
INR value: 278.41
USD value: 3.26

2. Bahraini Dinar

Issued by the Kingdom of Bahrain since 1965, the Bahraini Dinar holds second place globally. It is pegged to the US Dollar and enjoys robust support from Bahrain’s energy exports and expatriate economy.

Why it’s strong: Pegged to the dollar, controlled supply, high foreign reserves
INR value: 226.43
USD value: 2.65

3. Omani Rial

The Omani Rial is a high-value currency backed by Oman’s oil-dependent economy and fixed exchange rate to the dollar. Oman previously used the Indian Rupee before shifting to its own currency.

Why it’s strong: Oil exports, monetary stability, peg to US Dollar
INR value: 221.65
USD value: 2.60

4. Jordanian Dinar

Despite lacking abundant natural resources, Jordan maintains one of the most stable and high-valued currencies due to a fixed exchange rate system and sound fiscal management.

Why it’s strong: Pegged system, foreign aid, economic reforms
INR value: 120.33
USD value: 1.41

5. Gibraltar Pound

The Gibraltar Pound is used exclusively in Gibraltar and maintains a 1:1 peg with the British Pound. Though limited in reach, it ranks high in value.

Why it’s strong: Peg to GBP, UK economic backing, tight issuance
INR value: 113.53
USD value: 1.33

6. British Pound Sterling

The British Pound is one of the world’s most widely traded currencies and is known for its historical legacy and global financial role.

Why it’s strong: Financial services, London as a banking hub, economic strength
INR value: 113.53
USD value: 1.33

7. Cayman Islands Dollar

The Cayman Islands Dollar benefits from the territory’s status as a global offshore financial center and its peg to the US Dollar.

Why it’s strong: Financial services, low taxation, high income economy
INR value: 102.49
USD value: 1.20

8. Swiss Franc

Renowned for financial stability and neutrality, the Swiss Franc is a preferred safe haven currency in global markets.

Why it’s strong: Strong central banking, low inflation, high investor trust
INR value: 103.34
USD value: 1.21

9. Euro

Used by 20 countries across the European Union, the Euro is the second-most traded and held reserve currency globally.

Why it’s strong: Unified economies, strong trade networks, European Central Bank support
INR value: 97.01
USD value: 1.14

10. United States Dollar

The US Dollar is the world’s most dominant currency in international trade, investment, and reserves, but ranks 10th in pure valuation.

Why it’s strong: Global reserve status, petro-dollar dominance, trust in US economy
INR value: 85.34
USD value: 1.00

National Anti-Terrorism Day 2025: Promoting Unity Against Violence

India observes National Anti-Terrorism Day every year on May 21 to commemorate the death anniversary of former Prime Minister Rajiv Gandhi. This day serves as a reminder of the catastrophic consequences of terrorism and violence, urging people to maintain peace, harmony, and unity in society. The observance also reflects India’s unwavering commitment to fighting terrorism and honoring the memory of all those who have lost their lives to such acts of violence.

History and Origin of National Anti-Terrorism Day

The origin of National Anti-Terrorism Day dates back to May 21, 1991, the day Rajiv Gandhi, India’s youngest Prime Minister, was assassinated in Sriperumbudur, Tamil Nadu, by a suicide bomber associated with the Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE). In the wake of this tragic incident, the then Prime Minister V.P. Singh’s government officially declared May 21 as National Anti-Terrorism Day. This observance was meant not only to honor Rajiv Gandhi but also to raise awareness about the growing menace of terrorism in India and around the world.

Objectives and Significance

The key objectives of National Anti-Terrorism Day include,

Educating citizens, especially the youth, about the dangers of terrorism and extremism.
Promoting a spirit of peace, non-violence, and national integration.
Commemorating the victims of terrorism and extending solidarity to their families.
Highlighting the destructive impact of terrorism on society, both economically and emotionally.
Discouraging radicalization and the glorification of violent ideologies.
Through these efforts, the day reinforces the nation’s stand against all forms of violence and encourages collective responsibility in maintaining internal security and social harmony.

Observance Across the Country

On this day, government offices, public sector undertakings (PSUs), and educational institutions across India organize various activities to mark the occasion. These include,

Anti-terrorism pledges administered to reaffirm commitment to non-violence.
Lectures, debates, seminars, and symposia held in schools and colleges to educate youth about the threat of terrorism.
NGOs and civil society groups host awareness campaigns, peace marches, and cultural programs to promote unity and discourage hate-driven ideologies.
Discussions are also held to reflect on past terrorist incidents and to analyze the steps taken to strengthen national security and counter-terrorism strategies.

The Anti-Terrorism Day Pledge

A key ritual on this day is the national pledge taken by citizens, particularly in public institutions.
“We, the people of India, having abiding faith in our country’s tradition of non-violence and tolerance, hereby solemnly affirm to oppose with our strength all forms of terrorism and violence. We pledge to uphold and promote peace, social harmony and understanding among all fellow human beings and fight the forces of disruption threatening human lives and values.”
This pledge reinforces India’s historical values rooted in non-violence, as exemplified by leaders like Mahatma Gandhi, and calls upon citizens to act against terrorism in both spirit and action.