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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.

China vs USA: Who Will Dominate the 21st Century?

As the world navigates an era of rapid transformation, the geopolitical contest between China and the United States continues to define the global landscape. In 2025, their rivalry spans across economics, technology, military strength, and diplomacy. This in-depth comparison outlines which country is positioned to lead the 21st century.

Economic Power in 2025

United States

  • Nominal GDP: Approximately $29.8 trillion
  • Largest economy in terms of market exchange rates
  • Leading global hub for finance, innovation, and consumer spending
  • US dollar remains the world’s dominant reserve currency

China

  • Nominal GDP: Approximately $20.5 trillion
  • Largest economy in Purchasing Power Parity (PPP)
  • Global manufacturing and export leader
  • Belt and Road Initiative expanding economic influence globally

Summary: The United States leads in nominal terms, while China is ahead in purchasing power and infrastructure-driven outreach.

Technological Innovation

United States

  • Global leader in artificial intelligence research and development
  • Dominant in chip design, software, cloud infrastructure, and space technology
  • Home to major tech companies and top-ranked research institutions

China

  • Leader in AI deployment, 5G infrastructure, and smart city technologies
  • Top producer of electric vehicles and solar technology
  • Heavy investment in semiconductor independence and quantum tech

Summary: The United States leads in foundational innovation, while China is rapidly advancing in implementation and scale.

Military Strength in 2025

United States

  • Defense budget: Around $880 billion
  • Over 800 military bases worldwide
  • Superior capabilities in nuclear deterrence, cyber defense, and naval power
  • Member of powerful alliances like NATO and AUKUS

China

  • Defense budget: Around $260 billion
  • World’s largest standing army
  • Expanding presence in the South China Sea and Taiwan Strait
  • Focused on regional dominance and military modernization

Summary: The United States maintains a global military edge, while China is asserting regional dominance.

Global Influence and Soft Power

United States

  • Leading cultural exporter through media, education, and lifestyle
  • Influential in international institutions like the UN, IMF, and World Bank
  • Global diplomatic reach backed by long-standing alliances

China

  • Expanding influence through the Belt and Road Initiative
  • Strengthening ties in Africa, Latin America, and Southeast Asia
  • Lower soft power due to censorship, surveillance, and limited cultural openness

Summary: The United States leads in cultural and diplomatic soft power, while China is leveraging economic tools for influence.

Demographics and Talent

United States

  • Younger and more diverse population
  • Continues to attract top global talent through universities and work opportunities
  • Innovation supported by immigration and entrepreneurship

China

  • Experiencing population decline and aging workforce
  • 2025 marks a noticeable shrinkage in labor supply
  • Investing in automation and AI to address demographic challenges

Summary: The United States has long-term demographic advantages; China’s aging population presents future constraints.

Comparison Overview

Category United States China
Nominal GDP $29.8 trillion $20.5 trillion
GDP (PPP) ~$29 trillion ~$35 trillion
Military Budget $880 billion $260 billion
Technology Leadership R&D innovation Rapid application
Soft Power High Moderate
Demographic Strength Younger, diverse Aging, shrinking

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Foreign Exchange Reserves by 2025

Foreign exchange reserves are like a country’s financial savings. These include foreign money (like dollars or euros), gold and special international assets. In 2025, the world’s total foreign exchange reserves are about $12.3 trillion. These reserves help countries keep their country strong, pay international debts and handle economic problems.

What are Foreign Exchange Reserves?

Foreign exchange reserves are the money and assets held by a country’s central bank. These can include:

  • Foreign currencies
  • Gold
  • Special Drawing Rights (SDRs) from the International Monetary Fund (IMFs)

Countries use these reserves to keep their currency stable, support trade and protect their economy during financial troubles.

Why are Forex Reserves Important?

  • Help manage inflation
  • Support the country’s currency
  • Pay for inputs and international loans
  • Deal with global market changes and emergencies

Total Foreign Exchange Reserves in 2025

In 2025, total foreign exchange reserves in the world are estimated at $12.3 trillion. This shows how important these reserves are for the global economy.

Country with the Highest Forex Reserves in 2025

China has the largest foreign exchange reserves in the world in 2025, totally $3.57 trillion. These huge reserves help China control its currency, the yuan (CNY), supports trade and stay strong in global markets. The People’s Bank of China mostly holds these reserves in US dollars, along with some euros, yen and gold.

Top-10 Countries with the Highest Foreign Exchange Reserves by 2025

China is the top country with more than $3.57 trillion, highest reserves in the world. Most of this is in US dollars, along with euros, yen and gold. China uses these reserves to support the yuan (CNY) and keep its trade strong.

Here is the list of top-10 countries with the highest foreign exchange reserves by 2025:

Rank Country Foreign Exchange Reserves (in USD million)
1. China $3,571,803 million
2. Japan $1,238,950 million
3. Switzerland $952,687 million
4. India $686,145 million
5. Russia $620,800 million
6. Taiwan $576,846 million
7. Saudi Arabia $434,547 million
8. Hong Kong $421,400 million
9. South Korea $415,700 million
10. Brazil $388,571 million

India’s Position in Foreign Exchange Reserves

In 2025, India ranks fourth in the world with $686.1 billion in foreign exchange reserves. These reserves help support the Indian rupee (INR), control inflation and keep the economy strong during global changes. India’s strong reserve position shows its economic stability. Russia follows in fifth place with $620.8 billion, though reduced due to sanctions and political tensions.

States and Capitals - How Many States in India?_6.1

Gyan Bharatam Mission: A New Era for India’s Manuscript Heritage

Prime Minister Narendra Modi is set to launch the revamped National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) on June 9, 2025, under the new title ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’, aiming to preserve India’s vast manuscript heritage. With a significant budget increase from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore, this initiative will survey, document, digitize, and conserve over one crore manuscripts lying in academic institutions, libraries, museums, and private collections.

Why in News?

The revival and relaunch of the National Manuscripts Mission has been scheduled for June 9, as announced in the 2025 Union Budget. The increased budgetary allocation and efforts to make the mission autonomous mark a major step forward in safeguarding India’s ancient intellectual treasures.

Key Objectives

  • Survey, document, digitize, and conserve India’s manuscript heritage.
  • Expand the reach to over one crore manuscripts across the country.
  • Establish a clear access policy to encourage sharing of privately held manuscripts.
  • Make the National Manuscripts Mission autonomous to ensure greater efficiency.

Key Highlights

  • The initiative will operate under the ‘Gyan Bharatam Mission’ banner.
  • A massive budget hike from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore was announced in the Union Budget.
  • The revamped mission will include a new organization likely launched by PM Modi on June 9.

Background

  • National Manuscripts Mission (NMM) was established in 2003, under the Indira Gandhi National Centre for the Arts (IGNCA).
  • Despite initial promise, the mission had not progressed as expected due to limited access, coordination, and budgetary support.

Current Status

  • 52 lakh manuscripts metadata prepared.
  • 3 lakh manuscripts digitized, but only 1.3 lakh uploaded.
  • Only 70,000 manuscripts are publicly viewable due to lack of access policy.
  • 80% of manuscripts in India are held by private collectors.
  • Over 9 crore folios conserved in the past 21 years.

Expert Consultation

  • Meetings chaired by Union Culture Minister Gajendra Singh Shekhawat.
  • Noted experts involved: Udaya Narayana Singh, K. Ramasubramanian, Sudha Gopalakrishnan, and representatives from Google Arts and Culture.

Significance

  • Revival aims to preserve India’s linguistic and cultural diversity.
  • Enhances digital access, research, and educational outreach.
  • Promotes India’s heritage globally by integrating technology with tradition.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Gyan Bharatam Mission: A New Era for India’s Manuscript Heritage
Initiative Name Gyan Bharatam Mission (Revamped NMM)
Launch Date June 9, 2025
Budget Allocation Increased from ₹3.5 crore to ₹60 crore
Objective Preservation and digitization of 1 crore+ manuscripts
Current Digitization Status 3 lakh digitized, 1.3 lakh uploaded, only 70,000 viewable
Major Challenge Lack of access policy; 80% manuscripts privately held
Conservation Work 9 crore folios preserved over 21 years
Implementing Body Ministry of Culture (to become autonomous)

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

Chandrayaan-3 vs Luna-25: Race to the Moon’s South Pole

The race to the Moon’s south pole in 2023 saw two major space powers—India and Russia—attempting to achieve a historic first. With India launching Chandrayaan-3 and Russia sending Luna-25, the world watched closely to see who would land on this unexplored lunar region first.

Here’s a detailed comparison of both missions, their objectives, outcomes, and the broader significance for lunar exploration.

Background: Why the Moon’s South Pole?

The Moon’s south pole has become the new frontier in lunar exploration due to:

  • Presence of water ice in permanently shadowed regions
  • Ideal location for setting up future lunar bases
  • Untapped scientific potential

Reaching and studying this region could be the key to long-term human presence on the Moon.

Mission Overview

Chandrayaan-3 (India)

  • Agency: ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation)
  • Launch Date: July 14, 2023
  • Landing Date: August 23, 2023
  • Landing Site: Near the lunar south pole
  • Objective: Soft-landing and deploying a rover for surface analysis
  • Outcome: Successful landing — India became the first country to land near the Moon’s south pole.

Luna-25 (Russia)

  • Agency: Roscosmos
  • Launch Date: August 10, 2023
  • Expected Landing Date: August 21, 2023
  • Landing Site: Boguslawsky Crater (south polar region)
  • Objective: Land and analyze lunar soil for water ice
  • Outcome: Mission failed — Luna-25 crashed into the Moon due to a descent anomaly on August 19, 2023.

Chandrayaan-3 vs Luna-25: Mission Comparison

Feature Chandrayaan-3 Luna-25
Country India Russia
First South Pole Landing Yes (historic)  No (crash)
Mission Type Lander + Rover Lander only
Budget Approx. $75 million Estimated $200 million
Propulsion & Control Vikram Lander + Pragyan Rover Soyuz-2.1b + Luna Lander
Status Success Failure
Global Recognition High — India’s prestige in space rose sharply Damaging to Russia’s recent space credibility

Key Achievements of Chandrayaan-3

  • First mission to land successfully on the Moon’s south pole.
  • Pragyan rover conducted in-situ experiments including:
  1. Detection of sulfur and other surface elements
  2. Thermal and mechanical property analysis
  • Demonstrated India’s capabilities in autonomous lunar landings.

Impact of Luna-25 Crash

  • Russia’s first lunar mission in 47 years ended in failure.
  • Raised concerns about Roscosmos’ technical capabilities and aging infrastructure.
  • Delays expected in future Russian lunar missions, including Luna-26 and 27.

Why Chandrayaan-3 Succeeded

  • Lessons from Chandrayaan-2’s crash in 2019
  • Improved software, landing algorithms, and terrain navigation
  • Emphasis on cost-effective, focused engineering

Global Implications

  • India emerged as a global leader in low-cost space innovation.
  • The Moon’s south pole is now a key focus for future missions:
  1. NASA Artemis III (2026): Human landing near the south pole
  2. ISRO’s Chandrayaan-4 (expected): Lunar sample return mission
  3. China’s Chang’e 7 (2026): Detailed exploration of polar region

ISRO vs NASA: Budget, Achievements, and Future Missions

When comparing global space agencies, ISRO (Indian Space Research Organisation) and NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration) are often placed head-to-head. While both agencies aim for scientific excellence and space exploration, their budgets, achievements, and future missions vary greatly. This article offers a detailed comparison of ISRO and NASA to understand their unique strengths and ambitions.

ISRO vs NASA: Budget Comparison

ISRO Budget

  • Annual Budget (2024–2025): Approx. $1.5 billion USD
  • Known for its cost-effective missions, ISRO has gained international acclaim for achieving significant milestones at a fraction of the cost compared to other agencies.
  • Example: Mars Orbiter Mission (Mangalyaan) cost only $74 million, far less than similar missions by other countries.

NASA Budget

  • Annual Budget (2024–2025): Over $25 billion USD
  • With a much larger financial backing, NASA undertakes complex and high-risk missions involving deep space exploration, robotic missions, and manned spaceflights.

ISRO vs NASA: Key Achievements

ISRO Major Achievements

  • Chandrayaan-1 (2008): Discovered water molecules on the Moon.
  • Mangalyaan (2013): First Asian nation to reach Mars orbit on its first attempt.
  • Chandrayaan-3 (2023): Successfully landed on the Moon’s south pole, a global first.
  • PSLV (Polar Satellite Launch Vehicle): Launched 104 satellites in a single mission (2017) — a world record.

NASA Major Achievements

  • Moon Landing (1969): First human landing on the Moon via Apollo 11.
  • Voyager Missions: Probing interstellar space since 1977.
  • Hubble Space Telescope & James Webb Space Telescope: Transforming our understanding of the universe.
  • Mars Missions: Includes Curiosity, Perseverance, and the Ingenuity helicopter.
  • Artemis Program: Aims to return humans to the Moon and beyond.

ISRO vs NASA: Future Missions

ISRO Upcoming Missions

  • Gaganyaan Mission: India’s first human spaceflight mission, expected in 2025.
  • Aditya-L1: India’s first solar observation mission.
  • Shukrayaan-1: Planned mission to study Venus.
  • Reusable Launch Vehicle (RLV): Focused on lowering launch costs.

NASA Upcoming Missions

  • Artemis II & III: Human lunar missions aimed at establishing a long-term presence on the Moon.
  • Mars Sample Return Mission: To bring back Martian soil for study.
  • Europa Clipper (2024): To explore Jupiter’s icy moon for signs of life.
  • Dragonfly (2027): A rotorcraft mission to Titan, Saturn’s largest moon.

ISRO vs NASA: Technological Innovation

Parameter ISRO NASA
Cost Efficiency Extremely high Moderate
Innovation Focused on low-cost solutions Advanced robotics, deep space missions
Satellite Launches Commercial leader in affordable launches Fewer, high-budget launches
Human Spaceflight In development (Gaganyaan) Long-established (Apollo, ISS, Artemis)

Union Minister Lays Foundation Stone for ₹42.4 Crore Integrated Aquapark in Tripura Under PMMSY

On May 18, 2025, Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh) laid the foundation stone for an Integrated Aquapark in Kailashahar, Tripura, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Valued at ₹42.4 crores, this initiative aims to bolster Tripura’s fisheries sector through modern technology, integrated farming, and innovation. The event also featured a Fish Festival showcasing the state’s rich aquatic biodiversity. The move is part of a broader effort to transform Tripura into a “fish surplus state” with significant export potential.

Why in News?

The foundation stone laying marks a major step forward for Tripura’s fisheries sector, a crucial area for economic development in the Northeast. With the fisheries sector growing faster than other agriculture allied sectors nationally, this project under PMMSY highlights the government’s focus on modernizing fisheries, promoting sustainability, and supporting local fish farmers through training and infrastructure.

Aim and Objectives

  • To develop an Integrated Aquapark in Kailashahar, Tripura worth ₹42.4 crores under PMMSY.
  • To boost fish production and reduce the supply-demand gap in Tripura by leveraging modern aquaculture technologies.
  • To transform Tripura into a “fish surplus state” capable of exporting fish beyond its current requirement of 1.5 lakh tonnes, targeting a production of 2 lakh tonnes.
  • To promote sustainable and innovative aquaculture, including organic fish farming modeled after Sikkim’s Organic Fish Cluster.
  • To provide institutional training and capacity building to fish farmers through government support programs like Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF) and National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).

Background

  • PMMSY (Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) is a flagship government scheme aimed at doubling fish production and supporting fish farmers with infrastructure, technology, and training.
  • The fisheries sector has shown a robust growth rate of 9.08% since 2014-15, making it the fastest-growing among agriculture and allied sectors in India.
  • Currently, 11 Integrated Aquaparks are under development nationwide, with 4 located in the Northeast region, reflecting the strategic importance of this area for fisheries development.

Highlights of the Event

  • The foundation stone was laid by Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh with the presence of Ministers from Tripura and Union Ministries.
  • A Fish Festival was inaugurated, emphasizing Tripura’s diverse fish species and cultural heritage.
  • The Union Minister stressed the need for infrastructure improvement, ornamental fisheries development, scampi production boost, easier market access, and innovation in the sector.
  • Certificates and sanction orders were distributed to beneficiaries as part of capacity-building initiatives.

Significance

  • This project will not only enhance fish production but also promote economic growth and employment in Tripura.
  • It aims to develop an export-oriented fisheries economy in the state, which can serve as a model for other Northeastern states.
  • The focus on organic fish farming aligns with sustainable development goals and environmental conservation.
  • Institutional training and government support schemes will empower fish farmers, ensuring technology adoption and improved livelihoods.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? Union Minister Lays Foundation Stone for ₹42.4 Crore Integrated Aquapark in Tripura Under PMMSY
Project Name Integrated Aquapark, Kailashahar, Tripura
Cost ₹42.4 crores
Scheme Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY)
Union Minister Shri Rajiv Ranjan Singh (Lalan Singh)
Target Fish Production 2 lakh tonnes (Tripura’s requirement: 1.5 lakh tonnes)
Growth Rate of Fisheries Sector 9.08% (since 2014-15)
Number of Integrated Aquaparks Nationwide 11 (4 in Northeast)
Special Focus Organic Fish Cluster, Training, Innovation
Date of Foundation Stone May 18, 2025

States and Capitals - How Many States in India?_12.1

K9 Vajra vs M109 Paladin: Self-Propelled Howitzers Face-off

In modern warfare, self-propelled howitzers (SPHs) serve as vital artillery platforms, combining mobility, firepower, and rapid deployment. Two of the most well-known SPHs in service today are the K9 Vajra-T, operated by India, and the M109A7 Paladin, a mainstay of the United States Army.

Both systems are engineered for high-intensity, long-range indirect fire support, but they differ significantly in origin, design philosophy, battlefield roles, and technical specifications.

This article offers a comprehensive comparison of the K9 Vajra vs M109 Paladin, helping you understand how these artillery giants stack up in a modern combat environment.

Origin and Development

K9 Vajra-T: South Korean Design, Indian Production

  • Developed by Hanwha Defense (South Korea) as K9 Thunder.
  • Indian version (K9 Vajra-T) built under Make in India by Larsen & Toubro (L&T).
  • Customized for desert operations and Indian terrain.
  • Inducted by the Indian Army starting 2018.

M109 Paladin: American Legacy Artillery

  • Developed by BAE Systems for the U.S. Army.
  • First introduced in the 1960s, with continuous upgrades (latest: M109A7 variant).
  • Used in multiple wars: Vietnam, Gulf War, Iraq, Afghanistan.
  • Currently a central part of U.S. self-propelled artillery capabilities.

Design and Mobility

K9 Vajra

  • Tracked, turreted howitzer based on South Korea’s K9 Thunder.
  • Weighs approximately 47 tonnes.
  • Designed for desert and high-altitude warfare.
  • Top road speed: 67 km/h.
  • Operates in extreme conditions from -30°C to +55°C.

M109A7 Paladin

  • Tracked howitzer with a more compact, modular design.
  • Weighs approximately 39 tonnes.
  • Uses upgraded chassis from the Bradley Fighting Vehicle.
  • Road speed: 61 km/h.
  • Engineered for a wide range of terrains, with a focus on battlefield survivability.

Firepower and Range

K9 Vajra

  • Equipped with a 155mm/52-caliber gun.
  • Firing range:
  1. Standard shells: 30 km
  2. Extended-range ammunition: up to 40+ km
  • Rate of fire: 6–8 rounds per minute
  • Burst fire: 3 rounds in under 15 seconds

M109 Paladin

  • Uses a 155mm/39-caliber cannon.
  • Firing range:
  1. Standard rounds: 24 km
  2. Rocket-assisted projectiles (RAP): up to 30–40 km
  • Rate of fire: 4 rounds per minute
  • Advanced fire control with autoloader in newer variants.

Automation and Crew Support

K9 Vajra

  • Crew: 5 members (Commander, Driver, Gunner, 2 Loaders)
  • Semi-automatic loading system
  • Advanced fire control system (FCS) for quick targeting
  • Designed for shoot-and-scoot tactics

M109 Paladin

  • Crew: 4 members
  • Upgraded electronic FCS with networked capabilities
  • Manual and semi-automatic loading
  • Emphasis on digitization and battlefield networking

Operational Use and Deployment

K9 Vajra in India

  • Over 100+ units inducted into the Indian Army.
  • Deployed along Pakistan border (Rajasthan sector) and later adapted for high-altitude warfare in Ladakh.
  • India plans to acquire more units and upgrade with DRDO-developed APU and indigenous components.

M109 Paladin in the U.S.

  • Over 950+ units of M109A7 ordered by U.S. Army.

  • Integrated with Precision Guidance Kit (PGK) and Excalibur rounds for pinpoint accuracy.

  • Forming backbone of U.S. artillery modernization.

Key Differences at a Glance

Feature K9 Vajra-T (India) M109A7 Paladin (USA)
Origin South Korea / India United States
Caliber 155mm/52 155mm/39
Max Range 40+ km (with ERFB shells) 30–40 km (with RAP/Excalibur)
Crew Size 5 4
Max Speed 67 km/h 61 km/h
Rate of Fire 6–8 rounds/min 4 rounds/min
Deployed In Desert, High-Altitude (India) Global (multiple U.S. missions)
Production Partner Larsen & Toubro (India) BAE Systems (USA)

Which is the Largest Film City in the World? Know About It

There are may big film cities in the world where movies and TV shows are made. These places have everything needed for filmmaking like sets, studios and special effects. They are also visited by tourists who want to see how film are created. Among all these film cities, one stands out as the largest in the world because of its huge size and amazing facilities.

Largest Film City in the World

The largest film in the world is Ramoji Film City. It is located in Hyderabad, India and covers about 2,000 acres. It was started in 1996 by Ramoji Rao and is recognized by the Guinness World Records as the biggest film studio. Many movies are made here every year and it also welcomes millions of tourists who come to see its movie sets, gardens and amusement park. It is called a ”city within a city” because it has many places like hotels, roads and even a train station inside it.

History of Ramoji Film City

Ramoji Rao wanted to create a place like Hollywood where many movies could be made. He bought a big piece of land on the edge of Hyderabad and hired a designer named Nitish Roy to build the film city. At first, the land was full of forests and rough areas, but they made sure to keep nature safe while building. The first movie shot completely here was ”Maa Nannaku Pelli” in 1997.

What makes the Film City Special?

The film city has many different places to shoot movies. There are fake forests, gardens, big houses, hotels, a train station and even an airport. There are 47 big halls called sound stages where indoor filming happens. They also have a big kitchen to feed all the people working there.

Inside the film city, there are six hotels where visitors and workers can stay. To move around, visitors can ride old-style buses or air-conditioned coaches. The film city employs about 1,200 workers and 8,000 helpers. Every year, 400 to 500 movies are made here in many different Indian languages. The film city can handle up to 15 movie shoots at the same time!

A Popular Place for Tourists

Ramoji Film City is not only for making movies but also a fun place for tourists. Around 15 lakh (1.5 million) visitors come every year. Visitors can see real movie sets and enjoy rides in the amusement park. Some famous movies like ”Baahubali” were filmed here and visitors can visit those sets. There are gardens, theme zones and many other fun activities. People come here to enjoy and also learn how movies are made.

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Interational Museum Day, Date, Theme, Significance

International Museum Day is celebrated on May 18 every year. It highlights the important role of museums worldwide. Museums help in preserving heritage and promoting education. They also support cultural exchange between communities. In 2025, the theme focuses on the future of museums in rapidly changing communities.

Why in the News?

International Museum Day 2025 focuses on the theme “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities,” emphasizing how museums adapt to support education, innovation, and community development in today’s fast-changing world.

International Museum Day 2025

  • Date: May 18, 2025 (Sunday)
  • Established by: International Council of Museums (ICOM)
  • First celebrated: May 18, 1978 (concept originated in 1951)

History and Origin

  • The idea for International Museum Day (IMD) began in 1951 with ICOM’s “Crusade for Museums” themed on “Museums and Education.”
  • Officially established in 1977 at the ICOM General Assembly in Moscow, Russia.
  • The first IMD was held on May 18, 1978 in 22 countries.
  • Today, it is observed in over 158 countries with participation from more than 37,000 museums.

Theme for 2025

  • “The Future of Museums in Rapidly Changing Communities”
  • Focuses on how museums adapt to evolving social, cultural, and technological landscapes.
  • Emphasizes innovation, community engagement, digital transformation, and safeguarding intangible heritage.

Significance

Museums are more than artifact holders—they’re,

  • Educational hubs supporting formal/informal learning.
  • Cultural bridges fostering mutual understanding and peace.
  • Sustainability agents aligned with the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
  • Promote intergenerational learning, mental well-being, and inclusivity.

Global Celebrations

Museums host,

  • Special exhibitions, interactive tours, and workshops
  • Free entry, digital tours, and virtual events
  • Educational programs with schools and communities
  • Encourages public participation, donations, and volunteering

Quotes to Reflect On

  • “A visit to a museum is a search for beauty, truth, and meaning in our lives.” – Maira Kalman
  • “Museums are wormholes to other worlds. They are ecstasy machines.” – Jerry Saltz
  • “Museums should be places where you raise questions, not just show stuff.” – William Thorsell

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India Celebrates 125 Years of Solar Research with Kodaikanal Observatory Stamp

In a proud tribute to one of India’s oldest and most prestigious solar research institutions, the Department of Posts released a commemorative stamp honouring the 125th anniversary of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory. The release was held at the Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA) in Bengaluru on May 17, 2025, recognizing the observatory’s historical and scientific significance in solar astrophysics research since its establishment in 1899.

Why in News?

The 125th anniversary (Quasquicentennial) of the Kodaikanal Solar Observatory was celebrated starting from April 1, 2024. To commemorate this milestone, the Department of Posts issued a special stamp on May 17, 2025, celebrating the observatory’s monumental legacy in solar science and astronomy.

About Kodaikanal Solar Observatory

  • Established: 1 April 1899.
  • Located in: Tamil Nadu, India.
  • Institutional Affiliation: Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA).
  • Legacy: Cradle of Indian research in solar astrophysics for over a century.

Features of the Commemorative Stamp

  • Displays the historic twin-domed building of the observatory.
  • Right Dome: Hosts a 6-inch telescope (originally from Madras Observatory, 1850; installed at Kodaikanal in 1900).
  • Left Dome: Contains an 8-inch telescope (from 1866; brought to Kodaikanal in 1930).
  • Includes a recent H-alpha image of the Sun taken on May 6, 2024.
  • Shows the IIA logo and a ‘Butterfly Diagram’, charting sunspot positions from 1904 to 2020.

Objective of the Stamp

  • Celebrate and honour 125 years of India’s pioneering solar observations.
  • Promote awareness about the contributions of Indian science to global solar research.
  • Provide a philatelic tribute for collectors and space science enthusiasts.

Key Personalities Involved

  • A.S. Kiran Kumar – Former ISRO Chairman and Chairperson of the Governing Council of IIA.
  • S. Rajendra Kumar – Chief Post Master General, Karnataka Circle.
Summary/Static Details
Why in the news? India Celebrates 125 Years of Solar Research with Kodaikanal Observatory Stamp
Event Release of Commemorative Stamp
Occasion 125th Anniversary of Kodaikanal Solar Observatory
Released by Department of Posts
Key Figures A.S. Kiran Kumar, S. Rajendra Kumar
Location Indian Institute of Astrophysics (IIA), Bengaluru
Featured on Stamp Twin-domed building, Sun image, IIA logo, Butterfly Diagram
Importance Marks India’s contributions in solar astrophysics

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