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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.

Raksha Bandhan 2025: History, Significance, and Celebrations

Raksha Bandhan in 2025 celebrates on Saturday, August 9, 2025. This festival takes place on the full moon day (Purnima) of the Shravan month in the Hindu calendar, which usually falls in August. The date changes every year based on the lunar calendar.

What is Raksha Bandhan?

Raksha Bandhan, also known as Rakhi, is an important Indian festival that celebrates the deep bond between brothers and sisters.

  • Meaning: The word “Raksha” means protection, and “Bandhan” means bond — together, it signifies a bond of protection.
  • Tradition: On this day, sisters tie a sacred thread (rakhi) on their brothers’ wrists and pray for their well-being. In return, brothers give gifts and promise to protect their sisters throughout life.
  • Modern Scope: Today, the festival is not limited to biological siblings and is also observed between cousins, friends, and even as a gesture of respect towards community protectors such as soldiers and police officers.

Historical and Mythological Stories Behind Raksha Bandhan

Lord Krishna and Draupadi

In the Mahabharata, Lord Krishna injured his finger during a battle. Draupadi, the wife of the Pandavas, tore a piece of her saree and tied it around Krishna’s finger to stop the bleeding. Moved by her act, Krishna promised to protect Draupadi forever.

Rani Karnavati and Emperor Humayun

During the medieval period, Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a rakhi to Mughal Emperor Humayun when her kingdom was threatened by Bahadur Shah of Gujarat. Honoring the rakhi, Humayun set aside political differences and came to her aid.

Yama and Yamuna

In ancient legend, Yamuna tied a rakhi to her brother Yama, the god of death. Touched by her affection, Yama granted her immortality and declared that any brother who receives a rakhi will be blessed with long life and prosperity.

Traditional Rituals of Raksha Bandhan

  • Sisters prepare a plate (puja thali) with rakhi, lamp, vermilion, rice grains, and sweets.
  • The sister applies a tilak on the brother’s forehead, ties the rakhi on his wrist, and feeds him sweets.
  • The brother gives gifts or money and pledges lifelong care and protection.
  • Families gather, share festive meals, and celebrate together.

Modern-Day Celebrations and Cultural Impact

Raksha Bandhan has expanded beyond family boundaries to represent universal brotherhood.

  • Friends and distant relatives also exchange rakhis.
  • Many schools and community organizations hold rakhi-making competitions.
  • NGOs and citizens tie rakhis to soldiers, police officers, and frontline workers to honor their service.
  • With changing times, people living far away often send rakhis and gifts through courier or celebrate virtually.

Raksha Bandhan and the Indian Constitution

The values of Raksha Bandhan reflect ideals in the Indian Constitution:

  • Fraternity: Promoting unity and brotherhood among people.
  • Unity in Diversity: Celebrated across regions, languages, and religions.
  • Gender Respect and Equality: Symbolizing mutual respect and care between brothers and sisters.

Raksha Bandhan: 10 Unknown Facts You Probably Didn’t Know

Raksha Bandhan is widely celebrated as a festival that honors the deep bond between brothers and sisters. Sisters tie a rakhi (sacred thread) on their brother’s wrist, and in return, brothers offer gifts and a promise of protection.

But beyond this familiar tradition lies a world of hidden stories, regional customs, historical moments, and social significance. Here are ten fascinating facts about Raksha Bandhan that most people are unaware of.

1. Raksha Bandhan is Celebrated in Nepal Too

While Raksha Bandhan is closely associated with India, it is also an important festival in Nepal. There, it is celebrated as “Janai Purnima.”

On this day, men belonging to the Brahmin and Chhetri communities perform a sacred thread-changing ceremony called Janai, while the women tie rakhis to their brothers, just like in India. The festival represents purity, protection, and family bonding in both cultures.

2. Rakhi Was Once a Symbol of Political Alliance

One of the most iconic historical events linked to Raksha Bandhan occurred in 1535 when Rani Karnavati of Mewar sent a rakhi to the Mughal Emperor Humayun. Her kingdom was under threat, and the rakhi was a plea for help and protection.

Despite religious and political differences, Humayun treated the rakhi as a sacred bond and responded to her call. This highlights how Raksha Bandhan was once used as a diplomatic tool for building alliances and trust.

3. Raksha Bandhan is Older Than You Think

Raksha Bandhan is mentioned in ancient Hindu texts like the Bhavishya Purana, indicating that the festival is over 6,000 years old. Originally, it wasn’t just about sibling relationships—it was a broader ritual of protection performed in times of war or natural disasters.

The rakhi served as a talisman and was used in both spiritual and social contexts.

4. Rakhis Have Been Tied to Trees and Animals

In modern times, environmental activists and animal lovers have expanded the idea of protection by tying rakhis to trees, cows, and even pet animals.

This symbolizes a promise to protect the environment and other living beings, reinforcing the idea that Raksha Bandhan is not limited to human relationships. It reflects how traditions can adapt to promote ecological and ethical awareness.

5. Rabindranath Tagore Used Raksha Bandhan for Hindu-Muslim Unity

During the Partition of Bengal in 1905, Rabindranath Tagore used Raksha Bandhan as a tool to promote harmony among Hindus and Muslims. He encouraged people from both communities to tie rakhis to one another as a gesture of unity and brotherhood.

This turned the festival into a powerful symbol of national integration and social solidarity during colonial times.

6. Raksha Bandhan is Celebrated by the Indian Diaspora Worldwide

Indians living abroad in countries like the United States, United Kingdom, UAE, Australia, and Canada also celebrate Raksha Bandhan. It helps families stay connected to their cultural roots.

In some international schools, Raksha Bandhan is introduced as “Rakhi for Friendship,” helping people from different cultures understand Indian traditions.

7. Sisters Tie Rakhis to Soldiers and Police Officers

In many parts of India, especially around Independence Day, women and girls tie rakhis to army jawans and police officers as a gesture of gratitude and national pride.

It is a symbolic way of saying, “You protect the country; we thank and honor you.” This version of Raksha Bandhan extends the concept of protection to those who defend the entire nation.

Exam Insight: This is often quoted in civic education and value-based questions.

8. Raksha Bandhan Reflects Constitutional Values

The ideals of Raksha Bandhan align with key values enshrined in the Indian Constitution:

  • Fraternity – The festival promotes unity and brotherhood among citizens
  • Equality – It reflects mutual respect between siblings, regardless of gender
  • Secularism – Raksha Bandhan is celebrated across religions, regions, and communities

This makes the festival not just a cultural tradition, but also a reflection of democratic principles.

9. Rakhi is Not Always Tied by Women

Although traditionally sisters tie rakhis to their brothers, in some communities, men also tie rakhis to their younger sisters as a sign of care and protection.

This practice challenges the idea that only women seek protection, and instead highlights that responsibility, affection, and support can be mutual.10. There Are Regional Variations of Raksha Bandhan

Raksha Bandhan is not celebrated the same way across all of India. In Maharashtra, it coincides with Narali Purnima, when fishermen offer coconuts to the sea before resuming their fishing activities.

In Jammu, a festival called “Saluno” involves sisters sprinkling rice in their brothers’ hair and tying protective charms instead of rakhis.

In South India, a similar occasion known as Avani Avittam is observed, where men change their sacred threads in a religious ceremony.

These variations reflect India’s rich cultural diversity and show how a single festival can take on different meanings across the country.

LIC Q1 FY26 Results: Net Profit Rises 5% to ₹10,987 Crore, Asset Quality Improves

India’s largest life insurer, Life Insurance Corporation of India (LIC), kicked off FY26 with a steady performance. In its Q1 results for FY26, LIC reported a 5% year-on-year increase in net profit, reaching ₹10,987 crore, compared to ₹10,461 crore in the same quarter last year. The growth came despite a slowdown in new policy sales, reflecting LIC’s strong base of renewals and improved financial discipline.

Premium Income and Policy Mix

LIC’s net premium income also increased by 5%, rising from ₹1.14 lakh crore in Q1 FY25 to ₹1.19 lakh crore in the current quarter. While new policy sales were subdued due to regulatory changes introduced in October 2024—which reduced surrender charges for early policy exits—strong renewal premiums helped maintain income stability.

Additionally, LIC’s individual business non-par APE (Annualised Premium Equivalent) surged 32.6% to ₹2,142 crore, indicating increased demand for non-participating policies, which don’t share profits with policyholders but offer guaranteed benefits.

Improved Financial Health and Asset Quality

LIC’s financial stability has improved significantly,

Solvency ratio climbed to 2.17%, up from 1.99% a year ago, and 2.11% in the previous quarter. This key metric reflects LIC’s enhanced ability to meet long-term obligations.

  • Gross NPAs declined by 21% year-on-year to ₹8,436.5 crore.
  • Net NPAs plummeted by 36%, down to just ₹4 crore.
  • Gross NPA ratio improved from 1.95% to 1.42% over the year.
  • These improvements signal better risk management and stronger underwriting standards in LIC’s investment portfolio.

Strong AUM and Market Position

LIC’s Assets Under Management (AUM) grew by 6.47% YoY, reaching ₹57.05 lakh crore. This cements its status as one of the largest institutional investors in the country.

The insurer also reported,

  • Market share of 38.76% in individual business
  • Market share of 76.54% in group business for the quarter ending June 30, 2025
  • This dominance reflects LIC’s deep penetration in both retail and corporate insurance segments.

Tata AutoComp to Acquire Slovakia-Based IAC Group: Expanding Its Global Footprint

In a move that underscores its global ambitions, Tata AutoComp Systems Ltd, a leading Indian auto components manufacturer, has announced plans to acquire Slovakia-based IAC Group. The acquisition will be carried out through its British subsidiary, Artifex Interior Systems Ltd, marking a significant step in Tata AutoComp’s strategy to expand its footprint in Europe’s automotive market.

About the Deal

While the financial terms remain undisclosed, Tata AutoComp confirmed that Artifex Interior Systems has signed a conditional agreement to acquire 100% of IAC Group’s share capital. This acquisition signals Tata AutoComp’s intent to strengthen its position in the automotive interiors segment, especially in international markets.

The deal is subject to customary closing conditions and regulatory approvals.

Who is IAC Group?

The IAC Group (Slovakia) is part of the larger International Automotive Components (IAC) global network, known for its work in automotive interior systems. The company produces a wide range of trim components—such as instrument panels, door trims, and consoles—that are supplied to global automotive OEMs.

Operating in Slovakia, a central hub for European auto manufacturing, IAC Group serves some of the biggest automotive brands in the region.

What Does This Mean for Tata AutoComp?

The acquisition of IAC Slovakia offers several strategic advantages for Tata AutoComp,

  • Deeper integration into European OEM supply chains
  • Enhanced manufacturing capabilities in a key automotive region
  • Expanded product offerings in the interiors space, complementing its existing global alliances
  • A stronger position to serve automakers operating in Central and Eastern Europe

This acquisition aligns well with Tata AutoComp’s vision to become a global leader in auto components and follows its past joint ventures with global players like Magna, GS Yuasa, and TRAD.

Strategic Timing in the Global Auto Market

The global automotive industry is undergoing significant transformation, with a growing emphasis on electric vehicles (EVs), lightweight materials, and smart interiors. European automakers are at the forefront of this shift, and Tata AutoComp’s expanded presence in the region positions it to ride this transformation wave effectively.

Moreover, this deal gives Tata AutoComp closer access to global R&D and design networks, which will be crucial for innovation-driven growth.

RBI Survey: India’s Merchandise Imports to Grow Twice as Fast as Exports in FY26

India’s trade balance could face renewed stress in FY26, as per the 95th round of RBI’s Survey of Professional Forecasters. According to the findings, merchandise imports are projected to grow by 2.5%, while exports are expected to rise only 1.2% during the same period. This mismatch suggests that India’s trade imbalance may widen, leading to a current account deficit (CAD) of 0.8% of GDP—up from previous years.

Key Forecasts: Imports Outpacing Exports

The RBI survey paints a concerning picture for trade dynamics,

  • Merchandise exports (FY26): Expected to grow 1.2%
  • Merchandise imports (FY26): Forecasted to grow 2.5%
  • CAD (FY26): Estimated at 0.8% of GDP
  • CAD (FY27): Expected to edge up to 0.9% of GDP

The imbalance continues into FY27, where exports may grow by 4.9%, but imports are projected to rise by 6.0%.

This trend could weaken India’s external sector resilience, especially as global demand remains uneven and geopolitical uncertainties persist.

What’s Driving Import Growth?

The increase in imports could be attributed to several factors,

  • Rising demand for electronics, oil, gold, and capital goods
  • Gradual recovery in domestic consumption, prompting increased input imports
  • Potential currency depreciation, making imports pricier

Simultaneously, sluggish export growth could reflect slower global trade recovery, continued geopolitical tensions, and persistent inflationary pressures in key markets like the EU and the US.

Wider Economic Outlook

Despite trade concerns, the broader economic projections are fairly optimistic,

  • Real GDP growth (FY26): Projected at 6.4%
  • Real GDP growth (FY27): Expected to rise to 6.7%

Panelists assigned the highest probability to GDP growth in the 6.0–6.9% range for FY26 and 6.5–6.9% range for FY27. However, these figures remain slightly below RBI’s official forecast of 6.5% for FY26.

Consumption and Investment Trends

The survey also suggests healthy domestic demand, with,

  • Private Final Consumption Expenditure (PFCE): Set to grow 6.5% in FY26 and 6.9% in FY27
  • Gross Fixed Capital Formation (GFCF): Expected to rise 6.8% in FY26 and 7.2% in FY27
  • These figures highlight a strong investment and consumption recovery, which could keep import demand elevated.

India’s Electronics Exports Soar Over 47% in Q1 FY26, Driven by Mobile Phones

India’s electronics export industry continues its upward march, recording an impressive 47% year-on-year growth in the first quarter of FY26 (April to June 2025). Exports jumped to $12.4 billion, up from $8.43 billion in Q1 FY25, according to the India Cellular and Electronics Association (ICEA). This performance reinforces India’s rising status as a global electronics manufacturing hub, with mobile phone exports leading the charge.

Mobile Phones: The Star Performer

The backbone of this surge was undoubtedly mobile phone exports, which soared by 55%, from $4.9 billion in Q1 FY25 to an estimated $7.6 billion in Q1 FY26. This not only reflects the success of government-backed production-linked incentive (PLI) schemes, but also highlights how global smartphone manufacturers are increasingly choosing India as their export base.

This performance has turned India into the second-largest mobile phone manufacturer globally, and now, a growing share of these devices is being shipped overseas—especially to markets in the Middle East, Africa, and Europe.

Growth in Non-Mobile Electronics

While smartphones grabbed headlines, non-mobile electronics also posted healthy growth. This category rose by 37%, reaching $4.8 billion from $3.53 billion in the same quarter last year.

Key contributors in this segment included,

  • Solar modules
  • Networking equipment like switches and routers
  • Charger adapters and electronic components
  • These numbers underscore that India’s electronics growth is no longer just about phones—it’s expanding into a diversified tech ecosystem.

Sector-Wide Trends and Long-Term Projections

According to ICEA, India’s total electronics exports jumped from $29.1 billion in FY24 to $38.6 billion in FY25. Given the current trajectory, the FY26 exports are projected to hit $46–50 billion.

Looking at the bigger picture, India’s overall electronics production has grown from $31 billion in FY15 to $133 billion in FY25. This incredible growth reflects a decade of policy reforms, infrastructure investments, and a rising global demand for alternatives to China in electronics manufacturing.

India’s Top 10 Busiest Seaports by Cargo Tonnage in 2025

India’s maritime sector achieved an important milestone in the financial year 2024-25. The country’s major ports handled a total of 855 million metric tonnes (MMT) of cargo, a 4.3% increase from the previous year’s 819 MMT. This reflects ongoing growth and the crucial role these ports play in supporting India’s economy and global trade.

Growth of India’s Maritime Sector

Over the past decade, India’s major ports have experienced sustained growth driven by rising trade, improved infrastructure, and efficient logistics. In 2025, the top five ports contributed nearly 63% of all cargo handled, indicating their dominance and significance.

Table: Top 10 Busiest Major Ports in India (June 2025)

Below is a comprehensive table summarizing the cargo volumes handled by the top 10 major ports in June 2025:

Rank Port Name (Authority) Location (State) Cargo Handled in June 2025 (MMT) Cargo Handled in June 2024 (MMT) Growth (MMT) Share of Total Cargo (%)
1 Paradip Port Authority (PPA) Paradip, Odisha 13.14 12.96 0.18 18.04
2 Deendayal Port Authority (DPA) Kandla, Gujarat 12.03 11.55 0.48 16.51
3 Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA) Navi Mumbai, Maharashtra 7.56 7.40 0.16 ~10
4 Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh 7.33 6.98 0.35 ~10
5 Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP Kolkata) Kolkata, West Bengal 5.93 5.35 0.58 ~7
6 Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) Mumbai, Maharashtra 5.68 4.97 0.71 ~7
7 Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) Chennai, Tamil Nadu 5.08 4.25 0.83 ~6
8 Kamarajar Port Limited (KAM) Ennore, Tamil Nadu 4.41 4.09 0.32 ~5
9 V. O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC) Thoothukudi, Tamil Nadu 3.57 3.40 0.17 ~4
10 Cochin Port Authority (CPA) Kochi, Kerala 3.40 3.33 0.07 ~4

MMT = Million Metric Tonnes; percentages approx.

Detailed Overview of Major Ports

Paradip Port Authority (PPA) – Odisha

Paradip Port is India’s top cargo handler with 13.14 MMT. Its east-coast location makes it vital for raw materials like coal and iron ore, supporting manufacturing and energy industries.

Deendayal Port Authority (DPA), Kandla – Gujarat

Kandla Port processed 12.03 MMT of cargo, known for handling bulk and liquid cargo. It is a critical gateway for exports from north-western India.

Jawaharlal Nehru Port Authority (JNPA), Navi Mumbai – Maharashtra

In June 2025, JNPA handled 7.56 MMT. As India’s largest container port, it connects Indian goods to Europe, Africa, and the Middle East.

Visakhapatnam Port Authority (VPA) – Andhra Pradesh

Visakhapatnam Port managed 7.33 MMT. It services local industries such as steel, fertilizers, and seafood, supporting both bulk and container cargo.

Syama Prasad Mookerjee Port (SMP Kolkata) – West Bengal

Kolkata Port handled 5.93 MMT. It serves eastern India, trading in dry bulk, chemicals, and cereals, and is unique for its inland river location.

Mumbai Port Authority (MbPA) – Maharashtra

Mumbai Port processed 5.68 MMT, handling bulk cargo and petroleum products for urban and industrial Maharashtra.

Chennai Port Authority (ChPA) – Tamil Nadu

Chennai Port handled 5.08 MMT, specializing in automobiles and machinery. It’s crucial for Southern India’s exports and imports.

Kamarajar Port Limited (KAM), Ennore – Tamil Nadu

Kamarajar (Ennore) Port moved 4.41 MMT, focusing on bulk cargo including coal and iron ore, vital for regional heavy industries.

V. O. Chidambaranar Port Authority (VOC), Thoothukudi – Tamil Nadu

VOC Port handled 3.57 MMT. It’s important for mineral and fertilizer exports from southern Tamil Nadu.

Cochin Port Authority (CPA), Kochi – Kerala

Cochin Port managed 3.4 MMT. It is Kerala’s maritime gateway, known for its container terminal and seafood exports.

  • Tamil Nadu stands out with three major ports in the top ten, reflecting a robust industrial and export base.
  • All listed ports saw year-on-year growth, demonstrating infrastructure improvement and increasing demand.
  • Major ports are crucial for manufacturers, farmers, and exporters, helping India connect to global supply chains.

Keywords to Remember

  • Cargo Tonnage
  • Major Ports
  • Growth Rate
  • Container Port
  • Bulk Cargo
  • Maritime Sector
  • Export & Import
  • Port Authority

BharatGen AI to Support All 22 Scheduled Languages by June 2026: A Step Toward Digital Inclusivity

In a significant step toward bridging the digital divide, the Indian government has announced that the BharatGen AI platform will support all 22 languages listed in the Eighth Schedule of the Constitution by June 2026. This initiative, revealed by Union Minister Dr. Jitendra Singh in Parliament, is part of the larger mission to make artificial intelligence (AI) tools more accessible and inclusive across India’s diverse linguistic landscape.

What Is BharatGen AI?

BharatGen is an ambitious national platform operating under the Department of Science and Technology (DST). It forms a part of the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS). The goal is simple but transformative: to build AI ecosystems that are language-inclusive—enabling people to interact with cutting-edge technology in their mother tongue.

While many global AI models focus on English and a few other widely spoken languages, BharatGen is designed for India, by India. It emphasizes homegrown datasets, regional language support, and AI models that understand local cultural nuances.

Why the Eighth Schedule Languages Matter

The Eighth Schedule of the Indian Constitution currently recognizes 22 official languages, including Hindi, Bengali, Tamil, Telugu, Marathi, Gujarati, Kannada, Malayalam, and Urdu, among others. However, despite being constitutionally recognized, many of these languages have limited digital presence.

Supporting these languages through BharatGen AI means,

Voice assistants, translation tools, and chatbots can function natively in regional languages.

  • Educational resources can be developed in mother tongues.
  • Citizens in rural and remote areas can access government schemes, agricultural advice, healthcare information, and more—without needing to understand English or Hindi.

What Does This Mean for Users?

By June 2026, users across India will be able to,

  • Interact with AI-powered services in their native language.
  • Access government portals, educational content, and public resources more easily.
  • Participate in the digital economy, regardless of linguistic background.

For example, a farmer in Tamil Nadu can ask AI for crop information in Tamil, while a student in West Bengal can use an AI tutor in Bengali.

Challenges and Opportunities

While the goal is promising, developing reliable AI models in 22 different languages is a major technical challenge. It requires,

  • Extensive language datasets, which are still lacking for many Indian languages.
  • Expert linguists and AI developers to build and test models.
  • Continuous community feedback to improve accuracy and usability.

However, this challenge also presents a unique opportunity. India could become a global leader in multilingual AI, setting an example for other multilingual nations on how to deploy inclusive digital technologies at scale.

WHO Classifies Hepatitis D as Cancer-Causing: Why the Hepatitis B Vaccine Is Your Best Shield

The World Health Organization (WHO) has officially classified Hepatitis D as a carcinogen, or cancer-causing virus. This follows a scientific consensus reached by the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC), which cited strong evidence in a recent Lancet Oncology study. The decision underlines the urgent need to strengthen hepatitis prevention strategies, especially in countries like India, where vaccine coverage is still below expectations.

What Makes Hepatitis D Dangerous?

Hepatitis D, also known as HDV, is unique among hepatitis viruses. On its own, it cannot survive. It requires the Hepatitis B virus (HBV) to replicate and infect liver cells. So, Hepatitis D only affects individuals who already have Hepatitis B—either through co-infection (both viruses together) or superinfection (Hepatitis D infects someone already living with Hepatitis B).

What makes this combination particularly concerning is its potent effect on the liver. Studies show that HDV infection increases the risk of liver cancer by two to six times more than Hepatitis B alone. The HDV virus enhances the damage caused by HBV, leading to faster and more severe cases of liver cirrhosis and even liver failure.

How Does Hepatitis D Spread?

Like Hepatitis B and C, HDV spreads through similar parenteral routes, including,

  • Blood transfusions and sharing of injection needles
  • Sexual contact, particularly without barrier protection
  • Mother-to-child transmission during childbirth

In India, while general prevalence is considered low, high-risk groups like intravenous drug users and people with chronic Hepatitis B may be more affected than currently estimated.

Diagnosis and Prevention

Diagnosing Hepatitis D involves a blood test for HDV-RNA, which confirms active infection. However, the real battle lies in prevention, and the Hepatitis B vaccine plays a critical role here.

Since HDV depends on HBV to infect people, vaccinating against Hepatitis B effectively shields people from Hepatitis D as well. Unfortunately, even though the Hepatitis B vaccine is part of India’s national immunisation programme, current vaccine coverage stands at just around 50%, leaving millions vulnerable.

Apart from vaccination, safe blood transfusion practices, screening during pregnancy, using sterile syringes, and safe sex practices are vital preventive steps.

Long-Term Risks and Treatment Challenges

The co-infection of HBV and HDV is significantly more dangerous. Data shows that up to 75% of HDV-infected individuals develop liver cirrhosis within 15 years. Moreover, co-infected patients are twice as likely to develop liver cancer compared to those with Hepatitis B alone.

Treating Hepatitis D remains difficult. Although newer antiviral therapies like bulevirtide are emerging, they are not widely available yet, especially in low- and middle-income countries.

Why the WHO Classification Matters

Labeling Hepatitis D as carcinogenic will likely lead to,

  • Increased global funding for research and surveillance
  • Enhanced public health awareness
  • Stronger screening and vaccination campaigns
  • Push for faster approval and access to new treatments

This reclassification is not just symbolic—it’s a call to action to prevent HDV-related liver cancer through vaccination, education, and public health vigilance.

Illinois Bans ChatGPT and AI from Providing Therapy

In a landmark decision, the state of Illinois has banned artificial intelligence platforms like ChatGPT from providing therapy services without human oversight. This sweeping legislation—titled the Wellness and Oversight for Psychological Resources Act—was signed into law by Governor JB Pritzker, making Illinois the first state to take such definitive action to protect the integrity of mental health care.

What the New Law Says

Under the new regulation, AI systems are explicitly barred from performing core therapeutic functions. This includes generating treatment plans, assessing emotional well-being, or offering therapeutic advice without a licensed professional supervising the process. Violations can result in fines of up to $10,000, which will be enforced by the Illinois Department of Financial and Professional Regulation.

As stated by Mario Treto, Jr., secretary of the department, “The people of Illinois deserve quality healthcare from real, qualified professionals and not computer programs.”

Why This Move Matters

The law reflects a growing concern about the unregulated use of AI in sensitive healthcare fields, especially mental health. The American Psychological Association (APA) earlier this year sounded the alarm, warning federal agencies about AI chatbots posing as therapists—some of which were linked to serious incidents involving self-harm and violence.

Illinois is drawing a clear line between administrative support and actual therapy. While AI can still be used for backend tasks like scheduling, documentation, or translation, it cannot diagnose, counsel, or make autonomous clinical decisions.

Other States Following Suit

Illinois isn’t alone in this push. Several other states are now taking a stand,

  • Nevada has already banned AI-driven therapy in public schools.
  • Utah requires all mental health chatbots to disclose they are AI and prohibits them from using personal data for advertising.
  • New York’s law, coming into effect this November, mandates AI chatbots to redirect suicidal users to human-led crisis services.

This collective wave of legislation suggests that U.S. states are becoming increasingly wary of AI’s role in emotional and psychological support, especially in the absence of strict ethical and safety frameworks.

The Debate: Innovation vs. Ethics

While some in the tech industry argue that AI can improve access to mental health resources, critics point to the risk of misinformation, misdiagnosis, and emotional harm, particularly among vulnerable populations.

AI platforms lack empathy, cultural sensitivity, and human judgment—all essential to mental health support. And despite advances in natural language processing, machines still struggle to recognize emotional nuance or respond appropriately to complex psychological states.

What This Means for the Future

The Illinois law is likely to set a precedent for national and international regulatory frameworks. As more AI-powered wellness apps and chatbots emerge, policymakers will need to strike a balance between innovation and safety, ensuring that mental health care is never compromised by automation.

For now, Illinois has taken a strong stand: when it comes to mental health, machines can assist—but humans must lead.

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