Uttarakhand State Information

State Name: Uttarakhand
Capital: Dehradun
Largest City: Dehradun
Official Language: Hindi
Other Languages Spoken: Garhwali, Kumaoni, English
Area: 55,083 square kilometers
Population: Approximately 1.05 Crore (as per 2021 Census)
Formation Date: November 9, 2000 (Uttarakhand was carved out from Uttar Pradesh as a separate state)
Government: Parliamentary System
Chief Minister: [Insert current CM’s name]
Governor: [Insert current Governor’s name]
Time Zone: Indian Standard Time (IST), UTC +5:30
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR)
Tourist Attractions:

• Char Dham (Yamunotri, Gangotri, Kedarnath, Badrinath)
• Jim Corbett National Park
• Naini Lake, Nainital
• Mussoorie (The Queen of Hills)
• Rishikesh (Yoga Capital of the World)
• Haridwar (Famous for the Ganga Aarti)
• Valley of Flowers National Park
• Kumaon Hills and Garhwal Hills

Geography

Uttarakhand is located in the northern part of India, surrounded by the majestic Himalayan range to the north, the state of Uttar Pradesh to the south, and Himachal Pradesh to the west. The state shares its international boundary with Tibet (China) in the north. Uttarakhand is characterized by its diverse topography, ranging from the dense forests of the lower hills to the snow-capped peaks in the higher altitudes.

The two main regions, Garhwal and Kumaon, are known for their distinct geographical features. Garhwal is famous for its spiritual importance with the Char Dham pilgrimage, while Kumaon offers picturesque lakes, wildlife sanctuaries, and tranquil hill stations.

Climate

Uttarakhand experiences a diverse climate due to its varied geography. The plains experience a sub-tropical climate with hot summers and mild winters, while the hills have a temperate climate with cold winters and moderate summers. In the higher altitudes, the climate is alpine, with heavy snowfall during winters.

• Summer (March to June): 25°C to 40°C (in plains); 10°C to 25°C (in hills)
• Monsoon (July to September): Heavy rainfall, especially in the hilly regions
• Winter (October to February): 0°C to 20°C in plains; sub-zero temperatures in the higher altitudes

Economy

The economy of Uttarakhand is primarily based on agriculture, tourism, and services. The state has a significant share in India’s tourism sector, with millions of pilgrims visiting its sacred sites annually. The state’s economy also benefits from industries such as horticulture, herbal products, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, and hydropower generation.

1. Agriculture: The fertile plains and hills support the cultivation of rice, wheat, sugarcane, pulses, fruits (especially apples and apricots), and herbs.
2. Tourism: Being home to famous religious sites, national parks, hill stations, and adventure spots, tourism plays a key role in the state’s economy.
3. Industries: Uttarakhand has an industrial area focused on pharmaceuticals, electronics, food processing, and handicrafts.
4. Hydropower: The state has abundant river systems, making it a major producer of hydroelectric power in India.

Transportation

Uttarakhand is well connected by road, rail, and air to major cities in India.

• Road: Uttarakhand has a vast network of roads connecting it to neighboring states and important cities in India. National highways and state highways connect cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, Nainital, and Rishikesh.
• Rail: The state has a number of railway stations with Dehradun and Haridwar being the major railway hubs.
• Air: The Jolly Grant Airport in Dehradun and Pantnagar Airport in Nainital serve as the primary air gateways to the state.

Education

Uttarakhand is home to several prestigious educational institutions, particularly in Dehradun.

• Indian Military Academy (IMA), Dehradun
• Forest Research Institute (FRI), Dehradun
• Wadia Institute of Himalayan Geology
• Hemwati Nandan Bahuguna Garhwal University
• Kumaun University
  The state’s education system includes government schools, private schools, and universities that offer courses in a wide range of subjects from basic education to advanced research in sciences and arts.

Health Care

The healthcare infrastructure in Uttarakhand has been improving over the years. Major cities like Dehradun, Haridwar, and Nainital have well-equipped hospitals and healthcare centers. However, healthcare access in remote areas can still be a challenge, which is why various NGOs and the government are working to improve medical facilities and provide healthcare in underserved areas.

Festivals and Culture

Uttarakhand is known for its rich cultural heritage and vibrant festivals. Some of the major festivals celebrated here include:

• Nanda Devi Mela (Dedicated to Goddess Nanda Devi)
• Kumbh Mela (Held every 12 years in Haridwar)
• Makar Sankranti, Baisakhi, and Diwali (Celebrated with great enthusiasm)
• Phool Dei and Harela (Traditional agricultural festivals)

Traditional art forms such as Chholiya dance, Langvir, and Jhora dance are an integral part of Uttarakhand’s folk culture. The state is also known for its Pahari painting, woodcraft, and hand-woven woolen fabrics.

Key Facts

• State Bird: Himalayan Monal
• State Flower: Brahma Kamal
• State Tree: Oak
• State Animal: Musk Deer