Chhattisgarh: A Tapestry of Culture and Resources
Discover the heart of India, a state renowned for its abundant natural wealth, diverse tribal heritage, and burgeoning economic landscape.
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Chhattisgarh at a Glance
Location & Borders
Chhattisgarh is a landlocked state situated in Central India. It shares borders with Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, Jharkhand, Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Telangana.
Area & Population
As the ninth largest state by area (135,192 kmยฒ), it is home to approximately 30 million people, making it the seventeenth most populous state in India.
Capital & Formation
Established on November 1, 2000, Chhattisgarh was carved out of Madhya Pradesh. Its capital and largest city is Raipur.
Nickname & Motto
Often called the "Rice bowl of India" due to its extensive rice cultivation, the state's motto is "Satyameva Jayate" (Truth alone triumphs).
Geography & Environment
Terrain & Features
The state features hilly terrain in the north and south, with a fertile central plain. The Mahanadi River basin dominates the central region, while the southern part lies on the Deccan Plateau.
Forest Cover
Chhattisgarh boasts the third-largest forest cover in India, with approximately 44% of its area covered by deciduous forests, contributing significantly to its ecological importance.
State Symbols
The state animal is the Wild Asian Buffalo (Van Bhainsa), the state bird is the Common Hill Myna (Pahari Myna), and the state tree is the Sal (Shorea robusta).
Historical Journey
Ancient & Medieval Roots
The region, historically known as Dakshina Kosala, has ancient ties, with evidence of Mauryan and Gupta periods. It later came under the rule of various dynasties, including the Kalachuris and Haihaiyavanshis, before falling under Maratha suzerainty in 1740.
British Era & Statehood
Administered as the Chhattisgarh Division of the Central Provinces under the British Raj from 1845. It remained part of Madhya Pradesh after India's independence until November 1, 2000, when it was granted statehood.
Key Historical Sites
Sites like the Jogimara caves (early theatre architecture), Sirpur monuments, and Malhar offer glimpses into the state's rich past, showcasing ancient art, inscriptions, and temple architecture.
Governance Structure
Legislative Framework
Chhattisgarh operates under a unicameral state legislature, the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, with 90 seats. The state is represented by 11 members in the Lok Sabha and 5 members in the Rajya Sabha.
Executive & Judiciary
The state government is led by the Governor and the Chief Minister. The Chhattisgarh High Court in Bilaspur serves as the highest judicial body.
Administrative Divisions
The state is divided into 5 administrative divisions and 33 districts, facilitating decentralized governance and administration across its diverse regions.
Economic Landscape
GDP & Growth
Chhattisgarh's economy is robust, with an estimated GSDP of โน6.36 lakh crore (US$75 billion) for 2025-26. The state has shown strong growth rates, driven by agriculture and industry.
Agriculture Sector
Primarily an agrarian state, Chhattisgarh is known as the "rice bowl of India." However, low irrigation coverage and reliance on traditional methods impact productivity, necessitating diversification and technological adoption.
Industrial Powerhouse
The state is a major contributor to India's steel, power, and aluminum sectors. Key industries include the Bhilai Steel Plant, numerous coal mines (like Gevra, Dipka), and power plants operated by NTPC and CSEB.
Connectivity
Road Network
Chhattisgarh features a network of national and state highways connecting major cities. National Highways span approximately 3,078 km, complemented by state highways and district roads.
Rail Infrastructure
The South East Central Railway zone, headquartered in Bilaspur, manages most of the state's rail network. Major junctions include Bilaspur, Durg, and Raipur, serving as vital hubs for freight and passenger traffic.
Air Travel
Swami Vivekananda Airport in Raipur is the primary domestic airport, with regional connectivity provided by smaller airports in Bilaspur, Jagdalpur, and Ambikapur.
People & Society
Population & Literacy
With a population of over 25.5 million (2011 Census), Chhattisgarh has a literacy rate of approximately 78.5%. Urban areas show higher literacy (84.05%) compared to rural areas.
Social Structure
The state has a balanced sex ratio (991 females per 1000 males). Scheduled Tribes constitute about 30.62% of the population, primarily residing in southern districts, while Scheduled Castes make up 12.8%.
Development Indicators
While cities like Raipur and Bhilai exhibit medium to high standards of living, rural and tribal areas face challenges with poverty and access to basic amenities. The Human Development Index (HDI) is rated as medium.
Mineral & Natural Wealth
Mineral Abundance
Chhattisgarh is exceptionally rich in minerals, holding the largest coal mines in India and ranking third in iron ore production. It's also a leading producer of limestone, dolomite, bauxite, and is the sole tin producer in the country.
Key Industries
The state's industrial sector thrives on its mineral resources, supporting major players in cement, steel, aluminum, and power generation, significantly contributing to the national economy.
Forest Resources
With the third-largest forest cover, Chhattisgarh is vital for biodiversity. Its forests are rich in resources like Sal trees and Tendu leaves, supporting local economies and ecosystems.
Administrative Structure
Divisions & Districts
The state is organized into 5 administrative divisions, further subdivided into 33 districts. This structure ensures effective governance across its varied geographical and cultural landscapes.
Major Cities
Key urban centers include Raipur, Bhilai-Durg, Bilaspur, Korba, Raigarh, and Jagdalpur, serving as administrative, industrial, and cultural hubs.
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References
References
- Dr. Bhagvan Singh Verma, Chhattisgarh ka Itihas (A History of Chhattisgarhย รขยย in Hindi), Madhya Pradesh Hindi Granth Academy, Bhopal (M.P.), 4th edition (2003), p.7
- Oudhia, P. (1999) Allelopathic effects of Lantana camara L. on germination of soybean. Legume Research 22(4): 273รขยย274.
- Oudhia, P. (2000). Positive (inhibitory) allelopathic effects of some obnoxious weeds on germination and seedling vigour of pigeonpea (Cajanus cajan L.). Research on Crops. 1 (1):116รขยย118.
- Oudhia, P. (2001). Stimulatory allelopathic effects of Ageratum conyzoides L. on soybean. Agric. Sci. Digest. 21 (1):55รขยย56.
- Oudhia, P. (1999) Chhattisgarh farmer's response on control of weeds in direct seeded rice. Agril. Sci. Digest. 19(4): 261รขยย263.
- Das, G.K. and Oudhia, P. (2001). Rice as the medicinal plant in Chhattisgarh (India): A survey. Agric. Sci. Digest. 21(3):204รขยย205.
- Oudhia, P. (2002). Rice-Acorus intercropping: A new system developed by innovative farmers of Chhattisgarh (India). International Rice Research Notes (IRRN).27(1):56.
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