Chhattisgarh
Formation of Chhattisgarh
- 20 Aug 2025
- 3 min read
Why in News?
Chhattisgarh is celebrating its Silver Jubilee year, marking 25 years since its formation. As part of its Silver Jubilee celebrations, the Public Relations Department organized a photo exhibition and quiz competition in Raipur.
Key Facts About Chhattisgarh
- History: The history of Chhattisgarh dates back to the 4th century C.E., when it was known as Dakshin Kosala. The name "Chhattisgarh" means "thirty-six forts," referring to the Hehaya dynasty of Ratanpur.
- The Kalachuri dynasty ruled the region from the 9th to 18th century, with Ratanpur as their capital.
- Formation as a State: Chhattisgarh was formed on 1st November 2000, after being carved out of Madhya Pradesh.
- Its capital is Raipur, with Naya Raipur (Atal Nagar) being developed as a modern smart city.
- Geographical Significance: It is the 9th largest state in India with an area of 135,192 square kilometers. The state is rich in natural resources, especially coal, iron ore, and bauxite, making it a key hub for power, steel, and cement industries.
- Chhattisgarh is also known as the 'Rice Bowl of India' due to its high rice production. More than 40% of its land is forested.
Unique Facts About Chhattisgarh
- Both the Tropic of Cancer and the Indian Standard Time (IST) meridian pass through Chhattisgarh, with their intersection located in Surajpur.
- The Indian Standard Time meridian runs through several districts in Chhattisgarh, including Surajpur, Korba, Janjgir-Champa, Balodabazar, Mahasamund, Gariaband, and Balod.
- This meridian, which is based on the 82.5° E longitude, is used to calculate IST.
- The standard meridian of India also passes through other states, such as Uttar Pradesh (Mirzapur, village Kharavada), Madhya Pradesh, Odisha, and Andhra Pradesh.
- The Tropic of Cancer, situated at 23° 26′ North latitude, crosses through eight Indian states: Gujarat, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, West Bengal, Tripura, and Mizoram.
- In Chhattisgarh, the Tropic of Cancer passes through the districts of Korea (Koriya), Surajpur, Balrampur, and Manendragarh-Chirmiri-Bharatpur.
