Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh
source
Name	Himachal Pradesh
Coordinates	31, 6, 12, N...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	India
Established title	Formation
Established date	25 January 1971
Capital	Shimla
Largest city	Shimla
Governor	Shiv Pratap Shukla
Chief minister	Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu
Legislature	Unicameral (68 seats)
High court	Himachal Pradesh High Court
Area total km2	55673
Population total	6,864,602
Population density km2	123
Official languages	Hindi, Sanskrit
Additional official	English
Timezone	IST
Vehicle code range	HP
Website	himachal.nic.in

Himachal Pradesh is a state in the northern part of India. Nestled in the western Himalayas, it is renowned for its dramatic landscapes encompassing serene valleys, snow-capped peaks, and major river systems. The state is a significant hub for hydropower generation, tourism, and horticulture, particularly known for its apple production.

Geography

The state is characterized by extreme elevation, ranging from about 350 meters in the southern tracts to over 6,000 meters in the Greater Himalayas. Major mountain ranges include the Dhauladhar and Pir Panjal, while significant rivers like the Sutlej, Beas, Ravi, and Chenab originate or flow through its territory. Key geographical features include the Kullu Valley, Kangra Valley, Spiti Valley, and the cold desert region of Lahaul and Spiti, with prominent peaks such as Reo Purgyil and Shilla. The region experiences diverse climates, from subtropical in the lower hills to alpine and glacial in the higher reaches, supporting varied ecosystems and protected areas like the Great Himalayan National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

History

The region's history includes early mentions in ancient Sanskrit texts like the Vedas and the epic Mahabharata, and it was part of the Maurya Empire under Ashoka, as evidenced by edicts at Kangra. From the medieval period, it was ruled by local Rajput dynasties such as the Katoch of Kangra and the Chandel of Chamba, later coming under the influence of the Mughal Empire and the Sikh Empire under Maharaja Ranjit Singh. Following the Anglo-Sikh Wars, many hill states became British protectorates, with Shimla serving as the summer capital of the British Raj. The state was formed in 1948 by merging numerous princely states and was initially a Part C state before becoming a union territory in 1956 and achieving full statehood on 25 January 1971.

Government and politics

The state operates under a Parliamentary system as part of the Republic of India. The constitutional head is the Governor, appointed by the President of India, while executive power rests with the Chief Minister and the Council of Ministers responsible to the Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly. The state sends four members to the Lok Sabha and three to the Rajya Sabha. The Himachal Pradesh High Court, located in Shimla, heads the judiciary. Historically, politics has been dominated by the Indian National Congress and the Bharatiya Janata Party, with notable political figures including Yashwant Singh Parmar, the state's first chief minister, and Prem Kumar Dhumal.

Economy

The economy is primarily driven by agriculture, horticulture, hydropower, and tourism. It is famously known as the "Apple State of India," with major orchards in districts like Shimla and Kullu, and also produces other fruits like pears and plums. The state harnesses its river systems for substantial hydropower generation, supplying electricity to the Northern Grid. Tourism is a major revenue earner, with popular destinations including the hill stations of Shimla, Manali, and Dharamshala, the latter being the seat of the Tibetan government-in-exile and the 14th Dalai Lama. Other economic activities include handicrafts, woolen textiles from Kullu, and a growing services sector.

Demographics

According to the 2011 Census of India, the population was over 6.8 million, with a high literacy rate of 83.78%. The majority of the population practices Hinduism, with significant minorities following Buddhism, particularly in Lahaul and Spiti and Kinnaur, and Islam. The official languages are Hindi and Sanskrit, with English used for official purposes. Several Pahari languages are widely spoken, including Dogri, Kangri, Mandi, and Kullu, while Kinnauri and Tibetan are spoken in the trans-Himalayan regions. Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes form a significant portion of the population.

Culture

The culture is a vibrant tapestry of ancient traditions, reflecting its Hindu and Buddhist heritage. Major festivals include the Kullu Dussehra, Shivratri in Mandi, and the Losar festival in Buddhist communities. Traditional music and dance forms like Nati are integral to celebrations. The region is famous for its distinctive Pahari painting style, which flourished under the patronage of the Kangra and Basohli schools. Important religious sites include the Jakhoo Temple in Shimla, the Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, and the Key Monastery in Spiti Valley. Renowned institutions like the Tibetan Institute of Performing Arts in Dharamshala contribute to the state's rich cultural landscape.

Category:Himachal Pradesh Category:States and union territories of India Category:Himalayan states