Himachal Pradesh
History of Himachal Pradesh
History
of Himachal Pradesh dates back from Indus Valley Civilization. Some of
the tribes inhabited in this region from pre-historic era. King
Harshavardhana was once the supreme power of this region. After his
downfall many local powers ruled this region. Delhi Sultanate and The
Gurkhas invaded this region several times. Himachal became a part C
state on 26th January 1950 which later became Union Territory on 1St
November 1956. After merging few districts from Punjab, Himachal Pradesh
finally became fully fledged state on 25th January 1971.
Geography of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal
Pradesh is located on the western Himalayas and northern part of India.
It is surrounded by Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Uttarakhand and
Tibet Autonomous Region. It is spread in 55673 sq km making it the 17th
largest state in the country. With the extreme variation in elevation,
there is great variation in the climatic conditions of the state.
Himachal Pradesh provides water to the Indus and Ganges basins.
Government and Administration of Himachal Pradesh
For
administration purpose Himachal Pradesh is divided into twelve
districts. Bharatiya Janata Party and Indian National Congress are the
major political parties in the state. Himachal Pradesh legislative
assembly consists of 68 seats. Himachal Pradesh contributes four members
to the Indian Assembly in which one is reserved for Scheduled Castes.
According to 2005 Transparency International survey, Himachal Pradesh is
ranked the second-least corrupt state in India.
Language and Culture of Himachal Pradesh
Beautiful
caps of Kullu, designer shawls of Kinnaur and broidered handkerchiefs
of Chamba are the famous handicrafts of the state. Nati Folk Dance is
the famous dance form of the state. Laman, Samskara, Ainchaliyan and
Chamba-Pangi are the famous music forms of the state. Himachal Pradesh
people believe that a guest should never leave their home without eating
something. Himachal Pradesh cuisine is mainly influenced by Tibet and
Punjab cuisines. Batt, Mitha Saloona, Bhujju, Saag, are some of the
famous cuisines in the state. Shimla is home to Asia's only natural ice
skating rink. Hindi and English are the official languages of Himachal
Pradesh. They are totally 32 languages spoken in the state. Pahari,
Mandeali Kangri, Mandyali, Dogri, Gojri and Kinnauri are some of the
widely spoken languages in the state.
Educational Status of Himachal Pradesh
Literacy
rate of the state is approximately 84%. Hamirpur District in the state
is among the top districts in the country for literacy. Himachal Pradesh
was the first state in India to make elementary education accessible to
every child. Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Homoeopathic Medical
College & Hospital and Himachal Dental College take care of medical
education in the state. CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalya
Palampur is one of the most renowned hill agriculture institutes in
world. IIT, IIIT, NIT, IEC University are some of the prominent colleges
in the state.
Economy of Himachal Pradesh
Himachal
Pradesh’s economy is currently the third fastest growing economy in
India. Himachal Pradesh has been ranked fourth in highest per capita
incomes among Indian states. Himachal Pradesh is one of the wealthiest
places in South Asia. Himachal Pradesh economy mainly depends on
hydroelectric power, tourism and agriculture. Agriculture contributes
45% of GSDP and it is the main source of income and employment. Wheat,
rice, maize and barley are the main crops of the state. Himachal Pradesh
is the first state in India to achieve the goal of having a bank
account for every family.
Tourism in Himachal Pradesh
Rohtang
Pass is at an altitude more than 4000 meters from sea level, which
makes you feel that you are on top of the world. Chamba is gifted with
unparallel landscapes and fine carved temples. Kangra is famous for its
ancient temples and heaven for nature lovers and adventure sports
freaks. Shimla is a popular hill station from the British time. It has
numerous old buildings which gives an old world flavor to the modern
city of today. Kullu is one of the finest valleys that the Great
Himalayas have presented us. Dalhousie is situated at an altitude of six
thousands to nine thousands feet from sea level. Dalhousie is al hill
station with the eminence of Scottish and Victorian architectures.
Festivals Celebrated in Himachal Pradesh
Angling
Festival is celebrated in the Pabbar valley in Shimla. Angling is a
fish catching festivals using hooks or angles. Ashiwin Navratra Mela is
celebrated for nine days during Navaratri. Bird Watching Festival is
held in the month of January to watch many rare species of birds. Cheshu
Mela Rewalser is celebrated in the month of February and March to
showcase the culture of Himachal Pradesh. Great Himalayan Marathon is
conducted in the month of September/October.
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