Largest States in India: India, the world’s largest democracy and a culturally diverse nation, is home to a variety of states, each with its own distinct identity and impact on the country. Several states in India are notable not only for their cultural heritage and economic strength but also for their considerable size in terms of both land area and population. As of 2024, it is worth examining India’s most significant states based on their area and population to understand their importance and unique characteristics.
Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, stands out for its vast population and rich historical and cultural legacy. Maharashtra, known for its bustling metropolis Mumbai, is not only one of the largest states by area but also a major economic hub driving India’s growth. Rajasthan, with its royal heritage and expansive deserts, is another prominent state that attracts tourists with its majestic forts and palaces.
Largest States in India 2024
In terms of landmass, Madhya Pradesh ranks as one of the largest states in India, renowned for its diverse wildlife sanctuaries and historical landmarks. Karnataka, a state known for its IT industry and lush greenery in cities like Bangalore, also holds significance as one of India’s larger states. Exploring these states provides insights into the diversity and complexity of India’s social, cultural, and economic landscape. Each state contributes uniquely to the country’s fabric, making India a vibrant tapestry of traditions, languages, and histories.
India is a massive country, ranking 7th globally in terms of land area and 2nd in terms of population, with China being the most populous. This piece focuses on the largest states in India based on both land area and population. The article uses approximate data from the NHS while waiting for the latest census. Additionally, it provides a detailed list of Indian states sorted by decreasing order of both land area and population. Let’s delve into the vastness of India in these aspects.
Largest States in India Details
Article Name | Largest States in India by Area and Population 2024 |
Official Website | Click Here |
Year | 2024 |
Category | Trending |
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Top 5 Largest States in India by Area
Below is a summary table highlighting the top 5 largest states in India based on their respective land areas:
Rank | State | Area (in square kilometers) |
1 | Rajasthan | 342,000 |
2 | Madhya Pradesh | 308,000 |
3 | Maharashtra | 307,000 |
4 | Uttar Pradesh | 240,000 |
5 | Gujarat | 196,024 |
Rajasthan
Rajasthan is not only the largest state in India in terms of area, spanning over 342,000 square kilometers and making up 10.4% of the country’s landmass, but it is also a land steeped in history and culture. Located in the western part of the Indian subcontinent, Rajasthan offers a diverse tapestry of vibrant traditions, majestic forts, and palaces that narrate tales of its royal past.
The desert landscape of Rajasthan adds to its allure, with the Thar Desert painting a picture of vast golden sands stretching as far as the eye can see. This arid region is home to unique flora and fauna adapted to survive in harsh desert conditions. Exploring Rajasthan means immersing yourself in a world where every structure has a story to tell, every street corner echoeswith history, and every festival brings communities together in a riot of colors and celebrations. From the intricate architecture of Jaipur’s Hawa Mahal to the serene lakes of Udaipur, Rajasthan offers a kaleidoscope of experiences for travelers looking to delve into India’s rich heritage.
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, the second-largest state in India, covers over 308,000 square kilometers. Positioned at the core of the nation, its name means “Central Province” in a literal sense. This state is famous for its rich history, varied wildlife, and is embellished with age-old temples and monuments, representing India’s cultural heritage impeccably.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra ranks third among India’s largest states, spanning over 307,000 square kilometers. Located in the western part of the country, it is known for its vibrant capital, Mumbai. The state’s varied geography includes peaceful beaches, tall mountains, and lush forests, enhancing its appeal.
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Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, spanning more than 240,000 square kilometers, is recognized as the fourth-largest state in the Indian subcontinent. Located in the northern region of India, UP is esteemed for its rich cultural legacy, featuring historical landmarks and sacred religious places that echo the essence of the country’s history.
Gujarat
Gujarat has become the fifth largest state in India, covering 196,024 square kilometers. Situated on the western coast, Gujarat boasts a diverse cultural heritage, renowned for its beautiful beaches, intricate temples, and flourishing wildlife sanctuaries, showcasing India’s natural and cultural beauty.
List of Largest States in India by Area 2024
Here’s the list of the largest states in India by area for the year 2024, arranged in descending order:
Sl.No. | State | Region | Area (in km²) |
1 | Rajasthan | Northern | 342,239 |
2 | Madhya Pradesh | Central | 308,252 |
3 | Maharashtra | Western | 307,713 |
4 | Uttar Pradesh | Northern | 240,928 |
5 | Gujarat | Western | 196,024 |
6 | Karnataka | South | 191,791 |
7 | Andhra Pradesh | South | 160,205 |
8 | Odisha | Eastern | 155,707 |
9 | Chhattisgarh | Central | 135,191 |
10 | Tamil Nadu | South | 130,058 |
11 | Telangana | South | 112,077 |
12 | Bihar | Eastern | 94,163 |
13 | West Bengal | Eastern | 88,752 |
14 | Arunachal Pradesh | Northeast | 83,743 |
15 | Jharkhand | Eastern | 79,714 |
16 | Assam | Northeast | 78,438 |
17 | Himachal Pradesh | Northern | 55,673 |
18 | Uttarakhand | Northern | 53,483 |
19 | Punjab | Northern | 50,362 |
20 | Haryana | Northern | 44,212 |
21 | Kerala | South | 38,863 |
22 | Meghalaya | Northeast | 22,429 |
23 | Manipur | Northeast | 22,327 |
24 | Mizoram | Northeast | 21,081 |
25 | Nagaland | Northeast | 16,579 |
26 | Tripura | Northeast | 10,486 |
27 | Sikkim | Northeast | 7,096 |
28 | Goa | Western | 3,702 |
The states in India are categorized according to their land area, with Rajasthan being the largest state leading the list.
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Top 5 Largest States in India by Population
Below is a summary table featuring the top 5 largest states in India by population for the year 2024:
Rank | State | Population |
1 | Uttar Pradesh | Over 200 million |
2 | Maharashtra | 120 million |
3 | Bihar | 100 million |
4 | West Bengal | Over 90 milliol |
5 | Madhya Pradesh | Over 80 million |
Below is a revised compilation of the biggest states in India ranked by population:
Uttar Pradesh
Uttar Pradesh, India’s most populous state, has a population of over 200 million. It is famous for its cultural heritage and landmarks like the Taj Mahal and the newly opened Ram Mandir in Ayodhya, representing Hinduism globally.
Maharashtra
Maharashtra has the second-highest population of 120 million. Known for its Nagpur oranges, Mumbai, the financial capital of India, and as a global hub for Bollywood and the stock market, this vibrant state takes the second spot.
Bihar
Bihar, located in the eastern part of the Indian subcontinent, is the third most populous state in India with a population of 100 million. It has shown considerable progress in development, moving away from its previous classification as one of the ‘Bimaru’ states, largely due to continuous government efforts.
West Bengal
West Bengal ranks fourth in population, with over 90 million residents. It extends from the Himalayas to the Bay of Bengal, showcasing a deep cultural heritage influenced by figures such as Rabindranath Tagore.
Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh, the fifth most populous state in India, boasts a population of over 80 million people. Known as the counterpart to Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh is a treasure trove of cultural richness and historical splendor that attracts tourists from far and wide. The state is renowned for its architectural wonders such as the Khajuraho temples, which are UNESCO World Heritage Sites famous for their intricate carvings and sculptures.
Additionally, Madhya Pradesh is home to national parks like Bandhavgarh and Kanha, offering wildlife enthusiasts the chance to spot majestic tigers and other exotic animals in their natural habitats. The state’s diverse landscape ranges from lush forests to rocky terrain, providing a picturesque backdrop for visitors seeking both adventure and tranquility. With its rich heritage, vibrant traditions, and natural beauty, Madhya Pradesh offers a truly immersive experience for travelers looking to explore the heart of India.
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List of Largest States in India by Population 2024
Below is the updated ranking of Indian states based on population, taking into account the available data:
Sl.No. | State | Region | Population |
1 | Uttar Pradesh | Northern | 199,812,341 |
2 | Maharashtra | Western | 112,374,333 |
3 | Bihar | Eastern | 104,099,452 |
4 | West Bengal | Eastern | 91,276,115 |
5 | Madhya Pradesh | Central | 72,626,809 |
6 | Tamil Nadu | South | 72,147,030 |
7 | Rajasthan | Northern | 68,548,437 |
8 | Karnataka | South | 61,095,297 |
9 | Gujarat | Western | 60,439,692 |
10 | Andhra Pradesh | South | 49,577,103 |
11 | Odisha | Eastern | 41,974,219 |
12 | Telangana | South | 35,003,674 |
13 | Kerala | South | 33,406,061 |
14 | Jharkhand | Eastern | 32,988,134 |
15 | Assam | Northeast | 31,205,576 |
16 | Punjab | Northern | 27,743,338 |
17 | Chhattisgarh | Central | 25,545,198 |
18 | Haryana | Northern | 25,351,462 |
19 | Uttarakhand | Northern | 10,086,292 |
20 | Himachal Pradesh | Northern | 6,864,602 |
21 | Tripura | Northeast | 3,673,917 |
22 | Meghalaya | Northeast | 2,966,889 |
23 | Manipur | Northeast | 2,570,390 |
24 | Nagaland | Northeast | 1,978,502 |
25 | Goa | Western | 1,458,545 |
26 | Arunachal Pradesh | Northeast | 1,383,727 |
27 | Mizoram | Northeast | 1,097,206 |
28 | Sikkim | Northeast | 610,577 |
Kindly be aware that these population statistics are derived from the most recent data available, gathered during the last official survey conducted by the Government of India in 2011.
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Significance of Categorizing States Based on Population
Conducting an accurate census in a democratic nation where citizens have substantial influence is crucial for various reasons. The census process plays a pivotal role in outlining the distribution of the population across states and districts, providing valuable insights that inform governmental policies and resource allocation strategies. Despite facing delays due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the upcoming census is anticipated to shed light on essential demographic trends and patterns.
Population data obtained through the census enables authorities to identify gender ratios, poverty levels, caste demographics, and other societal divisions. This information serves as a foundation for policymakers at both central and state levels to design inclusive policies and allocate resources strategically. By understanding the demographic landscape of their country, governments can ensure that targeted societal segments receive tailored support and attention, fostering a more equitable and thriving society.
Conclusion
India’s largest states by area and population showcase the incredible diversity, heritage, and vibrancy that defines the country. Rajasthan, with its arid landscapes and majestic forts, stands out for its rich history and cultural significance. Maharashtra, home to bustling metropolises like Mumbai and Pune, is a hub of commerce, entertainment, and innovation. Uttar Pradesh, with its ancient cities and diverse demographics, reflects India’s complex social fabric.
Each of these states adds a unique flavor to India’s rich cultural mosaic, embodying traditions, languages, and aspirations that have shaped the nation’s identity. In the fast-paced landscape of the 21st century, these states act as pillars of strength, preserving age-old customs while embracing modernity. Their contributions not only enrich India’s societal tapestry but also influence the country’s trajectory on the global stage. As India continues to evolve and adapt to contemporary challenges, these states remain integral to preserving its heritage and propelling it towards a brighter future.
Largest States in India FAQ’S
What is India's population in 2024?
As of January 2024, India's population reached 1.44 billion. Over the period between early 2023 and the beginning of 2024, there was a notable increase of 13 million people, marking a growth of 0.9 percent. Females comprise 48.4 percent of the population, while males account for 51.6 percent.
What is the largest state in India by area?
Rajasthan claims the designation of being India's largest state in terms of area, encompassing more than 342,000 square kilometers.
What is the population of India's largest state in 2024?
Uttar Pradesh holds the title of the most populous state in India in 2024, with a population exceeding 200 million.
Which state ranks second in terms of population in India in 2024?
Maharashtra holds the second position in terms of population among Indian states in 2024, with a populace exceeding 120 million.
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