Nestled amidst the rolling hills and green valleys of India’s Northeast lies a state that often goes unnoticed. Though it may not be one of the more prominent states that draws in the tourists, it still has its own unique charm. This is the state of Manipur, the landlocked state of India.
Manipur may not have the coastal appeal of Goa or the grandeur of Rajasthan’s palaces and forts, but it has a beauty of its own that is worth discovering. With its rich culture, scenic landscapes, and vibrant community, Manipur is a hidden gem that is waiting to be explored.
Amidst all of this beauty, however, there are some challenges faced by this state. Despite being in the heart of Northeast India, Manipur is cut off from the outside world in many ways. Nevertheless, with its resilience and perseverance, Manipur is slowly but surely carving out its own place on the map and making its story known to all.
Geography of India
India is the seventh-largest country in the world and is located in South Asia. It shares land borders with Pakistan to the northwest, China, Bhutan, and Nepal to the north, Myanmar to the east, and Bangladesh to the east of West Bengal. To the west, the country is bordered by the Arabian Sea, and to the east lies the Bay of Bengal.
Which State of India is Landlocked?
A landlocked state is a state that is entirely surrounded by land and has no coastline. The state of Madhya Pradesh is considered the landlocked state of India. Madhya Pradesh is located in central India and shares borders with five other Indian states – Rajasthan to the northwest, Uttar Pradesh to the northeast, Chhattisgarh to the southeast, Maharashtra to the south, and Gujarat to the west.
Interesting facts about Madhya Pradesh
- Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in India and covers an area of 308,252 km2.
- The state is known as the “Heart of India” due to its location in the center of the country.
- The state capital of Madhya Pradesh is Bhopal.
- Madhya Pradesh is home to various wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, including the Kanha National Park, Bandhavgarh National Park, and Panna National Park.
Physical features of Madhya Pradesh
Madhya Pradesh is primarily made up of plateaus and hills, with the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges running through the center of the state. The Narmada River runs through the state and is the longest river that entirely flows within the state.
| Physical Features of Madhya Pradesh | Description |
|---|---|
| Plateaus | The Malwa Plateau in the west and the Deccan Plateau in the south are the two main plateaus in the state. |
| Mountains | The Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges run through the state, with the highest peak being Dhupgarh in the Satpuras which stands at an elevation of 1,350 meters. |
| Rivers | The Narmada, Tapi, Betwa, Chambal, and Sindh are the main rivers that run through the state. |
Madhya Pradesh has a diverse landscape and is rich in natural resources. The state is home to various industries, including textiles, cement, and mining. It is a popular tourist destination due to its ancient temples, forts, and national parks that showcase the natural beauty of the state.
Inland states of India
India is a vast and diverse country with a coastline of over 7,000 kilometers. However, not all states in India have access to a coastline. The states that are completely landlocked and don’t have any access to the sea are known as inland states. These states rely on other modes of transportation and trade to sustain their economy.
- Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in India and is also known as the heart of India. It is located in the central part of India and is surrounded by states like Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. The state has a rich cultural heritage and is known for its forts, palaces, and national parks.
- Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India and is surrounded by six states, including Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra. It is known for its rich mineral resources and has a diversified economy. The state is also home to many waterfalls, caves, and wildlife sanctuaries.
- Jharkhand: Jharkhand is located in eastern India and is surrounded by Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh. It is known for its rich mineral resources and is a hub for industries related to mining and steel. The state is also known for its natural beauty, including scenic waterfalls and national parks.
These inland states of India might not have access to the sea, but they have a rich cultural heritage and are known for their natural beauty, historical monuments, and mineral resources. They contribute significantly to the country’s economy and are an integral part of India’s diversity.
Here is a table summarizing the inland states of India:
| State | Location | Surrounded by |
|---|---|---|
| Madhya Pradesh | Central India | Uttar Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Rajasthan |
| Chhattisgarh | Central India | Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Jharkhand, Odisha, and Maharashtra |
| Jharkhand | Eastern India | Bihar, West Bengal, Odisha, and Chhattisgarh |
Landlocked states of India
India is surrounded by water on three sides, making it easy for maritime trade, but not all states in India are blessed with the same geographical advantages. The states which do not have direct access to the sea are known as landlocked states. India has five landlocked states in total, and they are:
- Madhya Pradesh
- Rajasthan
- Haryana
- Jharkhand
- Chhattisgarh
List of landlocked states of India
Let’s take a closer look at each of these states:
- Madhya Pradesh: Known as the “Heart of India,” Madhya Pradesh is surrounded by Uttar Pradesh in the north, Chhattisgarh in the east, Maharashtra and Gujarat in the south, and Rajasthan in the west. Despite being landlocked, it is one of the most prosperous and culturally rich states in India, famous for its monuments, forts, and national parks.
- Rajasthan: Rajasthan is the largest state in India by area and is famous for its palaces, forts, and vibrant culture. It shares its borders with Punjab in the north, Haryana and Uttar Pradesh in the northeast, Madhya Pradesh in the southeast, Gujarat in the southwest, and Pakistan in the west. Despite being a desert state, Rajasthan has a rich history and is home to many wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.
- Haryana: Haryana is located in northern India, and its borders are shared with Punjab in the north, Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand in the northeast, Rajasthan in the south and southwest, and Uttar Pradesh and Delhi in the east. Haryana is one of the most agriculturally rich states in India, and it is known for its buffalo milk, rice, and wheat production.
- Jharkhand: Jharkhand is located in eastern India, and it shares its borders with Bihar in the north, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh in the west, Odisha in the south, and West Bengal in the east. It is known for its coal reserves, forest cover, and rich mineral resources, making it one of the most industrialized states in India.
- Chhattisgarh: Chhattisgarh is located in central India, and it shares its borders with Madhya Pradesh in the northwest, Uttar Pradesh in the north, Jharkhand in the northeast, Odisha in the east, Telangana in the south, and Maharashtra in the southwest. Despite being a new state, Chhattisgarh is rich in natural resources, such as coal, iron-ore, and bauxite, and it is known for its traditional folk dances and art forms.
The economic challenges faced by landlocked states
Being landlocked poses many challenges for a state’s economic growth and development. Landlocked states rely heavily on road and rail networks to transport goods and services, making them more vulnerable to delays and high costs. Moreover, access to international markets is limited, making it harder for landlocked states to compete with coastal states in attracting foreign investments and trade.
| Challenges Faced by Landlocked States | Examples |
|---|---|
| Limited access to international markets | Landlocked states like Nepal, Bhutan, and Switzerland are highly dependent on their neighboring countries for trade and transportation of goods and services. |
| Higher transportation costs | Landlocked states like Bolivia and Ethiopia pay more for transportation of goods from their neighboring countries’ ports to their destinations. |
| Dependence on neighboring states’ infrastructure | Landlocked states like Botswana and Zimbabwe depend on South Africa’s transportation infrastructure to export their goods and services. |
Despite these challenges, landlocked states in India have managed to overcome these obstacles and have shown remarkable progress in the fields of agriculture, industry, and tourism. However, they still have a long way to go in terms of economic growth and development.
Boundaries of India
India is a diverse country that boasts of a rich cultural heritage, and its boundaries are no less distinctive. It shares its borders with seven nations, and has a coastline of over 7500 kilometers. The boundaries of India are not only marked by geographical factors but are also politically significant. In this article, we will focus on which state of India is landlocked, and explore the different aspects of India’s boundaries.
India shares its borders with Pakistan, China, Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Afghanistan. The seven neighbors are separated from India by land and sea routes. It is interesting to note that almost all of these nations have distinct political and cultural identities that make the boundaries between India and these countries more pronounced.
Which state of India is landlocked?
India has 28 states and eight union territories, and out of those, five states are landlocked. These five states are:
- Madhya Pradesh
- Haryana
- Delhi
- Chhattisgarh
- Jharkhand
These states are distinguished by their unique cultures, languages, and traditions. Despite being surrounded by other states, these landlocked states have managed to maintain their identity and play a vital role in India’s economic and political landscape.
India’s Maritime Boundaries
India has a vast coastline, and its maritime boundaries are crucial for its economic and strategic significance in the region. India’s maritime boundaries are divided into two categories:
- Territorial Waters: These are the waters that are adjacent to the coastline and extend up to 12 nautical miles.
- Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ): It extends up to 200 nautical miles from the coast, where India has exclusive rights to explore, exploit, and manage the natural resources.
Land Boundaries of India
India’s land boundaries are marked by a diverse range of geographical features, including mountains, rivers, and deserts. India’s land boundaries with its neighbors are as follows:
| Country | Length of boundary |
|---|---|
| Pakistan | 3,323 km |
| China | 3,488 km |
| Nepal | 1,751 km |
| Bhutan | 699 km |
| Bangladesh | 4,096 km |
| Myanmar | 1,643 km |
| Afghanistan | 106 km |
India’s boundaries with its neighbors have been a subject of disputes and conflicts, but overall, India’s unique boundaries have helped shape its identity in the region. India’s cultural, political, and economic diversity is reflected in its borders, which make it one of the most unique nations in the world.
In conclusion, India’s boundaries are the lifeline of the nation, and they are a reflection of its cultural richness and diversity. India’s landlocked states have shown resilience and are a testament to India’s ability to maintain unity in diversity. India’s maritime boundaries reflect its strategic importance in the region, while its land boundaries are unique and varied. Despite being subject to various conflicts and disputes, India’s boundaries remain unbroken and continue to be an integral part of its national identity.
Economic development of Landlocked States in India
Landlocked states in India are those that do not have access to any major water bodies or ports. Being geographically isolated, they face numerous challenges in terms of transportation, trade, and connectivity. However, many of these states have managed to overcome these challenges and have achieved significant economic growth in recent years.
- Chhattisgarh: Despite being a landlocked state, Chhattisgarh has emerged as one of the fastest-growing states in India. The state has vast mineral resources and is a major producer of coal, iron ore, and other minerals. The state government has promoted industrialization and has set up several industrial parks and SEZs, which have attracted investments from both domestic and foreign companies. In addition, the state government has focused on developing infrastructure, such as roads, railways, and airports, to improve connectivity and facilitate the movement of goods and people.
- Jharkhand: Jharkhand is another mineral-rich state that has made significant progress in recent years. Despite facing challenges such as Naxalism and poor infrastructure, the state has managed to attract investments in industries such as mining, steel, and power. The state government has launched several initiatives to promote industrial development, such as providing incentives to investors and creating a single-window clearance system. The state also has plans to improve connectivity by expanding and upgrading its road and rail networks.
- Madhya Pradesh: Madhya Pradesh is another landlocked state that has achieved remarkable economic growth in recent years. The state is rich in natural resources, such as minerals, forests, and water. The state government has promoted industrialization and has set up several industrial areas and SEZs. The state has also implemented reforms to improve the business environment, such as simplifying regulatory processes and providing incentives to investors. In addition, the state is investing in infrastructure, such as highways, railways, and airports, to improve connectivity and enhance logistics efficiency.
These landlocked states have also prioritized the development of sectors such as agriculture, tourism, and services to diversify their economies and reduce their reliance on the mining and manufacturing sectors. The states have launched initiatives to improve the productivity and profitability of agriculture, such as providing subsidies for seeds, fertilizers, and equipment, and promoting organic farming. The states have also focused on developing tourism by promoting their culture, heritage, and natural beauty, and investing in tourism infrastructure.
Despite facing numerous challenges, such as connectivity, infrastructure, and security, landlocked states in India have shown remarkable resilience and have achieved impressive economic growth. By leveraging their natural resources, promoting industrialization, and diversifying their economies, these states are poised to become major engines of growth for the Indian economy.
Table: Economic Indicators of Select Landlocked States in India
| State | Gross State Domestic Product (GSDP) | Per Capita Income (PCI) | Industrial Sector Contribution to GSDP (%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Chhattisgarh | $77.6 billion (FY 2019-20) | $2,361 (FY 2019-20) | 28.2% |
| Jharkhand | $44.4 billion (FY 2019-20) | $1,590 (FY 2019-20) | 25.7% |
| Madhya Pradesh | $206.3 billion (FY 2019-20) | $2,213 (FY 2019-20) | 21.5% |
Source: Ministry of Statistics and Programme Implementation, Government of India
Tourism Potential of Landlocked States in India
Although landlocked states in India face the challenge of not having a coastline, they have a unique charm and potential for tourism. Here are some of the reasons why landlocked states in India are worth visiting:
- Cultural Diversity: Landlocked states in India are known for their diverse cultural traditions and heritage. From the colorful festivals of Rajasthan to the peaceful Buddhist monasteries in Himachal Pradesh and Ladakh, these states offer a glimpse into India’s diverse cultural landscape.
- Natural Beauty: Landlocked states in India are home to several scenic destinations, such as the picturesque hill stations of Uttarakhand and Meghalaya, the serene backwaters of Kerala, and the stunning valleys of Arunachal Pradesh. These places are perfect for travelers seeking a break from the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Adventure Activities: Landlocked states in India offer a plethora of adventure activities such as trekking, hiking, mountaineering, river rafting, and wildlife safaris. The wildlife sanctuaries in Madhya Pradesh and Assam are known for their rich wildlife species, and the Himalayas offer a range of trekking options for adventure enthusiasts.
Popular Landlocked States in India for Tourism
If you are planning a trip to India, here are some of the top landlocked states that you should consider visiting:
- Rajasthan: Known as the “Land of Kings,” Rajasthan is famous for its magnificent forts, palaces, and rich culture. The state is home to several popular tourist destinations such as Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, and Jaisalmer.
- Himachal Pradesh: Himachal Pradesh is blessed with natural beauty and is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts. The state is home to several hill stations such as Shimla, Manali, and Dalhousie, which are perfect for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Assam: Assam is known for its rich biodiversity and wildlife, including the one-horned Indian rhinoceros. The state is home to several wildlife sanctuaries such as Kaziranga National Park and Manas National Park.
Tourism Infrastructure in Landlocked States in India
Landlocked states in India are actively working towards improving their tourism infrastructure to attract more tourists. The state governments are investing in developing new tourist destinations, promoting cultural festivals, and improving road and air connectivity.
Here are some of the initiatives taken by landlocked states in India to boost tourism:
- The Rajasthan government launched the “Jan Tourism” scheme, which aims to promote tourism in rural areas.
- Himachal Pradesh has launched the “Nai Raahein Nai Manzilein” initiative which promotes adventure tourism and eco-tourism.
- The Assam government has launched the “Awesome Assam” campaign, which promotes the state’s natural beauty, cultural diversity, and adventure activities.
Tourism Potential of Landlocked States in India: A Summary
India’s landlocked states have a unique charm and potential for tourism. They offer a glimpse into the country’s diverse cultural landscape, scenic beauty, and adventure activities. With efforts to improve tourism infrastructure and promote new destinations, landlocked states in India are set to become popular tourist destinations in the coming years.
| Landlocked States in India | Popular Tourist Destinations |
|---|---|
| Rajasthan | Jaipur, Udaipur, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer |
| Himachal Pradesh | Shimla, Manali, Dalhousie |
| Assam | Kaziranga National Park, Manas National Park |
These are just a few examples of the many tourist destinations that landlocked states in India have to offer. With its rich cultural heritage, diverse natural beauty, and adventure activities, India’s landlocked states are worth exploring.
Role of Transportation in Connecting Landlocked States in India
India has five landlocked states, namely Uttarakhand, Telangana, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, and Haryana. Since these states do not have access to any coastline, transportation plays a crucial role in their economic growth and development. Effective transportation systems ensure that people and goods can move in and out of these states with ease, thus reducing logistical costs and improving overall productivity.
Challenges Faced by Landlocked States in India
- Distance: Landlocked states are generally located far away from major ports and economic centers, making it difficult to transport goods and people in and out of the region. Long distances also lead to higher transportation costs, which can affect the profitability of businesses in the region.
- Lack of infrastructure: Many landlocked states in India lack adequate transportation infrastructure, such as highways, railways, and airports. This not only makes it difficult to transport goods and people but also limits economic growth and development.
- Dependence on neighboring states: Landlocked states often rely on neighboring coastal states for transportation and trade. This can be problematic if the neighboring state imposes restrictions or tariffs on goods coming in or going out of the region. It also increases the vulnerability of landlocked states to changes in trade policies and global economic conditions.
Transportation Modes in Landlocked States
The transportation modes commonly used by landlocked states in India include:
- Roadways: Roadways are the most common mode of transportation in landlocked states, as they provide the most flexible and convenient way to move goods and people. The National Highways Authority of India is responsible for the construction and maintenance of highways in the country.
- Railways: Railways are another important transportation mode in landlocked states. The Indian Railways has an extensive network that connects major cities and towns in the country.
- Airways: Air transportation is also becoming increasingly popular in landlocked states. Many regional airports have been established in recent years to improve connectivity and facilitate economic growth.
Improving Transportation Infrastructure
To overcome the challenges faced by landlocked states in India, there is a need to improve transportation infrastructure in the region. This can be achieved through:
- Investment in roads, railways, and airports to improve connectivity and reduce transportation costs.
- Development of inland waterways, which can provide cheaper and more efficient means of transportation, especially for bulk cargo.
- Promotion of public-private partnerships to encourage private investment in transportation infrastructure.
| Transportation Mode | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Roadways | Flexible and convenient | Prone to traffic congestion and accidents |
| Railways | Reliable and cost-effective for long distances | Dependent on track availability and scheduling |
| Airways | Fastest mode of transportation | Expensive and restricted by airport availability |
Overall, improving transportation infrastructure in landlocked states is crucial for promoting economic growth and development in the region. With better connectivity and cheaper transportation costs, these states can attract more investment and businesses, thus creating more employment opportunities for the people.
Which State of India is a Landlocked State?
1. What is a landlocked state?
A landlocked state is a state that is entirely surrounded by other states or countries, with no direct access to the ocean.
2. Which state in India is a landlocked state?
The state of Jharkhand in Eastern India is a landlocked state.
3. Which states in India does Jharkhand share its borders with?
Jharkhand shares its borders with Bihar to the north, Uttar Pradesh and Chhattisgarh to the west, Odisha to the south, and West Bengal to the east.
4. What is the area covered by Jharkhand?
Jharkhand covers an area of 79,716 square kilometers.
5. What is the population of Jharkhand?
As of 2021, the population of Jharkhand is approximately 38.7 million people.
6. What are the major languages spoken in Jharkhand?
The people of Jharkhand speak a variety of languages, with Hindi and Santhali being the predominant ones.
7. What are some popular tourist attractions in Jharkhand?
Some popular tourist attractions in Jharkhand include the Betla National Park, Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary, Hundru Falls, Jonha Falls, and the Parasnath Hills.
Closing Thoughts
Now that you know that Jharkhand is the landlocked state of India, you can explore this beautiful state and all its attractions. Whether you’re a nature lover or a history buff, Jharkhand has something to offer everyone. Thank you for reading, and be sure to visit again soon for more interesting articles!