Introduction
Chhattisgarh is a state located in central India. It was created on 1 November 2000 when the Indian parliament passed an act that carved it out of the state of Madhya Pradesh. The name Chhattisgarh literally means “Thirty‑Six Regions,” which refers to the historical division of the area into 36 traditional administrative units known as parganas. The state’s capital is Raipur, while its largest city is Bilaspur. Chhattisgarh is bordered by the states of Maharashtra to the west, Madhya Pradesh to the north, Odisha to the east, Jharkhand to the southeast, and Andhra Pradesh and Telangana to the south. It covers an area of approximately 135,000 square kilometres and is one of the fastest developing regions in India.
Geography
Topography
The terrain of Chhattisgarh is varied, comprising fertile plains, undulating plateaus, and rugged hills. The northern and western parts of the state lie within the Deccan Plateau, characterized by flatlands and rich alluvial soils. In contrast, the eastern region is dominated by the Satpura and Eastern Ghats, featuring hill ranges such as the Maikal and Nandni Hills. These ranges form natural boundaries and host dense forests. The central belt contains the Kanger Valley and Bastar region, known for its karstic landscapes and numerous caves.
Water Bodies
Chhattisgarh hosts several major rivers that play a crucial role in agriculture, industry, and hydroelectric power generation. The Mahanadi River, originating in the neighboring state of Odisha, flows westward through the southern part of Chhattisgarh and eventually empties into the Bay of Bengal. The Narmada River flows along the western border of the state, while the Ken, Pairi, and Shivnath rivers traverse the central districts. The state's reservoir system includes the Indira Sagar Dam on the Mahanadi and the Narmada Dam on the Narmada River. Additional lakes and ponds, such as the Bhilai Dam and the Sirpur Lake, contribute to the region’s ecological diversity.
Climate
The climate in Chhattisgarh is predominantly humid subtropical. The monsoon season, lasting from June to September, brings heavy rainfall that replenishes water bodies and supports agricultural activities. Temperatures vary from a mild winter (December–January) where maximum temperatures average 25 °C to a scorching summer (March–May) with peaks reaching 45 °C. The western plateau experiences slightly cooler temperatures compared to the eastern plateau due to elevation differences. The state’s rainfall pattern is influenced by the Bay of Bengal cyclone activity, which occasionally results in intense rainfall and flooding in low-lying districts.
History
Ancient and Medieval Periods
Historical records indicate that the region now known as Chhattisgarh was inhabited by tribal communities such as the Gond, Halba, and Muria people for centuries. Archaeological evidence, including megalithic structures and rock paintings, dates back to the Iron Age. During the Gupta Empire (4th–6th centuries CE), the area fell under the control of regional chieftains who managed local affairs. The 12th and 13th centuries saw the rise of the Kakatiya dynasty, which exerted influence over parts of western Chhattisgarh. In the 16th century, the Gonds established a semi‑autonomous kingdom, gaining recognition from the Mughal emperors while maintaining considerable local autonomy.
Colonial Era
The British East India Company began to exert influence in the region in the early 19th century, culminating in the annexation of the Gonds’ territories following the Anglo‑Gond wars of 1831 and 1832. Chhattisgarh was incorporated into the Central Provinces and Berar in 1903, a reorganisation that facilitated administrative integration with other parts of central India. Under British rule, the region saw the introduction of new agricultural practices, railway connectivity, and modern irrigation projects, which laid the groundwork for future economic development.
Post‑Independence Developments
After India gained independence in 1947, Chhattisgarh remained part of the Central Provinces (later renamed Madhya Pradesh). The state witnessed significant socio‑economic changes during the subsequent decades, including the expansion of the coal mining industry in the Surguja and Janjgir-Champa districts. In 2000, after a prolonged political movement led by regional leaders, the Indian Parliament passed the Chhattisgarh Reorganisation Act. This act officially created the state of Chhattisgarh on 1 November 2000, with Raipur as its capital. Since its formation, the state has implemented policies to promote industrialisation, enhance agricultural productivity, and develop its rich cultural heritage.
Political Administration
Governance Structure
Chhattisgarh follows the parliamentary system of governance. The state is headed by a Governor, appointed by the President of India, who serves as the ceremonial head of the state. The real executive power lies with the Chief Minister, who is the leader of the majority party in the Legislative Assembly. The assembly comprises 90 members elected for a five‑year term through a first‑past‑the‑post electoral system. The Legislative Council, which is unicameral, serves as a deliberative body, and its members are elected by various constituencies including local authorities and graduates.
Administrative Divisions
Chhattisgarh is divided into 26 districts, grouped into six divisions: Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Jabalpur, Kanker, and Bilaspur. Each district is administered by a District Collector who oversees revenue collection, law and order, and development programmes. The state also maintains a network of mandals, blocks, and Panchayats that manage local governance at the village and town level. The decentralised structure aims to facilitate efficient administration and inclusive development across both urban and rural areas.
Demographics
Population
According to the 2011 census, Chhattisgarh had a population of approximately 25.5 million people. The population growth rate is moderate compared to other Indian states, partly due to rural‑to‑urban migration and natural demographic changes. The sex ratio stands at around 991 females for every 1000 males, slightly higher than the national average. The literacy rate is 70.5 %, with male literacy at 82.4 % and female literacy at 57.9 %.
Ethnic Composition
The state hosts a diverse mix of ethnic groups. The majority belong to the Indo‑Aryan and Dravidian language families, with Hindi being the official language and Chhattisgarhi serving as the most widely spoken regional language. Indigenous tribal communities such as the Gonds, Halba, Oraons, and Maria form a significant portion of the population, especially in the Bastar region. These tribes preserve distinct cultural practices, languages, and traditional knowledge systems.
Religion
Religious affiliation in Chhattisgarh is predominantly Hindu (approximately 80 %). Muslims account for about 10 % of the population, followed by Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, and Jains, each comprising less than 1 % individually. The religious landscape reflects a tapestry of cultural influences, with temples, mosques, churches, and shrines scattered across urban and rural districts.
Economy
Agriculture
Chhattisgarh’s economy is largely agrarian, with around 60 % of its workforce engaged in farming activities. The state is a leading producer of rice, wheat, pulses, and oilseeds, benefiting from fertile alluvial plains and advanced irrigation infrastructure. The Kharif and Rabi cropping seasons are critical, with monsoon rains dictating planting and harvesting schedules. The government has implemented schemes such as the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana and Kisan Credit Card to support farmers.
Industry
Industrial development has accelerated in the past two decades, with a focus on steel, aluminum, cement, and mining sectors. The Bhilai Steel Plant, operated by the Steel Authority of India Limited, is one of the largest integrated steel plants in the country. Surguja and Janjgir-Champa districts are rich in coal reserves, which feed several power plants and steel mills. The state also hosts a growing textile industry, especially in Raipur and Bilaspur, producing handloom and power‑loom goods.
Services and Tourism
The service sector accounts for approximately 30 % of Chhattisgarh’s GDP. Information technology and business process outsourcing firms have established operations in Raipur and Bilaspur, contributing to employment and urban growth. Tourism is a key emerging sector, with attractions ranging from natural wonders such as the Kanger Valley National Park to cultural heritage sites like the Bastar Fort. The government has invested in infrastructure projects including hotels, resorts, and transportation to boost tourism revenue.
Infrastructure
Transportation
Road Connectivity: The state’s highway network spans over 13,000 kilometres, linking major cities and facilitating intra‑state commerce. The National Highways 6, 130, and 43 traverse Chhattisgarh, providing connections to neighboring states. State highways and district roads further enhance connectivity, especially to tribal and remote areas.
Railway Connectivity: Chhattisgarh is served by the Indian Railways’ South Eastern Railway, Western Railway, and East Central Railway zones. Major junctions include Raipur Junction, Bilaspur Junction, and Durg Junction. Ongoing projects aim to expand rail connectivity to under‑developed districts, thereby improving freight and passenger services.
Air Transport: Raipur International Airport serves as the primary gateway, handling domestic and international flights. Additional airports, such as the Bhopal–Chhattisgarh International Airport in Bilaspur, support regional connectivity. Small airstrips in rural districts assist in emergency medical services and logistics.
Utilities
Electricity: The Chhattisgarh State Power Distribution Company Limited manages power distribution across the state. Hydroelectric projects on the Mahanadi, Narmada, and Ken rivers contribute to the state’s power supply, while coal‑based thermal plants provide baseload capacity. The state has implemented initiatives to promote renewable energy, particularly solar power, in rural and peri‑urban areas.
Water Supply: Major dams and reservoirs support irrigation, drinking water, and industrial use. The Indira Sagar and Narmada dams are key water storage facilities, while smaller check dams and canals facilitate localized irrigation. Water supply schemes in urban centres aim to ensure potable water for growing populations.
Telecommunication: The state has high telecommunication penetration, with extensive coverage by cellular networks and internet service providers. The Government of Chhattisgarh launched the “Digital Chhattisgarh” initiative to improve broadband connectivity across rural districts, boosting e‑governance and e‑commerce.
Education
Primary and Secondary Education
The government operates a network of primary and secondary schools across urban and rural districts. The Chhattisgarh State Education Board governs curriculum and examinations for government schools, while the State Board of Secondary Education and the State Board of Higher Secondary Education oversee secondary and higher secondary education respectively. Private schools and international schools also contribute to the education ecosystem.
Higher Education
Chhattisgarh hosts several universities, including the Dr. B. R. Ambedkar University of Science and Technology, the Chhattisgarh University, and the Pandit Ravishankar Shukla University. Technical institutes such as the National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur and the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT)–Chandigarh (Chhattisgarh campus) offer engineering and research programs. The state has also established a number of polytechnic colleges, teacher training institutes, and professional colleges offering courses in medicine, law, and commerce.
Skill Development
To align with industrial demands, the government runs skill development programs under the Ministry of Skill Development and Entrepreneurship. The Chhattisgarh Skill Development Authority (CSDA) offers vocational training in areas such as carpentry, welding, electrical work, and information technology. Partnerships with private enterprises and international organizations help ensure curriculum relevance and employability of graduates.
Culture
Language and Literature
Chhattisgarhi is the most widely spoken language, belonging to the Hindi‑Urdu language family. The language has rich folklore traditions, including stories of folk heroes and epic poetry. Literary works in Chhattisgarhi cover themes ranging from romance to social issues, and contemporary authors contribute to modern literature. The state also preserves tribal dialects such as Gond, Halba, and Maria, each with its own oral traditions and linguistic nuances.
Music and Dance
Folk music plays an integral role in cultural expression. Traditional instruments such as the dhol, dholak, and shehnai accompany dances like the Panthi, Bhatiyani, and Gharwari. These dances often depict rural life, mythological tales, and tribal rituals. Contemporary musicians blend folk motifs with modern genres, creating fusion styles that resonate with younger audiences.
Festivals
Festivals in Chhattisgarh reflect religious and agrarian calendars. The most widely celebrated festival is Holi, followed by Diwali, Navaratri, and Durga Puja. Tribal communities hold unique festivals such as Bastar Dussehra, which commemorates the victory of the deity Devi and features elaborate processions, mask dances, and elaborate rituals. The harvest festival Pongal is celebrated in various parts of the state, symbolising gratitude towards nature and community solidarity.
Traditional Arts and Crafts
Handicrafts such as bamboo weaving, pottery, and wood carving are prevalent across the state. Bastar region is renowned for its exquisite appliqué work known as “Bastar art,” where intricate designs are stitched onto cloth using bright pigments. The state also produces intricate silver jewelry, especially in the Bastar district, using techniques that have been passed down for generations. Textile production, including handloom sarees and cotton fabrics, remains a significant cultural and economic activity.
Cuisine
Chhattisgarh cuisine is primarily agrarian, reflecting the state’s reliance on rice and pulses. Traditional staples include rice, bhat, and various lentil preparations such as dal, sattu, and chana. A hallmark dish is “Chila,” a thin, savory pancake made from rice or lentil batter. “Bada” and “Puri” are popular snack items often served with yogurt or chutney. The state also boasts unique dishes like “Sattu ka Khatta” and “Matar Kadai.” Meat consumption is comparatively low; however, fish is popular in riverine communities, while goat and chicken are preferred in rural households. Dairy products such as ghee, paneer, and curd are integral components of meals.
Tourism
Natural Attractions
Chhattisgarh is home to several national parks and wildlife sanctuaries that attract nature enthusiasts. The Kanger Valley National Park, located in Bastar, hosts a rich biodiversity of flora and fauna, including tigers, leopards, and various bird species. The Van Vihar National Park in Raipur serves as a wildlife rescue centre for animals rescued from the cities. The Bastar Tiger Reserve, part of the Eastern Wildlife Corridor, is critical for tiger conservation efforts. Additionally, the state’s numerous waterfalls, such as the Chitrakot Falls, offer scenic beauty.
Historical and Cultural Sites
Historical monuments like the Bastar Fort and the ancient city of Sirpur, an archaeological site of Buddhist and Jain heritage, underscore the region’s historical significance. The Shukran Sagar Lake, an artificial reservoir, and the Chitrakoot Dam reflect modern engineering achievements. The tribal museums in Bastar exhibit traditional housing, tools, and rituals, offering immersive cultural experiences for visitors.
Adventure Tourism
Adventure sports such as rock climbing, rappelling, and jungle trekking are organized in areas like the Kanger Valley and the Surguja district. The state encourages adventure tourism through initiatives that provide safety guidelines and local guides. Moreover, eco‑tourism projects promote community‑based homestays, allowing travelers to experience authentic tribal lifestyles.
See Also
- Economy of India
- State of Chhattisgarh (Official Website)
- India Tourism
- Indian National Monuments
- Indian Cultural Heritage
External Links
- Official website of the Government of Chhattisgarh
- Chhattisgarh Tourism Development Corporation
- National Institute of Technology (NIT) Raipur
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