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Himachal Pradesh

February 16, 2023

Himachal Pradesh (/hɪˌmɑːtʃəl prəˈdɛʃ/; Hindi: [ɦɪˈmäːtʃəl pɾəˈd̪eːʃ] (listen); lit. "Snow-laden Mountain Province"[16]) is a state in the northern part of India. Situated in the Western Himalayas, it is one of the thirteen mountain states and is characterized by an extreme landscape featuring several peaks and extensive river systems. Himachal Pradesh is the northernmost state of India and shares borders with the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to the north, and the states of Punjab to the west, Haryana to the southwest, Uttarakhand to the southeast and a very narrow border with Uttar Pradesh to the south. The state also shares an international border to the east with the Tibet Autonomous Region in China. Himachal Pradesh is also known as Dev Bhoomi, meaning 'Land of Gods'[17] and Veer Bhoomi which means 'Land of the Brave'.[18]

Himachal Pradesh
State
From top, left to right:Jorkanden peak of Kinner Kailash range, the Parvati Valley near Tosh; Khajjiar, the Key Monastery in Spiti; the Dhauladhars as seen from HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala; Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan, Kalpa; Shimla at night
State Emblem[1]
Nickname(s): 
Devbhumi (transl. Land of God) and Veerbhumi (transl. Land of Braves)
Motto(s): 
Satyameva Jayate
IAST: satyam-eva jayate
  • (transl. Truth alone triumphs)
Location in India
Coordinates (Shimla): 31°6′12″N 77°10′20″E / 31.10333°N 77.17222°E / 31.10333; 77.17222
Country India
Union territory1 November 1956
State25 January 1971†
Capital
Shimla (Summer)
12 Districts
List
Government
 • BodyGovernment of Himachal Pradesh
 • GovernorShiv Pratap Shukla[4]
 • Chief MinisterSukhvinder Singh Sukhu (INC)
 • Deputy Chief MinisterMukesh Agnihotri (INC)
 • LegislatureAssembly[5] (68 seats)
 • Parliamentary constituency
Area
 • Total55,673 km2 (21,495 sq mi)
 • Rank18th[6]
Highest elevation
(Reo Purgil[7])
6,816 m (22,362 ft)
Lowest elevation
350 m (1,150 ft)
Population
 (2011)[8]
 • Total6,864,602
 • Estimate 
(2022)[9]
7,503,010
 • Rank21st
 • Density123/km2 (320/sq mi)
Language
 • OfficialHindi[10]
 • Additional officialSanskrit[11]
 • Native
Time zoneUTC+05:30 (IST)
PIN
17xxxx
ISO 3166 codeIN-HP
HDI (2019)0.725[12] (High) · 8th
Literacy in India74.04% [13]: 104 
Literacy in Himachal Pradesh86.06%
Websitewww.himachal.nic.in
^† It was elevated to the status of state by the State of Himachal Pradesh Act, 1970
Symbols of Himachal Pradesh
Mammal
Snow leopard (Panthera uncia)
Bird
Western tragopan (Tragopan melanocephalus)
Fish
Golden Mahseer (Tor putitora)[14]
Flower
Pink Rhododendron (Rhododendron campanulatum)
Fruit
Apple (Malus domestica)
Tree
Deodar cedar (Cedrus deodara)

The predominantly mountainous region comprising the present-day Himachal Pradesh has been inhabited since pre-historic times, having witnessed multiple waves of human migrations from other areas.[19] Through its history, the region was mostly ruled by local kingdoms, some of which accepted the suzerainty of larger empires. Prior to India's independence from the British, Himachal comprised the hilly regions of the Punjab Province of British India. After independence, many of the hilly territories were organized as the Chief Commissioner's province of Himachal Pradesh, which later became a union territory. In 1966, hilly areas of the neighbouring Punjab state were merged into Himachal and it was ultimately granted full statehood in 1971.

Himachal Pradesh is spread across valleys with many perennial rivers flowing through them. Around 90% of the state's population lives in rural areas. Agriculture, horticulture, hydropower, and tourism are important constituents of the state's economy. The hilly state is almost universally electrified, with 99.5% of households having electricity as of 2016. The state was declared India's second open-defecation-free state in 2016.[20] According to a survey of CMS – India Corruption Study 2017, Himachal Pradesh is India's least corrupt state.[21][22]

History

Early History

Main article: History of Himachal Pradesh
 
8th century rock-cut temples at Masroor

Tribes such as the Koli, Hali, Dagi, Dhaugri, Dasa, Khasa, Kanaura, and Kirata inhabited the region from the prehistoric era.[23] The foothills of the modern state of Himachal Pradesh were inhabited by people from the Indus valley civilisation, which flourished between 2250 and 1750 BCE.[24] The Kols and Mundas are believed to be the original inhabitants to the hills of present-day Himachal Pradesh, followed by the Bhotas and Kiratas.[24]

During the Vedic period, several small republics known as Janapada existed which were later conquered by the Gupta Empire. After a brief period of supremacy by King Harshavardhana, the region was divided into several local powers headed by chieftains, including some Rajputs principalities. These kingdoms enjoyed a large degree of independence and were invaded by Delhi Sultanate several times.[24] Mahmud Ghaznavi conquered Kangra at the beginning of the 11th century. Timur and Sikander Lodi also marched through the lower hills of the state, captured several forts, and fought many battles.[24] Several hill states acknowledged Mughal suzerainty and paid regular tribute to the Mughals.[25]

The Kingdom of Gorkha conquered many kingdoms and came to power in Nepal in 1768.[24] They consolidated their military power and began to expand their territory.[24] Gradually, the Kingdom of Nepal annexed Sirmour and Shimla. Under the leadership of Amar Singh Thapa, the Nepali army laid siege to Kangra. They managed to defeat Sansar Chand Katoch, the ruler of Kangra, in 1806 with the help of many provincial chiefs. However, the Nepali army could not capture Kangra fort which came under Maharaja Ranjeet Singh in 1809. After the defeat, they expanded towards the south of the state. However, Raja Ram Singh, Raja of Siba State, captured the fort of Siba from the remnants of Lahore Darbar in Samvat 1846,[24] during the First Anglo-Sikh War.

They came into direct conflict with the British along the tarai belt, after which the British expelled them from the provinces of the Satluj.[24] The British gradually emerged as the paramount power in the region.[24] In the revolt of 1857, or first Indian war of independence, arising from several grievances against the British,[24] the people of the hill states were not as politically active as were those in other parts of the country.[24] They and their rulers, except Bushahr, remained more or less inactive.[24] Some, including the rulers of Chamba, Bilaspur, Bhagal and Dhami, rendered help to the British government during the revolt.

The British territories came under the British Crown after Queen Victoria's proclamation of 1858. The states of Chamba, Mandi and Bilaspur made good progress in many fields during the British rule.[24] During World War I, virtually all rulers of the hill states remained loyal and contributed to the British war effort, both in the form of men and materials. Among these were the states of Kangra, Jaswan, Datarpur, Guler, Rajgarh, Nurpur, Chamba, Suket, Mandi, and Bilaspur.[24]

Partition and post-independence

After independence, the Chief Commissioner's Province of Himachal Pradesh was organised on 15 April 1948 as a result of the integration of 28 petty princely states (including feudal princes and zaildars) in the promontories of the western Himalayas. These were known as the Simla Hills States and four Punjab southern hill states under the Himachal Pradesh (Administration) Order, 1948 under Sections 3 and 4 of the Extra-Provincial Jurisdiction Act, 1947 (later renamed as the Foreign Jurisdiction Act, 1947 vide A.O. of 1950). The State of Bilaspur was merged into Himachal Pradesh on 1 July 1954 by the Himachal Pradesh and Bilaspur (New State) Act, 1954.[26]

Himachal became a Part 'C' state on 26 January 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect and the Lieutenant Governor was appointed. The Legislative Assembly was elected in 1952. Himachal Pradesh became a union territory on 1 November 1956.[24] Some areas of the Punjab State, namely, Simla, Kangra, Kullu and Lahul and Spiti Districts, Lohara, Amb and Una Kanungo circles, some areas of Santokhgarh Kanungo circle and some other specified area of Una Tehsil of Hoshiarpur District, as well as Kandaghat and Nalagarh Tehsils of erstwhile PEPSU State, besides some parts of Dhar Kalan Kanungo circle of Pathankot District—were merged with Himachal Pradesh on 1 November 1966 on the enactment by Parliament of the Punjab Reorganisation Act, 1966.[26] On 18 December 1970, the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed by Parliament, and the new state came into being on 25 January 1971. Himachal became the 18th state of the Indian Union with Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar as its first chief minister.[24]

Geography

Main article: Geography of Himachal Pradesh
 
Topographic map of Himachal Pradesh. Most of the state is mountainous.
 
View of the Shivalik Hills and the Middle Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh

Himachal is in the western Himalayas situated between 30°22′N and 33°12′N latitude and 75°47′E ́ and 79°04′E longitude. Covering an area of 55,673 square kilometres (21,495 sq mi),[6] it is a mountainous state. The Zanskar range runs in the northeastern part of the state and the great Himalayan range run through the eastern and northern parts, while the Dhauladhar and the Pir Panjal ranges of the lesser Himalayas, and their valleys, form much of the core regions. The outer Himalayas, or the Shiwalik range, form southern and western Himachal Pradesh. At 6,816 m, Reo Purgyil is the highest mountain peak in the state of Himachal Pradesh.[27]

The drainage system of Himachal is composed both of rivers and glaciers. Himalayan rivers criss-cross the entire mountain chain. Himachal Pradesh provides water to both the Indus and Ganges basins.[28] The drainage systems of the region are the Chandra Bhaga or the Chenab, the Ravi, the Beas, the Sutlej, and the Yamuna. These rivers are perennial and are fed by snow and rainfall. They are protected by an extensive cover of natural vegetation.[28] Four of the five Punjab rivers flow through Himachal Pradesh, three of them originating in the state. These rivers run through a maze of valleys separated by the mountain ranges of the state. The Satluj Valley is formed by the Satluj river entering the state near Shipki La, while the Spiti and Baspa Valleys are formed by the river's two major tributaries in the state. The Beas river flows though the Kullu and the Kangra Valleys, with tributary Parvati forming the Parvati Valley. The Chenab river, formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga, forms much of the northern regions of Lahaul and Pangi, and the Ravi river flows principally through Chamba. The Pabbar and Giri rivers in the southeast are part of the Yamuna basin.

Due to extreme variation in elevation, great variation occurs in the climatic conditions of Himachal Pradesh. The climate varies from hot and humid subtropical in the southern tracts to, with more elevation, cold, alpine, and glacial in the northern and eastern mountain ranges.[29] The state's winter capital, Dharamsala receives very heavy rainfall, while areas like Lahaul and Spiti are cold and almost rainless. Broadly, Himachal experiences three seasons: summer, winter, and rainy season. Summer lasts from mid-April until the end of June and most parts become very hot (except in the alpine zone which experiences a mild summer) with the average temperature ranging from 28 to 32 °C (82 to 90 °F). Winter lasts from late November until mid-March. Snowfall is common in alpine tracts. Pollution is affecting the climate of almost all the states of India. Due to steps taken by governments to prevent pollution, Himachal Pradesh has become the first smoke-free state in India which means cooking in the entire state is free of traditional chulhas.[30]

Flora and fauna

Main article: Protected areas of Himachal Pradesh
 
Indian paradise flycatcher (Terpsiphone paradisi) in Kullu

Himachal Pradesh is one of the states that lies in the Indian Himalayan Region (IHR), one of the richest reservoirs of biological diversity in the world. As of 2002, the IHR is undergoing large scale irrational extraction of wild, medicinal herbs, thus endangering many of its high-value gene stock. To address this, a workshop on ‘Endangered Medicinal Plant Species in Himachal Pradesh’ was held in 2002 and the conference was attended by forty experts from diverse disciplines.[31]

 
Black bulbul (Hypsipetes leucocephalus)

According to 2003 Forest Survey of India report, legally defined forest areas constitute 66.52% of the area of Himachal Pradesh.[32] Vegetation in the state is dictated by elevation and precipitation. The state is endowed with a high diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants.[33] Lahaul-Spiti region of the state, being a cold desert, supports unique plants of medicinal value including Ferula jaeschkeana, Hyoscyamus niger, Lancea tibetica, and Saussurea bracteata.[34][35]

Himachal is also said to be the fruit bowl of the country,[36] with orchards being widespread. Meadows and pastures are also seen clinging to steep slopes. After the winter season, the hillsides and orchards bloom with wild flowers, white gladiolas, carnations, marigolds,[37] roses, chrysanthemums, tulips and lilies are carefully cultivated. Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Ltd. (HPMC) is a state body that markets fresh and processed fruits.[38]

Himachal Pradesh has around 463 bird, and Tragopan melanocephalus is the state bird of Himanchal Pradesh[39] 77 mammalian, 44 reptile and 80 fish species.Himachal Pradesh has currently five National Parks.[40] Great Himalayan National Park, oldest and largest National park in the state, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Pin Valley National Park, Inderkilla, Khirganga and Simbalbara are the other national Parks located in the state.[40][41][42][43] The state also has 30 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 conservation reserves.[43] The state bird of Himachal Pradesh is the Western tragopan, locally known as the jujurana.[44] It is one of the rarest living pheasants in the world. The state animal is the Snow leopard, which is even rarer to find than the jujurana.[45]

Government

Main articles: Government of Himachal Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly, Assembly election results of Himachal Pradesh, and Politics of Himachal Pradesh
 
High Court of Himachal Pradesh
 
Shimla's Town Hall, which houses the Shimla Municipal Corporation

The Legislative Assembly of Himachal Pradesh has no pre-constitution history. The State itself is a post-independence creation. It came into being as a centrally administered territory on 15 April 1948 from the integration of thirty erstwhile princely states.[46]

Himachal Pradesh is governed through a parliamentary system of representative democracy, a feature the state shares with other Indian states. Universal suffrage is granted to residents. The legislature consists of elected members and special office bearers such as the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker who are elected by the members. Assembly meetings are presided over by the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker in the Speaker's absence. The judiciary is composed of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and a system of lower courts.

Executive authority is vested in the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister, although the titular head of government is the Governor. The governor is the head of state appointed by the President of India. The leader of the party or coalition with a majority in the Legislative Assembly is appointed as the Chief Minister by the governor, and the Council of Ministers are appointed by the governor on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Council of Ministers reports to the Legislative Assembly. The Assembly is unicameral with 68 Members of the Legislative Assembly (MLA).[47] Terms of office run for five years, unless the Assembly is dissolved prior to the completion of the term. Auxiliary authorities known as panchayats, for which local body elections are regularly held, govern local affairs.

In the assembly elections held in November 2022, the Indian National Congress secured an absolute majority, winning 40 of the 68 seats while the BJP won only 25 of the 68 seats. Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was sworn in as Himachal Pradesh's 15th Chief Minister in Shimla on 11 December 2022. Mukesh Agnihotri was sworn in as his deputy the same day.

Administrative divisions

 
 
Subdivisions of Himachal Pradesh
Main article: List of districts of Himachal Pradesh

The state of Himachal Pradesh is divided into 12 districts[48] which are grouped into three divisions, Shimla, Kangra and Mandi.[49] The districts are further divided into 73 subdivisions, 78 blocks and 172 Tehsils.[48]

Divisions Districts[50]
Kangra Chamba, Kangra, Una
Mandi Bilaspur, Hamirpur, Kullu, Lahaul and Spiti, Mandi
Shimla Kinnaur, Shimla, Sirmaur, Solan
Administrative Structure[51]
Divisions 3
Districts 12
Tehsils/ Sub-Tehsils 172
Developmental Blocks 78
Urban Local Bodies 54[52]
Towns 59
Gram Panchayats 3226
Villages 20690
Police Stations 130[53]
Lok Sabha seats 4[54]
Rajya Sabha seats 3
Assembly Constituencies 68[54]

Economy

Main article: Economy of Himachal Pradesh
Gross State Domestic Product at Current Prices
Year Gross State Domestic Product
1980 794
1985 1,372
1990 2,815
1995 6,698
2000 13,590
2005 23,024
2006 25,435
2010 57,452
2013 82,585
2014 92,589
2015 101,108
2016 110,511[55]
2017 124,570[56]
2018 135,914[57]
2021 172,174

Planning in Himachal Pradesh started in 1951 along with the rest of India with the implementation of the first five-year plan. The First Plan allocated ₹52.7 million to Himachal Pradesh.[58] More than 50% of this expenditure was incurred on transport and communication; while the power sector got a share of just 4.6%, though it had steadily increased to 7% by the Third Plan.[59] Expenditure on agriculture and allied activities increased from 14.4% in the First Plan to 32% in the Third Plan, showing a progressive decline afterwards from 24% in the Fourth Plan to less than 10% in the Tenth Plan.[59] Expenditure on energy sector was 24.2% of the total in the Tenth Plan.[59]

 
The Mall Road is the central business district of Shimla, Himachal Pradesh's capital city.

The total GDP for 2005–06 was estimated at ₹254 billion as against ₹230 billion in the year 2004–05, showing an increase of 10.5%.[60] The GDP for fiscal 2015–16 was estimated at ₹1.110 trillion,[55] which increased to ₹1.247 trillion in 2016–17, recording growth of 6.8%.[56] The per capita income increased from ₹130,067 in 2015–16 to ₹147,277 in 2016–17.[55][56] The state government's advance estimates for fiscal 2017–18 stated the total GDP and per capita income as ₹1.359 trillion and ₹158,462, respectively.[57] As of 2018, Himachal is the 22nd-largest state economy in India with ₹1.52 lakh crore (US$19 billion) in gross domestic product and has the 13th-highest per capita income (₹160,000 (US$2,000)) among the states and union territories of India.[61]

Himachal Pradesh also ranks as the second-best performing state in the country on human development indicators after Kerala.[62] One of the Indian government's key initiatives to tackle unemployment is the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act (NREGA). The participation of women in the NREGA has been observed to vary across different regions of the nation. As of the year 2009–2010, Himachal Pradesh joined the category of high female participation, recording a 46% share of NREGS (National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme) workdays for women. This was a drastic increase from the 13% that was recorded in 2006–2007.[63]

Agriculture

 
Terrace farming is the most common form of agricultural practice in the state.

Agriculture accounts for 9.4% of the net state domestic product.[64] It is the main source of income and employment in Himachal. About 90% of the population in Himachal depends directly upon agriculture, which provides direct employment to 62% of total workers of state.[64] The main cereals grown include wheat, maize, rice and barley with major cropping systems being maize-wheat, rice-wheat and maize-potato-wheat.[65][66] Pulses, fruits, vegetables and oilseeds are among the other crops grown in the state.[65] Centuries-old traditional Kuhl irrigation system is prevalent in the Kangra valley,[67] though in recent years these Kuhls have come under threat from hydroprojects on small streams in the valley.[68] Land husbandry initiatives such as the Mid-Himalayan Watershed Development Project, which includes the Himachal Pradesh Reforestation Project (HPRP), the world's largest clean development mechanism (CDM) undertaking, have improved agricultural yields and productivity, and raised rural household incomes.[69]

 
Apples at an orchard in Vashisht; the state is the second-largest producer of apples in India

Apple is the principal cash crop of the state grown principally in the districts of Shimla, Kinnaur, Kullu, Mandi, Chamba and some parts of Sirmaur and Lahaul-Spiti with an average annual production of five lakh tonnes and per hectare production of 8 to 10 tonnes.[70] The apple cultivation constitute 49 per cent of the total area under fruit crops and 85% of total fruit production in the state with an estimated economy of ₹3500 crore.[70] Apples from Himachal are exported to other Indian states and even other countries.[71][72] In 2011–12, the total area under apple cultivation was 104,000 hectares, increased from 90,347 hectares in 2000–01.[72] According to the provisional estimates of Ministry of Agriculture & Farmers Welfare, the annual apple production in Himachal for fiscal 2015–16 stood at 753,000 tonnes, making it India's second-largest apple-producing state after Jammu and Kashmir.[73] The state is also among the leading producers of other fruits such as apricots, cherries, peaches, pears, plums and strawberries in India.

 
Tea gardens in Dharamsala

Kangra tea is grown in the Kangra valley. Tea plantation began in 1849, and production peaked in the late 19th century with the tea becoming popular across the globe.[74] Production dipped sharply after the 1905 Kangra earthquake and continues to decline.[75] The tea received geographical indication status in 2005.

Industry

Main article: Industry in Himachal Pradesh

Energy

See also: Hydroelectric power in Himachal Pradesh

Hydropower is one of the major sources of income generation for the state.[76] The state has an abundance of hydropower resources because of the presence of various perennial rivers. Many high-capacity hydropower plants have been constructed which produce surplus electricity that is sold to other states, such as Delhi, Punjab and West Bengal.[77] The income generated from exporting the electricity to other states is being provided as subsidy to the consumers in the state.[78] The rich hydropower resources of Himachal have resulted in the state becoming almost universally electrified with around 94.8% houses receiving electricity as of 2001, as compared to the national average of 55.9%.[78] Himachal's hydro-electric power production is, however, yet to be fully utilised.[79] The identified hydroelectric potential for the state is 27,436 MW in five river basins[77] while the hydroelectric capacity in 2016 was 10,351 MW.[79]

Tourism

Main article: Tourism in Himachal Pradesh

Tourism in Himachal Pradesh is a major contributor to the state's economy and growth. The Himalayas attracts tourists from all over the world. Hill stations like Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie, Chamba, Khajjiar, Kullu and Kasauli are popular destinations for both domestic and foreign tourists.[80] The state also has many important Hindu pilgrimage sites with prominent temples like Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir, Naina Devi Temple, Bajreshwari Mata Temple, Jwala Ji Temple, Chintpurni, Baijnath Temple, Bhimakali Temple, Bijli Mahadev and Jakhoo Temple.[81] Manimahesh Lake situated in the Bharmour region of Chamba district is the venue of an annual Hindu pilgrimage trek held in the month of August which attracts lakhs of devotees.[82] The state is also referred to as "Dev Bhoomi" (literally meaning Abode of Gods) due to its mention as such in ancient Hindu texts and occurrence of a large number of historical temples in the state.[83]

Himachal is also known for its adventure tourism activities like ice skating in Shimla, paragliding in Bir Billing and Solang Valley, rafting in Kullu, skiing in Manali, boating in Bilaspur, fishing in Tirthan Valley, trekking and horse riding in different parts of the state.[84] Shimla, the state's capital, is home to Asia's only natural ice-skating rink.[85] Spiti Valley in Lahaul and Spiti District situated at an altitude of over 3000 metres with its picturesque landscapes is popular destination for adventure seekers. The region also has some of the oldest Buddhist Monasteries in the world.[86] Himachal hosted the first Paragliding World Cup in India from 24 to 31 October in 2015.[87][88] The venue for the paragliding world cup was Bir Billing, which is 70 km from the tourist town Macleod Ganj, located in the heart of Himachal in Kangra District. Bir Billing is the centre for aero sports in Himachal and considered as best for paragliding.[87] Buddhist monasteries, trekking to tribal villages and mountain biking are other local possibilities.

There are a variety of festivals celebrated by the locals of Himachal Pradesh who worship gods and goddesses. There are over 2000 villages in Himachal Pradesh which celebrate festivals such as Kullu Dussehra, Chamba’s Minjar, Renuka ji Fair, Lohri, Halda, Phagli, Lossar and Mandi Shivratri.[89] There approximately 6000 temples in Himachal Pradesh with a known one being Bijli Mahadev. The temple is seen as a 20-meter structure built in stone which, according to locals, is known to attract lighting. They say that this is a way the Gods show their blessings.[90]

The Great Himalayan National Park is found in the Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh. It has an area of 620 km2 and ranging from an altitude of 1500 meters to 4500 meters and was created in 1984. There are various forest types found here such as Deodar, Silver Fir, Spruce, Oak and Alpine pastures. In the Great Himalayan National Park, there are a variety of animals found such as Snow Leopard, Himalayan Yak, Himalayan Black Bear, Western Tragopan, Monal and Musk Deer. This National Park is a trail to many hikers and trekkers too. Moreover, there are sanctuaries which are tourist spots such as Naina Devi Sanctuary in Bilaspur district with an area of 120 km2 and Gobind Sagar Sanctuary with an area of 100 km2. There are animals such as Indian porcupine and giant flying squirrel found here. The Gobind Sagar Lake has fish species such as Mrigal, Silver carp, Katla, Mahaseer and Rohu are found here. Narkanda located in at an altitude of around 8850 feet is known for its apple orchards. It is located between the river valleys of Giri and Sutlej.[91]

A History of Missing Trekkers

Up to 20 people were reported missing between 2010 and 2016, causing concerns about the suitability of Himachal Pradesh for trekking and the effectiveness of the state government's response to emergencies.[92]

In November 2021, Dhruv Agarwal went missing. The man planned to undertake a trek to Kheerganga on November 9. He made a video call to his family members on the same day, but they had not been able to reach him since. After unsuccessful attempts to contact him, his family alerted the Kullu police, and an unsuccessful search mission was initiated in the region.[93]

A notable 2016 missing person's case was Justin Alexander Shetler, an American trekker, who went missing in Parvati Valley in the Kullu District in September 2016.[92][94] The disappearance of Shetler was the focus of a book by Harley Rustad, named "Lost in the Valley of Death". Rustad refers to the Parvati Valley as "India's backpacker Bermuda Triangle."[95]

In the year 2000, a German backpacker was fatally shot while he was sleeping in his tent. A month later, a Spanish family who was camping was murdered, with only the father surviving and escaping.[96]

An earlier, pre-internet incident that received media attention was Odette Houghton, an Australian who went missing in the hills of Kullu- Manali in August 1991.[96]

  •  

    Paragliding in Bir

  •  

    Solang, a popular ski resort near Manali

  •  

    Rafting in the Parvati river near Kasol

  •  

    Campsite for trekkers at Triund

Transport

Main article: Transport in Himachal Pradesh

Air

Himachal has three domestic airports in Kangra, Kullu and Shimla districts, respectively.[97] The air routes connect the state with New Delhi and Chandigarh.

Railways

Broad-gauge lines

The only broad-gauge railway line in the whole state connects Amb Andaura–Una Himachal railway station to Nangal Dam in Punjab and runs all the way to Daulatpur, Himachal Pradesh.[98] It is an electrified track since 1999. While a tiny portion of line adjacent to Kandrori(KNDI) station on either side on Pathankot-Jalandhar Section, under Ferozepur Division of Northern Railway also crosses into Himachal Pradesh, before venturing out to Punjab again.

Future constructions:

Narrow-gauge lines

Himachal is known for its narrow-gauge railways. One is the Kalka-Shimla Railway, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and another is the Kangra Valley Railway.[99] The total length of these two tracks is 259 kilometres (161 mi). The Kalka-Shimla Railway passes through many tunnels and Bridgies, while the Pathankot–Jogindernagar one meanders through a maze of hills and valleys. The total route length of the operational railway network in the state is 296.26 kilometres (184.09 mi).[100][101][102]

 
NH 5 in Himachal Pradesh

Roads

Roads are the major mode of transport in Himachal Pradesh due to its hilly terrain. The state has road network of 28,208 kilometres (17,528 mi),[103] including eight National Highways (NH) that constitute 1,234 kilometres (767 mi) and 19 State Highways with a total length of 1,625 kilometres (1,010 mi).[103] Hamirpur district has the highest road density in the country.[104] Some roads are closed during winter and monsoon seasons due to snow and landslides. The state-owned Himachal Road Transport Corporation with a fleet of over 3,100,[105] operates bus services connecting important cities and towns with villages within the state and also on various interstate routes. In addition, around 5,000 private buses ply in the state.[106]

Demographics

Population

Population Growth
YearPop.±%
1901 1,920,294—    
1911 1,896,944−1.2%
1921 1,928,206+1.6%
1931 2,029,113+5.2%
1941 2,263,245+11.5%
1951 2,385,981+5.4%
1961 2,812,463+17.9%
1971 3,460,434+23.0%
1981 4,280,818+23.7%
1991 5,170,877+20.8%
2001 6,077,900+17.5%
2011 6,864,602+12.9%
Source:[107]

Himachal Pradesh has a total population of 6,864,602 including 3,481,873 males and 3,382,729 females according to the Census of India 2011. It has only 0.57 per cent of India's total population, recording a growth of 12.81 per cent.[8][108] The scheduled castes and scheduled tribes account for 25.19 per cent and 5.71 per cent of the population, respectively.[109] The Koli forms the largest caste-cluster, comprising 30% of the total population of Himachal Pradesh.[110] The sex ratio stood at 972 females per 1,000 males, recording a marginal increase from 968 in 2001.[111] The child sex ratio increased from 896 in 2001 to 909 in 2011.[111] The total fertility rate (TFR) per woman in 2015 stood at 1.7, one of the lowest in India.[112]

 
A man in Kullu, wearing a traditional Himachali cap.
Literacy rates[13]
Year %
1971 31.96
1981 42.48
1991 63.86
2001 76.48
2011 83.78

In the census, the state is placed 21st on the population chart, followed by Tripura at 22nd place.[113] Kangra District was top-ranked with a population strength of 1,507,223 (21.98%), Mandi District 999,518 (14.58%), Shimla District 813,384 (11.86%), Solan District 576,670 (8.41%), Sirmaur District 530,164 (7.73%), Una District 521,057 (7.60%), Chamba District 518,844 (7.57%), Hamirpur district 454,293 (6.63%), Kullu District 437,474 (6.38%), Bilaspur district 382,056 (5.57%), Kinnaur District 84,298 (1.23%) and Lahaul Spiti 31,528 (0.46%).[114]

The life expectancy at birth in Himachal Pradesh increased significantly from 52.6 years in the period from 1970 to 1975 (above the national average of 49.7 years) to 72.0 years for the period 2011–15 (above the national average of 68.3 years).[115] The infant mortality rate stood at 40 in 2010, and the crude birth rate has declined from 37.3 in 1971 to 16.9 in 2010, below the national average of 26.5 in 1998. The crude death rate was 6.9 in 2010.[116] Himachal Pradesh's literacy rate has almost doubled between 1981 and 2011 (see table to right). The state is one of the most literate states of India with a literacy rate of 83.78% as of 2011.[13]: 114 

Languages

Hindi is the de jure official language of Himachal Pradesh and is spoken by the majority of the population as a lingua franca.[10] Sanskrit is the additional official language of the state.[11] Although mostly encountered in academic and symbolic contexts, the government of Himachal Pradesh is encouraging its wider study and use.[117]

Most of the population, however, speaks natively one or another of the Western Pahari languages (locally also known as Himachali or just Pahari), a subgroup of the Indo-Aryan languages that includes Bhattiyali, Bilaspuri, Chambeali, Churahi, Gaddi, Hinduri, Kangri, Kullu, Mahasu Pahari, Mandeali, Pahari Kinnauri, Pangwali, and Sirmauri. Additional Indo-Aryan languages spoken include Punjabi (native to 4.4% of the population), Nepali (1.3%), Chinali, Lahul Lohar, and others. In parts of the state there are speakers of Tibeto-Burman languages like Kinnauri (1.2%), Tibetan (0.3%), Lahuli–Spiti languages (0.16%), Pattani (0.12%), Bhoti Kinnauri, Chitkuli Kinnauri, Bunan (or Gahri), Jangshung, Kanashi, Shumcho, Spiti Bhoti, Sunam, Tinani, and Tukpa.[118][119]

Religion

Religion in Himachal Pradesh (2011)[120]

  Hinduism (95.17%)
  Islam (2.18%)
  Sikhism (1.16%)
  Buddhism (1.15%)
  Christianity (0.18%)
  Jainism (0.03%)
  Other or none (0.2%)

Hinduism is the major religion in Himachal Pradesh. More than 95% of the total population adheres to the Hindu faith and majorly follows Shaivism and Shaktism traditions,[121] the distribution of which is evenly spread throughout the state.[122] Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of Hindu population among all the states and union territories in India.[123]

Other religions that form a smaller percentage are Islam, Sikhism and Buddhism. Muslims are mainly concentrated in Sirmaur, Chamba, Una and Solan districts where they form 2.53-6.27% of the population.[122] Sikhs mostly live in towns and cities and constitute 1.16% of the state population. The Buddhists, who constitute 1.15%, are mainly natives and tribals from Lahaul and Spiti, where they form a majority of 62%, and Kinnaur, where they form 21.5%.[122]

Culture

Main article: Culture of Himachal Pradesh

Himachal Pradesh was one of the few states that had remained largely untouched by external customs, largely due to its difficult terrain. With remarkable economic and social advancements, the state has changed rapidly.[124] Himachal Pradesh is a multilingual state like other Indian states. Western Pahari languages also known as Himachali languages are widely spoken in the state. Some of the most commonly spoken Pahadi lects are Kangri, Mandeali, Kulvi, Chambeali, Bharmauri and Kinnauri.[125]

 
Kangra painting depicting a scene from the Ramayana, ca. 1780
 
Intricate wood carvings of 7th-century Lakshana Devi Temple in Bharmour

The main caste groups in Himachal Pradesh are Rajputs, Brahmins, Kanets, Kulindas, Girths, Raos, Rathis, Thakurs, Kolis, Hollis, Chamars, Drains, Rehars, Chanals, Lohars, Baris, Dagis, Dhakhis, Turis, Batwals[126]

Himachal is well known for its handicrafts. The carpets, leather works, Kullu shawls, Kangra paintings, Chamba Rumals, stoles, embroidered grass footwear (Pullan chappal), silver jewellery, metal ware, knitted woolen socks, Pattoo, basketry of cane and bamboo (Wicker and Rattan) and woodwork are among the notable ones.[127][128][129] Of late, the demand for these handicrafts has increased within and outside the country.[128]

Himachali caps of various colour bands are also well-known local art work, and are often treated as a symbol of the Himachali identity.[130] The colour of the Himachali caps has been an indicator of political loyalties in the hill state for a long period of time with Congress party leaders like Virbhadra Singh donning caps with green band and the rival BJP leader Prem Kumar Dhumal wearing a cap with maroon band.[131][132] The former has served six terms as the Chief Minister of the state while the latter is a two-time Chief Minister.[133] Local music and dance also reflect the cultural identity of the state. Through their dance and music, the Himachali people entreat their gods during local festivals and other special occasions.[134]

 
Kinnauri Nati performance
 
Gaddi nomads smoking hookah

There are national and regional fairs and festivals, including temple fairs in nearly every region.[134][135] The Kullu Dussehra festival is nationally known.[136] The day-to-day cuisine of Himachalis is similar to the rest of northern India with Punjabi and Tibetan influences.[137] Lentils (Dāl), rice (chāwal or bhāț), vegetables (sabzī) and chapati (wheat flatbread) form the staple food of the local population.[137] Non-vegetarian food is more widely accepted in Himachal Pradesh than elsewhere in India, partly due to the scarcity of fresh vegetables on the hilly terrain of the state.[138]

Himachali specialities include Siddu, Babru, Khatta, Mhanee, Channa Madra, Patrode, Mah ki dal, Chamba-style fried fish, Kullu trout, Chha Gosht, Pahadi Chicken, Sepu Badi, Auriya Kaddu, Aloo palda, Pateer, Makki di roti, Sarson ka saag, Chamba Chukh (Chouck), Bhagjery, Chutney of Til, etc.

Notable people

Main article: List of people from Himachal Pradesh

Education

Main article: Education in Himachal Pradesh
See also: List of institutions of higher education in Himachal Pradesh

At the time of Independence, Himachal Pradesh had a literacy rate of 8% – one of the lowest in the country.[139] By 2011, the literacy rate surged to 82.8%,[8][140] making Himachal one of the most-literate states in the country. There are over 10,000 primary schools, 1,000 secondary schools and more than 1,300 high schools in the state.[141] In meeting the constitutional obligation to make primary education compulsory, Himachal became the first state in India to make elementary education accessible to every child.[142] Himachal Pradesh is an exception to the nationwide gender bias in education levels.[143] The state has a female literacy rate of around 76%.[144] In addition, school enrolment and participation rates for girls are almost universal at the primary level. While higher levels of education do reflect a gender-based disparity, Himachal is still significantly ahead of other states at bridging the gap.[145] The Hamirpur District in particular stands out for high literacy rates across all metrics of measurement.[146]

The state government has played an instrumental role in the rise of literacy in the state by spending a significant proportion of the state's GDP on education. During the first six five-year plans, most of the development expenditure in the education sector was utilised in quantitative expansion, but after the seventh five-year-plan the state government switched emphasis on qualitative improvement and modernisation of education.[139] To raise the number of the teaching staff at primary schools they appointed over 1000 teacher aids through the Vidya Upasak Yojna in 2001.[139] The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is another HP government initiative that not only aims for universal elementary education but also encourages communities to engage in the management of schools.[147] The Rashtriya Madhayamic Shiksha Abhiyan launched in 2009, is a similar scheme but focuses on improving access to quality secondary education.[147]

 
IIT Mandi campus, Jan '20

The standard of education in the state has reached a considerably high level as compared to other states in India[146] with several reputed educational institutes for higher studies. The Baddi University of Emerging Sciences and Technologies, Indian Institute of Technology Mandi, Indian Institute of Management Sirmaur, Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla, Central University of Himachal Pradesh, Dharamsala, National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur, Indian Institute of Information Technology Una, Alakh Prakash Goyal University, Maharaja Agrasen University, Himachal Pradesh National Law University are some of the notable universities in the state. Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Shimla, Dr. Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Kangra, Rajiv Gandhi Government Post Graduate Ayurvedic College in Paprola and Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital in Kumarhatti are the prominent medical institutes in the state. Besides these, there is a Government Dental College in Shimla which is the state's first recognised dental institute.[148]

The state government has also decided to start three major nursing colleges to develop the healthcare system of the state.[149] CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalya Palampur is one of the most renowned hill agriculture institutes in the world. Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry has earned a unique distinction in India for imparting teaching, research and extension education in horticulture, forestry and allied disciplines. Further, state-run Jawaharlal Nehru Government Engineering College was inaugurated in 2006 at Sundernagar.[149] Himachal Pradesh also hosts a campus of the fashion college, National Institute of Fashion Technology (NIFT) in Kangra.

State profile

Source: Department of Information and Public Relations.[150]

Area 55,673 km2
Total population 7,781,244
Males 3,946,646
Females 3,834,598
Population density 123
Sex ratio 972[113]
Rural population 6,176,050[111]
Urban population 688,552[111]
Scheduled Caste population 1,729,252
Scheduled Tribe population 392,126
Literacy rate 83.78%[111]
Male literacy 90.83%[111]
Female literacy 76.60%[111]
Capitals 2
Districts 12
Sub-divisions 71
Tehsils 169
Sub-tehsils 38
Developmental blocks 78
Towns 59
Panchayats 3,243
Panchayat smities 77
Zila parishad 12
Urban local bodies 59
Nagar nigams 2
Nagar parishads 25
Nagar panchayats 23
Census villages 20,690
Inhabited villages 17,882
Health institutions 3,866
Educational institutions 17,000
Motorable roads 33,722 km
National highways 8
Identified hydroelectric potential 23,000.43 MW in five rivers basins, i.e., Yamuna, Satluj, Beas, Ravi, Chenab and Himurja
Potential harnessed 10,264 MW[55]
Food grain production 15.28lakh MT
Vegetable production 18.67 lakh MT
Fruit production 1,027,000 tonnes
Per capita income ₹2,01,854 (2021–22)[57]
Social Security pensions 237,250 persons, annual expenditure: over ₹ 600 million
Investment in industrial areas ₹ 273.80 billion, employment opportunities: Over 337,391
Employment generated in government sector 80,000

See also

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Further reading

  • Ahluwalia, M.S. (1998). Social, Cultural and Economic History of Himachal Pradesh. Indus Publishing. ISBN 81-7387-089-6. Retrieved 31 March 2008.
  • Batta, R.N. (2000). Tourism and the Environment: A Quest for Sustainability. Indus Publishing. ISBN 81-7387-110-8. Retrieved 31 March 2008.
  • Singh, Mian Govardhan (2000). C.L. Gupta; Kulbhushan Chandel (eds.). Himachal Pradesh: History, Culture & Economy (extensively revised ed.). Shimla.: Minerva Publishers & Distributors.
  • Singh, Sarina (2005). India. Lonely Planet. ISBN 1-74059-694-3. Retrieved 31 March 2008. Himachal History.
  • Tiwari, A.K. (2000). Infrastructure and Economic Development in Himachal Pradesh. Indus Publishing. ISBN 81-7387-105-1. Retrieved 31 March 2008.
  • Verma, V. (1995). The Emergence of Himachal Pradesh: A Survey of Constitutional Developments. Himachal Pradesh (India): Indus Publishing. ISBN 81-7387-035-7. Retrieved 15 June 2011.
  • United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) (2002). Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002. Government of Himachal Pradesh. ISBN 0-19-521915-5. Retrieved 31 March 2008.
  • Statistics and Data, Planning Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh

External links

Government
  • The Official Site of Himachal Pradesh
  • NGO in Himachal Pradesh
General information

February 16, 2023
himachal, pradesh, ɑː, hindi, ɦɪˈmäːtʃəl, pɾəˈd, eːʃ, listen, snow, laden, mountain, province, state, northern, part, india, situated, western, himalayas, thirteen, mountain, states, characterized, extreme, landscape, featuring, several, peaks, extensive, rive. Himachal Pradesh h ɪ ˌ m ɑː tʃ el p r e ˈ d ɛ ʃ Hindi ɦɪˈmaːtʃel pɾeˈd eːʃ listen lit Snow laden Mountain Province 16 is a state in the northern part of India Situated in the Western Himalayas it is one of the thirteen mountain states and is characterized by an extreme landscape featuring several peaks and extensive river systems Himachal Pradesh is the northernmost state of India and shares borders with the union territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh to the north and the states of Punjab to the west Haryana to the southwest Uttarakhand to the southeast and a very narrow border with Uttar Pradesh to the south The state also shares an international border to the east with the Tibet Autonomous Region in China Himachal Pradesh is also known as Dev Bhoomi meaning Land of Gods 17 and Veer Bhoomi which means Land of the Brave 18 Himachal PradeshStateFrom top left to right Jorkanden peak of Kinner Kailash range the Parvati Valley near Tosh Khajjiar the Key Monastery in Spiti the Dhauladhars as seen from HPCA Stadium in Dharamsala Bhimakali Temple in Sarahan Kalpa Shimla at nightState Emblem 1 Nickname s Devbhumi transl Land of God and Veerbhumi transl Land of Braves Motto s Satyameva Jayate IAST satyam eva jayate transl Truth alone triumphs Location in IndiaCoordinates Shimla 31 6 12 N 77 10 20 E 31 10333 N 77 17222 E 31 10333 77 17222Country IndiaUnion territory1 November 1956State25 January 1971 CapitalShimla Summer Dharamshala Winter 2 3 12 DistrictsList BilaspurChambaHamirpurKangraKinnaurKulluLahaul and SpitiMandiShimlaSirmaurSolanUnaGovernment BodyGovernment of Himachal Pradesh GovernorShiv Pratap Shukla 4 Chief MinisterSukhvinder Singh Sukhu INC Deputy Chief MinisterMukesh Agnihotri INC LegislatureAssembly 5 68 seats Parliamentary constituencyLok Sabha 4 seats Rajya Sabha 3 seats Area Total55 673 km2 21 495 sq mi Rank18th 6 Highest elevation Reo Purgil 7 6 816 m 22 362 ft Lowest elevation350 m 1 150 ft Population 2011 8 Total6 864 602 Estimate 2022 9 7 503 010 Rank21st Density123 km2 320 sq mi Language OfficialHindi 10 Additional officialSanskrit 11 NativeMahasu PahariMandealiKangriKullviBilaspuriKinnauriLahauliPattaniChambealiand othersTime zoneUTC 05 30 IST PIN17xxxxISO 3166 codeIN HPHDI 2019 0 725 12 High 8thLiteracy in India74 04 13 104 Literacy in Himachal Pradesh86 06 Websitewww wbr himachal wbr nic wbr in It was elevated to the status of state by the State of Himachal Pradesh Act 1970Symbols of Himachal PradeshMammalSnow leopard Panthera uncia BirdWestern tragopan Tragopan melanocephalus FishGolden Mahseer Tor putitora 14 FlowerPink Rhododendron Rhododendron campanulatum FruitApple Malus domestica TreeDeodar cedar Cedrus deodara The predominantly mountainous region comprising the present day Himachal Pradesh has been inhabited since pre historic times having witnessed multiple waves of human migrations from other areas 19 Through its history the region was mostly ruled by local kingdoms some of which accepted the suzerainty of larger empires Prior to India s independence from the British Himachal comprised the hilly regions of the Punjab Province of British India After independence many of the hilly territories were organized as the Chief Commissioner s province of Himachal Pradesh which later became a union territory In 1966 hilly areas of the neighbouring Punjab state were merged into Himachal and it was ultimately granted full statehood in 1971 Himachal Pradesh is spread across valleys with many perennial rivers flowing through them Around 90 of the state s population lives in rural areas Agriculture horticulture hydropower and tourism are important constituents of the state s economy The hilly state is almost universally electrified with 99 5 of households having electricity as of 2016 The state was declared India s second open defecation free state in 2016 20 According to a survey of CMS India Corruption Study 2017 Himachal Pradesh is India s least corrupt state 21 22 Contents 1 History 1 1 Early History 1 2 Partition and post independence 2 Geography 2 1 Flora and fauna 3 Government 4 Administrative divisions 5 Economy 5 1 Agriculture 5 2 Industry 5 3 Energy 6 Tourism 7 A History of Missing Trekkers 8 Transport 8 1 Air 8 2 Railways 8 2 1 Broad gauge lines 8 2 2 Narrow gauge lines 8 3 Roads 9 Demographics 9 1 Population 9 2 Languages 9 3 Religion 10 Culture 10 1 Notable people 11 Education 12 State profile 13 See also 14 References 15 Further reading 16 External linksHistory EditEarly History Edit Main article History of Himachal Pradesh 8th century rock cut temples at Masroor Tribes such as the Koli Hali Dagi Dhaugri Dasa Khasa Kanaura and Kirata inhabited the region from the prehistoric era 23 The foothills of the modern state of Himachal Pradesh were inhabited by people from the Indus valley civilisation which flourished between 2250 and 1750 BCE 24 The Kols and Mundas are believed to be the original inhabitants to the hills of present day Himachal Pradesh followed by the Bhotas and Kiratas 24 During the Vedic period several small republics known as Janapada existed which were later conquered by the Gupta Empire After a brief period of supremacy by King Harshavardhana the region was divided into several local powers headed by chieftains including some Rajputs principalities These kingdoms enjoyed a large degree of independence and were invaded by Delhi Sultanate several times 24 Mahmud Ghaznavi conquered Kangra at the beginning of the 11th century Timur and Sikander Lodi also marched through the lower hills of the state captured several forts and fought many battles 24 Several hill states acknowledged Mughal suzerainty and paid regular tribute to the Mughals 25 The Kingdom of Gorkha conquered many kingdoms and came to power in Nepal in 1768 24 They consolidated their military power and began to expand their territory 24 Gradually the Kingdom of Nepal annexed Sirmour and Shimla Under the leadership of Amar Singh Thapa the Nepali army laid siege to Kangra They managed to defeat Sansar Chand Katoch the ruler of Kangra in 1806 with the help of many provincial chiefs However the Nepali army could not capture Kangra fort which came under Maharaja Ranjeet Singh in 1809 After the defeat they expanded towards the south of the state However Raja Ram Singh Raja of Siba State captured the fort of Siba from the remnants of Lahore Darbar in Samvat 1846 24 during the First Anglo Sikh War They came into direct conflict with the British along the tarai belt after which the British expelled them from the provinces of the Satluj 24 The British gradually emerged as the paramount power in the region 24 In the revolt of 1857 or first Indian war of independence arising from several grievances against the British 24 the people of the hill states were not as politically active as were those in other parts of the country 24 They and their rulers except Bushahr remained more or less inactive 24 Some including the rulers of Chamba Bilaspur Bhagal and Dhami rendered help to the British government during the revolt The British territories came under the British Crown after Queen Victoria s proclamation of 1858 The states of Chamba Mandi and Bilaspur made good progress in many fields during the British rule 24 During World War I virtually all rulers of the hill states remained loyal and contributed to the British war effort both in the form of men and materials Among these were the states of Kangra Jaswan Datarpur Guler Rajgarh Nurpur Chamba Suket Mandi and Bilaspur 24 Partition and post independence Edit After independence the Chief Commissioner s Province of Himachal Pradesh was organised on 15 April 1948 as a result of the integration of 28 petty princely states including feudal princes and zaildars in the promontories of the western Himalayas These were known as the Simla Hills States and four Punjab southern hill states under the Himachal Pradesh Administration Order 1948 under Sections 3 and 4 of the Extra Provincial Jurisdiction Act 1947 later renamed as the Foreign Jurisdiction Act 1947 vide A O of 1950 The State of Bilaspur was merged into Himachal Pradesh on 1 July 1954 by the Himachal Pradesh and Bilaspur New State Act 1954 26 Himachal became a Part C state on 26 January 1950 when the Constitution of India came into effect and the Lieutenant Governor was appointed The Legislative Assembly was elected in 1952 Himachal Pradesh became a union territory on 1 November 1956 24 Some areas of the Punjab State namely Simla Kangra Kullu and Lahul and Spiti Districts Lohara Amb and Una Kanungo circles some areas of Santokhgarh Kanungo circle and some other specified area of Una Tehsil of Hoshiarpur District as well as Kandaghat and Nalagarh Tehsils of erstwhile PEPSU State besides some parts of Dhar Kalan Kanungo circle of Pathankot District were merged with Himachal Pradesh on 1 November 1966 on the enactment by Parliament of the Punjab Reorganisation Act 1966 26 On 18 December 1970 the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed by Parliament and the new state came into being on 25 January 1971 Himachal became the 18th state of the Indian Union with Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar as its first chief minister 24 Geography EditMain article Geography of Himachal Pradesh Topographic map of Himachal Pradesh Most of the state is mountainous View of the Shivalik Hills and the Middle Himalayas in Himachal Pradesh Himachal is in the western Himalayas situated between 30 22 N and 33 12 N latitude and 75 47 E and 79 04 E longitude Covering an area of 55 673 square kilometres 21 495 sq mi 6 it is a mountainous state The Zanskar range runs in the northeastern part of the state and the great Himalayan range run through the eastern and northern parts while the Dhauladhar and the Pir Panjal ranges of the lesser Himalayas and their valleys form much of the core regions The outer Himalayas or the Shiwalik range form southern and western Himachal Pradesh At 6 816 m Reo Purgyil is the highest mountain peak in the state of Himachal Pradesh 27 The drainage system of Himachal is composed both of rivers and glaciers Himalayan rivers criss cross the entire mountain chain Himachal Pradesh provides water to both the Indus and Ganges basins 28 The drainage systems of the region are the Chandra Bhaga or the Chenab the Ravi the Beas the Sutlej and the Yamuna These rivers are perennial and are fed by snow and rainfall They are protected by an extensive cover of natural vegetation 28 Four of the five Punjab rivers flow through Himachal Pradesh three of them originating in the state These rivers run through a maze of valleys separated by the mountain ranges of the state The Satluj Valley is formed by the Satluj river entering the state near Shipki La while the Spiti and Baspa Valleys are formed by the river s two major tributaries in the state The Beas river flows though the Kullu and the Kangra Valleys with tributary Parvati forming the Parvati Valley The Chenab river formed by the confluence of the Chandra and Bhaga forms much of the northern regions of Lahaul and Pangi and the Ravi river flows principally through Chamba The Pabbar and Giri rivers in the southeast are part of the Yamuna basin Due to extreme variation in elevation great variation occurs in the climatic conditions of Himachal Pradesh The climate varies from hot and humid subtropical in the southern tracts to with more elevation cold alpine and glacial in the northern and eastern mountain ranges 29 The state s winter capital Dharamsala receives very heavy rainfall while areas like Lahaul and Spiti are cold and almost rainless Broadly Himachal experiences three seasons summer winter and rainy season Summer lasts from mid April until the end of June and most parts become very hot except in the alpine zone which experiences a mild summer with the average temperature ranging from 28 to 32 C 82 to 90 F Winter lasts from late November until mid March Snowfall is common in alpine tracts Pollution is affecting the climate of almost all the states of India Due to steps taken by governments to prevent pollution Himachal Pradesh has become the first smoke free state in India which means cooking in the entire state is free of traditional chulhas 30 Flora and fauna Edit Main article Protected areas of Himachal Pradesh Indian paradise flycatcher Terpsiphone paradisi in Kullu Himachal Pradesh is one of the states that lies in the Indian Himalayan Region IHR one of the richest reservoirs of biological diversity in the world As of 2002 the IHR is undergoing large scale irrational extraction of wild medicinal herbs thus endangering many of its high value gene stock To address this a workshop on Endangered Medicinal Plant Species in Himachal Pradesh was held in 2002 and the conference was attended by forty experts from diverse disciplines 31 Black bulbul Hypsipetes leucocephalus According to 2003 Forest Survey of India report legally defined forest areas constitute 66 52 of the area of Himachal Pradesh 32 Vegetation in the state is dictated by elevation and precipitation The state is endowed with a high diversity of medicinal and aromatic plants 33 Lahaul Spiti region of the state being a cold desert supports unique plants of medicinal value including Ferula jaeschkeana Hyoscyamus niger Lancea tibetica and Saussurea bracteata 34 35 Himachal is also said to be the fruit bowl of the country 36 with orchards being widespread Meadows and pastures are also seen clinging to steep slopes After the winter season the hillsides and orchards bloom with wild flowers white gladiolas carnations marigolds 37 roses chrysanthemums tulips and lilies are carefully cultivated Himachal Pradesh Horticultural Produce Marketing and Processing Corporation Ltd HPMC is a state body that markets fresh and processed fruits 38 Himachal Pradesh has around 463 bird and Tragopan melanocephalus is the state bird of Himanchal Pradesh 39 77 mammalian 44 reptile and 80 fish species Himachal Pradesh has currently five National Parks 40 Great Himalayan National Park oldest and largest National park in the state is a UNESCO World Heritage Site Pin Valley National Park Inderkilla Khirganga and Simbalbara are the other national Parks located in the state 40 41 42 43 The state also has 30 wildlife sanctuaries and 3 conservation reserves 43 The state bird of Himachal Pradesh is the Western tragopan locally known as the jujurana 44 It is one of the rarest living pheasants in the world The state animal is the Snow leopard which is even rarer to find than the jujurana 45 Government EditMain articles Government of Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh Legislative Assembly Assembly election results of Himachal Pradesh and Politics of Himachal Pradesh High Court of Himachal Pradesh Shimla s Town Hall which houses the Shimla Municipal Corporation The Legislative Assembly of Himachal Pradesh has no pre constitution history The State itself is a post independence creation It came into being as a centrally administered territory on 15 April 1948 from the integration of thirty erstwhile princely states 46 Himachal Pradesh is governed through a parliamentary system of representative democracy a feature the state shares with other Indian states Universal suffrage is granted to residents The legislature consists of elected members and special office bearers such as the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker who are elected by the members Assembly meetings are presided over by the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker in the Speaker s absence The judiciary is composed of the Himachal Pradesh High Court and a system of lower courts Executive authority is vested in the Council of Ministers headed by the Chief Minister although the titular head of government is the Governor The governor is the head of state appointed by the President of India The leader of the party or coalition with a majority in the Legislative Assembly is appointed as the Chief Minister by the governor and the Council of Ministers are appointed by the governor on the advice of the Chief Minister The Council of Ministers reports to the Legislative Assembly The Assembly is unicameral with 68 Members of the Legislative Assembly MLA 47 Terms of office run for five years unless the Assembly is dissolved prior to the completion of the term Auxiliary authorities known as panchayats for which local body elections are regularly held govern local affairs In the assembly elections held in November 2022 the Indian National Congress secured an absolute majority winning 40 of the 68 seats while the BJP won only 25 of the 68 seats Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu was sworn in as Himachal Pradesh s 15th Chief Minister in Shimla on 11 December 2022 Mukesh Agnihotri was sworn in as his deputy the same day Administrative divisions Edit Bilaspur Chamba Hamirpur Kangra Kinnaur Kullu Lahaul and Spiti Mandi Shimla Sirmaur Solan Una Subdivisions of Himachal Pradesh Main article List of districts of Himachal Pradesh The state of Himachal Pradesh is divided into 12 districts 48 which are grouped into three divisions Shimla Kangra and Mandi 49 The districts are further divided into 73 subdivisions 78 blocks and 172 Tehsils 48 Divisions Districts 50 Kangra Chamba Kangra UnaMandi Bilaspur Hamirpur Kullu Lahaul and Spiti MandiShimla Kinnaur Shimla Sirmaur SolanAdministrative Structure 51 Divisions 3Districts 12Tehsils Sub Tehsils 172Developmental Blocks 78Urban Local Bodies 54 52 Towns 59Gram Panchayats 3226Villages 20690Police Stations 130 53 Lok Sabha seats 4 54 Rajya Sabha seats 3Assembly Constituencies 68 54 Economy EditMain article Economy of Himachal Pradesh Gross State Domestic Product at Current Prices figures in crores of Indian rupees Year Gross State Domestic Product1980 7941985 1 3721990 2 8151995 6 6982000 13 5902005 23 0242006 25 4352010 57 4522013 82 5852014 92 5892015 101 1082016 110 511 55 2017 124 570 56 2018 135 914 57 2021 172 174Planning in Himachal Pradesh started in 1951 along with the rest of India with the implementation of the first five year plan The First Plan allocated 52 7 million to Himachal Pradesh 58 More than 50 of this expenditure was incurred on transport and communication while the power sector got a share of just 4 6 though it had steadily increased to 7 by the Third Plan 59 Expenditure on agriculture and allied activities increased from 14 4 in the First Plan to 32 in the Third Plan showing a progressive decline afterwards from 24 in the Fourth Plan to less than 10 in the Tenth Plan 59 Expenditure on energy sector was 24 2 of the total in the Tenth Plan 59 The Mall Road is the central business district of Shimla Himachal Pradesh s capital city The total GDP for 2005 06 was estimated at 254 billion as against 230 billion in the year 2004 05 showing an increase of 10 5 60 The GDP for fiscal 2015 16 was estimated at 1 110 trillion 55 which increased to 1 247 trillion in 2016 17 recording growth of 6 8 56 The per capita income increased from 130 067 in 2015 16 to 147 277 in 2016 17 55 56 The state government s advance estimates for fiscal 2017 18 stated the total GDP and per capita income as 1 359 trillion and 158 462 respectively 57 As of 2018 Himachal is the 22nd largest state economy in India with 1 52 lakh crore US 19 billion in gross domestic product and has the 13th highest per capita income 160 000 US 2 000 among the states and union territories of India 61 Himachal Pradesh also ranks as the second best performing state in the country on human development indicators after Kerala 62 One of the Indian government s key initiatives to tackle unemployment is the National Rural Employment Guarantee Act NREGA The participation of women in the NREGA has been observed to vary across different regions of the nation As of the year 2009 2010 Himachal Pradesh joined the category of high female participation recording a 46 share of NREGS National Rural Employment Guarantee Scheme workdays for women This was a drastic increase from the 13 that was recorded in 2006 2007 63 Agriculture Edit Terrace farming is the most common form of agricultural practice in the state Agriculture accounts for 9 4 of the net state domestic product 64 It is the main source of income and employment in Himachal About 90 of the population in Himachal depends directly upon agriculture which provides direct employment to 62 of total workers of state 64 The main cereals grown include wheat maize rice and barley with major cropping systems being maize wheat rice wheat and maize potato wheat 65 66 Pulses fruits vegetables and oilseeds are among the other crops grown in the state 65 Centuries old traditional Kuhl irrigation system is prevalent in the Kangra valley 67 though in recent years these Kuhls have come under threat from hydroprojects on small streams in the valley 68 Land husbandry initiatives such as the Mid Himalayan Watershed Development Project which includes the Himachal Pradesh Reforestation Project HPRP the world s largest clean development mechanism CDM undertaking have improved agricultural yields and productivity and raised rural household incomes 69 Apples at an orchard in Vashisht the state is the second largest producer of apples in India Apple is the principal cash crop of the state grown principally in the districts of Shimla Kinnaur Kullu Mandi Chamba and some parts of Sirmaur and Lahaul Spiti with an average annual production of five lakh tonnes and per hectare production of 8 to 10 tonnes 70 The apple cultivation constitute 49 per cent of the total area under fruit crops and 85 of total fruit production in the state with an estimated economy of 3500 crore 70 Apples from Himachal are exported to other Indian states and even other countries 71 72 In 2011 12 the total area under apple cultivation was 104 000 hectares increased from 90 347 hectares in 2000 01 72 According to the provisional estimates of Ministry of Agriculture amp Farmers Welfare the annual apple production in Himachal for fiscal 2015 16 stood at 753 000 tonnes making it India s second largest apple producing state after Jammu and Kashmir 73 The state is also among the leading producers of other fruits such as apricots cherries peaches pears plums and strawberries in India Tea gardens in Dharamsala Kangra tea is grown in the Kangra valley Tea plantation began in 1849 and production peaked in the late 19th century with the tea becoming popular across the globe 74 Production dipped sharply after the 1905 Kangra earthquake and continues to decline 75 The tea received geographical indication status in 2005 Industry Edit Main article Industry in Himachal Pradesh Energy Edit See also Hydroelectric power in Himachal Pradesh Hydropower is one of the major sources of income generation for the state 76 The state has an abundance of hydropower resources because of the presence of various perennial rivers Many high capacity hydropower plants have been constructed which produce surplus electricity that is sold to other states such as Delhi Punjab and West Bengal 77 The income generated from exporting the electricity to other states is being provided as subsidy to the consumers in the state 78 The rich hydropower resources of Himachal have resulted in the state becoming almost universally electrified with around 94 8 houses receiving electricity as of 2001 as compared to the national average of 55 9 78 Himachal s hydro electric power production is however yet to be fully utilised 79 The identified hydroelectric potential for the state is 27 436 MW in five river basins 77 while the hydroelectric capacity in 2016 was 10 351 MW 79 Tourism EditMain article Tourism in Himachal Pradesh Tourism in Himachal Pradesh is a major contributor to the state s economy and growth The Himalayas attracts tourists from all over the world Hill stations like Shimla Manali Dharamshala Dalhousie Chamba Khajjiar Kullu and Kasauli are popular destinations for both domestic and foreign tourists 80 The state also has many important Hindu pilgrimage sites with prominent temples like Shri Chamunda Devi Mandir Naina Devi Temple Bajreshwari Mata Temple Jwala Ji Temple Chintpurni Baijnath Temple Bhimakali Temple Bijli Mahadev and Jakhoo Temple 81 Manimahesh Lake situated in the Bharmour region of Chamba district is the venue of an annual Hindu pilgrimage trek held in the month of August which attracts lakhs of devotees 82 The state is also referred to as Dev Bhoomi literally meaning Abode of Gods due to its mention as such in ancient Hindu texts and occurrence of a large number of historical temples in the state 83 Himachal is also known for its adventure tourism activities like ice skating in Shimla paragliding in Bir Billing and Solang Valley rafting in Kullu skiing in Manali boating in Bilaspur fishing in Tirthan Valley trekking and horse riding in different parts of the state 84 Shimla the state s capital is home to Asia s only natural ice skating rink 85 Spiti Valley in Lahaul and Spiti District situated at an altitude of over 3000 metres with its picturesque landscapes is popular destination for adventure seekers The region also has some of the oldest Buddhist Monasteries in the world 86 Himachal hosted the first Paragliding World Cup in India from 24 to 31 October in 2015 87 88 The venue for the paragliding world cup was Bir Billing which is 70 km from the tourist town Macleod Ganj located in the heart of Himachal in Kangra District Bir Billing is the centre for aero sports in Himachal and considered as best for paragliding 87 Buddhist monasteries trekking to tribal villages and mountain biking are other local possibilities There are a variety of festivals celebrated by the locals of Himachal Pradesh who worship gods and goddesses There are over 2000 villages in Himachal Pradesh which celebrate festivals such as Kullu Dussehra Chamba s Minjar Renuka ji Fair Lohri Halda Phagli Lossar and Mandi Shivratri 89 There approximately 6000 temples in Himachal Pradesh with a known one being Bijli Mahadev The temple is seen as a 20 meter structure built in stone which according to locals is known to attract lighting They say that this is a way the Gods show their blessings 90 The Great Himalayan National Park is found in the Kullu districts of Himachal Pradesh It has an area of 620 km2 and ranging from an altitude of 1500 meters to 4500 meters and was created in 1984 There are various forest types found here such as Deodar Silver Fir Spruce Oak and Alpine pastures In the Great Himalayan National Park there are a variety of animals found such as Snow Leopard Himalayan Yak Himalayan Black Bear Western Tragopan Monal and Musk Deer This National Park is a trail to many hikers and trekkers too Moreover there are sanctuaries which are tourist spots such as Naina Devi Sanctuary in Bilaspur district with an area of 120 km2 and Gobind Sagar Sanctuary with an area of 100 km2 There are animals such as Indian porcupine and giant flying squirrel found here The Gobind Sagar Lake has fish species such as Mrigal Silver carp Katla Mahaseer and Rohu are found here Narkanda located in at an altitude of around 8850 feet is known for its apple orchards It is located between the river valleys of Giri and Sutlej 91 A History of Missing Trekkers EditUp to 20 people were reported missing between 2010 and 2016 causing concerns about the suitability of Himachal Pradesh for trekking and the effectiveness of the state government s response to emergencies 92 In November 2021 Dhruv Agarwal went missing The man planned to undertake a trek to Kheerganga on November 9 He made a video call to his family members on the same day but they had not been able to reach him since After unsuccessful attempts to contact him his family alerted the Kullu police and an unsuccessful search mission was initiated in the region 93 A notable 2016 missing person s case was Justin Alexander Shetler an American trekker who went missing in Parvati Valley in the Kullu District in September 2016 92 94 The disappearance of Shetler was the focus of a book by Harley Rustad named Lost in the Valley of Death Rustad refers to the Parvati Valley as India s backpacker Bermuda Triangle 95 In the year 2000 a German backpacker was fatally shot while he was sleeping in his tent A month later a Spanish family who was camping was murdered with only the father surviving and escaping 96 An earlier pre internet incident that received media attention was Odette Houghton an Australian who went missing in the hills of Kullu Manali in August 1991 96 Paragliding in Bir Solang a popular ski resort near Manali Rafting in the Parvati river near Kasol Campsite for trekkers at TriundTransport EditMain article Transport in Himachal Pradesh Gaggal Airport Air Edit Himachal has three domestic airports in Kangra Kullu and Shimla districts respectively 97 The air routes connect the state with New Delhi and Chandigarh Kullu Manali Airport is in Kullu district around 10 kilometres 6 mi from district headquarters Kullu Kangra Airport is in Kangra district around 15 kilometres 9 mi from district headquarters at Dharamshala which is around 10 kilometres from Kangra Shimla Airport is around 21 kilometres 13 mi west of the Shimla city Railways Edit Kalka Shimla Railway Broad gauge lines Edit The only broad gauge railway line in the whole state connects Amb Andaura Una Himachal railway station to Nangal Dam in Punjab and runs all the way to Daulatpur Himachal Pradesh 98 It is an electrified track since 1999 While a tiny portion of line adjacent to Kandrori KNDI station on either side on Pathankot Jalandhar Section under Ferozepur Division of Northern Railway also crosses into Himachal Pradesh before venturing out to Punjab again Future constructions Una Himachal Hamirpur rail project via Dhundla Bhanupali Punjab Bilaspur Himachal Pradesh Chandigarh Baddi Kangra Valley Railway Narrow gauge lines Edit Himachal is known for its narrow gauge railways One is the Kalka Shimla Railway a UNESCO World Heritage Site and another is the Kangra Valley Railway 99 The total length of these two tracks is 259 kilometres 161 mi The Kalka Shimla Railway passes through many tunnels and Bridgies while the Pathankot Jogindernagar one meanders through a maze of hills and valleys The total route length of the operational railway network in the state is 296 26 kilometres 184 09 mi 100 101 102 NH 5 in Himachal Pradesh Roads Edit Roads are the major mode of transport in Himachal Pradesh due to its hilly terrain The state has road network of 28 208 kilometres 17 528 mi 103 including eight National Highways NH that constitute 1 234 kilometres 767 mi and 19 State Highways with a total length of 1 625 kilometres 1 010 mi 103 Hamirpur district has the highest road density in the country 104 Some roads are closed during winter and monsoon seasons due to snow and landslides The state owned Himachal Road Transport Corporation with a fleet of over 3 100 105 operates bus services connecting important cities and towns with villages within the state and also on various interstate routes In addition around 5 000 private buses ply in the state 106 Demographics EditPopulation Edit Population GrowthYearPop 19011 920 294 19111 896 944 1 2 19211 928 206 1 6 19312 029 113 5 2 19412 263 245 11 5 19512 385 981 5 4 19612 812 463 17 9 19713 460 434 23 0 19814 280 818 23 7 19915 170 877 20 8 20016 077 900 17 5 20116 864 602 12 9 Source 107 Himachal Pradesh has a total population of 6 864 602 including 3 481 873 males and 3 382 729 females according to the Census of India 2011 It has only 0 57 per cent of India s total population recording a growth of 12 81 per cent 8 108 The scheduled castes and scheduled tribes account for 25 19 per cent and 5 71 per cent of the population respectively 109 The Koli forms the largest caste cluster comprising 30 of the total population of Himachal Pradesh 110 The sex ratio stood at 972 females per 1 000 males recording a marginal increase from 968 in 2001 111 The child sex ratio increased from 896 in 2001 to 909 in 2011 111 The total fertility rate TFR per woman in 2015 stood at 1 7 one of the lowest in India 112 A man in Kullu wearing a traditional Himachali cap Literacy rates 13 Year 1971 31 961981 42 481991 63 862001 76 482011 83 78In the census the state is placed 21st on the population chart followed by Tripura at 22nd place 113 Kangra District was top ranked with a population strength of 1 507 223 21 98 Mandi District 999 518 14 58 Shimla District 813 384 11 86 Solan District 576 670 8 41 Sirmaur District 530 164 7 73 Una District 521 057 7 60 Chamba District 518 844 7 57 Hamirpur district 454 293 6 63 Kullu District 437 474 6 38 Bilaspur district 382 056 5 57 Kinnaur District 84 298 1 23 and Lahaul Spiti 31 528 0 46 114 The life expectancy at birth in Himachal Pradesh increased significantly from 52 6 years in the period from 1970 to 1975 above the national average of 49 7 years to 72 0 years for the period 2011 15 above the national average of 68 3 years 115 The infant mortality rate stood at 40 in 2010 and the crude birth rate has declined from 37 3 in 1971 to 16 9 in 2010 below the national average of 26 5 in 1998 The crude death rate was 6 9 in 2010 116 Himachal Pradesh s literacy rate has almost doubled between 1981 and 2011 see table to right The state is one of the most literate states of India with a literacy rate of 83 78 as of 2011 13 114 Languages Edit Hindi is the de jure official language of Himachal Pradesh and is spoken by the majority of the population as a lingua franca 10 Sanskrit is the additional official language of the state 11 Although mostly encountered in academic and symbolic contexts the government of Himachal Pradesh is encouraging its wider study and use 117 Most of the population however speaks natively one or another of the Western Pahari languages locally also known as Himachali or just Pahari a subgroup of the Indo Aryan languages that includes Bhattiyali Bilaspuri Chambeali Churahi Gaddi Hinduri Kangri Kullu Mahasu Pahari Mandeali Pahari Kinnauri Pangwali and Sirmauri Additional Indo Aryan languages spoken include Punjabi native to 4 4 of the population Nepali 1 3 Chinali Lahul Lohar and others In parts of the state there are speakers of Tibeto Burman languages like Kinnauri 1 2 Tibetan 0 3 Lahuli Spiti languages 0 16 Pattani 0 12 Bhoti Kinnauri Chitkuli Kinnauri Bunan or Gahri Jangshung Kanashi Shumcho Spiti Bhoti Sunam Tinani and Tukpa 118 119 Religion Edit Religion in Himachal Pradesh 2011 120 Hinduism 95 17 Islam 2 18 Sikhism 1 16 Buddhism 1 15 Christianity 0 18 Jainism 0 03 Other or none 0 2 Hinduism is the major religion in Himachal Pradesh More than 95 of the total population adheres to the Hindu faith and majorly follows Shaivism and Shaktism traditions 121 the distribution of which is evenly spread throughout the state 122 Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of Hindu population among all the states and union territories in India 123 Other religions that form a smaller percentage are Islam Sikhism and Buddhism Muslims are mainly concentrated in Sirmaur Chamba Una and Solan districts where they form 2 53 6 27 of the population 122 Sikhs mostly live in towns and cities and constitute 1 16 of the state population The Buddhists who constitute 1 15 are mainly natives and tribals from Lahaul and Spiti where they form a majority of 62 and Kinnaur where they form 21 5 122 Culture EditMain article Culture of Himachal Pradesh Himachal Pradesh was one of the few states that had remained largely untouched by external customs largely due to its difficult terrain With remarkable economic and social advancements the state has changed rapidly 124 Himachal Pradesh is a multilingual state like other Indian states Western Pahari languages also known as Himachali languages are widely spoken in the state Some of the most commonly spoken Pahadi lects are Kangri Mandeali Kulvi Chambeali Bharmauri and Kinnauri 125 Kangra painting depicting a scene from the Ramayana ca 1780 Intricate wood carvings of 7th century Lakshana Devi Temple in Bharmour The main caste groups in Himachal Pradesh are Rajputs Brahmins Kanets Kulindas Girths Raos Rathis Thakurs Kolis Hollis Chamars Drains Rehars Chanals Lohars Baris Dagis Dhakhis Turis Batwals 126 Himachal is well known for its handicrafts The carpets leather works Kullu shawls Kangra paintings Chamba Rumals stoles embroidered grass footwear Pullan chappal silver jewellery metal ware knitted woolen socks Pattoo basketry of cane and bamboo Wicker and Rattan and woodwork are among the notable ones 127 128 129 Of late the demand for these handicrafts has increased within and outside the country 128 Himachali caps of various colour bands are also well known local art work and are often treated as a symbol of the Himachali identity 130 The colour of the Himachali caps has been an indicator of political loyalties in the hill state for a long period of time with Congress party leaders like Virbhadra Singh donning caps with green band and the rival BJP leader Prem Kumar Dhumal wearing a cap with maroon band 131 132 The former has served six terms as the Chief Minister of the state while the latter is a two time Chief Minister 133 Local music and dance also reflect the cultural identity of the state Through their dance and music the Himachali people entreat their gods during local festivals and other special occasions 134 Kinnauri Nati performance Gaddi nomads smoking hookah There are national and regional fairs and festivals including temple fairs in nearly every region 134 135 The Kullu Dussehra festival is nationally known 136 The day to day cuisine of Himachalis is similar to the rest of northern India with Punjabi and Tibetan influences 137 Lentils Dal rice chawal or bhaț vegetables sabzi and chapati wheat flatbread form the staple food of the local population 137 Non vegetarian food is more widely accepted in Himachal Pradesh than elsewhere in India partly due to the scarcity of fresh vegetables on the hilly terrain of the state 138 Himachali specialities include Siddu Babru Khatta Mhanee Channa Madra Patrode Mah ki dal Chamba style fried fish Kullu trout Chha Gosht Pahadi Chicken Sepu Badi Auriya Kaddu Aloo palda Pateer Makki di roti Sarson ka saag Chamba Chukh Chouck Bhagjery Chutney of Til etc Notable people Edit Main article List of people from Himachal PradeshEducation EditMain article Education in Himachal Pradesh See also List of institutions of higher education in Himachal Pradesh Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital at Shimla At the time of Independence Himachal Pradesh had a literacy rate of 8 one of the lowest in the country 139 By 2011 the literacy rate surged to 82 8 8 140 making Himachal one of the most literate states in the country There are over 10 000 primary schools 1 000 secondary schools and more than 1 300 high schools in the state 141 In meeting the constitutional obligation to make primary education compulsory Himachal became the first state in India to make elementary education accessible to every child 142 Himachal Pradesh is an exception to the nationwide gender bias in education levels 143 The state has a female literacy rate of around 76 144 In addition school enrolment and participation rates for girls are almost universal at the primary level While higher levels of education do reflect a gender based disparity Himachal is still significantly ahead of other states at bridging the gap 145 The Hamirpur District in particular stands out for high literacy rates across all metrics of measurement 146 The state government has played an instrumental role in the rise of literacy in the state by spending a significant proportion of the state s GDP on education During the first six five year plans most of the development expenditure in the education sector was utilised in quantitative expansion but after the seventh five year plan the state government switched emphasis on qualitative improvement and modernisation of education 139 To raise the number of the teaching staff at primary schools they appointed over 1000 teacher aids through the Vidya Upasak Yojna in 2001 139 The Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan is another HP government initiative that not only aims for universal elementary education but also encourages communities to engage in the management of schools 147 The Rashtriya Madhayamic Shiksha Abhiyan launched in 2009 is a similar scheme but focuses on improving access to quality secondary education 147 Indian Institute of Advanced Study at Shimla IIT Mandi campus Jan 20 The standard of education in the state has reached a considerably high level as compared to other states in India 146 with several reputed educational institutes for higher studies The Baddi University of Emerging Sciences and Technologies Indian Institute of Technology Mandi Indian Institute of Management Sirmaur Himachal Pradesh University in Shimla Central University of Himachal Pradesh Dharamsala National Institute of Technology Hamirpur Indian Institute of Information Technology Una Alakh Prakash Goyal University Maharaja Agrasen University Himachal Pradesh National Law University are some of the notable universities in the state Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital in Shimla Dr Rajendra Prasad Government Medical College in Kangra Rajiv Gandhi Government Post Graduate Ayurvedic College in Paprola and Homoeopathic Medical College amp Hospital in Kumarhatti are the prominent medical institutes in the state Besides these there is a Government Dental College in Shimla which is the state s first recognised dental institute 148 The state government has also decided to start three major nursing colleges to develop the healthcare system of the state 149 CSK Himachal Pradesh Krishi Vishwavidyalya Palampur is one of the most renowned hill agriculture institutes in the world Dr Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry has earned a unique distinction in India for imparting teaching research and extension education in horticulture forestry and allied disciplines Further state run Jawaharlal Nehru Government Engineering College was inaugurated in 2006 at Sundernagar 149 Himachal Pradesh also hosts a campus of the fashion college National Institute of Fashion Technology NIFT in Kangra State profile EditSource Department of Information and Public Relations 150 Area 55 673 km2Total population 7 781 244Males 3 946 646Females 3 834 598Population density 123Sex ratio 972 113 Rural population 6 176 050 111 Urban population 688 552 111 Scheduled Caste population 1 729 252Scheduled Tribe population 392 126Literacy rate 83 78 111 Male literacy 90 83 111 Female literacy 76 60 111 Capitals 2Districts 12Sub divisions 71Tehsils 169Sub tehsils 38Developmental blocks 78Towns 59Panchayats 3 243Panchayat smities 77Zila parishad 12Urban local bodies 59Nagar nigams 2Nagar parishads 25Nagar panchayats 23Census villages 20 690Inhabited villages 17 882Health institutions 3 866Educational institutions 17 000Motorable roads 33 722 kmNational highways 8Identified hydroelectric potential 23 000 43 MW in five rivers basins i e Yamuna Satluj Beas Ravi Chenab and HimurjaPotential harnessed 10 264 MW 55 Food grain production 15 28lakh MTVegetable production 18 67 lakh MTFruit production 1 027 000 tonnesPer capita income 2 01 854 2021 22 57 Social Security pensions 237 250 persons annual expenditure over 600 millionInvestment in industrial areas 273 80 billion employment opportunities Over 337 391Employment generated in government sector 80 000See also EditOutline of Himachal PradeshReferences Edit Office of the Registrar General amp Census Commissioner India Ministry of Home Affairs Write Read Data 1473243472 PDF Census of India Government of India Dharamshala Distt Kangra as Second Capital of the State of Himachal Pradesh Notification of exercise of the executive power Order No GAD B A 1 1I2017 of 3 March 2017 PDF Government of Himachal Pradesh General Administration Department B Section Dharamshala to be 2nd winter capital of HP thehindu com PTI Press Trust of India 30 January 2017 New Himachal governor Rajendra Arlekar is 1st Goan to occupy the post Latest News India Hindustan Times 6 July 2021 Himachal Pradesh Vidhan Sabha Hpvidhansabha nic in 18 April 2011 Archived from the original on 20 July 2011 Retrieved 15 June 2011 a b Statistical Facts about India indianmirror com archived from the original on 26 October 2006 retrieved 26 October 2006 Mountaineering amp Rock Climbing Himachal Tourism Official Website a b c Himachal Pradesh Profile PDF Census of India Archived PDF from the original on 27 March 2016 Retrieved 27 May 2016 Himachal Pradesh Population 2022 a b Report of the Commissioner for linguistic minorities 52nd report July 2014 to June 2015 PDF Commissioner for Linguistic Minorities Ministry of Minority Affairs Government of India pp 33 34 Archived from the original PDF on 28 December 2017 Retrieved 16 February 2016 a b Pratibha Chauhan 17 February 2019 Bill to make Sanskrit second official language of HP passed The Tribune Shimla Archived from the original on 18 February 2019 Retrieved 18 February 2019 Sub national HDI Area Database Global Data Lab Institute for Management Research Radboud University Archived from the original on 23 September 2018 Retrieved 25 September 2018 a b c Office of the Registrar General amp Census Commissioner India Ministry of Home Affairs 6 State of Literacy PDF 2011 Census of India Results Government of India archived PDF from the original on 6 July 2015 retrieved 13 February 2022 Statement 22 a Effective literacy rates persons 74 04 males 82 14 females 65 46 ICAR National Bureau of Fish Genetic Resources ICAR NBFGR State Fishes of India PDF Lucknow Uttar Pradesh Indian Council of Agricultural Research ICAR Chief Secretary of Himachal Pradesh himachalservices nic in 7 August 2021 Retrieved 15 July 2022 Story of Himachal Pradesh indiatoday in Himachal Pradesh known as Dev Bhoomi or Land of Gods and Goddess Sankrit Magazine 8 August 2014 Retrieved 25 August 2021 Anurag Thakur pays tribute at Shaheed Sthal in Bilaspur says Himachal Pradesh also known as Veerbhoomi ANI 20 August 2021 Retrieved 25 August 2021 Prehistory and Protohistory Official Website of Panchayati Raj Department Government of Himachal Pradesh Archived from the original on 30 August 2018 Retrieved 29 December 2018 Ashwani Sharma 28 October 2016 Himachal becomes India s second Open Defecation Free state to get Rs 9 000 cr funding from World Bank The Indian Express Shimla Archived from the original on 29 December 2018 Retrieved 29 December 2018 HP least corrupt state CMS India study The Times of India 30 April 2017 Archived from the original on 9 February 2018 Retrieved 7 February 2018 Corruption on decline in India Karnataka ranked most corrupt Himachal Pradesh least Survey Zee News 28 March 2017 Archived from the original on 8 February 2018 Retrieved 7 February 2018 Bhatt SC Bhargava Gopal 2006 Land and People of Indian States and Union Territories Vol X Kalpaz publications p 2 ISBN 81 7835 366 0 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on 24 June 2016 Retrieved 27 May 2016 Statistical Abstract Of Himachal Pradesh 2015 16 I Area And Population Table 1 17 And 1 18 XIII Education Table 13 07 PDF Official site of Government of Himachal Pradesh pp 35 36 87 88 Archived from the original PDF on 24 October 2017 Retrieved 23 April 2018 Minhas Poonam 1998 Traditional Trade amp Trading Centres in Himachal Pradesh With Trade routes and Trading Communities Indus Publishing ISBN 978 81 7387 080 4 a b c d e f g Office of the Registrar General amp Census Commissioner India Ministry of Home Affairs Himachal Pradesh Profile PDF Census of India Government of India retrieved 13 February 2022 Himachal Pradesh Youth status report Sex ratio up but total fertility rate declining The Indian Express Shimla Express News Service 5 January 2018 Archived from the original on 18 April 2018 Retrieved 17 April 2018 a b States Census 2011 Census 2011 Archived from the original on 28 November 2018 Retrieved 15 April 2018 Indian Districts by Population 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Ethnologue 22nd ed SIL International Population by religion community 2011 Census of India 2011 The Registrar General amp Census Commissioner India Archived from the original on 25 August 2015 Shimla Name Change The Quint 30 October 2018 Retrieved 1 August 2020 a b c Himachal Pradesh Districts Religion 2011 Census2011 Archived from the original on 3 June 2016 Retrieved 31 May 2016 Hindu Religion Census 2011 Census2011 Archived from the original on 8 February 2018 Retrieved 7 February 2018 Himachal Pradesh Secrets of Success World Bank 28 January 2015 Archived from the original on 19 April 2018 Retrieved 18 April 2018 The people and tribes www 123himachal com Archived from the original on 25 July 2011 Retrieved 20 May 2007 Planning Commission India 2005 Himachal Pradesh Development Report ISBN 9788171884452 Indian Crafts Map Himachal Pradesh Crafts Council of India Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 a b Neetu Sharma Promila Kanwar Anju Rekha Traditional handicrafts and handloom of Kullu district Himachal Pradesh PDF NISCAIR Online Periodicals Repository Archived PDF from the original on 10 October 2015 Retrieved 16 April 2018 Himcrafts H P State Handicrafts and Handloom Corp Ltd Shimla Himcrafts Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 Shruti Verma 3 February 2018 The Himachali cap Culture legacy and heritage Himvani Archived from the original on 12 March 2018 Retrieved 12 March 2018 Archana Phull 14 January 2018 Cap likely on cap politics in Himachal Pradesh The Statesman Archived from the original on 13 March 2018 Retrieved 12 March 2018 Gaurav Bisht 6 July 2017 PM Modi s cap in Israel takes political hue in Himachal Hindustan Times Archived from the original on 13 March 2018 Retrieved 12 March 2018 PTI 18 December 2017 Prem Kumar Dhumal Virbhadra Singh Tale of two captains their wins and losses The Economic Times Archived from the original on 13 March 2018 Retrieved 12 March 2018 a b Fair Festivals and Events of Himachal Pradesh Maps of India Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 Fairs amp Festivals of Himachal Himachal Tourism Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 Kullu Dussehra Kullu Himachal Tourism Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 a b Himachal Pradesh Food and Cuisine Maps of India Archived from the original on 17 April 2018 Retrieved 16 April 2018 NDTV Food 10 August 2016 Himachal Pradesh Food 10 Best Recipes NDTV Archived from the original on 13 March 2018 Retrieved 12 March 2018 a b c Himachal Pradesh Development Report Chapter 7 Education PDF Planning Commission India p 14 Archived PDF from the original on 15 February 2017 Retrieved 26 April 2018 In Himachal where 90 per cent people live in villages female literacy rate touches 80 per cent India Today 26 May 2013 Archived from the original on 7 August 2016 Retrieved 31 May 2016 Factual source on Education in Himachal Government of India Archived from the original on 30 April 2007 Retrieved 16 March 2007 Dua H K Educational updates Himachal The Tribune Trust 2006 The Tribune House Archived from the original on 9 February 2007 Retrieved 16 March 2007 De Anuradha amp Khera Reetika amp Samson Meera amp Shiva Kumar A K 2011 Probe Revisited A Report on Elementary Education in India OUP Catalogue Oxford University Press number 9780198071570 Government of India Census of India 2011 Dreze J May 1999 A surprising exception Himachal s success in promoting female education Manushi 112 12 17 ISSN 0257 7305 PMID 12295760 a b Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh General Overview of Education in Himachal Archived from the original on 2 February 2008 Retrieved 16 March 2007 a b Himachal Sarva Shiksha Abhiyan amp Rashtriya Madhyamik Shiksha Abhiyan edumis hp gov in Archived from the original on 26 April 2018 Retrieved 26 April 2018 IGMC home Igmcshimla org Archived from the original on 22 February 2014 Retrieved 7 February 2014 a b Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh General Overview of Education in Himachal Archived from the original on 2 February 2008 Retrieved 16 March 2007 Himachal at a Glance Himachalpr gov in Archived from the original on 16 August 2013 Retrieved 15 June 2011 Further reading EditAhluwalia M S 1998 Social Cultural and Economic History of Himachal Pradesh Indus Publishing ISBN 81 7387 089 6 Retrieved 31 March 2008 Batta R N 2000 Tourism and the Environment A Quest for Sustainability Indus Publishing ISBN 81 7387 110 8 Retrieved 31 March 2008 Singh Mian Govardhan 2000 C L Gupta Kulbhushan Chandel eds Himachal Pradesh History Culture amp Economy extensively revised ed Shimla Minerva Publishers amp Distributors Singh Sarina 2005 India Lonely Planet ISBN 1 74059 694 3 Retrieved 31 March 2008 Himachal History Tiwari A K 2000 Infrastructure and Economic Development in Himachal Pradesh Indus Publishing ISBN 81 7387 105 1 Retrieved 31 March 2008 Verma V 1995 The Emergence of Himachal Pradesh A Survey of Constitutional Developments Himachal Pradesh India Indus Publishing ISBN 81 7387 035 7 Retrieved 15 June 2011 United Nations Development Programme UNDP 2002 Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002 Government of Himachal Pradesh ISBN 0 19 521915 5 Retrieved 31 March 2008 Statistics and Data Planning Department Government of Himachal PradeshExternal links EditHimachal Pradesh at Wikipedia s sister projects Definitions from Wiktionary Media from Commons News from Wikinews Quotations from Wikiquote Texts from Wikisource Textbooks from Wikibooks Resources from Wikiversity Travel information from Wikivoyage GovernmentThe Official Site of Himachal Pradesh The Official Tourism Site of Himachal Pradesh India NGO in Himachal PradeshGeneral informationHimachal Pradesh at Curlie Geographic data related to Himachal Pradesh at OpenStreetMap Retrieved from https en wikipedia org w index php title Himachal Pradesh amp oldid 1139308760, wikipedia, wiki, book, books, 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