Jharkhand: A Comprehensive Overview
Jharkhand, often called “The Land of Forests,” is a significant state in eastern India. Formed on November 15, 2000, it was carved out of the southern part of Bihar, marking a new chapter in the region’s history. Jharkhand shares its borders with several states: Bihar to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the northwest, Chhattisgarh to the west, Odisha to the south, and West Bengal to the east. This strategic location makes Jharkhand a crucial link between northern and eastern India.
Geographical Overview
Jharkhand ranks 79,714 square kilometres (30,778 square miles) as the 15th largest state in India by area. It is characterized by a diverse landscape, featuring lush forests, rolling hills, and numerous rivers. The state’s geographical diversity not only contributes to its natural beauty but also plays a vital role in its economy, particularly in sectors like agriculture, mining, and tourism.
Demographics and Language
With a population that places it as the 14th most populous state in India, Jharkhand is home to a rich tapestry of cultures, languages, and traditions. The official language of the state is Hindi, which serves as a common medium of communication across its various regions. However, the linguistic diversity of Jharkhand is reflected in the widespread use of regional languages such as Santali, Mundari, Ho, and Nagpuri, particularly among the indigenous communities.
Capital and Major Cities
Ranchi, the capital of Jharkhand, is a city of immense historical and economic significance. Known for its pleasant climate and scenic beauty, Ranchi is also the administrative and educational hub of the state. It houses important government institutions, educational establishments, and corporate offices. Dumka, the sub-capital, holds cultural and political importance, particularly for the Santhal tribe, one of the major indigenous groups in the state.
Cultural and Religious Significance
Jharkhand is a land of rich cultural heritage and religious significance. The state is home to several sacred sites that attract devotees and tourists alike.
- Baidyanath Dham: Located in Deoghar, Baidyanath Dham is one of the twelve Jyotirlingas in India and is a major pilgrimage site for Hindus.
- Parasnath: Also known as Shikharji, Parasnath Hill is the most important pilgrimage centre for Jains. It is believed to be the place where twenty of the twenty-four Jain Tirthankaras attained salvation.
- Rajrappa: Famous for the Chhinnamasta Temple, Rajrappa is a significant religious site located at the confluence of the Bhairavi and Damodar rivers. It attracts thousands of devotees, especially during the festivals of Navratri and Makar Sankranti.
Natural Beauty and Tourism
Jharkhand’s natural beauty is one of its most attractive features. The state’s dense forests, numerous waterfalls, and hilly terrain make it a paradise for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts.
- Waterfalls: Jharkhand is renowned for its picturesque waterfalls, including Hundru, Jonha, Dassam, and Panchghagh. These natural wonders offer breathtaking views and popular picnic spots.
- Wildlife Sanctuaries: The state boasts several wildlife sanctuaries and national parks, such as Betla National Park and Palamu Tiger Reserve, which are home to various flora and fauna.
Economic Significance
Jharkhand is rich in mineral resources, particularly coal, iron ore, and bauxite, making it one of India’s most important industrial hubs. The state’s economy is driven by mining, agriculture and steel, cement, and energy industries. Jharkhand’s abundant natural resources have attracted significant investment, contributing to its rapid industrial growth.
Jharkhand at a Glance
| Established of State | 15th November, 2000 (28th State) |
| Capital | Ranchi |
| Sub-Capital | Dumka |
| Geographical Location | 21°58’10” to 25°19’15” North latitude and 83°19’50” to 87°57′ East longitude |
| Region | East India |
| Dimensions | Length (east to west): 463 km Width (north to south): 380 km |
| Geographical Boundaries | North: Bihar South: Odisha East: West Bengal West: Chattishgarh Northwest: Uttar Pradesh |
| Aera | 79,716 km2 |
| Rank (Area) | 15 th |
| % of the total area of the Country | 2.42 % |
| Rural Area | 77,922 km2 (97.75 %) |
| Urban Area | 1,792 km2 (2.25 %) |
| Total Population | 329,88,134 (census 2011) |
| Rank (Area) | 14th |
| % of the total area of the Country | 2.72 % |
| Density | 414/km2 |
| Urban | 24.05% |
| Rural | 75.95% |
| Governor | Santosh Kumar Gangwar (Since 31 July 2024) |
| Chief Minister | Hemant Soren (13th Chief Minister) |
| Speaker of the assembly | Ravindra nath Mahato |
| Chief Secretary | L. Khiangte |
| Chief Justice of Jharkhand | Justice M.S. Ramachandra Rao (Since 25 September 2024) |
| High Court | Ranchi (21st High Court of the Country) |
| Legislature | Unicameral |
| Assembly Seat | 81 Seats |
| Lok Sabha Seat | 14 Seats (ST-05, SC-01) |
| Rajya Sabha Seat | 06 Seats |
| Division | 05 |
| District | 24 |
| Sub-Divison | 45 |
| Block | 264 (latest block- Saryu Block,latehar) |
| Jila Parishad | 24 |
| Village | 32746 |
| Ward | 1400 |
| Gram Panchayat | 4345 |
| Panchayat Samiti | 264 |
| Urban Local Body | 51 (including Cantonment Board) |
| Municipal Council | 09 (Ranchi, Dhanbad, DEogarh, Adityapur, Chas, Medininagar, Hazaribagh, Mango & Giridih) |
| City Council | 20 |
| Nagar Panchayat | 20 |
| Notified Area Committee | 01 (Jamshedpur) |
| Cantonment Board | 01 (Ramgarh) |
| No. of Towns | 228 |
| Metropolitan Cities | 03 (Ranchi, Jamshedpur & Dhanbad) |
| National Highways | 3340 km |
| State Highways | 1232 km |
| Primary Official Language | Hindi |
| Secondary Official Language | 16 ( Urdu, Santhali, Bangla, Odiya, Mundari, Ho, Khadiya, Khurkhu, Kurmali, kortha, Panchpargania, Nagpuri, Magahi, Bhojpuri, Maithali & Angika) |
State Symbol of Jharkhand
| Emblem | Symbol | Scientific Name |
|---|---|---|
| State tree | Sal | Shorea Robusta |
| State flower | Palaash | Butea Maximuus |
| State animal | Elephant | Elephas Maximus |
| State Bird | Koel | Eudynamys Scolopaceus |
Emblem of Jharkhand
The Emblem of Jharkhand, adopted on 15 August 2020, is the official seal of the Government of Jharkhand. It reflects the state’s rich cultural heritage, natural resources, and historical significance.
Design Overview
- Outer Ring: Features elephants, Jharkhand’s state animal, symbolizing strength, royalty, wildlife, and the state’s rich vegetation.
- Middle Ring: Depicts Palash flowers (state flower), also known as “flames of the jungle,” representing the state’s vibrant flora, beauty, and cultural identity.
- Inner Ring: Showcases people in traditional Jharkhandi-style painting, symbolizing the state’s social cohesion and historical richness.
- Centre: At the core is the Lion Capital of Ashoka, with the national motto “Satyameva Jayate” (Truth Alone Triumphs).
History
The previous emblem, used from 2000 to 2020, was adopted when Jharkhand was created from the southern part of Bihar on 15 November 2000. This emblem featured an Ashoka Chakra surrounded by four stylized ‘Js’, representing the state. Below it, the text “Jharkhand Sarkar” (Government of Jharkhand) was inscribed.
In January 2020, the new Chief Minister, Hemant Soren, announced plans for a redesigned emblem that better represented the state’s culture, tradition, and future. After a design competition and some confusion over a supposed winning design, the new emblem was officially approved on 22 July 2020, and launched on 15 August 2020.
Resources:
- Jharkhand Offical Website https://www.jharkhand.gov.in/
- Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jharkhand
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emblem_of_Jharkhand