How Many Union Territories are There in India?
A Union Territory (UT) in India is a type of administrative region that is directly governed by the Central Government of India, unlike a state which is governed by the local body and has its own government.
Key features of a Union Territory
- A Union territory is Governed by the President of India through an Administrator or Lieutenant Governor.
- Union Territories do not have the same degree of autonomy as states of India has.
- UTs are generally smaller in area and population than most states.
Union Territories of India
1. Jammu & Kashmir
“The crown of India” this place is called the heaven in India, the land is bedecked in snow-capped mountains, delicious apple orchards and shimmering lakes. Dal lake in Srinagar, is the most exquisite site with houseboats and the floating market.
Huge number of Tourists visit this place for the tulips in spring and the snowfall in winter. This land is also known for pashmina shawls and saffron.
2. Ladakh
“The Land of High Passes” Ladakh is in the Northernmost region of the country and is a part of Himalayan regions. It is a cold desert between the tall mountains. Although the place offers crystal clear skies, making it perfect for Stargazing and stare at the crystal -clear turquoise lake like Pangong Tso that reflects heaven.
Ladakh is also quite famous among bikers and trek enthusiasts for it offers the raw beauty and adventure.
3. Delhi
“The Heart of India” is the central governance region. This city is a blend of ancient and the modern, where once stood the great empire of Indraprastha, is now a city that invites people from all over India, as much as Delhi is famous and important the specific areas also remain popular, be it Street food at Chandni Chowk, the quiet grace of India Gate, or the entertaining buzz of Connaught Place.
This place holds a long history dating back to the time of Mahabharata, and today it’s the political heart of the country enriched with history, culture, and student life.
4. Puducherry
This small city is located at the feet of India, holds a gentle Touch of France, it’s a great tourist destination with Cobbled streets with bright yellow French buildings, cafés, and seaside promenades. People here speak both the languages, Tamil and French, many are bilingual.
Shri Aurobindo ashram also attracts devotees and visitors seeking spiritual grace.
5. Andaman & Nicobar Islands
One of the most admired Islands of India, known as “The Emerald Islands”. This Island is in the Bay of Bengal, to the southeast of mainland India. Although they lie closer to Southeast Asia than to most Indian states. This place is a paradise for the scuba divers and snorkelers, home to coral reefs and colorful fish. This island is home to tribal heritage welcoming visitors.
6. Lakshadweep
Lakshadweep is a chain of several tiny islands floating in the Arabian sea, each of them beautifully ringed with palm trees and coral reefs, due to which it earns its name of “The Coral Paradise” Unlike Goa it’s quiet, and untouched, perfect for those seeking nature without crowds.
You will find here a unique mix of Malayali and Islamic culture.
7. Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu
This is the place where Portugal meets India, a fusion of tribal systems and Portuguese influence can be witnessed in forts, churches and the colourful festivals.
Daman and Diu make perfect contrast with Dadra and Nagar Haveli, the former offers stunning beaches and colonial glimpse and the latter offers forests and tribal art.
8. Chandigarh
Chandigarh is called to be the first planned city, it is also a very important capital as it Serves as the capital for both Punjab and Haryana, also flaunting a charm of its own. The most fascinating fact about this place is how the city has been developed from a mediocre landmass to a beautiful multifunction city.
This city is clean and green with all the modern amenities to lead a comfortable and peaceful life.
Why Do Union Territories Exist?
Let’s understand why some countries need to come up with a plan for union territory.
Strategic Importance
Some union territories are located in geographically remote areas or regions that are prone to threats, and thus it becomes a sensitive matter for the national security or defence, that’s why these areas cannot be trusted with the local bodies to manage themselves, these require centralized governance.
Administrative Convenience
There are certain regions that are too small to be a state with area or population to function full-fledged. Direct control from the Central government makes it a simple and better method for resource allocation.
Cultural or Historical Reasons
Some union territories have a unique cultural heritage, which sets them apart from neighbouring states. The central government governs these areas to preserve their identity and ensure the just treatment.
Political or Legal Reasons
There are certain regions that suffer political instability and need to reduce the regional conflicts.
National Capital Region (NCR) Status
New Delhi serves as the centre of action for the central Government and therefore it requires a direct control by the Union Government.
What Makes Union Territories Unique in India?
While union territories as a concept is not alien, the Indian UTs hold some distinctive constitutional and political features, due to the country’s diversity and federal structure.
India allows some UTs to have different levels of governance, they can have their own elected governments and legislatures.
The Indian Constitution explicitly provides for UTs under Articles 239 to 241. They are not temporary or informal arrangements. The Constitution allows Parliament to decide how much power each UT has.
India chose to accept the historical influences on the country, and thus created Union Territories to manage regions with Colonial imprints (Puducherry), Unique cultures (Lakshadweep), or Political complexity (Jammu & Kashmir). Instead of forcing them into a “state” model, India tailored the UT system to suit their needs.
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