Chhattisgarh

State of central India, bordered by Maharashtra, Andhra Pradesh, Orissa, Jharkhand, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh; area 146,361 sq km/56,510 sq mi; population (2001 est) 20,796,000. It is a rural and economically impoverished area, and was separated from Madhya Pradesh in 2000 in an effort to promote greater stability and prosperity for both states. The capital is Raipur. The state touches the northern-most part of the Deccan Plateau, and is crossed by the Mahandi River. Over 80% of the population is involved in agricultural activities and, nicknamed the ‘Rice Bowl of India’, Chhattisgarh provides rice to 600 rice mills within the state and Madhya Pradesh. Industries also include forest production and the mining of bauxite, limestone, iron ore, diamonds, gold, and china clay. One-third of the population is tribal, and the principal languages are Hindu and Chhattisgarhi.

Chhattisgarh is divided into 16 districts. Other major cities include Bilaspar, where the High Court is seated, and tribal-dominated Bastar, home to the head offices of the government. The state has one of the highest illiteracy rates in India. In 2000, just over half the homes in Chhattisgarh had drinking water; 32% had electricity.

Tourist attractions can be found in Bhoramdeo, Kawardha, Bastar, Jagdalpur, and Raipur. The wildlife sanctuaries Tanor Pingla, Samorsot, Achanakmar, and Indravati are considered some of the best in India.