Geography of Chhattisgarh
Introduction
Chhattisgarh is a state in central India, with Raipur as the state capital. The state gained statehood on November 1, 2000 after it got divided from Madhya Pradesh. It is the 10th largest state of India by area. Chhattisgarh takes its name from 36 (Chattis is thirty-six in Hindi and Garh is Fort) princely states in this region. Chhattisgarh is bordered by Bihar, Jharkhand and Uttar Pradesh in the north, Andhra Pradesh in the south, Orissa in the east and Madhya Pradesh in the west. Chattisgarh has a population density of 154 person per square kilometer, the highest concentration being in the areas of Raipur and Durg.
Climate
The climate of Chhattisgarh is mainly tropical. It is hot and humid because of its proximity to the Tropic of Cancer. It is dependent completely on the monsoons for rains.Summer in Chhattisgarh is from April to June, and can be uncomfortably hot, with the mercury hitting the high 40's.Monsoon season is from middle and late June to October and is a wonderful time to visit Chhattisgarh. The rains provide a welcome relief from the scorching summer heat and the whole state is covered with greens and waterfalls are at their best.Winter season is from November to January is also a good time to visit Chhattisgarh. Winters are pleasant with low temperatures and less humidity.
Rivers
The Mahanadi is the main river of the state. Other rivers are Hasdo (a tributary of Mahanadi), Rihand, Indravati, Jonk and Arpa.
Forests
12% of India's forests are in Chhattisgarh, and 44% of the State's land is under forests. Identified as one of the richest bio-diversity habitats, the Green State of Chhattisgarh has the densest forests in India, and rich wildlife., Over 200 non-timber forest products, with tremendous potential for value addition are produced in the state.
Minerals
Chhattisgarh accounts for more than 13 per cent of India's total mineral production, worth around Rs.4, 000 crore a year. Twenty-three per cent of the country's iron- ore deposits, 14 per cent of the dolomite deposits, and 6.6 per cent of the limestone deposits are found here.
Chhattisgarh has 18 percent of coal reserves of the country, and the state is ranked third after Jharkhand and Orissa.
