Telangana

Ramagiri Fort

Shiva Temple Warangal

Golconda Fort 013

Telangana State English Map

Indian Peafowl (Pavo cristatus) near Hyderabad W IMG 4818

Yadadri Temple on the hilltop

Telangana is a state in the southern part of India. It was formed on June 2, 2014, from the northwestern part of the Andhra Pradesh state. Telangana is bordered by the states of Maharashtra to the north, Chhattisgarh to the east, Karnataka to the west, and Andhra Pradesh to the south and east. The state has an area of about 112,077 square kilometers, making it the twelfth largest state in India. The capital of Telangana is Hyderabad, which serves as a joint capital for Andhra Pradesh as well, for a period not exceeding ten years, as per the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014.

History

The region has a rich history and cultural heritage. It was part of the Nizam's dominion and has been influenced by Mughal and British rule before becoming part of independent India. The demand for a separate state was based on linguistic and cultural identity, which led to a prolonged movement. The movement for a separate state of Telangana was marked by intense protests and political activities that culminated in the formation of the state in 2014.

Geography

Telangana is characterized by its diverse topography, ranging from the Deccan Plateau to dense forests and river valleys. The Godavari and Krishna rivers flow through the state, providing vital sources of water for irrigation and drinking purposes. The climate of Telangana varies from semi-arid to tropical, with hot summers and mild winters.

Economy

The economy of Telangana is one of the fastest-growing in India. It is driven by agriculture, industry, and services sectors. The state is a major producer of rice, cotton, and maize. Its industrial sector includes manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and information technology. Hyderabad, the capital city, is a global hub for information technology (IT) and biotechnology, hosting major companies and research institutions.

Culture

Telangana's culture is a vibrant blend of traditional and modern influences. The state is known for its distinctive cuisine, festivals, and arts. Bathukamma, a floral festival, and Bonalu, a festival dedicated to the goddess Mahakali, are among the major cultural celebrations. The region's classical dance form, Kuchipudi, and its rich tradition of folk arts add to its cultural diversity.

Education

Telangana is home to several prestigious educational institutions, including the University of Hyderabad, Osmania University, and the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad. These institutions offer a wide range of programs in arts, sciences, engineering, and technology.

Politics

The political landscape of Telangana is dominated by the Telangana Rashtra Samithi (TRS), which played a crucial role in the state's formation. The state has a unicameral legislature with a Legislative Assembly. The governance structure includes a Governor as the ceremonial head and a Chief Minister as the head of the government.

Transport

Telangana has a well-developed transport infrastructure, including roads, railways, and airways. The Rajiv Gandhi International Airport in Hyderabad is one of the busiest airports in India. The state's railway network facilitates connectivity with major cities across India, while its road network includes national and state highways, ensuring efficient transportation within and outside the state.

Tourism

Telangana offers a variety of tourist attractions, ranging from historical sites and natural landscapes to religious places. Notable destinations include the Charminar, Golconda Fort, Warangal Fort, and the Bhadrachalam Temple. The state's rich heritage, coupled with its natural beauty, makes it a popular destination for tourists.