Explanation: Gairsain, a town located in the Pithoragarh district of Uttarakhand, has been designated as the summer capital of the state. This decision was made to provide a cooler environment for government officials during the summer months, as Gairsain is situated at a higher altitude compared to Dehradun, the main capital of Uttarakhand. The concept of a summer capital is not unique to Uttarakhand; it is a practice adopted by some states to ensure that government functions can continue smoothly even during the hot summer months.
Uttarakhand, formerly known as Uttaranchal, is a state in northern India. It is known for its natural beauty, including the Himalayan mountain ranges, and is a popular destination for tourists and pilgrims. The state has two capitals: Dehradun, which serves as the winter capital, and Gairsain, which serves as the summer capital. This arrangement helps to distribute administrative activities and promote development in different parts of the state.
The decision to appoint Gairsain as the summer capital was made to address the challenges posed by the extreme heat in Dehradun during the summer months. By relocating government functions to Gairsain, the state government aims to ensure that its operations are not disrupted by the heat and that officials can work in a more comfortable environment. This move also supports the development of the Gairsain region, which is less developed compared to other parts of Uttarakhand.
It is important to note that the concept of a summer capital is not common in all states of India. Some states, like Himachal Pradesh, have hill stations as their capitals, which naturally provide a cooler environment. In contrast, states like Uttar Pradesh and Bihar do not have separate summer capitals, as their capitals are located in plains and do not face the same challenges of extreme heat.
Understanding the administrative divisions and capitals of Indian states is crucial for students preparing for competitive exams, as questions related to state capitals and administrative practices are frequently asked. It is also important to stay updated with recent changes in administrative decisions, such as the appointment of Gairsain as the summer capital of Uttarakhand, to ensure accurate knowledge.