Explanations:The question asks for the smallest Union Territory in India. To understand this, it is important to know the geographical areas of the Union Territories. A Union Territory is a type of administrative division in India that is governed directly by the Union Government (Central Government). There are currently eight Union Territories in India, each with its own unique characteristics and geographical features.
Lakshadweep is a group of coral atolls and islands located in the Arabian Sea. It is the smallest Union Territory in terms of land area, with a total area of approximately 32 square kilometers. The islands are known for their pristine beaches, coral reefs, and rich marine biodiversity. The Union Territory is home to a small population, primarily engaged in fishing and coconut cultivation.
Other Union Territories in India include Puducherry, Andaman and Nicobar Islands, and Chandigarh. Puducherry, for instance, has a total area of about 492 square kilometers, which is significantly larger than Lakshadweep. Andaman and Nicobar Islands, located in the Bay of Bengal, have a total area of about 8,249 square kilometers, making them much larger than Lakshadweep. Chandigarh, which is a Union Territory and also serves as the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, has a total area of about 114 square kilometers.
When comparing the land areas of these Union Territories, it becomes clear that Lakshadweep is the smallest. This is due to its unique geographical formation as a group of coral atolls and islands, which naturally limits its total land area. Understanding the geographical features and land areas of different administrative divisions in India is crucial for various competitive examinations and general knowledge assessments.