Explanation: Haryana is a state located in the northern part of India, bordered by Punjab and Rajasthan to the west, Uttar Pradesh to the east, and Himachal Pradesh to the north. The state is known for its agricultural productivity and is often referred to as the "Granary of India." Despite its significant agricultural contributions, Haryana's capital is not a city within its own boundaries. Instead, the capital of Haryana is Chandigarh, which is a union territory and also serves as the capital of Punjab.
Chandigarh is a planned city designed by the French architect Le Corbusier and is known for its modern architecture and well-planned urban layout. The city was established in 1952 and became the capital of Punjab and Haryana when these states were formed in 1966. This unique arrangement makes Chandigarh a significant administrative center for both states.
It is important to note that while Chandigarh is the capital of Haryana, it is not located within the state's boundaries. Chandigarh is a union territory, which means it is directly governed by the central government of India. This arrangement can sometimes lead to confusion, as students might expect the capital to be within the state's territory.
In contrast, the other options provided in the question are incorrect. Nepal is a country located in South Asia, not a city in India. Bhopal is the capital of Madhya Pradesh, and Patna is the capital of Bihar. These cities are significant in their own right but are not related to Haryana's capital.
Understanding the geography and administrative structure of Indian states is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations, especially those focusing on state-level knowledge. The unique arrangement of Chandigarh as the capital of both Haryana and Punjab is a key point to remember when studying the geography and administration of northern India.