Explanation: Chandigarh is a unique city in India as it serves as the capital of two states: Punjab and Haryana. This arrangement is a result of the partition of Punjab in 1966, which led to the creation of Haryana as a separate state. The partition was based on linguistic lines, with the Hindi-speaking areas forming Haryana and the Punjabi-speaking areas remaining in Punjab.
Chandigarh, being a union territory, is not part of either state but serves as the capital for both. This arrangement is a special case in the Indian federal system, where a union territory acts as the capital for two states. The city was designed by the French architect Le Corbusier and is known for its modernist architecture and planned layout.
The concept of a shared capital is not common in India. Typically, each state has its own capital, and union territories do not serve as capitals for states. However, in the case of Chandigarh, the unique historical and political circumstances led to this arrangement. The city is governed by the Union Government of India, and it has its own administration separate from the states of Punjab and Haryana.
Understanding this concept is important for students studying the geography and political structure of India, particularly for those preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and state PSCs. It is essential to remember that Chandigarh is a union territory and not part of either Punjab or Haryana, but it serves as the capital for both states.
This arrangement can be remembered using the mnemonic "PCH," which stands for Punjab, Chandigarh, and Haryana. This mnemonic can help students recall the unique relationship between Chandigarh and the two states it serves as a capital for.