Part of: Maharashtra Gk set 10

WHICH OF THE FOLLOWING IS THE THIRD-LARGEST STATE OF INDIA?

Category: Maharashtra Gk

Hint: Consider the area of each state in relation to the largest and second-largest states.

Correct Answer: A) MAHARASHTRA

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, CLAT, MAT

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

The ranking of Indian states by area is an important piece of general knowledge, particularly for those preparing for competitive examinations. The size of a state is determined by its total land area, which includes both land and water bodies within its boundaries. The largest states in India by area are Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra.

Rajasthan, located in the northwestern part of India, is the largest state with an area of approximately 342,239 square kilometers. It is known for its vast deserts, historical forts, and rich cultural heritage. Madhya Pradesh, situated in central India, is the second-largest state with an area of about 308,350 square kilometers. It is known for its diverse geography, including the Vindhya and Satpura mountain ranges, and the Narmada and Tapti rivers.

Following these two states, Maharashtra is the third-largest state in India, covering an area of approximately 307,713 square kilometers. It is located in the western part of the country and is known for its industrial and commercial activities, as well as its cultural and historical significance. The state includes major cities like Mumbai, Pune, and Nagpur, and is home to a variety of landscapes, including coastal areas, hills, and plains.

Understanding the relative sizes of states is important for various reasons, including geographical knowledge, administrative planning, and competitive examinations. It is essential to remember the correct order of the largest states to avoid common misconceptions and to perform well in general knowledge sections of exams.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: This option is correct. Maharashtra is the third-largest state in India by area, after Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh. It covers an area of approximately 307,713 square kilometers.
  • Option B: This option is incorrect. Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state in India by area, covering approximately 308,350 square kilometers. It is larger than Maharashtra.
  • Option C: This option is incorrect. Uttar Pradesh is the fourth-largest state in India by area, covering approximately 243,290 square kilometers. It is smaller than Maharashtra.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect. Karnataka is the eighth-largest state in India by area, covering approximately 191,791 square kilometers. It is significantly smaller than Maharashtra.

Mnemonic: MUM - Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh (MUM: M for Maharashtra, U for Uttar Pradesh, and M for Madhya Pradesh)

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