Explanation: The re-organisation of states in India has been a significant process in the country's political and administrative history. The formation of new states is often driven by various factors, including linguistic, cultural, and administrative considerations. The latest state to be formed through this process is Telangana, which was officially established on June 2, 2014.
To understand the context of Telangana's formation, it is essential to look at the broader history of state re-organisation in India. The process of state re-organisation began in the early years of India's independence, with the States Reorganisation Act of 1956 being a landmark event. This act led to the creation of states based primarily on linguistic lines, which significantly reshaped the political map of India.
However, the demand for a separate Telangana state had been a contentious issue for many years. The region, which was part of Andhra Pradesh, had a distinct identity and a history of political and economic grievances. The movement for a separate Telangana state gained momentum in the early 2000s, leading to widespread protests and political negotiations.
The formation of Telangana was a result of these prolonged efforts. The Government of India, under the United Progressive Alliance (UPA) led by the Congress party, passed the Andhra Pradesh Reorganisation Act, 2014, which led to the creation of Telangana as the 29th state of India. This act was a significant political decision that addressed the long-standing demands of the Telangana region.
It is important to note that the formation of Telangana was not the first state re-organisation in recent years. Other states like Uttrakhand, Jharkhand, and Chattisgarh were formed in 2000, as a result of the division of larger states. However, Telangana stands out as the most recent state to be formed, making it the correct answer to the question.
Understanding the formation of Telangana is crucial for students of Indian politics and geography, as it reflects the ongoing process of state re-organisation and the complex interplay of political, social, and economic factors in the Indian context. This knowledge is particularly relevant for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, TSPSC, and other state PSCs, where questions on recent political developments and state formation are common.