Part of: Sikkim Gk set 9

Which state in east is the smallest state?

Category: Sikkim Gk

Hint: Consider the size and location of the states in eastern India.

Correct Answer: B) Sikkim

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Easy

Explanations:

To understand why Sikkim is the smallest state in the eastern region of India, it is important to first define the eastern region and then compare the sizes of the states within this region. The eastern region of India typically includes states such as Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Tripura, and Sikkim. Among these states, Sikkim is the smallest in terms of area.

Sikkim is a landlocked state located in the Himalayan foothills, bordering Nepal to the west, Bhutan to the east, and Tibet to the north. It covers an area of approximately 7,096 square kilometers (2,740 square miles). The state is known for its diverse landscapes, including mountains, valleys, and forests, which contribute to its rich biodiversity and natural beauty.

Comparing Sikkim to other states in the eastern region, we can see that it is significantly smaller than states like Assam, which covers an area of about 78,438 square kilometers (30,285 square miles), or Arunachal Pradesh, which covers an area of about 83,743 square kilometers (32,333 square miles). This makes Sikkim the smallest state in the eastern region.

It is important to note that while Goa is also a small state, it is located in the western region of India, not the eastern region. Similarly, Maharashtra and Gujarat are large states located in the western region of India. Therefore, they are not considered when determining the smallest state in the eastern region.

Understanding the geographical layout and sizes of Indian states is crucial for various competitive examinations, particularly those related to geography and general knowledge. This knowledge helps in answering questions related to regional geography and state sizes accurately.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Goa is a small state, but it is located on the western coast of India, not in the eastern region. Therefore, it is incorrect.
  • Option B: Sikkim is the correct answer as it is the smallest state in the eastern region of India. It is situated in the Himalayan foothills and is known for its natural beauty and biodiversity.
  • Option C: Maharashtra is a large state located in the western region of India. It is not the smallest state in the eastern region, making this option incorrect.
  • Option D: Gujarat is also a large state located in the western region of India. It is not the smallest state in the eastern region, making this option incorrect.

Mnemonic: S for Sikkim, S for Smallest

Back to Sikkim Gk set 9 – Practice all questions