Explanations:To understand the geographical layout of Indian states, it is essential to have a clear mental map of the country. Chhattisgarh is a state in central India, and it shares its eastern border with Odisha. The state of Chhattisgarh was formed on November 1, 2000, by carving out 16 districts from the state of Madhya Pradesh. It is known for its rich mineral resources and diverse culture.
Odisha, on the other hand, is a state located on the eastern coast of India. It is bordered by the states of West Bengal to the north-east, Jharkhand to the north, Chhattisgarh to the west, and Andhra Pradesh to the south. The Bay of Bengal forms the eastern boundary of Odisha.
When considering the geographical position of Chhattisgarh relative to Odisha, it is important to note that Chhattisgarh lies to the west of Odisha. This positioning is significant for various reasons, including economic, cultural, and political interactions between the two states. Understanding the relative positions of states is crucial for students preparing for competitive examinations such as the UPSC, SSC, and state PSC exams, where questions on geography and state boundaries are common.
Other states mentioned in the options are not west of Odisha. Punjab is located in the northwestern part of India, Himachal Pradesh is in the northern Himalayan region, and Assam is in the northeastern part of India. These states are geographically distant from Odisha and do not share a western border with it.
Therefore, the correct answer is Chhattisgarh, as it is the state that lies west of Odisha. This geographical fact is a fundamental piece of information for anyone studying the geography of India, particularly for those preparing for competitive examinations that test knowledge of state boundaries and locations.