How Many Union Territories are there in  India 2025

India currently consists of 8 union territories. Jammu & Kashmir lost its status as a state and became a union territory, while Ladakh was carved out of Jammu & Kashmir to become a separate union territory. This transformation came into force on 31st October 2019.

List of Union Territories in India

Why Has India Been Divided into States and Union Territories?

India's division into states and union territories serves several purposes, ensuring efficient governance and accommodating its vast diversity.

Reasons for Division

1. Administrative Convenience

India's large size and population make decentralised administration essential. States and union territories enable focused governance at the regional level.

2. Cultural and Linguistic Diversity

States are often formed based on linguistic and cultural identities, ensuring representation and preservation of India's diverse traditions.

3. Efficient Resource Management

Each region has unique natural resources and developmental needs. States and union territories allow region-specific policies and resource allocation.

4. Federal Structure

India's federal governance system shares power between the central and state governments. States address local issues, while union territories are centrally governed.

5. Political Representation

Dividing the country into smaller units ensures all regions have a voice in the democratic process, fostering inclusivity and reducing regional disparities.

6. Historical and Strategic Reasons

Some union territories, like Delhi and Chandigarh, are administrative capitals, while others, such as Andaman and Nicobar Islands, have strategic importance.

The division into states and union territories promotes balanced development, unity in diversity, and national integration while addressing the unique needs of India's diverse regions.

Andaman and Nicobar Islands Union Territory of India

• Located in the Bay of Bengal, comprising around 572 islands.
• The capital is Port Blair.
• Known for its pristine beaches, coral reefs, and diverse marine life.
• Strategic location for the Indian Navy and defense.
• Rich biodiversity, including indigenous tribes like the Great Andamanese.
• Popular for eco-tourism and adventure sports such as snorkeling and diving.
• Home to the Cellular Jail, a historical landmark for India's freedom struggle.
• Part of the Eastern Naval Command of the Indian Armed Forces.
• The UT is divided into 3 districts: Andaman, Nicobar, and the North and Middle Andaman.
• It has a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India.

Chandigarh Union Territory of India

• Capital of both Punjab and Haryana.
• Famous for its modern architecture, designed by Pierre Jeanneret and Le Corbusier.
• Known for its well-planned sectors and green spaces.
• The Sukhna Lake and Rock Garden are popular tourist destinations.
• It has its own legislature, but legislative powers are limited.
• It is one of the wealthiest cities in India, with a high per capita income.
• Known for excellent healthcare and educational facilities.
• It has a significant population of government employees due to its administrative role.
• The city is a hub for art and cultural activities, with regular exhibitions and festivals.
• It operates under a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India.

Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu Union Territory of India

• Merged into one Union Territory in 2020.
• Located on the western coast of India, bordering Gujarat and Maharashtra.
• The capital is Daman.
• Known for beautiful beaches like Devka Beach and Jampore Beach.
• A former Portuguese colony with colonial architecture, such as churches and forts.
• Has a rich blend of cultures, including Hindu, Muslim, and Portuguese influences.
• Major industries include textiles, chemicals, and food processing.
• Economically prosperous due to industrial growth and tax exemptions.
• It has a Lieutenant Governor as the administrative head.
• Popular for its serene atmosphere and low population density.

Lakshadweep Union Territory of India

• An archipelago of 36 islands in the Arabian Sea.
• The capital is Kavaratti.
• Famous for its coral reefs, clear waters, and marine biodiversity.
• Popular for water sports such as scuba diving, snorkeling, and fishing.
• Has a tropical climate with a strong emphasis on eco-tourism.
• The primary languages spoken are Malayalam and Jeseri.
• Administration is headed by a Lieutenant Governor.
• A hotspot for the fishing industry, with an economy based on coconut and fisheries.
• Limited accessibility with only a few islands open to tourists.
• Its unique culture and traditions are influenced by Islamic practices and local customs.

Delhi (National Capital Territory of Delhi) Union Territory of India

• Capital of India and a major political, cultural, and economic center.
• The capital city is New Delhi, which is the seat of the government.
• Home to important landmarks like the India Gate, Red Fort, and Rashtrapati Bhavan.
• Hosts the Parliament of India, the Supreme Court, and embassies of foreign nations.
• One of the largest and most populous cities in India.
• Delhi has a unique status as both a city and a Union Territory with its own Legislative Assembly.
• Known for its thriving economy, with major industries in IT, manufacturing, and services.
• Faces challenges related to air pollution, traffic congestion, and overpopulation.
• Strong cultural scene with numerous museums, theaters, and festivals.
• Delhi has a Chief Minister and a legislative assembly, though the central government retains significant control over law and order.

 Puducherry Union Territory of India

• A former French colony, located on the southeastern coast of India.
• The capital is Puducherry (also known as Pondicherry).
• Famous for its French colonial architecture and cultural heritage.
• Known for its serene beaches, with a relaxed pace of life.
• The city has a blend of French and Tamil culture, reflected in its cuisine, language, and lifestyle.
• Economically driven by tourism, fishing, and agriculture.
• It has a Legislative Assembly with limited powers.
• Puducherry is known for its vibrant art scene, including traditional and contemporary art forms.
• It operates under a Lieutenant Governor who is appointed by the President.
• Puducherry has a significant number of French-speaking residents.

 Ladakh Union Territory of India

• Formed after the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019.
• Consists of two districts: Leh and Kargil.
• The capital is Leh, which is an important center for Buddhist culture.
• Known for its rugged landscapes, including the Himalayan ranges, high-altitude deserts, and lakes like Pangong Lake and Tso Moriri.
• Ladakh is a popular destination for trekking, mountaineering, and adventure tourism.
• It has a unique culture heavily influenced by Tibetan Buddhism.
• The region is strategically important due to its proximity to the international borders with China and Pakistan.
• It has a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President of India.
• Despite its vast natural beauty, Ladakh faces challenges due to its harsh climate and remoteness.
• The local economy relies on tourism, handicrafts, and agriculture.

 Jammu and Kashmir Union Territory of India

• Created after the abrogation of Article 370 in 2019, dividing it into Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh.
• Jammu is the winter capital, while Srinagar serves as the summer capital.
• Known for its scenic beauty, with mountains, lakes, and lush valleys.
• A prominent center for the Kashmir shawl industry, tourism, and handicrafts.
• The region has a significant religious and cultural diversity, with a mix of Hindus, Muslims, and Buddhists.
• The security situation in Jammu and Kashmir remains complex due to territorial disputes.
• The union territory has a Legislative Assembly, but Jammu and Kashmir operates under a special administration.
• The economy is primarily based on agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism.
• It is home to major pilgrimage sites, including Vaishno Devi and Amarnath Cave.
• The Union Territory is governed by a Lieutenant Governor appointed by the President.

These union territories, despite their differences, each contribute uniquely to the socio-political and economic fabric of India.