Jharkhand, often referred to as the "Land of Forests," is a state located in the eastern region of India. It was carved out of the southern part of Bihar on November 15, 2000, and since then, it has emerged as a significant state in terms of its natural resources and cultural heritage. The state's name is derived from the Hindi words "Jhar" (forest) and "Khand" (land), highlighting its rich forest cover and diverse terrain.
Location and Boundaries
Jharkhand is situated between the latitudes 2200'N to 2437'N and longitudes 8315'E to 8701'E. It is bordered by:
North: Bihar
East: West Bengal
South: Odisha
West: Chhattisgarh and Uttar Pradesh
This strategic location gives Jharkhand an essential place in connecting eastern India with the central and northern regions.
Topography
Jharkhand's topography is highly varied, with a mix of plateau, hills, valleys, and plains. It is part of the Chotanagpur Plateau, which is a northeastern extension of the Deccan Plateau. Key features of its topography include:
Chotanagpur Plateau: This is the dominant geographical feature of Jharkhand. It is divided into three parts:
Ranchi Plateau: The highest part, with an average elevation of 700 meters.
Hazaribagh Plateau: Known for its rolling landscape and rich coal reserves.
Koderma-Giridih Plateau: Famous for its mica deposits.
Rajmahal Hills: Located in the northeastern part of the state, these hills are known for their volcanic origin and are rich in basalt rocks.
Damodar Valley: A significant coal-bearing area, this valley plays a crucial role in the industrial development of the state.
Climate
Jharkhand experiences a tropical climate, characterized by three distinct seasons: summer, monsoon, and winter.
Summer (March to June):
Temperatures range between 25C and 45C.
The southern and western parts, being on higher altitudes, remain relatively cooler.
Monsoon (July to September):
The state receives an average annual rainfall of 1,100 to 1,600 mm, primarily from the southwest monsoon.
The heavy rains replenish water bodies but also lead to soil erosion and flooding in some areas.
Winter (November to February):
Temperatures can drop to 5C in hilly areas.
It is the most pleasant season, with clear skies and mild weather.
Rivers and Water Resources
Jharkhand is endowed with several perennial and seasonal rivers, which are vital for irrigation, drinking water, and industrial use.
Major Rivers:
Damodar River: Known as the "Sorrow of Jharkhand" due to its history of floods, it is also the lifeline of the state, supporting industrial zones.
Subarnarekha River: Flows through Ranchi, East Singhbhum, and West Bengal, known for its scenic beauty and utility.
Koel, Barakar, and Mayurakshi Rivers: Important for local irrigation and water supply.
Waterfalls:
Hundru Falls: Formed by the Subarnarekha River, a popular tourist attraction.
Dassam Falls and Jonha Falls: Both located near Ranchi, showcasing the rugged terrain and natural beauty of the region.
Natural Vegetation and Wildlife
Jharkhand boasts a rich biodiversity due to its extensive forest cover, which accounts for nearly 29% of the state's geographical area. The vegetation primarily comprises tropical deciduous forests, including:
Sal, Teak, and Mahua Trees: Dominate the forests and provide significant economic value.
Medicinal Plants: Many herbs and shrubs used in traditional medicine are found here.
Wildlife is another notable aspect, with several species of flora and fauna inhabiting the forests. Key wildlife sanctuaries and parks include:
Betla National Park: Home to elephants, tigers, and a variety of birds.
Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary: Known for deer, panthers, and sloth bears.
Mineral Wealth
Jharkhand is often referred to as the "Mineral Hub of India" due to its vast reserves of minerals, which include:
Coal: The state contributes significantly to India's coal production, with major coalfields in Dhanbad and Bokaro.
Iron Ore: Found abundantly in Singhbhum district.
Mica, Bauxite, and Copper: Other essential minerals that contribute to the state's economy.
Soil Types
The state has diverse soil types, influenced by its topography and parent rock material. Key soil types include:
Red Soil: Found in plateau regions, rich in iron but low in organic content.
Black Soil: Found in some areas, suitable for cotton cultivation.
Laterite Soil: Found in hilly areas, ideal for horticulture and plantation crops.
Alluvial Soil: Found in river valleys, highly fertile and suitable for paddy cultivation.
Challenges in Geography
Jharkhand's unique geography also poses several challenges:
Deforestation: Increasing industrialization and mining have led to significant deforestation.
Soil Erosion: Hilly terrain combined with heavy rainfall results in loss of fertile soil.
Water Scarcity: Despite having numerous rivers, water management remains a challenge due to seasonal fluctuations and over-dependence on monsoons.
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