Capital of Gujarat – Gandhinagar

Capital of Gujarat: Gandhinagar is the capital of Gujarat. It is located on the western bank of the Sabarmati River and is the second planned city in India. In 1970, it was declared as the capital city of Gujarat, replacing Ahmedabad. Named after Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the Nation, it is tagged as the cleanest city in Asia. Gandhinagar is 23 kilometers from Ahmedabad and is divided into thirty pedestrian-friendly and self-contained sectors. Known as a people-oriented city, it is home to parks, gardens, historical monuments, and civic buildings. Founded with a vision to embrace Gandhian principles, this city holds great historical and cultural significance. In the last decade, Gandhinagar has evolved into a dynamic urban center.

In this article, we have covered Gandhinagar the Capital of Gujarat, the Population and Area of Gujrat, the old and New Capital of Gujrat, history, geography, economy, and culture that defines Gandhinagar.

Capital of Gujarat (Gandhinagar)

On 1st May 1960, Gandhinagar was officially declared the capital of Gujarat after the bifurcation of the state of Bombay into Gujarat and Maharashtra. This decision was made to replace Ahmedabad as the capital, primarily for strategic reasons, as Ahmedabad was deemed too congested and susceptible to communal tensions.

Gandhinagar (capital of Gujarat) was chosen not just for its geographical location but also in homage to Mahatma Gandhi, who played a pivotal role in India’s struggle for independence. The city was designed with principles of sustainable urban planning and an emphasis on green spaces, reflecting Gandhi’s vision for a self-reliant and environmentally conscious India.

Climate of Capital of Gujarat

• Gandhinagar’s climate has three distinct seasons: a hot and dry summer, a mild and pleasant winter, and a monsoon season with moderate rainfall.
• Summer temperatures often soar above 40°C (104°F), making it one of the hottest regions in India during this season.
• The city’s monsoon season typically occurs between June and September, relieving the scorching summer heat and replenishing the region’s agricultural lands.
• Like much of North India, Gandhinagar’s winter season typically spans from December to February.
• Daytime temperatures during the winter season in Gandhinagar typically range from 15°C to 30°C (59°F to 86°F), making it comfortable for outdoor activities.

Related Resource:

• Capital of Maharashtra
• Capital of Kerala
  

Demographics Capital of Gujarat

As per the 2011 Census, the demography of the capital of Gujarat is provided below:

Demography Label	Value
Geo Location	23.56 to 23.01 north latitude, east longitude 73.33 to 72.33
Area Sq. Km	2140
Area (Rural) Sq. Km	1763.41
Area (Urban) Sq. Km.	376.59
Total Population (2023)	8,772,000
Total Male Population	723,864
Total Female Population	667,889
Average Literacy %	84.16
MCD	Gandhinagar Municipal Corporation
Municipalities	4 (Pethapur, Mansa, Kalol and Dahegam municipality)

Economy of Gandhinagar

The following points describes the economy of Gandhinagar the Capital of Gujrat.

• Gandhinagar’s economy is closely linked to Gujarat’s overall economic activities, as it serves as the 4th largest in the country.
• The state stands at the twenty-first position in the Human Development Index (HDI).
• It is the highest industrial state in India and hosts a mix of textiles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and information technology industries.
• In pharmaceuticals, the state of Gujarat is ranked at number 1, with 33% of drugs manufactured and 28% of drugs exported from the state of Gujarat.
• Gandhinagar is known for its industrial parks and Special Economic Zones (SEZs), attracting domestic and international investments.
• The city plays a pivotal role in Gujarat’s economic growth, contributing to the state’s GDP significantly by managing 40% of India’s ocean cargo.
• Agriculture also plays a role in the local economy, with fertile lands surrounding the city.
• The city has a well-developed infrastructure, making it conducive to business and commerce, with 85% of villages in the state connected by proper roads.
• The financial and banking sector is robust, with numerous national and international banks operating in Gandhinagar.

Culture and Tourism in Gandhinagar

The following points describes the Culture and Tourism of Gandhinagar the Capital of Gujrat.

• Gandhinagar boasts a rich cultural heritage, blending traditional values with modernity.
• The Akshardham Temple, an architectural marvel, is a major religious and cultural attraction in the city.
• Sabarmati Ashram, where Mahatma Gandhi lived, offers insights into India’s freedom struggle.
• Vibrant festivals like Navratri bring the city to life with music and dance celebrations.
• Picturesque gardens, including Sarita Udyan and Indroda Nature Park, attract nature enthusiasts and tourists.
• The city hosts conventions and conferences, bolstering its reputation as a venue for business and cultural events.
• Museums like the Gujarat Science City and Auto World Vintage Car Museum provide educational and entertaining experiences.
• Gandhinagar’s well-maintained parks, lakes, and green spaces offer recreational opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
• The city’s diverse cuisine reflects the cultural mix, with many culinary options to explore.
• Gandhinagar’s commitment to preserving its cultural heritage and promoting tourism ensures a memorable experience for tourists.

Gandhinagar – Transportation and Infrastructure

The following points describes the economy of Gandhinagar the Capital of Gujrat.

• Gandhinagar enjoys a well-connected road network, including national highways and state roads.
• The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport in nearby Ahmedabad provides air connectivity to the city.
• Kalupur Railway Station serves as the primary rail link for Gandhinagar.
• The city’s planned layout features wide roads and well-maintained green spaces, enhancing its infrastructure.
• Efficient power supply, clean water, and sanitation services are readily available in Gandhinagar.
• Public transportation options, including buses and auto-rickshaws, cater to the daily commuting needs of residents.
• The city’s proximity to Ahmedabad’s infrastructure and services complements its own facilities.
• Gandhinagar’s modern infrastructure supports its role as the capital city, facilitating government functions.
• The city’s transportation and infrastructure contribute to its appeal to businesses and investors.
• Ongoing efforts to improve and expand transportation networks ensure Gandhinagar’s connectivity and accessibility.

Capital of Gujarat – Facts

• Architects H.K. Mewada and Prakash M. Apte planned and designed the city, making it the second planned city in the country after Chandigarh.
• It is divided into 30 sectors, each with its own shopping center, school, recreational areas, and residential areas.
• It is known as the ‘Tree Capital of India,’ with 54% of the land area covered with green forest.
• It is home to the administrative offices and Gujarat State Secretariat, also known as Sachivalaya.
• Gandhinagar became the host city for the Vibrant Gujarat Global Summit (G2 Summit), an event that brings together entrepreneurs, business leaders, and policymakers worldwide to promote economic growth in the country.
• The city is also home to Gujarat Aerospace and Defense Manufacturing Hub (GIDH), an industrial park dedicated to the aerospace and defense sectors.

In conclusion, Gandhinagar is a symbol of India’s commitment to Mahatma Gandhi’s principles and aspirations for sustainable urban development. As the capital of Gujarat, it plays a pivotal role in the state’s economy, culture, and administration. With its rich history, diverse demographics, and unique blend of tradition and modernity, Gandhinagar continues to grow and evolve, offering both challenges and opportunities that shape its future and contribute to the progress of Gujarat and India as a whole.

Capital of Gujrat – Gandhinagar FAQs

1. Is Ahmedabad is the capital of Gujarat?

Ahmedabad was the capital of Gujarat from 1960 to 1970, after that the capital of Gujarat changed to Gandhinagar. Now the capital of Gujarat is Gandhinagar. Gandhinagar lies on the west bank of the Sabarmati River.

2. Which is the first capital of Gujarat?

The first capital of Gujarat was Ahmedabad. The capital of Gujarat was moved to Gandhinagar in 1970.

3. What is the old name of Ahmedabad?

The name “Ahmedabad” is derived from the name of Sultan Ahmed Shah, who founded the city in the year 1411 AD. The original name of the city was “Ashaval,” which was a small settlement located on the banks of the Sabarmati river.

4. Why is Gujarat famous?

It is the home state of Mahatma Gandhi, the Father of the Nation. It is renowned for its beaches, temple towns and historic capitals. Wildlife sanctuaries, hill resorts and natural grandeur are gifts of Gujarat. Sculpture, handicrafts, arts, festivals also make the state rich.

5. What is a language of Gujarat?

Gujarati is descended from Old Gujarati ( c. 1100–1500 CE). In India, it is one of the 22 scheduled languages of the Union. It is also the official language in the state of Gujarat, as well as an official language in the union territory of Dadra and Nagar Haveli and Daman and Diu.

6. Which is the mega city of Gujarat?

Ahmedabad is the largest city in Gujarat and the sixth largest city in India with a population of almost 5.5 million. The city is also sometimes called Karnavati and as Amdavad in Gujarati.

7. Which is the biggest district in Gujarat?

Kutch is the largest district of Gujarat while Dang is the smallest.

8. Which is the highest mountain of Gujarat?

Girnar is the tallest peak in Gujarat. It is 1031 m high and is located near Junagadh.

9. What is Gujarati dress called?

Ghagra Choli or Chaniya Choli – Traditional Dress of Gujarat. The traditional attire of Gujarati women is Chaniya Choli or Ghagra Choli; Women also wear an Odhni (dupatta or chunni) with it.

10. What is Gujarat famous sweet?

Ghari or Surati Ghari is a sweet Gujarati dish from Surat, Gujarat, India. Ghari is made of puri batter, milk ‘mawa’, ghee and sugar – made into round shapes with sweet filling, to be consumed on Chandani Padva festival.

11. What is the capital of Goa?

The Capital of Goa is Panaji. It is the largest urban agglomeration in Goa and located on the bank of Mandavi river. It had been the capital of Portuguese India.

12. What is the Capital of Rajasthan?

Jaipur is the capital of Rajasthan. It is also one of the largest city in the Indian state of Rajasthan. This city is also known as Pink City.

13. What is the Capital of Punjab?

Chandigrah is the capital of Punjab. It is also the joint capital of Harayana and Punjab. It is very famous for well planned city. It is the union territory of India.