Chandigarh as a city has an unusual significance in the history of India. It serves as the capital of two states of Punjab and Haryana at the same time. Besides it is also a Union Territory. The true meaning of the city’s name is the fort of Chandi, Chandi being the name of a Hindu Goddess. The city is located near the foothills of the Shivalik range of the Himalayas in Northwest India and covers an area of approximately 114 sq. km. Chandigarh shares its borders with both the states of Haryana and Punjab in the south and north respetively, and is situated at 30.74° N 76.79° E. Throughout the year Chandigarh enjoys a sub-tropical continental monsoon climate characterized by a seasonal rhythm. There is, in fact, the presences of all kinds of climates in the city and also great variations in temperature (-1 °C to 46.5 °C).
The city came into prominence after the parition of India and also of Punjab in 1947. Since the erstwhile capital of undivided Punjab, Lahore, went to Pakistan, there was the need of a new capital. For this reason, after several unsuccessful projects, decision to construct a new and planned city was undertaken and that led to the birth of the city. Again on 1 November 1966, Haryana, as a Hindi speaking state came into existence. Since Chandigarh was on the border, it was tansferred into Union Territory and made the capital of both states.
The city is under the jurisdiction of the Administrator who is appointed under the provisions of Art 239 of the Constitution but thoroughly remains under the Ministry of Home Affairs. The Governor is the Administrator of Chandigarh and as advisors to Him proficient IAS officers are appointed.
In the economic sphere the Government is the greatest employer since three governments have their bases in the city. There is the presence of 15 medium to large industrial units of which two are of Public Sectors. There are also over 2500 small scale sector units. The most prominent industries are paper manufacturing, basic metals and alloys and machinery. Other industries are relating to food products, sanitary ware, auto parts, machine tools, pharmaceuticals and electrical appliances. Besides the city can boast of sound market and banking infrastructures. Almost all natiobal banks have their branches in Chandigarh.
Chandigarh is also known for its quality school education. There are in fact lots of quality colleges in the city that train professionals for the future.
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Chandigarth
