The Republic of India is constitutionally divided into separate units called states and union territories. As of today there are twenty-eight states and eight union territories. These subnational entities together form the federal framework of the country and provide the primary tier for administration, public services and local lawmaking.

Constitutional framework and powers

India's Constitution assigns subjects to different levels of government through the Seventh Schedule: a Union List for central authority, a State List for regional responsibilities, and a Concurrent List shared by both. States typically exercise broad authority over health, police, agriculture and local infrastructure, while the central government retains powers such as defense, foreign affairs and currency. Union territories are generally administered by the central government, though a few have their own elected legislatures.

Organization and governance

States are governed by elected governments headed by a chief minister and have their own legislatures; each state also has a governor appointed by the President of India. Union territories are administered in different ways: some are directly administered by the President through an appointed administrator or lieutenant governor, while others have partial state-like powers and elected assemblies. For examples and official lists see the states overview and the National Capital Territory entry.

Historical development

The present map of states evolved from British provinces and princely states after independence in 1947. A major reorganization on linguistic lines in the 1950s reshaped many boundaries. Subsequent changes continued: new states have been formed from larger ones to improve administration and accommodate regional identity, including the creation of Telangana in 2014 and the reorganization of Jammu and Kashmir in 2019 into two union territories.

Notable distinctions and examples

  • States vary greatly in area and population; Rajasthan is the largest by area, while Uttar Pradesh remains the most populous.
  • Certain union territories, such as the National Capital Territory, contain major metropolitan centers and unique governance arrangements.
  • Some territories, like Chandigarh, serve as capital for more than one state while remaining a union territory in their own right.

Understanding the division into states and union territories is essential for grasping how policy, administration and political representation operate across India. The arrangement balances regional autonomy with national unity, and it continues to adapt to demographic, linguistic and administrative needs.