Chhattisgarh

Chhattisgarh is a state in central India known for its dense forests, waterfalls and rich mineral wealth. Its capital is Raipur. Carved out as a separate state in 2000, it has a large tribal population and is a major source of India's coal, steel and electricity.

Chhattisgarh is dominated by forested hills, plateaus and the fertile plains of the Mahanadi River basin. About 44 percent of the state is forested, with notable waterfalls. The climate is tropical, hot in summer with a strong monsoon.

The state has a strong Adivasi tribal heritage, with distinctive art, music, dance and festivals. Rice farming, folk traditions and a connection to the forest shape its culture, and it is sometimes called the rice bowl of India.

Long part of larger regions and home to ancient kingdoms, the territory was separated from Madhya Pradesh to become India's 26th state in 2000. Its economy is driven by mining, power generation and heavy industry.