Himachal Pradesh
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225195464
2008-07-12T11:49:38Z
Sushant gupta
1888403
/* Education */ please add ref to the sttements.
{{Infobox Indian Jurisdiction
|type = state
|state_name = Himachal Pradesh
|native_name = Himachal Pradesh
|capital = Shimla
|latd=31.111 |longd=77.154
|largest_city = Shimla
|abbreviation = IN-HP
|official_languages = [[Hindi]], [[Pahari]]
|legislature_type = Unicameral
|legislature_strength = 68
|leader_title_1 = [[Governors of Himachal Pradesh|Governor]]
|leader_name_1 = [[Prabha Rau]]
|leader_title_2 = [[:Category:Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh|Chief Minister]]
|leader_name_2 = [[Prem Kumar Dhumal]]
|established_date = [[25 January]] [[1971]]
|area_total = 55780
|area_magnitude = 10
|area_rank = 17th
|population_year = 2001
|population_total = 6077248
|population_rank = 20th
|population_density = 109
|districts = 12
|website = himachal.nic.in
|seal=HimichalPradeshSeal.jpg
||portal = Himachal Pradesh
}}
'''Himachal Pradesh''' ([[Hindi]]: िहमाचल प्रदेश, [[help:IPA|pronounced]] {{audio-IPA|Himachal.ogg|[hɪmaːtʃəl prəd̪eːʃ]}}) is a state in the north-west of [[India]]. Himachal Pradesh is spread over {{convert|55780|km2|sqmi|0}}<ref name=area>{{cite web
|url = http://www.indianmirror.com/geography/geo9.html| title = Statistical Facts about India
|accessdate = 2006-10-26| publisher = www.indianmirror.com
}}</ref> and is bordered by the Indian states of [[Jammu and Kashmir]] on north, [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] on west and south-west, [[Haryana]] and [[Uttar Pradesh]] on south, [[Uttarakhand]] on south-east and by [[Tibet]] on the east. The literal meaning of Himachal Pradesh is ''Land of snowy mountains''.<ref name=hplm1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradesh.us/geography/himalayas_in_himachal.php
|title = Literal meaning of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|publisher = www.himachalpradesh.us
}}</ref>
Himachal Pradesh was also known as ''Deva Bhoomi'' (the land of the gods). The Aryan influence in the region dates back to the period before the [[Rigveda]]. After the Anglo Gorkha war, the [[United Kingdom|British]] colonial government came into power. It was initially in Punjab, except '''Siba State of Punjab Hills''', under the rule of Maharaja Ranjit Singh till 1857
<ref name=bsahis123>{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/history/history.htm
|title = History section
|accessdate = 2007-04-28
|publisher = Suni system (P)
}}</ref>
In 1950 Himachal was declared as the union territory but after State of Himachal Pradesh Act 1971 Himchal emerged as the 18th state of [[Indian Union]].
Himachal Pradesh has one of the highest per capita incomes of any state in India. Due to the abundance of perennial rivers, Himachal also sells hydro electricity to other states such as [[Delhi]], [[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] & [[Rajasthan]].<ref name="eco1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/economy/econodeve.htm
|title = Economy of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-04-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Suni System (P)
}}</ref> The economy of the state is highly dependent upon three sources i.e. hydroelectric power, tourism and agriculture.<ref>[http://www.yesbank.in/downloads/KnowledgeBank_17Jan06/YESBANK_Knowledge_ExecutiveSummary_Himachal.pdf NEW ERA OF ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN HIMACHAL PRADESH OPPORTUNITIES AND CHALLENGES EXECUTIVE SUMMARY] yesbank.in Retrieved on- April 2008</ref>
95% of the state population constitutes of [[Hindu]]s. The major communities are of Brahmins, [[Rajput]]s, [[Kannet]]s, [[Rathi]]s and [[Koli]]s. As per the survey conducted in 2005 by [[Transparency International]] Himachal Pradesh is ranked second least corrupt state in the country after [[Kerala]].<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.transparency.org/regional_pages/asia_pacific/newsroom/news_archive__1/india_corruption_study_2005 | title= India Corruption Study - 2005 | publisher=[[Transparency International]] | accessdate=2007-05-29}}</ref>
== History ==
{{Main|History of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:The Fort of Nahan, c.1850.jpg|thumb|The fort of [[Nahan]], the capital of [[princely state]] of [[Sirmur]].]]
The history of the area that now constitutes Himachal Pradesh dates back to the time when the [[Indus valley civilisation]] flourished between 2250 and 1750 BCE.<ref name=nichist>{{cite web
|url = http://himachal.nic.in/tour/history.htm
|title = History of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2008-03-31
|publisher = National informatics center, Himachal Pradesh
}}</ref> Tribes such as the Koilis, Halis, Dagis, Dhaugris, Dasa, Khasas, Kinnars and Kirats inhabited the region from pre-histotic era. During the [[Vedic period]], several small republics known as "Janapada" existed which were later conquered by the [[Gupta Empire]].<ref name=himachalhist>{{cite web
|url =http://www.himachalpradeshindia.com/history.html
|title = History of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2008-03-31
|publisher = HimachalPradeshIndia.com
}}</ref> After a brief period of supremacy by king [[Harshavardhana]], the region was once again divided into several local powers headed by chieftains, including some [[Rajput]] prinicipalities. These kingdoms that enjoyed a large degree of independence were devastated by Muslim invaders a number of times.<ref name=nichist/> [[Mahmud Ghaznavi]] conquered [[Kangra]] at the beginning of the 10th century. [[Timur]] and [[Sikander Lodi]] also marched through the lower hills of the state and captured a number of forts and fought many battles.<ref name=nichist/> Several hill states acknowledged [[Mughal]] suzerainty and paid regular tribute to the Mughals.<ref name=vermamughal>{{cite book|last=Verma|first=V|title=The Emergence of Himachal Pradesh: A Survey of Constitutional Developments|origyear=1995|url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=QpWloqN5LTAC&dq=himachal+history&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0|accessdate=2008-03-31
|publisher=Indus Publishing|location=Himachal Pradesh (India)|isbn=8173870357|chapter=Historical Perspective|pages=28–35}}</ref>
The ''[[Gorkhas]]'', a [[martial]] [[tribe]] came to power in [[Nepal]] in the year 1768.<ref name=nichist/> They consolidated their [[military]] power and began to expand their [[territory]].<ref name=nichist/> Gradually the Gorkhas annexed [[Sirmour]] and [[Shimla]]. With the leadership of [[Amar Singh Thapa]], ''Gorkhas'' laid siege to [[Kangra]]. They managed to defeat [[Sansar Chand]], the ruler of [[kangra]], in 1806 with the help of many ''provincial chiefs''. However ''Gorkhas'' could not capture [[Kangra]] fort which came under [[Maharaja Ranjeet Singh]] in 1809. After the defeat the ''[[Gorkhas]]'' began to expand towards the south of the state.However,Raja Ram Singh,Raja of Siba State re-captured the fort of Siba from the army of Maharaja Ranjit Singh in Samvat 1846.<ref name=nichist/>
This led in the ''Anglo-Sikh'' war. They came into direct conflict with the [[Great Britain|British]] along the ''tarai'' belt after which the British expelled them from the provinces of the [[Satluj]].<ref name=nichist/> Thus the British gradually emerged as the paramount powers.<ref name=nichist/> The revolt of 1857 or first [[Indian Rebellion of 1857|Indian war of independence]] resulted due to the building up of political, social, economic, religious and military grievances against the British government.<ref name=nichist/> People of the hill states were not politically alive as the people in other parts of the country.<ref name=nichist/> They remained more or less inactive and so did their rulers with the exception of ''Bushahr''.<ref name=nichist/> Some of them even rendered help to the British government during the revolt. Among them were the rulers of [[Chamba]], [[Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh|Bilaspur]], Bhagal and Dhami. The rulers of Bushars rather acted in a manner hostile to the interests of British.<ref name=nichist/>
The British territories in the hill came under British Crown after Queen Victoria's proclamation of 1858. The states of [[Chamba]], [[Mandi]] and [[Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh|Bilaspur]] made good progress in many fields during the British rule.<ref name=nichist/> During the [[first world war]], virtually all rulers of the hill states remained loyal and contributed to the British war effort both in the form of men and materials. Amongst these were the states of [[Kangra]], Jaswan,Datarpur,Guler, [[Nurpur]], [[Chamba]], Suket, [[Mandi]] and [[Bilaspur, Himachal Pradesh|Bilaspur]].<ref name=nichist/>
After independence the ''Chief Commissioner's province of H.P.'' came into being on [[15 April]], [[1948]]. The province comprised of the hill districts around [[Shimla]] and southern hill areas of the former [[Punjab region]]. Himachal became a part C state on [[26 January]], [[1950]] with the implementation of the [[Constitution of India]]. Himachal Pradesh became [[Union Territory]] on [[1 November]], [[1956]].<ref name=nichist/> On [[18 December]], [[1970]] the State of Himachal Pradesh Act was passed by Parliament and the new state came into being on [[25 January]], [[1971]]. Thus Himachal emerged as the eighteenth state of Indian Union.<ref name=nichist/>
== Geography and climate==
{{Main|Geography of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Khajjiar himachal pradesh india summer.jpg|thumb|right|A summer view of [[Khajjiar]]]]
Himachal is situated in the western [[Himalayas]]. Covering an area of {{convert|55780|km|mi|0}},<ref name=area>{{cite web
|url = http://www.indianmirror.com/geography/geo9.html| title = Statistical Facts about India
|accessdate = 2006-10-26| publisher = www.indianmirror.com
}}</ref> Himachal Pradesh is a mountainous state with elevation ranging from about {{convert|350|m|ft|0}} to {{convert|6000|m|ft|0}} above the [[sea level]].<ref name="ghp1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradesh.us/himachal/himachal_glance.php
|title = Himachal at a glance
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = www.himachalpradesh.us
}}</ref>
[[Image:Beas river and mountains as seen from Van Vihar, Manali.jpg|thumb|left|[[River Beas]] near [[Manali]].]]
The [[drainage]] system of Himachal is composed both of [[rivers]] and [[glacier]]s. Himalayan rivers criss-cross the entire mountain chain. In fact the rivers are older than the mountain system. <ref name="geo2">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradesh.us/geography/himachal_rivers.php
|title = Rivers in Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-10-26
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = www.himachalpradesh.us
}}</ref>
Himachal Pradesh provides water to both the [[Indus]] and [[Ganges]] [[basins]].<ref name="geo3">{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/land/rivers.htm#R
|title = Rivers in Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-04-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Suni Systems (P)
}}</ref> The drainage systems of the region are the Chandra Bhaga or the [[Chenab]], the [[Ravi River|Ravi]], the [[Beas]], the [[Sutlej]] and the [[Yamuna]]. These rivers are [[Perennial stream|perennial]] and are fed by snow and rainfall. They are protected by an extensive cover of natural vegetation.
<ref name="geo3">{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/land/rivers.htm#R
|title = Rivers in Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-04-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Suni Systems (P)
}}</ref>
There is great variation in the climatic conditions of Himachal due to extreme variation in elevation. The climate varies from hot and sub-humid tropical in the southern tracts to cold, alpine and glacial in the northern and eastern mountain ranges with more elevation.<ref name="geo1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradesh.us/geography/himachal_climate.php
|title = Climate of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-10-26
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = www.himachalpradesh.us
}}</ref> The state has areas like [[Dharamsala]] that receive very heavy rainfall, as well as those like [[Lahaul and Spiti]] that are cold and almost rainless. Broadly Himachal experience three seasons; hot weather season, cold weather season and rainy season. Summer lasts from mid April till the end of June and most parts become very hot (except in [[alpine]] zone which experience mild summer) with the average [[temperature]] ranging from {{convert|28|°C|°F|0|lk=on}} to {{convert|32|°C|°F|0}}.<ref name="geocli">{{cite web
|url = http://www.indiasite.com/himachalpradesh/land.html
|title = Climate of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-05-12
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = indiasite.com
}}</ref> Winter lasts from late November till mid March. [[Snowfall]] is common in alpine tracts (generally above {{convert|2200|m|ft|0}} i.e. in the Higher and Trans-Himalayan region).<ref name="geocli">{{cite web
|url = http://www.indiasite.com/himachalpradesh/land.html
|title = Climate of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-05-12
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = indiasite.com
}}</ref>
== Flora and fauna ==
{{Main|Wildlife of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Barking Deer.JPG|thumb|right|Barking deer (HP wildlife)]]
According to 2003 [[Forest Survey of India]] report, legally defined forest areas constitute 66.52% of the area of Himachal Pradesh, although area under tree cover is only 25.78%.<ref name=hpfdforests>{{cite web
|url= http://www.hpforest.nic.in/frst2.htm
|title= The Forests
|accessdate= 2008-04-03
|author= Himachal Pradesh Forest Department
|publisher= National Informatics Center, Himachal Pradesh
}}</ref> Vegetation in the state is dictated by [[elevation]] and [[precipitation (meteorology)|precipitation]]. The southern part of the state which is at lower elevation has both [[tropical and subtropical dry broadleaf forests]] and [[tropical and subtropical moist broadleaf forests]].<ref name=hpfdforests/> A part of the [[Himalayan subtropical broadleaf forests]], the vegetation is dominated by [[sal]], sisham, chir [[pine]], dry [[deciduous]] and moist broad-leafed forests. The temperate region grows [[oaks]], [[deodar]], blue [[pine]], [[fir]] and [[spruce]]. In the uppermost region, trees are sturdy with a vast network of roots. [[Alders]], [[birches]], [[rhododendrons]] and moist [[alpine]] scrubs are there as the regional [[vegetation]]. The [[rhododendrons]] can be seen along the hillsides around [[Shimla]] from March to May.
Himachal is also said to be the fruit bowl of the country with orchards scattered all over the place.<ref name="vegetation">{{cite web
|url = http://www.indiasite.com/himachalpradesh/land.html
|title = Flora and Fauna
|accessdate = 2006-10-26
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher =
}}</ref> Meadows and pastures are also seen clinging to steep slopes. After the winter season, the hillsides and orchards bloom with wild flowers, while [[gladiolas]], [[carnations]], [[marigolds]], [[roses]], [[chrysanthemums]], [[tulips]] and [[lilies]] are carefully cultivated. The state government is gearing up to make Himachal Pradesh as the flower basket of the world.
Himachal Pradesh is a well known habitat to a variety of animals. There are around 1200 bird and 359 animal species in the state.<ref name="faunainfo">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradeshindia.com/geographical_info.html
|title = Fauna
|accessdate = 2007-05-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher =
}}</ref>
This includes the [[leopards]], ghoral, [[snow leopard]], musk deer (the state animal) and [[Western Tragopan]] (the state bird). It has 12 major national parks and sanctuaries – the largest number in the Himalayan region. The [[Great Himalayan National Park]] in [[Kullu]] district was created to conserve the flora and fauna of the main Himalayan range, while the [[Pin Valley National Park]] to conserve the flora and fauna of the [[cold desert]].<ref name="vegetation">{{cite web
|url = http://www.indiasite.com/himachalpradesh/land.html
|title = Flora and Fauna
|accessdate = 2006-10-26
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher =
}}</ref>
== Subdivisions ==
{{Main|Districts of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Himachalpradesh map.gif|250px|thumb|Districts]]
Himachal Pradesh is divided into 12 districts namely, [[Kangra District|Kangra]], [[Hamirpur District, Himachal Pradesh|Hamirpur]], [[Mandi District|Mandi]], [[Bilaspur district, Himachal Pradesh|Bilaspur]], [[Una District|Una]], [[Chamba District|Chamba]], [[Lahul and Spiti]], [[Sirmaur District|Sirmaur]], [[Kinnaur District|Kinnaur]], [[Kullu District|Kullu]], [[Solan District|Solan]] and [[Shimla District|Shimla]]. The state capital is [[Shimla]] which was formerly British India's summer capital under the name ''Simla''.
A district of Himachal Pradesh is an administrative geographical unit, headed by a [[Deputy Commissioner (India)|Deputy Commissioner]] or District Magistrate, an officer belonging to the [[Indian Administrative Service]]. The district magistrate or the deputy commissioner is assisted by a number of officers belonging to Himachal Administrative Service and other Himachal state services. Each district is subdivided into Sub-Divisions, governed by a [[Sub-Divisional Magistrate|sub-divisional magistrate]], and again into Blocks. Blocks consists of [[panchayat]]s (village councils) and town [[Municipality|municipalities]]. A [[Superintendent of Police (India)|Superintendent of Police]], an officer belonging to the [[Indian Police Service]] is entrusted with the responsibility of maintaining law and order and related issues of the district. He is assisted by the officers of the Himachal Police Service and other Himachal Police officials.
== Government ==
{{Main|Government of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Town hall ridge side Shimla.jpg|thumb|Town Hall in Shimla.]]
The Himachal Pradesh [[Legislative Assembly]] has no pre-[[Constitution]] history. The State itself is a post-Independence creation. It came into being as a centrally administered territory on [[15 April]] [[1948]] from the integration of thirty erstwhile princely states.<ref name="gov1">{{cite web
|url = http://legislativebodiesinindia.gov.in/States/Himachal/himachal_w.htm
|title = Himachal Pradesh (gov) Introduction
|accessdate = 2007-05-03
|last =
|first =
|work = National informatics center
|publisher = Computer Centre, Lok Sabha Secretariat
}}</ref>
Himachal Pradesh is governed through a [[parliamentary system]] of [[representative democracy]], a feature the state shares with other Indian states. [[Universal suffrage]] is granted to residents. The [[legislature]] consists of elected members and special office bearers such as the Speaker and the Deputy Speaker who are elected by the members. Assembly meetings are presided over by the Speaker or the Deputy Speaker in the Speaker's absence. The [[judiciary]] is composed of the [[Himachal Pradesh High Court]] and a system of lower courts. [[executive (government)|Executive authority]] is vested in the Council of Ministers headed by the [[:Category:Chief Ministers of Himachal Pradesh|Chief Minister]], although the titular head of government is the [[Governors of Himachal Pradesh|Governor]]. The Governor is the [[head of state]] appointed by the [[President of India]]. The leader of the party or coalition with a majority in the Legislative Assembly is appointed as the Chief Minister by the Governor, and the Council of Ministers are appointed by the Governor on the advice of the Chief Minister. The Council of Ministers reports to the Legislative Assembly. The Assembly is [[unicameral]] with 68 [[Member of the Legislative Assembly|Members of the Legislative Assembly]] (MLA).<ref name=295mla>{{cite web
|url = http://legislativebodiesinindia.gov.in/
|title = Legislative Assembly| accessdate = 2006-10-28| work = Legislative Bodies in India| publisher = National Informatics Centre }}</ref> Terms of office run for 5 years, unless the Assembly is dissolved prior to the completion of the term. Auxiliary authorities known as ''[[panchayat]]s'', for which local body elections are regularly held, govern local affairs.
Governments have seen alternates between [[Bharatiya Janata Party]] (BJP) & [[Indian National Congress]] (INC), no third front ever has become significant. In 2003, the state legislative assembly was won by the Indian National Congress and [[Virbhadra Singh]] was elected as the chief minister of the state. In the assembly elections held in December 2007, the BJP secured a landslide victory. The BJP won 41 of the 68 seats while the Congress won only 23 of the 68 seats. BJP's [[Prem Kumar Dhumal]] was sworn in as [[Chief Minister of Himachal Pradesh]] on [[30 December]], [[2007]]
== Economy ==
{{Main|Economy of Himachal Pradesh}}
{| class="wikitable" border="1" align="right" cellpadding="3" cellspacing="1" width="260" style="margin: 0 0 1em 1em; background: #F4F5F6; border: 1px #C6C7C8 solid; border-collapse: collapse; font-size: 90%"
| colspan="2" bgcolor="#C2D6E5" align="center" | '''Gross State Domestic Product at Current Prices
figures in [[million]]s of [[Indian rupee|Indian Rupees]]
|-
! Year || Gross State Domestic Product
|-
| 1980 || 7,940
|-
| 1985 || 13,720
|-
| 1990 || 28,150
|-
| 1995 || 66,980
|-
| 2000 || 135,900
|-
| 2005 || 230,240
|-
| 2007 || 254,350
|}
The era of planning started in Himachal in 1948 along with the rest of [[India]]. The first [[Five-year plans of India|five year plan]] allocated Rs.5.27 [[crore]] to Himachal. More than 50% of this expenditure was incurred on road construction since it was felt that without proper transport facilities, the process of planning and development could not be carried to the people, who mostly lived an isolated existence in far away areas. Himachal now ranks fourth in respect of per capita income among the states of the [[Indian Union]].<ref name="eco1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/economy/econodeve.htm
|title = Economy of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-04-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Suni System (P)
}}</ref><br/>
[[Agriculture]] contributes over 45% to the net state domestic product. It is the main source of income and employment in Himachal. Over 93% of the population in Himachal depend directly upon agriculture which provides direct employment to 71% of its people.
The main cereals grown are [[wheat]], [[maize]], [[rice]] and [[barley]].<br />
Himachal has a rich heritage of [[handicrafts]]. These include woolen and [[pashmina]] shawls, [[carpets]], [[silver]] and metal ware, embroidered chappals, grass shoes, Kangra and Gompa style paintings, wood work, horse-hair bangles, wooden and metal utensils and various other house hold items. These aesthetic and tasteful handicrafts declined under competition from machine made goods and also because of lack of marketing facilities. But now the demand for handicrafts has increased within and outside the country.<br />
Himachal is extremely rich in [[hydel]] resources. The state has about 25% of the national potential in this respect. It has been estimated that about 20,300MW of hydel power can be generated in the State by constructing various major, medium, small and mini/micro hydel projects on the five [[river basins]]. The state is also the first state in [[India]] to achieve the goal of having a bank account for every family.<ref name="eco1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.webindia123.com/himachal/economy/econodeve.htm
|title = Economy of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2006-04-28
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Suni System (P)
}}</ref>
<br/>
As per the current prices, the total GDP was estimated at Rs 25,435 [[crore]] (Rs 254,350,000,000), as against Rs 23,024 [[crore]] (Rs 230,240,000,000) in the year 2004-05, showing an increase of 10.5%.<ref name="ecogdp">{{cite web
|url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2007/20070306/himachal.htm#6
|title = Current GDP
|accessdate = 2007-05-23
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = H. K. Dua, The Tribune House
}}</ref>
== Transport ==
{{Main|Transport in Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:KSR Train on a small bridge 05-02-12 52.jpeg|thumb|[[Kalka-Shimla Railway]]]]
Roads are the major mode of transport in the hilly terrains of Himachal Pradesh. The state has road network of {{convert|28208|km|mi|0|abbr=on}},<ref name=pppiinfr>{{cite web
|url= http://www.pppinindia.com/states_hp_infrastructure.asp
|title= Himachal Pradesh: Infrastructure
|accessdate= 2008-04-06
|work= Public Private Partnerships in India
|publisher= Ministry of Finance, [[Government of India]]
}}</ref> including eight [[Indian highways|national highways]] (NH) that constitute {{convert|1234|km|mi|abbr=on}}.<ref name=pppiinfr/> Some roads get closed during winter and [[monsoon]] seasons due to [[snowfall]] and [[landslides]]. Regular bus services connect [[Shimla]] with [[Chandigarh]], [[Kullu]], [[Manali]], [[Delhi]], [[Mandi]], [[Pathankot]], [[Ambala]], [[Chail]] and [[Dehradun]]. Local taxis are the major local transport here. District [[Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh|Hamirpur]] has got the highest road density in the country.<ref name=Hamirpur-rd>{{cite web
|url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2002/20020518/himachal.htm
|title = Hamirpur road density
|accessdate = 2007-05-22
|publisher = Hari Jaisingh, Published from The Tribune House
}}</ref>
Railway track is accessible only to a few places in Himachal Pradesh. The [[Pathankot]]–[[Jogindernagar]] line connects[[Punjab (India)|Punjab]] with Himachal Pradesh. The other railway tracks pass through [[Shimla]], [[Solan]] and [[Una, Himachal Pradesh|Una]]. [[Shimla]] is connected with [[Kalka]] by a narrow gauge railway line, which in turn is connected with the major cities in [[India]]. Himachal has two narrow gauge rail tracks. The [[Kalka-Shimla Railway]] track has a length of 96 kilometers. It passes through 102 tunnels and crosses 864 bridges.<ref>Hughes, H., (1994) ''Indian Locomotives Part 3, Narrow Gauge, 1863-1940.'' The Continental Railway Circle, Harrow, UK. ISBN 0-9521655-0-3</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://india.mapsofindia.com/transportation/special-trains/kalka-shimla-railway.html|title=MapsOfIndia article on [[Kalka-Shimla Railway]]|accessdate=2007-03-13}}</ref>
There are three [[domestic airport]]s in the state—[[Shimla Airport]], [[Bhuntar Airport]] serving [[Kullu]] and [[Manali, Himachal Pradesh|Manali]], and [[Gaggal Airport]] serving [[Kangra]] and [[Dharamsala]]. The air routes connect the state with [[Delhi]] and [[Chandigarh]]. There are no international airports in Himachal Pradesh. [[Jagson Airlines]] has flights from [[Delhi]] to [[Shimla]].<ref name=Transport>{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradeshindia.com/route.html
|title = Transportation in Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = Himachal Transport Dep. Co.
}}</ref>
== Demographics ==
[[Image:BhimaKaliTemple.jpg|thumb|Bhima Kali temple in [[Rampur district, India| RAMPUR district]]. Majority of Himachal Pradesh's populace practices [[Hinduism]].]]
The population of Himachal in 2001 stood at 6,077,248 as per the provisional results of the Census of India 2001.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref> The population of Himachal Pradesh includes estimated population of entire [[Kinnaur]] district, where the population enumeration of Census of India, 2001 could not be conducted due to natural calamity.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref> In terms of population it holds the same position (twenty first) among States and Union territories as at the previous census.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref> The population of the State rose by 17.53% between 1991-2001.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref> The sex ratio (i.e., the number of females per thousand males) of population was recorded as 970, which has declined from 976 in the previous census.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref> Total [[Literacy in India|literacy]] of the State rose to 77.13% from 63.94% in 1991.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref>
The tribal population of the state comprise of the [[Gaddi]]s, [[Kinnar]]s, [[Gujjar]]s, [[Pangawal]]s, [[Lahaulis]] and [[Spitians]].<ref name=dem2>{{cite web
|url = http://123himachal.com/himachal/info.htm
|title = The people and tribes
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|publisher = www.123himachal.com
}}</ref> The Gaddis are the traditional shepherds who migrate from the alpine pastures to the lower regions during the winters. The Kinnars are the inhabitants of the Kinnaur region and have traditionally practiced polyandry and polygamy. The Gujjars are nomads who rear buffalo herds. Himachal also has a sizeable population of Tibetans<ref name=dem2>{{cite web
|url = http://123himachal.com/himachal/info.htm
|title = The people and tribes
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|publisher = www.123himachal.com
}}</ref>
About 95.4% of the population of Himachal Pradesh consists of Hindus, Muslims 2.0%, Sikhs 1.2% and Buddhists 1.2% <ref>http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/ 2001 Indian Census Data</ref>. There main communities are Brahmins, Rajputs, Kannets, Rathis and Kolis. Himachal Pradesh has the highest proportion of Hindu population in India. Other religions are [[Sikhism]] and [[Buddhism]]. The Lahaulis of Lahaul and Spiti region are mainly Buddhists.<ref name=demo1>{{cite web
|url = http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070812142520/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/
|archivedate=2007-08-12Summary%20Hindus.pdf
|archiveurl = http://web.archive.org/web/20070615002344/http://www.censusindia.net/religiondata/Summary+Hindus.pdf
|archivedate=2007-06-15
|title = Ethnic composition
|accessdate = 2007-01-31
|publisher = The First Report on Religion : Census of India 2001
}}</ref>
The major spoken languages include [[Hindi language|Hindi]], [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]], Mahasui, Kulluyi, Lahauli, Kinnauri, Chambyali, Sirmauri, Bilaspuri, [[Pahari]], [[Dogri]], [[Kangri]].<ref name=dem2>{{cite web
|url = http://123himachal.com/himachal/info.htm
|title = The people and tribes
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|publisher = www.123himachal.com
}}</ref>
Some of the achievements in human development by the state are listed below<ref name=demoHDR>{{cite web
|url = http://www.undp.org.in/media/HDRC/shdr/Himachal%20Pradesh/Himachal%20Pradesh.pdf
|title = Highlights of Himachal Pradesh HDR (2002)
|accessdate = 2007-05-26
|publisher = Government of Himachal Pradesh (2002), Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002, Government of Himachal Pradesh, pp. 40
}}</ref>-
* The [[life expectancy]] at birth was 62.8 years (higher than the national average of 57.7 years) for the period 1986–1990.<ref name=demoHDR>{{cite web
|url = http://www.undp.org.in/media/HDRC/shdr/Himachal%20Pradesh/Himachal%20Pradesh.pdf
|title = Highlights of Himachal Pradesh HDR (2002)
|accessdate = 2007-05-26
|publisher = Government of Himachal Pradesh (2002), Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002, Government of Himachal Pradesh, pp. 40
}}</ref>
* The [[Infant mortality rate]] has fallen down from 118 in 1971 to 62 in 1999.
* The crude [[birth rate]] has declined from 37.3 in 1971 to 22.6 in 1998 i.e. below the national average of 26.5 in 1998.
* The crude [[death rate]] has declined from 15.6 in 1971 to 7.7 in 1998.
* The [[Total Fertility Rate]] (TFR) has declined from 4.7 to 3.6.
* Overall literacy grew by 34.65% between the period 1981 and 2001.
[[Kullu district]] is leading with the value of 0.534 in Human development index (HDI)
<ref name=demoHDR>{{cite web
|url = http://www.undp.org.in/media/HDRC/shdr/Himachal%20Pradesh/Himachal%20Pradesh.pdf
|title = Highlights of Himachal Pradesh HDR (2002)
|accessdate = 2007-05-26
|publisher = Government of Himachal Pradesh (2002), Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002, Government of Himachal Pradesh, pp. 40
}}</ref>
Languages of the [[Sino-Tibetan languages]] spoken in Himachal Pradesh are the [[Sunam language]] 558 (1998), [[Gahri language]] 4,000 (1997), [[Jangshung language]] 1,990 (1998),[[Kanashi language]] 1,400 (2002 Chauhan), [[Kinnauri language]] 48,778, [[Kinnauri]] [[Bhoti language]] 6,000 (1998),
[[Chitkuli language]] 1,060 (1998), [[Pattani language]] 11,000 (1997), [[Shumcho language]] 2,174 (1998) and the [[Tukpa language]] 723 (1998)<ref name = Ethnologue >{{cite web
|url = http://www.ethnologue.com/show_family.asp?subid=90419
|title = Sino-Tibetan, Tibeto-Burman, Himalayish, Tibeto-Kanauri, Western Himalayish, Kanauri.
|accessdate = 2007-07-09
|publisher = Gordon, Raymond G., Jr. (ed.), 2005. Ethnologue: Languages of the World, Fifteenth edition. Dallas, Tex.: SIL International
}}</ref>
==Culture==
{{Main|Culture of Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Shimla India .jpg|thumb|Anglo-Indian architecture [[church]] in Shimla.]]
Himachal was one of the few states that had remained largely untouched by external customs, largely due to its difficult terrain. With the technological advancements the state has changed very rapidly.
It is a multireligional, multicultural as well as multilingual state like other Indian states. Some of the most commonly spoken languages includes [[Hindi language|Hindi]], [[Punjabi language|Punjabi]], [[Pahari]], [[Dogri]], [[Kangri]] and [[Kinnauri language|Kinnauri]].<ref name=dem2>{{cite web
|url = http://123himachal.com/himachal/info.htm
|title = The people and tribes
|accessdate = 2007-05-20
|publisher = www.123himachal.com
}}</ref> The [[Hindu]] caste communities residing in Himachal include the ''[[Brahmins]]'', ''[[Rajputs]]'', ''Kannets'', ''Rathis'' and ''[[Kolis]]''.<ref name="introcul1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachalpradeshindia.com/culture-of-himachal-pradesh.html
|title = Ethnicity
|accessdate = 2007-05-24
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher =
}}</ref> There are also tribal population in the state which mainly comprise [[Gaddis]], ''[[Kinnar]]s'', [[Gujjars]], ''Pangawals'' and ''Lahaulis''.<ref name="cul1">{{cite web
|url = http://www.indialine.com/travel/himachalpradesh/culture.html
|title = Culture of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-05-03
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Indialine (2007)
}}</ref><br/>
The state is well known for its handicrafts. The carpets, leather works, shawls, paintings, metalware, woodwork and paintings are worth appreciating. Pashmina shawl is one of the product which is highly in demand not only in Himachal but all over the country. Himachali caps are also famous art work of the people. Extreme cold winters of Himachal necessitated wool weaving. Nearly every household in Himachal owns a pit-loom. Wool is also considered as pure and is used as a ritual cloth. The well known woven object is the shawl, ranging from fine pashmina to the coarse desar. Kullu is famous for its shawls with striking patterns and vibrant colours.
[[Music of Himachal Pradesh|Local music]] and [[Traditional dances of Himachal Pradesh|dance]] reflects the cultural identity of the state. Through their dance and music, they entreat their gods during local festivals and other special occasions.
Apart from the fairs and festivals that are celebrated all over India, there are number of other fairs and festivals also that are of great significance to Himachal Pradesh.
[[Shimla]], the state capital is home to Asia's only natural Ice skating rink<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2001/20010211/himachal.htm#21 | title= Ice-skating rink completes 100 sessions again| publisher = The Tribune, Chandigarh, India | accessdate=2001-02-11}}</ref>.
The day to day food of ''Himachalis'' is very similar to the rest of the north [[India]]. They too have [[lentil]], [[broth]], [[rice]], [[vegetables]] and [[bread]]. As compared to other states in north India non vegetarian is more preferred.<ref name="cul1"/> Some of the specialities of Himachal include ''Pateer'', ''Chouck'', ''Bhagjery'', ''Patrode'', ''Beduan'' and ''chutney'' of Til.
Famous people associated with Himachal include English author [[Rudyard Kipling]], Indian film personalities [[Dalip Singh Rana]], [[Anupam Kher]], [[Preity Zinta]], [[Amrish Puri]] (who studied here), and [[Prem Chopra]] (brought up here), economist and former vice-president of [[World Bank]] [[Shahid Javed Burki]], [[Satyananda Stokes]] who introduced apple in the region, writer [[Idries Shah]], [[Ornithology|ornithologist]] [[Allan Octavian Hume]] (had his home here), former general of [[Pakistan]] [[Muhammad Zia-ul-Haq]] and current President of [[Afghanistan]] [[Hamid Karzai]] who both studied here
== Education ==
{{Main|Education in Himachal Pradesh}}
[[Image:Igmc-shimla.jpg|thumb|250px|Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital at Shimla]]
Himachal Pradesh has one of the highest literacy rates in India.<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref> [[Hamirpur, Himachal Pradesh|Hamirpur]] District is among the top districts in the country for literacy.<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref> Education rates among women are quite encouraging in the state.<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref><br />
The standard of education in the state has reached to a considerably high level as compared to other states in [[India]].<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref> The state has several reputed educational institutes for higher studies.
The [[Himachal Pradesh University]] (HPU), Shimla and the [[National Institute of Technology, Hamirpur|NIT, Hamirpur]] are some of the pioneer institutes located in the state. [[Dr. Yashwant Singh Parmar University of Horticulture and Forestry]] has earned a unique distinction in India for imparting teaching, research and extension education in horticulture, forestry and allied disciplines.<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref>
The government is working constantly to prepare various plans and projects in order to strengthen the education system of the state. Recently, the State Government has decided to start three nursing colleges to develop the health system in the state.
There are over 10,000 primary schools, 1,000 secondary schools and more than 1,300 high schools in Himachal.<ref name="eduprofile2">{{cite web
|url = http://himachal.nic.in/educ/ Himachal Govt. Website
|title = Factual source on Education in Himachal
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work =
|publisher = Government of India
}}</ref>
The state government has decided to start up with 3 major nursing colleges to develop the health system in the state.<ref name="eduprofile">{{cite web
|url = http://www.himachaleducation.net/EducationProfile/ Education profile of Himachal
|title = Educational Profile of Himachal Pradesh
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last =
|first =
|work = General Overview of Education in Himachal
|publisher = Pragati Infosoft Pvt. Ltd.
}}</ref>
In meeting the constitutional obligation to make primary education compulsory, Himachal has now became the first state in [[India]] to make elementary education accessible to every child in the [[state]].<ref name="eduprofile3">{{cite web
|url = http://www.tribuneindia.com/2003/20030629/himachal.htm
|title = Educational updates- Himachal
|accessdate = 2007-03-16
|last = Dua
|first = H.K.
|work = The Tribune Trust, 2006
|publisher = The Tribune House
}}</ref>
The State has got Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital. Besides that there is Himachal Dental College which is the first recognised Dental Institute in the State.<ref>[http://www.igmcshimla.org/about_IGMC.htm Indira Gandhi Medical college] Retrieved on- April 2008</ref>
== Media and communication ==
Though situated in a remote part of the country, Himachal Pradesh has an active community of journalists and publishers. Several newspapers and magazines are published in more than one language, and their reach extends to almost all the [[Hindi]] speaking states. Radio and TV have permeated significantly. Judging by the number of people writing to these media, there is a very large media-aware population in the state.<br />
''[[The Telegraph (Kolkata)|The Telegraph]]'', ''[[The Statesman]]'', ''[[Asian Age]]'', ''[[Hindustan Times]]'', ''Punjab Kesari'' and ''[[The Times of India]]'' are the newspapers published here. Vernacular newspapers such as those in [[Hindi]], [[Punjabi]] and [[Nepali language|Nepali]] are also read by selected readership.<br />
[[Doordarshan]] is the state-owned television broadcaster. [[Multi system operator]]s provide a mix of Nepali, Hindi, [[English language|English]], and international channels via [[Cable television|cable]]. [[All India Radio]] is a public radio station. Private [[frequency modulation|FM]] stations are also available in few cities like [[Shimla]]. [[BSNL]], [[Reliance Infocomm]], [[Tata Indicom]], and [[Airtel]] are available [[cell phone|cellular]] phone operators. [[Broadband]] internet is available in select towns and cities and is provided by the state-run BSNL and by other private companies. [[Dial-up access]] is provided throughout the state by BSNL and other providers.
==Notes==
{{Reflist|2}}
{{commons|Himachal Pradesh}}
==References==
{{col-begin}}
{{col-2}}
<div class="references-small">
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1 = Ahluwalia
|Given1 = M.S.
|Year = 1998
|Title = Social, Cultural and Economic History of Himachal Pradesh
|Publisher= Indus Publishing
|ISBN = 8173870896
|url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=tG0fnF0VRk0C&dq=himachal+history&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1 = Batta
|Given1 = R.N.
|Year = 2000
|Title =Tourism and the Environment: A Quest for Sustainability
|Publisher= Indus Publishing
|ISBN =8173871108
|url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=lDJrdjwM7qYC&dq=himachal&lr=&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1 = Singh
|Given1 = Sarina
|Year = 2005
|Title =India
|Publisher= Lonely Planet
|ISBN = 1740596943
|url= http://books.google.co.in/books?id=Fk8FQa2ZSFQC&dq=himachal+history&lr=&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1 = Tiwari
|Given1 = A.K.
|Year = 2000
|Title =Infrastructure and Economic Development in Himachal Pradesh
|Publisher= Indus Publishing
|ISBN =8173871051
|url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=aaXQwI5j9-MC&dq=himachal&lr=&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1 = Verma
|Given1 = V.
|Year = 1995
|Title =The Emergence of Himachal Pradesh: A Survey of Constitutional Developments
|Publisher= Indus Publishing
|ISBN = 8173870357
|url=http://books.google.co.in/books?id=QpWloqN5LTAC&dq=himachal+history&source=gbs_summary_s&cad=0
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
* {{Harvard reference
|Surname1= United Nations Development Programme (UNDP)
|Given1=
|Year= 2002
|Title= Himachal Pradesh Human Development Report 2002
|Publisher= Government of Himachal Pradesh
|ISBN= 0195219155
|url=http://www.undp.org.in/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=128&Itemid=216
|accessdate=2008-03-31
}}
</div>
*[http://hpplanning.nic.in/statistics&data.htm Statistics and Data, Planning Department, Government of Himachal Pradesh]
==External links==
*{{wikitravel}}
*[http://himachal.nic.in/ Official website of Himachal Pradesh Government]
*[http://himachal.nic.in/tour/census.htm Census 2001]
*[http://planningcommission.nic.in/plans/stateplan/stplsf.htm Himachal Pradesh Development Report]
*[http://www.himachaltourism.gov.in/ Himachal Tourism Website]
*[http://www.hptdc.gov.in/ Himachal tourism department Co.]
*[http://www.himachaltourism.nic.in/ Himachal tourism overview]
*[http://myhimachal.com/ Culture Website: http://myhimachal.com]
*[http://www.devbhoomihimachal.com/ Website Himachal]
*[http://www.himvani.com/ The Voice of Himachal: http://www.himvani.com]
*[http://www.himbodh.com/ Himachal Handicrafts: http://www.www.himbodh.com]
*[http://www.himalayanrendezvous.com/ Education and Research and training: http://www.himalayanrendezvous.com/info/contribution.html]
{{Himachal Pradesh topics}}
{{India}}
[[Category:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[Category:States and territories of India]]
[[ar:هيماتشال براديش]]
[[bn:হিমাচল প্রদেশ]]
[[be:Хімачал-Прадэш]]
[[bg:Химачал Прадеш]]
[[ca:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[cs:Himáčalpradéš]]
[[cy:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[da:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[de:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[dv:ހިމާޗަލް ޕްރަދޭޝް]]
[[et:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[es:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[eo:Himaĉal-Pradeŝo]]
[[fa:هیماچال پرادش]]
[[fr:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[gu:હિમાચલ પ્રદેશ]]
[[ko:히마찰프라데시 주]]
[[hi:हिमाचल प्रदेश]]
[[hr:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[bpy:হিমাচল প্রদেশ]]
[[id:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[it:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[he:הימאצ'אל פראדש]]
[[kn:ಹಿಮಾಚಲ ಪ್ರದೇಶ]]
[[ka:ჰიმაჩალ-პრადეში]]
[[lt:Himačal Pradešas]]
[[hu:Himácsal Pradés]]
[[ml:ഹിമാചല് പ്രദേശ്]]
[[mr:हिमाचल प्रदेश]]
[[ms:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[nl:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[ja:ヒマーチャル・プラデーシュ州]]
[[nap:Himačl Prdeš]]
[[no:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[nn:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[pl:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[pt:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[ro:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[ru:Химачал-Прадеш]]
[[sa:हिमाचल प्रदेश]]
[[simple:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[sr:Химачал Прадеш]]
[[sh:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[fi:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[sv:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[ta:இமாசலப் பிரதேசம்]]
[[te:హిమాచల్ ప్రదేశ్]]
[[th:รัฐหิมาจัลประเทศ]]
[[vi:Himachal Pradesh]]
[[tg:Ҳимочал Прадеш]]
[[zh:喜马偕尔邦]]