Chhattisgarh mains Paper V section III

SECTION-03-

GEOGRAPHY OF CHHATTISGARH–

Physical features and Divisions

Chhattisgarh: Relief and Structure--Chhattisgarh has area of 135194 square km which is 4.14% of the
geographical area of India. It is located in the centre of 17.43' to 24.5 degree North latitude and 80.15 to
84.20 degree East longitude.

Chhattisgarh was formed on 1 November 2000 by partitioning 16 Chhattisgarhi-speaking

southeastern districts of Madhya Pradesh. The capital city of Chhattisgarh is Raipur. Uttar Pradesh in
North, Jharkhand in North-East, Orissa in East, Andhra Pradesh in South, Maharashtra in South-West and
M.P. & Maharashtra in West form its borders. Currently chhattisgarh comprises 27 districts.. 43% Land is
covered by Forests.

There are 3geographical zones northen hills, central plains and Bastar plateau.

 Northern Hills: The area of this agroclimatic zone accounts for 21% of the total geographical area.
Koriya, Sarguja, Surajpur, BalrampurJashpur, Raigarh and Korba are districts situated in this part.
 Central Plain Zone: this agroclimatic zone covers 50% of the geographical area of the state.
Raipur, BalodabajarBhathpara, Gariyaband, Bilaspur, MungeliJanjgir-Champa, Kabirdham,
Rajnandgaon, Durg, Balod, BemetaraDhamtari and Mahasamund are districts included in this
plain region.

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River System – There is a network of 4 rivers. These rivers are Mahanadi, Godawari, Ganga and Narmada.
In this network, 31 large, small rivers and tributories, flow from East to West, covering a length of about
3573 Kms. in the State.

 Bastar Plateau Zone: It account for 29% of the geographical area of the state. Kanker (North
Bastar), Bastar, Kondagaon, Dantewada (South Bastar), Bijapur, Sukma and Narayanpur are
districts included in this region.

Soil, has water retention capacity in the range of light to medium 55%-65% i.e. the Soil represents low
water retention capacity.

Water
Region Name Soil Type Retention
Capacity

Light to medium (Reddish-Yellow) 55%

Northern Hills Zone
Med. Heavy to heavy(Brownish-Black) 15%

Light to medium (Reddish-Yellow) 65%

Central Plain Zone
Light to medium (Reddish-Yellow) 35%

Light to medium (Reddish-Yellow) 58%

Southern Plateau Zone
Light to medium (Reddish-Yellow) 42%

Location & extent

Chhattisgarh : Geographic Location-Chhattisgarh is located 17° 46' north to 24° 5' north latitude and from
80° 15' east to 84° 20' east longitude. The state is located at the central part of India and has a total area
of 135194 Sqkm. Chhattisgarh is surrounded by Orissa in the east, Maharashtra in the west, Andhra
Pradesh in south, Madhya Pradesh in the North West and Jharkhand in the north east. Almost 44% of
Chhattisgarh is covered by forests and is one of the richest bio-diversity habitats in India. The northern
part of Chhattisgarh lies on the edge of the great Indo-Gangetic plain, central part of the state lies in the
fertile upper basin of the Mahanadi and its tributaries and the southern part of the state lies on the
Deccan plateau. Mahanadi is the main river in Chhattisgarh and Iravati, Hasdeo, Rihand etc..., are other
major rivers.Chhattisgarh is one of the few landlocked states of the country.

The northern and southern parts of the state are hilly, while the central part is a fertile plain. The highest
point in the Chhattisgarh is the Bailadila Range. Deciduous forests of the Eastern Highlands Forests cover

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roughly 44% of the stateChhattisgarh animal is the van bhainsa, or wild water buffalo.Chhattisgarh bird is
the pahari myna, or hill myna. The state tree is the Sal (Sarai) found in Bastar division.

In the north lies the edge of the great Indo-Gangetic plain. The Rihand River, a tributary of the Ganges,
drains this area. The eastern end of the Satpura Range and the western edge of the Chota Nagpur
Plateau form an east-west belt of hills that divide the Mahanadi River basin from the Indo-Gangetic plain.
The outline of Chhattisgarh is like a sea horse.

The central part of the Chhattisgarh lies in the fertile upper basin of the Mahanadi river and its tributaries.
This area has extensive rice cultivation. The upper Mahanadi basin is separated from the

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upper Narmada basin to the west by the Maikal Hills (part of the Satpuras) and from the plains of Odisha
to the east by ranges of hills. The southern part of the state lies on the Deccan plateau, in the watershed
of the Godavari River and its tributary, the Indravati River. The Mahanadi is the chief river of the state. The
other main rivers are Hasdo (a tributary of Mahanadi), Rihand, Indravati, Jonk, Arpa and Shivnath. It is
situated in the east of Madhya Pradesh.

AmritDhara Waterfall. The natural beauty of Koriya includes dense forests, mountains, rivers and
waterfalls. AmritDhara Waterfall in Koriya is among the most famous waterfalls in Koriya. Koriya in
Chhattisgarh was a princely state during the British rule in India. Koriya is also known for the rich mineral
deposits. Coal is found in abundance in this part of the country. The dense forests are rich in wildlife.

The AmritDhara Water fall, Koriya is a natural waterfall which originates from the Hasdo River. The fall is
situated at a distance of seven kilometers from Koriya. The waterfall is ideally located on the
Manendragarh-Baikunthpur road. The AmritDhara Waterfall in Koriya in Chhattisgarh in India falls from a
height of 27 m. The waterfall is about 3–4.5 m wide. The point where the water falls, there, a cloudy
atmosphere is formed all around. Chirimiri is one of the more popular places, known for its pristine
beauty, and healthy climate in Chhattisgarh.

Drainage System

Rivers of Chhattisgarh adorn the Indian state and shapes the affluence of the region. The rivers of
Chhattisgarh are of much significance to the state from a stand point of economic, social, political and
religious views. Chhattisgarh, situated amidst lush green hills and plateaus, is interspersed with several
rivers that flow through the state. Due to the presence of natural drainage systems, Chhattisgarh is
blessed abundantly with prolific and fertile plains.

There is a huge demand for water required for irrigation and cultivation. Most of the major towns and
cities of the state have emerged on the banks of the rivers. Raipur, the capital of Chhattisgarh, is situated
on the banks of Kole River. Moreover, Maniyari River flows through Taalagaon, Jagdalpur is placed on the
river banks of Indravati Riverand Bilaspur is located near river Arpa.

Numerous religious and pilgrimage destinations have also emerged near these rivers. Danteshwari
temple in Dantewada is located on the confluence of two rivers, namely Dankini and Shankini Rivers.
Moreover, Rajim is situated on the confluence of the rivers Sondhul, Mahanadi and Pairi. The Rivers of
Chhattisgarh have become a major tourist attraction in the state due to the various beautiful waterfalls
and stunning rapids in the rivers.

The most significant rivers of Chhattisgarh are Narmada River, Mahanadi, Godavari River, Indravati and
few more. The state is manly drained by these rivers and their tributaries, distributaries and streams. The
Mahanadi River basin, which is segregated by the Chota Nagpur Plateau and the Satpura Range, is
considered as the central portion of the state. Northern region of the state includes the Indo-Gangetic
Plain where as the southern part comprises of the Godavari river and tributaries.

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The State is divided in to five river basins. Mahanadi Basin drains out 75,858.45 Sq km, Godavari Basin
drains out 38,694.02 Sq km, Ganga Basin drains out 18,406.65 Sq km, Brahmani Basin drains out 1,394.55
Sq km and Narmada Basin drains out 743.88 Sq km of catchment area in the state.

1. Mahanadi Basin

River Mahanadi, draining the vast central region of Chhattisgarh state, forms the most important and
biggest water body of the state. This river system collects almost all the rainwater of the basin and carries
it to the Bay of Bengal. The volume of water varies considerably between the rainy and the dry season.
The Mahanadi, after collecting a number of streams in the Kanker tehsil, flows towards the north
traversing Raipur district in a northeast direction for about 204 kms, until it is met from the west by its
biggest tributary, the Seonath.

The portion of Mahanadi Basin located in Chhattisgarh is divided further into a few more basins. The
Chhattisgarh Basin lies in the central districts, in the north are the Raigarh basin, HasdoRampur basin and
the Korba, and in the south is the Kanker basin. The Chhattisgarh Basin, formed by the Mahanadi and its
main tributary Seonath, drains the central districts of Rajnandgaon, Durg, Raipur and southern Bilaspur,
and is the most extensive and agriculturally rich region in the state.

It is referred to as the `rice bowl' of the country and supports a large chunk of the population of the state.
Paradoxically, this is also the area of greatest drought related distress. Most of the tributaries of Mahanadi
join in from the western and northern side. The major ones among these are Maini, Kelo, Mand, Baroi and
Hasdo

Seonath Sub Basin(Shivnath river)

Shivnath river originates from Panabaras hill 624 m above from sea level in AmbagarhChowki division
of Rajnandgaon District of chattisgarh.

Shivnath River is the biggest tributary of Mahanadi river, which it joins in Khargahni in Bilaspur
district in Chhattisgarh, India. It has a total course of 290 km. Shivnath could also mean a lord shiva for
the Hindu religion .

Hasdeo Sub Basin

Hasdeo River, a major tributary of the Mahanadi, is one of the important rivers of Chhattisgarh. It flows
towards south of the state,through Koriya, Bilaspur and Korba Districts. During its course, this river merges
with its tributaries such as Gej and the Chornai on the left bank and the Tan and the Ahiran on the right
before it meets the Mahanadi .Hasdeo has a total length of 245 km and has its origin in Mendra village.

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Other tributaries of Hasdeo include Jhumka and Bania. Along the river lie rocks and hilly areas, thin forest
areas and important settlements such as Sonhat, Ghugra, Manendragarh, Kosgain, Korba and Champa.

Mand Sub Basin

The Mand River is a tributary of the Mahanadi in India. It joins the Mahanadi in Chandrapur,
in Maharashtra, 28 km from the Odisha border and before the river reaches the Hirakud Dam.

The river, whose total length is 241 km, rises to an elevation of about 686 m
in Surguja district in Chhattisgarh. It receives the drainage of the southern part of
the Mainpat Plateau, an area of about 5200 km.

Ib Sub Basin

Ib River is a tributary of Mahanadi river in North-Eastern Central India. It joins Mahanadi river flowing
directly into the HirakudReservoir.The river originates in hills near Pandrapet at an elevation of 762
metres (2,500 ft). It passes through Raigarh district and Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh and Jharsuguda
and Sundargarh District of Odishaand finally meets Mahanadi at Hirakud Dam in the state .

Pairi sub Basin

Pairi River is one of the important tributaries of Mahanadi and it joins the Mahanadi
near Rajim, Gariaband district in Chhattisgarh, India. Originating in the Bhatigarh hills (493m) located near
Bindravagarh of Raipur district, the river flows southwards and meets the Mahandi near Rajim. The river
forms a catchment area of 3000 sq km in Raipur district.

Jonk sub Basin

Flowing via the mountainous areas of the Mahasamund through Raipur district, the river goes eastwards
to join the Mahanadi from Shivrinarayan. Its drainage area is 2480 square km in Raipur district.

Kelo Sub Basin

This river originates in the Gharghoda tehsil’s Ludega hills located in the Raigarh district. Flowing from
north to south from the Gharghoda and Raigarh districts, it reaches a place named MahadevPali in the
state of Orissa and joins the Mahanadi river.

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Tel Sub Basin

Tel is an important tributary of Mahanadi. It flows just eight kilometres away from the town of Titilagarh.
This significant tributary of the Mahanadi river meets the main river at Sonpur or Subarnapur. The
convergence of the two rivers offers a remarkable view against a colorful landscape. Baidyanath temple,
which is famous for the Kosaleshwar Shiva temple, is located on the left bank of the Tel River.

2.
Godavari Basin

Indravati Sub Basin

The Indravati river is the principal subsidiary of the Godavari river and the largest river in Bastar district. Its
origin is in the Kalahandi plateau of Orissa. After completing a distance of about 370km in Bastar, and
flowing from east to west, it joins the Godavari river. This river creates the spectacular Chitrakote waterfall,
about 35 miles west from Jagdalpur.

Sabari Sub Basin

The origin of this river is in the Bailadila hill near Dantewada. It then flows through the south-eastern
boundary of Bastar into Andhra Pradesh and joins the Godavari river in Kunavaram. In Bastar district the
Shabari river flows at a length of 150km, in which it forms a catchment area of 5680 km.

3.
Ganga Basin

The Ganges catchment system is spread for about 15% of the state. Under this flow field, 5% is in Bilaspur
district, 14% is in Raigarh district and 8% is in Surguja district.

Son

The river Sone is an important right bank tributary of the river Ganga. It originates from Amarkantak high
lands in hills of Maikala range in Bilaspur district of Chhattisgarh at an elevation of 640 m and latitude
20°44’ N and longitude 82°4’E. The river outfalls into the Ganga at about 16 km. upstream of Patna at
latitude 25°14’ N and longitude 84°42’ E . The total length of the river is 881 km. The total catchment area
of river system is 70,055 sq.km.

The catchment of the whole river system is surrounded by the Vindhachal range in the North, the Punpun
river system and the Chotanagpur plateau on the East, the Baghelkhand plateau and the Mahadeva hills
on the South and the forest clad Maikal and Bhamver ranges on the West .

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Kanhar, Rihand, Gopad, Banas, Bijal are its other tributaries.

Kanhar River

Flowing from the North-West of Bilaspur district, through the Khudiya plateau, it finally falls from a
mountainous region named Bakhona. The origination point of this river is 1012m high. From here it takes
a northern course to the Samari Tehsil, where it falls into a 60m high waterfall called Kothri. After which, it
joins the Son river on the borders of Satna and Son district. The Kanhar river forms a catchment area of
3030sq km in the Surguja district. SindurGalphula, Datram, Pengn, ect are its major tributaries.

Rihand River

This river stems from the 1088m high Matringa hills located in Mainpat plateau of the Surguja district.
Flowing towards north from its point of origin, the river creates the Surguja basin. That's why it is called
the lifeline of Surguja district. It has the largest catchment area of 145km. A dam called the Rihand has
been constructed over it in the Mirzapur region. After reaching the Rihand basin, it finally enters Uttar
Pradesh and joins the Son river. Ghunghuta, Morni, Mahan, Surya, Gobri, etc are its main tributaries. The
Rhand river’s principal subsidiary is Naida.

4. Brahmini Basin

The Brahmani is formed by the confluence of the rivers South Koel and Sankh near the major industrial
town of Rourkela . The Sankh has its origins near the Jharkhand-Chhattisgarh border, not far from
the Netarhat Plateau. The South Koel too arises in Jharkhand, near Lohardaga, on the other side of a
watershed that also gives rise to the Damodar River. Both of these sources are in the Chota Nagpur
Plateau. The site of the Brahmani's origin is mythologically reputed to be the place where
Sage Parashara fell in love with the fisherman's daughter, Satyavati who later gave birth to Ved Vyasa, the
[
compiler of the Mahabharata. The place is thus called Ved Vyasa.

5.
Narmada Basin

Narmada originates from the Satpura range in Amarkantak of Chhattisgarh. The Narmada River moves
from east towards west and reaches the Arabian Sea. In Chhattisgarh, it is also known as Reva, and the

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sacred river is believed to be associated with Lord Shiva. The people of the region believe that viewing
Narmada River is considered as an auspicious sight and thus it is a well renowned religious and
pilgrimage site.

Other important Rivers

Tandula River

This is Shivnath’s main tributary. Its origin is in the hills of Kanker district’s Bhanupratappur tehsil.

Kharun River

Flowing from the south-east of Durg district, 80 km northwards to a place named Somnath near Simga,
the river falls into Shivnath. This river forms a drainage area of 180 sq km in Durg district and 2700 sq km
in Raipur district.

Borai River

The Borai River stems from the Korba plateau. Flowing southwards from its origin, it joins the Mahanadi
River. It is one of the major tributaries of the Shivnath river.

Doodh River

15km from Kanker district are the Malajkundam hills, the source of this river have been located here. From
here it flows eastward and joins the Mahanadi River.

ankini and Shankini River

These two rivers are the main tributaries of the Indravati. The Dankini River originates in the Dangri-
Dongri and the Shankhini river originates in the Bailadila mountains. The Dankini and Shankini River blend
into each other at Dantewada.

Bagh River

This river originates from a plateau located in the Rajnandgaon district. This river forms the border of
Chhattisgarh and Maharashtra.

Narangi River

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This river emerges from the Kondagaon tehsil of Bastar district. It then merges into the Indravati river near
Chitrakote waterfall.

Kotri River

The river emerges in the high grounds of Durg district, and joins the Indravati river in Kanker district. Its
largest catchment area is in the Rajnandgaon district.

Climate
Climate of Chhattisgarh--

Climate of Chhattisgarh is defined as the weather conditions prevailing in general or over prolonged
period of time , usually for 35 years.

Climate of Chhattisgarh is tropical. It is hot and humid because of its proximity to the tropic of cancer and
its dependence on the monsoons for rains.

Summer temperature can reach up to 45'C(113'F).The monsoon season is from late June to October and is
a welcome respite from the head.

The average rainfall of Chhattisgarh is 1292 mm.

Winter is from November to January and is a good time to visit Chattisgarh.Winters are pleasant with low
temperature and less humidity.

Temperature of Chattisgarh

1. In the month of January

10'C isotherm passes through the northern part of Chattisgarh.

As we pass from north to south, the temp increases and 12.5'C isotherm passes through mid of the state.

15'C passes through South Western part of Dantewada.

2. In the month of June

The temp of state in the month of June varies from 37'C to 42.5'C.

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The lowest temp of the month has been recorded in the Sarguja dist. of northern Chattisgarh, where 37'C

isotherm passes through it.

While 40'C isotherm passes through Jashpoor, Raigarh, Korba, Bilaspur, Kabirdham.

Another isotherm passes through Eastern part of Bastar and western part of Dantewada.

Temp increases from march to June, but by the end of June , the temperature decreases as the monsoon
arises.

In July Raipur's temp remain about 27-28'C.There is no variation in the temp in the month of September.

But in the most of September and October , when the sky is clear , there is a slight increase in the temp.

Rainfall

Chattisgarh experiences monsoonal rainfall.

Maximum rainfall is received by Bay of Bengal branch.

Amount of rainfall decreases from east to west.

Average rainfall is more in north east Chattisgarh due to its hilly tract. The climate of Bastar is cold and
moist with heavy rainfall.

In summer the area is generally cool.

Abhujhamar situated in the same region receives the maximum rainfall, roughly 187.5 cm.

Seasons

Like in most of India , there are 3 seasons in the Chattisgarh

1. Hot Season

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This season starts from March and goes up to mid June. In the month of June , when the sun shines
vertically over the tropic of cancer , due to high temp , the pressure decreases and temp rises to as much
as 42.5'C in some parts of the state.

2. Rainy season

From mid June to September

Ambikapur, Bilaspur and Bastar experiences rain more than 100 cm.

In the last week of September ,the velocity of monsoon decreases and sky becomes clear and the amount
of rainfall also decreases.

3. 3. Winter Season

It starts from November to January

In September temp starts decreasing , this is caused due to rainfall and humidity,

and winter arrives in November.

Soil types
Soil of Chhattisgarh

The Chhattisgarh region located in the south-eastern part of india .The geological structure
of Chhattisgarh mainly consists of Archean and Cuddapah rocks, but Dharwar, Gondwana, Deccan trap
and old alluvial laterite rock systems are also found in some parts of state .Soil of Chhattisgarh have five
type of soils-

(1) Red - Yellow Soil :The red colour is mainly due to ferric oxides occurring as thin coatings on the soil
particles while the iron oxide occurs as haematite or as hydrous ferric oxide, the colour is red and when it
occurs in the hydrate form as limonite the soil gets a yellow colour.

Those soils are encountered over extensive nonalluvial tracts of peninsular India and are made up of such
acidic rocks as granite, gneiss, and schist. They develop in areas in which rainfall leaches soluble minerals
out of the ground and results in a loss of chemically basic constituents; a corresponding proportional
increase in oxidized iron imparts a reddish hue to many such soils. Hence, they are commonly described
as ferralitic soils.

This type of soil is found on around 55% of the state’s expanse. It is the most common type of soil found
in most areas of Chhattisgarh. This type of soil is found in Raipur, Bilaspur, Durg, Korba, Mahasamund,

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Jashpurdistricts. Rice, Sorghum, Millets, and pulses can be cultivated in this soil.

(2) Red Sandy Soil :Sandy soils have a higher proportion of sand than clay, drain quickly, warm up faster
in spring and are usually easier to work. The red color indicates the presence of iron. Sandy soils are often
acidic and have fewer nutrients than clay, loam or peat soils. The iron in red sandy soil prevents iron
deficiency in plants. This is often offset by the soils acidity. Adding organic matter and careful watering
help overcome this issue. According to the area occupied, red sandy soil is the second most common type
of soil found in approximately 30% of the Chattishgarh. Red sandy soil mostly found in the districts of
Dantewada, Kanker, Dhamtari and Durg. The soil crystals are fine and sandy. Its fertility is low. Due to the
excess proportion of sand in the soil, its water retention capacity is low. Some of the uses of sandy soils
are as follows :

 Red Sandysoils are ideal for crops such as watermelons, peaches and peanuts, and their excellent
drainage characteristics make them suitable for intensive dairy farming.
 Sand makes a low cost aquarium base material which some believe is better than gravel for home
use. It is also a necessity for saltwaterreef tanks, which emulate environments composed largely
of aragonite sand broken down from coral and shellfish.
 Beach nourishment: Governments move sand tobeaches where tides, storms or deliberate
changes to the shoreline erode the original sand.
 Brick: Manufacturing plants add sand to a mixture of clay and other materials for manufacturing
bricks.
 Artificial islands in the Persian Gulf.

Coarse grains like Kodo, mites, millets, and tubers like potato, etc. are cultivated in chattishgarh in this soil.

(3) Red loam soil :Loam soil, is a mixture of clay, sand, silt and organic
matter. This soil is loose, fertile, easily worked and drains well; it exists in
two variations: clay or sandy loam.

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Loam soil is suited to growing almost all plant varieties. This is possible because its three major particles,
sand, silt and clay, are blended almost evenly. The sand particles hold little water but allow aeration and
drainage. Clay particles retain more water, and silt combines the qualities of the sand and clay particles.
Those characteristics make loam soil the most nutrient rich and fertile of soils. loam soil is recommended
for the majority of plants. Loam refers to a textural classification for specific types of soil, and cultivated
soils in garden and farm settings often fall under the loam classification. Ranging from clay loam to sandy
loam, the classification helps gardeners understand how well the soil will support plant life.

This soil is found in Dantewada, Bastar, Sukma, Bijapur regions of the Chattishgarhstate. Containing clay,
this soil is majorly composed of iron-rich rocks, which is why it appears red in colour, similar to a brick. Its
pH value is up to 6.6%. Due to its low capacity for humidity absorption, it requires regular irrigation. This
soil is suitable for cultivation of paddy and coarse grains.

(4) Black soil :The black soils are also called regur (from the Telugu word Reguda) and black cotton soils
because cotton is the most important crop grown on these soils. Several theories have been put forward
regarding the origin of this group of soils but most pedologists believe that these soils have been formed
due to the solidifaction of lava spread over large areas during volcanic activity in the Deccan Plateau,
thousands of years ago. Some of the important features of black soil are as follows :

 It is also known as mature soil .

 It has High water retaining capacity.
 Swells and will become sticky when wet and shrink when dried.
 Rich in: Iron, lime, calcium, potassium, aluminum and magnesium.
 Deficient in: Nitrogen, Phosphorous and organic matter.
 Self-ploughing is a characteristic of the black soil as it develops wide cracks when dried.

The black colour of these soils has been attributed by some scientists to the presence of a small
proportion of titaniferous magnetite or even to iron and black constituents of the parent rock. The black
colour of this soil may even be derived from crystalline schists and basic gneisses such as in Tamil Nadu
and parts of Andhra Pradesh. Various tints of the black colour such as deep black, medium black, shallow
black or even a mixture of red and black may be found in this group of soils. It is called kanhari soil in
Chattishgarh . In Chattishgarhblack cotton soil belt is famous for the cultivation of wheat, gram, oilseeds,
pulses, cotton, soybeans, etc. Districts of Kawardha, Dhamtari, Mahasamund, Mungeli, Balod are covered
by this type of soil.

(5) Laterite Soil :Laterite is a soil and rock type rich in iron and aluminium, and is commonly considered
to have formed in hot and wet tropical areas. They develop by intensive and long-lasting weathering of
the underlying parent rock. Some important characteristics of laterite soil are as follows :

 Extreme form of red tropical soil type

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 Leached of alkalis and silica.

 Accumulation of sesquioxides in top layer.
 Crust formation near the surface, nodular concretions, induration.
 Soil reaction is acidic.
 This type of soil has Poor base saturation.

The monsoon climate is the leading reason for the origin of this Soil of Chhattisgarh . A few months of the
year are alternately wet and dry, causing the erosion and breakage of rocks, forming this soil. Laterite soil
contains a lot of pebbles. Its water absorption capacity is very low. Due to its infertility, it is not very
important from the agricultural point of view, yet it can be used to cultivate cereals, millets, Kodo, mites,
potatoes, oilseeds, etc. Regions of Surguja, Jashpur, Balrampur, Durg, Bastar and Bemetara districts are
covered by this type of soil in Chatishgarh.

Locals names of soil of Chattishgarh

Red-yellow soil : Matasi

Laterite soil :Bhata

Black soil :Kanhar

Red sandy soil :Tikra ( Plateau of bastar )

Vegetation and their importance flora

Chattisgarh Forests and Vegetation--The state of Chhattisgarh being placed in Deccan bio-geographical
Area, houses an important part of that rich and unique biological diversity. What is a more conspicuous is
that the state is significantly rich in endemism with respect to many plants having medicinal importance.

Biogeographically, the state falls in Deccan bio-region comprising representative fauna of central India
like the tiger , leopard ,gaur ,sambhar , chital , nilgai and wild boar . The state is a proud possessor of rare
wildlife like the wild buffalo and hill myna which have been declared as rare and endangered. Apart from
the species diversity, the state is also endowed with rich genetic diversity. The variation in the genetic
composition of individuals within or among floristic and faunal species is large.

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The recorded forest area in the state is 59,772 km2 which is 44.21 of its geographical area. Reserved,
Protected and Unclassed Forests constitute 43.13%, 4021% and 16.65% of the total forest area
respectively.

Dantewara has maximum forest cover while janjgir-champa has lowest forest cover.

The forests of the state fall under two major forest types, i.e., Tropical Moist Deciduous forest and the
Tropical Dry Deciduous forest. The state of Chhattisgarh is endowed with about 22 varied forest sub-types
existing in the state.

Tropial Moist Decidous Forests (Sal Forests)

These forests are found in areas of moderate rainfall of 100 to 200 cm per annum, mean annual
temperature of about 27°C and the average annual relative humidity of 60 to 75 per cent. Found in
southern part of chattisgarh. The trees of these forests drop their leaves for about 6-8 weeks during the
spring and early summer when sufficient moisture for the leaves is not available.

The sub-soil water is not enough to enable the trees to retain their leaves throughout the year. These are
very useful forests because they yield valuable timber and several other forest products. The main species
found in these forests are , sal, padauk, laurel, white chuglam, badam, dhup, chikrosi, kokko, haldu,
rosewood, mahua, bijasal, lendi, semul, irul, dhaman, amla, kusum, tendu, paula, jamun, bamboo, etc. It is
comparatively easy to exploit these forests due to their high degree of gregariousness.

Tropical DryDecidous Forests (Teak Forests)

These are similar to moist deciduous forests and shed their leaves in dry season. The major difference is
that the species of dry deciduous forests can grow in areas of comparatively less rainfall of 100-150 cm
per annum.

They represent a transitional type; on the wetter side, they give way to moist deciduous and on the drier
side they degenerate into thorn forests. Such forests are characterised by closed and rather uneven
canopy, composed of a mixture of a few species of deciduous trees, rising upto a height of 20 metres or
so. Enough light reaches the ground to permit the growth of grass and climbers. Bamboos also grow but
they are not luxuriant. The important species are teak, axlewood, tendu, bijasal, rosewood, amaltas, palas,
haldu, kasi, bel, lendi, common bamboo, red sanders, anjair, harra.

Mixed Forests

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The maximum Chattisgarh Forests and Vegetation are covered is that of mixed forests, which includes
teak or sal mixed with other species like saja, bija, lendia , haldu ,dhaora , salai , aonla , amaltas , gamhar ,
etc. Dazzling white kulu trees scattered around stand out conspicuously among the various hues of green.
The ground is covered with maze of grasses, plants, bushes and saplings. Pterocarpusmarsupium is also
used for control of blood sugar in Diabetes since ancient times in India.

Medicinal plants –

Medicinal trees and plants of various kinds are found in abundance in the Chattisgarh Forests and
Vegetation.

Important ones are: Aeglemarmelos, Azadirachtaindica, Bixaorellana, Buteamonosperma, Asparagus

racemosus, Argemonemexicana,Buchananialanzan, Aloe barbadensis, Acoruscalamus, Cassia
tora, Curculigoorchioides, Curcuma longa.

State Forest Policy

The basic objectives that should govern the State Forest Policy are the following: -

Unlocking of the vast array of forest resources on sustainable basis for enhanced well-being of local
people by converting these open access resources (OAR) into community controlled, prioritized, protected
and managed resources.

- A shift in accent from major to minor forest produces, from crown to multi tier forestry and from
flagship species to smaller denizens of the forests.

- Maintenance of environmental stability through preservation and where necessary, restoration of

ecological balance that has been adversely disturbed by serious depletion of forests in the state.

- Conserving the Bio- cultural heritage of the state by preserving the biologically rich natural forests that
provide the essential cultural milieu to the tribals of the state.

- Checking the denudation of forests and soil erosion in the catchment area of the rivers, and reservoirs
for soil and water conservation; mitigating the floods and droughts; recharging of water bodies, aquifers
and for the retardation of siltation of the reservoirs.

- Increasing the forest / tree cover in forest deficient districts through afforestation and agro forestry/
farm forestry programmes, especially on all denuded, degraded and unproductive lands.

- Meeting the requirements of fuel wood, fodder, minor forest produce and small timber of the rural and
tribal population with due regard to the carrying capacity of the forests.

- The derivation of direct economic benefit from the forests of the state shall be subordinated to the
requirements of the environmental stability and maintenance of ecological balance in the state.

- Creating appropriate policy and legal framework for the achievement of these objectives.

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Fauna
Wildlife and Ecotourism in Chattisgarh-Indian state of Chhattisgarh is famous for its enchantingly
beautiful natural landscapes, rich cultural heritage and unique tribal populations. With over 4% of its total
area under forests, Chhattisgarh is also amongst the greenest states of India. The Chhattisgarh region is
known as a great repository of biological diversit y. The unique combination of rich cultural heritage and
biological diversity makes Chhattisgarh an ideal ecotourism destination with immense potentials for the
growth ecotourism the region. The Indian Govt. is actively collaborating with the local officialsof the state
to realize the full potential of eco tourism growth of the region in order to make Chhattisgarh as one of
the most important ecotourism destinations in India.

Chhattisgarh is one of the greenest states of India with over 44 % of its total area under lush forests. The
forests of Chhattisgarh are not only known for their diverse floraand fauna but also contain about 88
species of medicinal plants. Chhattisgarh is also unique in its wildlife population and has 3 National Parks
and 11 Wildlife Sanctuaries, housing some of the rare wildlife and bird species. With so much of variety for
eco tourism, Chhattisgarh promises to be an ideal holiday destination for nature lovers, wildlife
enthusiasts and also for those who want to discover the unique tribal life of the region. Chhattisgarh has
identified some regions with a very high potentiality for eco¬tourism.

Wildlife Sanctuaries

Badalkhol

Badalkhol sanctuary is located in Jashpur district of Chhattisgarh. It lies on the banks of Eib River and
Dorki River and spreads over an area of 105 sq km. The sanctuary’s vegetation is dominated by Sal forests.
It is home to panther, chital, wild bear, jungle cat, monkey, jackals, hyena, bear, wolf, fox, cobra, kraits,
python, red spur fall, bhura teetar, kala teetar, tree pie, green pigeon and rollers.

Sitanadi

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The wildlife sanctuary was established in 1974 under Wildlife Protection Act of 1972. This sanctuary
sprawls over an area of 556 sq km It is named after Sitanadi River which originates from this sanctuary and
joins Mahanadi River.

Barnawapara

This Wildlife sanctuary, is named after Bar and nawapara forest villages, which are in the heart of the
sanctuary, Raipur district. The well stocked forests of the Sanctuary Classified as Teak, sal and mixed
forests. This sanctuary is famous for the frequent sighting of the Indian bison (Gaur) Cheetal, Sambhar,
Neelgai, Wild boar are commonly seen.Bar-Nawapara boosts of over 150 species Birds.

Tamor Pingla

Main wildlife attraction is Nilgai, Chital, Sambar, Chinkara, deerwild boars, foxes. The Tamor Pingla Wildlife
Sanctuary which is located in the Surjuga District is so called because of the 2 prominent features of this
piece of land the Tamor Hill and the Pingla Nalla (stream).

Bairamgarh

One of the prime attractions at Bhairamgarh Wildlife Sanctuary is the wild buffalo. Hill Hynas can also be
seen. The tigers and leopards are also available in this santuary; however, they are less in number.
Chinkaras can be easily sighted so are the Indian Gazelle and Chital.

Bhoramdeo

This Wildlife Sanctuary also known as Bhoramdeo is located in Kabirdham district at a distance of 140 km
from Raipur and is named after the famous Bhoramdeo temples.

Gomarda

Wildlife Sanctuary (GWS) is one of the Wildlife Sanctuaries in Chhattisgarh and it is located near Sarangarh
town in Raigarh district of Chhattisgarh. A variety of exotic wildlife can be witnessed if one arrives at the
Gomarda Wildlife Sanctuary. Wild animals found in the sanctuary include leopard, wild dog, jackal, fox,
bedi or predators such as wild cat, gaur, nilgai, Sambar, chital, kotri.

The Pamed

Wildlife Sanctuary is an important wildlife reserve in Chhattisgarh. With an area of 262 sq km, it is placed
in the Dantewada district in southern part of Chhattisgarh and the Sanctuary is close to the sate border
with Andhra Pradesh. Pamed Wildlife Sanctuary has some precious trees like Sal and teak. There are mixed
forests creating a different aura about the place.

National Parks and biosphere Reserve

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Kanger Valley National Park

It is one of the most beautiful and picturesque national parks of India. The beautiful park is located on
the banks of Kholaba River at a distance of about 27 km from Jagdalpur (headquarter of Bastar). Spread
over an area of approximately 200 sq km comprising mainly of hilly terrain, the Park derives its name from
the Kanger River, which flows throughout its length.

Guru Ghasidas National Park

It is marked as one of the most unique of all the protected areas in Chhattisgarh. If you are considering a
Tour to Chhattisgarh try to include this park in your travel itinerary. The diverse vegetation of the region
consists of a wide variety of mammal population. Tigers, Leopards, Chital, Nilgai, Chinkara, Jackals,
Sambar, Four-horned Antelopes, Jungle Cat, Barking Deer, Porcupine, Monkey, Bison, Striped Hyena, Sloth
Bear, Wild Dogs are some of the common species found in this region. It is also an ideal place to watch
migratory birds. The best time to visit this place is during November to June.

Tiger Reserve

Indravati National Park

It is the finest and most famous wildlife parks of Chhattisgarh. Indravati National Park is located in
Dantewada district of Chhattisgarh. The Park derives its name from the Indravati River, which flows from
east to west and forms the northern boundary of the reserve with the Indian state of Maharashtra. With a
total area of approximately 2799.08 sq km, Indravati attained the status of a National Park in 1981 and a
Tiger Reserve in 1983 under the famous Project Tiger of India to become one of the most famous tiger
reserves of India.

Achanakmar Tiger Reserve

It is in Chhattisgarh is a tropical moist deciduous and tropical dry deciduous forest. The reserve is also a
part of the much larger Achanakmar-Amarkantak Biosphere Reserve. Sal, bija, saja, haldu, teak, tinsa,
dhawara, lendia, khamar and bamboo flourish here along with over 600 species of medicinal plants. The
winding Maniyari river that flows right through the heart of the reserve is its lifeline. Wild fauna found
here includes the tiger, leopard, bison, flying squirrel, Indian giant squirrel, chinkara, wild dog, hyena,
sambar, chital and over 150 species of birds. Even a short trek through this park easily reveals its
extraordinary beauty and biodiversity.

Human Features Population Growth

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Size and Density of population

The total population of Chhattisgarh is 2,55,45,198 as per census 2011. It constitutes 2.04 percent of the
total population of India. Chhattisgarh is the 17th largest State of India on population basis.

The annual growth rate of population is 1.67 percent during the period 1991 to 2001; whereas it is 1.93
percent annually for all India. The density of population is 189 person per sq. km. whereas it is 324 per sq.
km. for all India. It witnesses that the density of population is low as compared to all India in the census
2011.

In Chhattisgarh State, there is wide variations in the population of different districts. Raipur is the largest
district in population and Durg is the second populated district of Chhattisgarh State. On the contrary,
Kawardha or Kabirdham district is the lowest population district.

Through the density of population of C.G. is low 189 as compared to all India 324 persons per sq. km.
however Janjgir-Champa and Durg Districts have higher density of population as compared to all India
324 respectively. Dantewada is the district in which density of population is 41 persons the lowest in the
State.

Rural –Urban Distribution

Out of total population of Chhattisgarh, 23.24% people live in urban regions. The total figure of
population living in urban areas is 5,936,538 of which 3,035,401 are males and while remaining 2,901,137
are females. The urban population in the last 10 years has increased by 41.83 percent. Sex Ratio in urban
regions of Chhattisgarh was 956 females per 1000 males. For child (0-6) sex ratio the figure for urban
region stood at 932 girls per 1000 boys. Total children (0-6 age) living in urban areas of Chhattisgarh were
717,554. Of total population in urban region,12.09%werechildren(0-6). Average Literacy rate in
Chhattisgarh for Urban regions was 84.79 percent in which males were 91.63% literate while female
literacy stood at 77.65%. Total literates in urban region of Chhattisgarh were 4,425,077.

Of the total population of Chhattisgarh state, around 76.76 percent live in the villages of rural areas. In
actual numbers, males and females were 9,792,514 and 9,811,144 respectively. Total population of rural
areas of Chhattisgarh state was 19,603,658. The population growth rate recorded for this decade(2001-
2011)was17.75%. In rural regions of Chhattisgarh state, female sex ratio per 1000 males was 1002 while
same for the child (0-6 age) was 972 girls per 1000 boys. In Chhattisgarh, 2,866,474 children (0-6) live in
rural areas. Child population forms 14.62 percent of total rural population. In rural areas of Chhattisgarh,
literacy rate for males and female stood at 78.20 % and 55.40 %. .

Sex Ratio

There are more than 13 million males and 12.9 million females in Chhattisgarh, which constitutes 2.11% of
the country’s population. The sex ratio in the state is one of the most balanced in India with 991 females
per 1,000 males, as is the child sex-ratio with 964 females per 1,000 males (Census 2011). Notably the sex
ratio is found maximum in tribal districts of Chhattisgarh. Rural Sex Ratio is recored 1002, and urban is
956. Highest sex ratio is in Rajnanadgaon and Bastar(1024) while lowest is in Koria district.

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0-6 Age Group Population is found 35,84,028 (35 Lakh). 18,24,987 are male children and 17,59,041 are
female children.Child sex ratio declined from 975 to 969 in a decade. Rural CSR is 977 while Urban CSR is
937.

Scheduled Caste and Scheduled Tribe Population

With the exception of the hilly states of the north-east, Chhattisgarh has one of highest shares of
Scheduled Tribe (ST) populations within a state, accounting for about 10 per cent of the STs in India.
Scheduled Castes and STs together constitute more than 50 per cent of the state’s population. The tribals
are an important part of the state population and mainly inhabit the dense forests of Bastar and other
districts of south Chhattisgarh.

The Scheduled Caste (SC) population of Chhattisgarh is 2,418,722 as per 2001 census constituting 11.6 per
cent of the total population (20,833,803). The proportion of Scheduled Castes has increased from 11.6 per
cent in 2001 to 12.8% in 2011. The percentage increase in the population of the scheduled list of
tribalsduring the 2001-2011 decade had been at the rate of 18.23 per cent. The share of the tribal
population in the entire state had been 30.62 per cent which was 31.76 per cent during 2001.

Literacy Rate

With respect to literacy, the state fared just below the national average. The recent estimates from Census
(2011) are also similar, with the literacy rate of 71% (81.4% Males & 60.5% Females), which is close to the
all India literacy rate of 74%.
According to NSS (2007–08), the literacy rate for Scheduled Tribes (STs) and Scheduled Castes (SCs) was
better than the corresponding national average.

Among the marginalized groups, STs are at the bottom of the rankings, further emphasizing the lack of
social development in the state. Bastar and Dantewada in south Chhattisgarh are the most illiterate
districts and the drop out ratio is the highest among all the districts. The reason for this is the extreme
poverty in rural areas.

Working Population

The total working population of the Chhattisgarh State is shown in table 3. As per 2001 census, 46.57
percent people come under working population. Among them, male people constitute 52.97 persons &
female 40.03 percent among their criterion. Among total working population 72.89 percent come under
main workless 27.11 percent marginal workers and 53.43 percent come under non-working classes. It
indicates that more than half population do not contribute in production and any productive activities.
They belong to depend population.

Among working population 44.57 percent belong to cultivators, 33.88 percent Agricultural labourers, 2.08
percent in family industries and other is 21.4 7 percent as per census 200 I in the State. The 0-6 year's
children constitute 16.68 percent of the total population of the State. In Chhattisgarh State

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Dantewada&Sarguja are the two districts which have higher percentage of0-6 year children. On the basis
of above characteristics, we can say that the quality of the people is not good in the State.

Density and Distribution. Infant and Maternal

Mortality rate etc

Census gives us the idea of the population and its structure. In this way it becomes important and useful
in policy formation and implementation. Below are the data of the last two censuses which gives us brief
overview of the population structure of the Chhattisgarh.

Description 2011 2001

Actual Population 25,545,198 20,833,803
Male 12,832,895 10,474,218
Female 12,712,303 10,359,585
Density/km2 189 154
Sex Ratio 991 989
Child Sex Ratio 969 975
Total Child Population (0-6 Age) 3,661,689 3,554,916
Male Population (0-6 Age) 1,859,935 1,800,413
Female Population (0-6 Age) 1,801,754 1,754,503
Population Growth 22.61% 18.06%
Percentage of total Population 2.11% 2.03%
Literacy 70.28 % 64.66 %
Male Literacy 80.27 % 77.38 %
Female Literacy 60.24 % 51.85 %
Total Literate 15,379,922 11,173,149
Male Literate 8,807,893 6,711,395
Female Literate 6,572,029 4,461,754

After the formation of the state in 2001, Chhattisgarh has seen two censuses till now. First was in 2001 and
second was in 2011.

Population growth:

Chhattisgarh constitute around 2.11% of total population which has increased slightly from 2.03% in 2001.
This indicates that population in state is increasing as compared to the other state of the nation. This

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notion is supported by the fact that population growth in the state is 22.61% more than the national
average.

Sex Ratio:

Sex ratio of the state is better than the most of the states of India. Sex ratio has increased from 1989 to
1991 in 2011.

Literacy:

The best part of the state is that its literacy rate is 70.28% which is comparable to many other states.
According to the last census the literacy rate was 64.66. this indicates that state has taken a leap in terms
of literacy.

Population density:

Population density of Chhattisgarh is lesser than the national average 382. The current population density
is 189. This is because , most of the state is covered by the forest.

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