Area rank of Maharashtra in India?

Appeared in: DHS 2018 shift 1st

Explanation

Maharashtra is the third-largest state in India by geographical area.
It covers an area of approximately 307,713 square kilometers, as confirmed by official census data.
The state of Rajasthan is the largest, and Madhya Pradesh is the second largest, placing Maharashtra in the third position.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Geography of India: State Rankings by Area as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
General knowledge, including Indian geography, is a common component of competitive examinations for nursing and other government healthcare positions in India.
Having a broad awareness of national demographics and geography helps healthcare professionals understand the regional context of public health challenges, resource allocation, and disease prevalence.
What if? If the question had asked for the rank by population, the correct answer would be '2nd', as Maharashtra is the second most populous state after Uttar Pradesh.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key components of the question: the subject (Maharashtra) and the criterion for ranking (area).
This is a factual recall question based on general knowledge of Indian geography.
Mentally retrieve the list of the largest states in India in descending order of their geographical area.
The correct order is: 1. Rajasthan, 2. Madhya Pradesh, 3. Maharashtra.
Based on this order, determine that Maharashtra's rank is 3rd.
Finally, select the option that matches this fact.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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E6 Comprehensive Textbook of Community Health Nursing for BSc Nursing Students Part 2 — Subpart B (pp 276-535 of 550) p. 4-6

Practise the full DHS 2018 shift 1st

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.