Which is the largest state of India by area?

Appeared in: RML PRE 2025

Explanation

Rajasthan is the largest state in India by geographical area, covering 342,239 square kilometers.
This accounts for 10.4% of India's total land area.
It became the largest state in 2000 after the bifurcation of Madhya Pradesh, which was previously the largest.

Option A: Uttar Pradesh is the most populous state in India, not the largest by area. It ranks fourth in terms of geographical size.
Option B: Madhya Pradesh is the second-largest state by area in India.
Option C: Maharashtra is the third-largest state by area in India. It is second in terms of population.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Geography of India: Largest state by area as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
General Knowledge: Knowing the largest state by area is a fundamental piece of general knowledge about India, frequently asked in competitive exams and quizzes.
Geographical Awareness: Understanding the relative sizes of states is important for comprehending national geography, resource distribution, and regional planning.
What if?: If the question asked for the largest Union Territory by area, the answer would be Ladakh.

How to Approach the Question

First, carefully read the question to identify the specific criterion being asked: 'largest state by area'.
Mentally distinguish this from other possible criteria, such as 'most populous state'.
Review the options provided: Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Maharashtra, and Rajasthan.
Recall or deduce the facts about the area of these states. Remember that Rajasthan is known for its vast desert and is the largest in size.
Confirm that Uttar Pradesh is largest by population, not area, making it a common distractor.
Select Rajasthan as the correct answer based on geographical facts.

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 RML PRE 2025

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