Indian States by Area – Largest State in India (Geographical Extent) Among the following options, which Indian state has the largest land area as per current administrative boundaries?

Introduction / Context:
Civics and geography questions frequently test knowledge of the relative size of Indian states. Area-based ranking is a basic yet essential fact for competitive exams and general awareness.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The comparison is strictly by geographical area, not by population or GDP.
• Options include Rajasthan, Maharashtra, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh.
• We assume present-day boundaries used in standard references.

Concept / Approach:
Identify the state with the maximum surface area. Uttar Pradesh often tops population charts, which can confuse learners, whereas Rajasthan dominates in area due to its extensive desert and arid zones.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
Any reputable India yearbook, school atlas, or exam guide lists Rajasthan as the largest state by area, followed by Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra in close contention depending on exact figures.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

• Maharashtra: Large but not as vast as Rajasthan in terms of area.
• Uttar Pradesh: Most populous, but geographically smaller than Rajasthan and Madhya Pradesh.
• Madhya Pradesh: Very large, yet still second to Rajasthan in area.

Common Pitfalls:
Mixing population rankings with area rankings; learners commonly answer “Uttar Pradesh” due to its demographic prominence.

Final Answer:
Rajasthan