Which union territory of India serves as the common capital for two different states?

Introduction / Context:
The political geography of India includes states and union territories, each with designated capital cities. One special case often asked in competitive exams is the union territory that functions as a shared capital for two neighbouring states. This question checks your understanding of this unique administrative arrangement, which illustrates how a single city can serve multiple governmental roles within the federal structure of India.

Given Data / Assumptions:

The focus is on a union territory, not a full state.
The union territory in question serves as the capital city for two separate states.
Options include Chandigarh, New Delhi, Chhattisgarh and Puducherry.
We assume basic knowledge of Indian states, union territories and their capitals.

Concept / Approach:
Chandigarh is a well known example of a planned city that serves several roles. It is a union territory administered directly by the central government, and it is also the capital of both Punjab and Haryana. New Delhi is the capital of India and part of the National Capital Territory of Delhi, but it is not the capital of two different states. Chhattisgarh is a state, not a union territory, with Raipur as its capital. Puducherry is a union territory with its own capital town of Puducherry, but it does not serve as the capital of more than one state. By recalling these basic facts, you can readily identify Chandigarh as the correct answer.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative check:
You can verify this by looking at a political map of north India, where Chandigarh is clearly shown as a union territory bordering both Punjab and Haryana. Many standard general knowledge questions specifically ask which union territory is the capital of both Punjab and Haryana, and Chandigarh is always given as the answer. Official documents and news reports also frequently mention Chandigarh as the joint capital of these two states, confirming its special status in India's federal system.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Common Pitfalls:
Some students may be confused by the status of New Delhi and mistakenly think it might serve as a capital for multiple entities because it hosts the central government and is part of a special capital region. Others may not clearly distinguish between states and union territories and might choose Chhattisgarh simply because they have heard of it recently. To avoid such errors, make sure you know the administrative status of each entity and the specific role Chandigarh plays as the joint capital of Punjab and Haryana.

Final Answer:
The correct answer is Chandigarh, because it is a union territory that functions as the common capital for both Punjab and Haryana.