Districts of India: Statewise List 2026 - UPSC

India is a vast and diverse country with a well-structured administrative system designed to ensure smooth governance. It comprises 28 states and 8 Union Territories, which are further divided into districts for effective administration. These districts play a crucial role in implementing government policies, maintaining law and order, and delivering public services at the grassroots level. 

As of 2026, India has nearly 800 districts, and this number continues to grow due to administrative reorganisation and increasing population. For UPSC aspirants, understanding the state-wise list of districts in India is important for Prelims and also for developing a strong grasp of India’s administrative framework.

In India, a district is an important administrative unit within a state or Union Territory, created to ensure effective governance and smooth delivery of public services at the local level. Each district is headed by a District Magistrate (DM) or District Collector, who plays a key role in administration, law and order, and implementation of government schemes.

A district comprises the following components:

• Administrative Head: Led by a District Magistrate/Collector responsible for governance, coordination, and supervision of all departments.
• Subdivisions: Districts are further divided into subdivisions for better administrative control.
• Tehsils/Talukas: These are revenue units within subdivisions that handle land records and revenue collection.
• Blocks: Used mainly for rural development and implementation of government schemes.
• Villages and Panchayats: The grassroots level units of administration in rural areas.
• Urban Local Bodies: Municipal Corporations, Municipalities, and Nagar Panchayats governing urban areas within the district.
• Law and Order Machinery: Managed through the district police under the Superintendent of Police (SP).
• Development Departments: Various departments, such as health, education, agriculture, and welfare, operate at the district level.

Thus, a district serves as a crucial link between the state government and the local administration, ensuring that governance reaches every citizen effectively.

As of 2026, India has nearly 800 districts spread across its 28 states and 8 Union Territories. The number of districts varies by state based on administrative requirements, population size, and geographical factors.  The table below provides an overview of the number of districts in each state of India:

Also see: List of States and Capitals of India | 28 States & 8 UTs with Map

Union Territories (UTs) in India have a relatively smaller administrative structure compared to states. As of 2026, the number of districts across UTs varies significantly based on size, population, and administrative needs. Among them, Jammu and Kashmir has the highest number of districts (20), while Lakshadweep has the least, with just one district. The table below provides the number of districts in each Union Territory of India:

Also read: All Important Articles of Indian Constitution for UPSC

The number of districts in a state reflects its population size, administrative requirements, and geographical spread. 

Top 5 States with the Highest Number of Districts (2026):

1. Uttar Pradesh – 75 districts
2. Madhya Pradesh – 57 districts
3. Rajasthan – 55 districts
4. Bihar – 38 districts
5. Tamil Nadu – 38 districts

These states require a larger administrative network to manage their vast population and regional diversity efficiently.

States with Least Number of Districts

Smaller states, especially those with limited geographical area and population, have fewer districts.

States with the Fewest Number of Districts (2026):

1. Goa – 2 districts
2. Sikkim – 6 districts
3. Tripura – 8 districts
4. Mizoram – 11 districts
5. Meghalaya – 12 districts

Also read: 2nd ARC Report UPSC Mains: Key Recommendations & Summary

India’s districts vary widely in terms of area and population, reflecting the country’s geographical diversity and demographic distribution. 

• Largest District (by Area): Kachchh (Kutch), Gujarat – ~45,652 sq. km
• Smallest District (by Area): Mahé, Puducherry – ~8.69 sq. km
• Most Populated District: North 24 Parganas, West Bengal – over 10 million population
• Least Populated District: Dibang Valley, Arunachal Pradesh – around 8,000 population

Largest District in India

• Kachchh district in Gujarat is the largest district in India by area.
• It is located in the northwestern part of the state and shares international borders with Pakistan.
• The district also borders Rajasthan in the northeast.
• Covers around 45,000+ sq. km, accounting for a significant portion of Gujarat’s area
  Known for the Rann of Kutch, a vast salt marsh and a unique geographical feature
  Sparse population due to arid climate and desert conditions

Smallest District in India

• Mahé, a district of the Union Territory of Puducherry, is the smallest district in India by area.
• Covers only about 8.69 sq. km
  Located on the western coast and surrounded by Kerala (North Malabar region)
  Functions as a geographical enclave, separate from the main Puducherry region
  Despite its small size, it has administrative importance as a distinct district

Districts form the backbone of India’s administrative system, ensuring governance reaches every corner of the country. From nearly 800 districts to wide variations in size and population, understanding their structure is essential for UPSC preparation. A clear grasp of state-wise distribution and key facts not only helps in Prelims but also adds depth to Mains answers.