UPSC Prelims 2008 Q38: Modern History – Post - Independence India
Which was the Capital of Andhra State when it was made a separate State in the year 1953?
- (a) Guntur
- (b) Kurnool
- (c) Nellore
- (d) Warangal
Answer: (b) Kurnool
Explanation
Capital of Andhra State when first formed in 1953
Before the later formation of Andhra Pradesh (merging with Hyderabad State in 1956), the original Andhra State had its own capital.
| Option | Verdict | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| (a) Guntur | Incorrect | Not the original capital of Andhra State |
| (b) Kurnool | Correct | Kurnool served as the capital of Andhra State when it was carved out as a separate state in 1953 |
| (c) Nellore | Incorrect | Not the original capital |
| (d) Warangal | Incorrect | Not the original capital (and was part of Hyderabad State at the time) |
Andhra State's 1953 capital:
| Point | Detail |
|---|---|
| Capital | Kurnool |
| Later development | Became part of Andhra Pradesh (1956), with Hyderabad as the new capital |
Answer: (b) Kurnool.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Incorrect. Guntur was not Andhra State's original capital.
- (b) CORRECT. Kurnool was the capital of Andhra State when it was formed in 1953.
- (c) Incorrect. Nellore was also not the original capital.
- (d) Incorrect. Warangal was part of Hyderabad State at the time, not Andhra State's capital.
Key point
Kurnool was the capital of Andhra State when it was made a separate state in 1953 — before Andhra Pradesh was formed in 1956 with Hyderabad as its capital.
Remember
Kurnool was the capital of Andhra State when it became a separate state in 1953.
Common mistakes
- Confusing Kurnool's original 1953 capital status with the later (1956) capital, Hyderabad.
- Not knowing the historical sequence: Andhra State (1953, capital Kurnool) → Andhra Pradesh (1956, merged with Hyderabad State).
- Mixing up various Andhra Pradesh cities' historical administrative roles.
Exam tip
Andhra State (1953) capital = Kurnool. Andhra Pradesh (1956, after merger) capital = Hyderabad. Two distinct historical phases.
Sources
- Andhra State Act, 1953
- States Reorganisation Commission — Report (1955)