Meghalaya is a northeast Indian state. The word "Meghalaya" literally means 'the Abode of Clouds' in Sanskrit and other Indo-Iranian languages. As of 2011 the state has a population of 2,964,007 and is the 23rd most populous. Meghalaya covers an area of approximately 300 kilometers in length and about 100 kilometers in breadth. The state is bounded on the north by Assam and by Bangladesh on the south. The capital is Shillong is known as the 'Scotland of the East'. Shillong has a population of 143,007.
About one third of the state is forested. The Meghalaya subtropical forests ecoregion encompasses the state; its mountain forests are distinct from the lowland tropical forests to the north and south. The forests of Meghalaya are notable for their biodiversity of mammals, birds, and plants. It was previously part of Assam, but on January 21, 1972, the districts of Khasi, Garo and Jaintia hills became the new state of Meghalaya.
Meghalaya has predominantly an agrarian economy. The important crops are potatoes, rice, maize, pineapples, bananas, etc. The service sector is made up of real estate and insurance companies. The state has become a hub of illegal mining activity. Meghalaya's gross state domestic product for 2004 was estimated at $1.6 billion in current prices.
Shillong, the capital of the state, is a popular hill station. There are several falls in and around Shillong. Shillong Peak is highest in the state and is good for trekking. It is also known as the "abode of the gods" and has excellent views. The state offers many good hotels and lodging facilities.
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