Introduction
Kutch is an erstwhile princely state of India. It is the largest district of the state of Gujarat and the second largest district in India covering an area of 45,612 sq kms. The land is virtually 'an island' resembling a tortoise "Katchua or Kachbo", surrounded by seawater. Kutch was also known as the kutchdweep or Kutchbet." The Great Rann of Kutch" which dominates a major portion of the district. The Great Rann of Kutch and the Little Rann of Kutch respectively-uninhabitable deserts which during the monsoon season (June to October) is often completely submerged by floods. Area : 45, 612 sq. km. State : Gujarat. Location : West Coast of India Talukas of Kutch : Bhuj, Anjar, Mandvi, Mundra, Abdasa-Nalia, Lakhpat, Rapar, Bhachau and Nakhatrana Demographic distribution : Number of villages - 950 Seismic History : The earliest earthquake recorded in Kutch dates back to 16th June 1819. Since then, over 90 earthquakes of varying intensity have struck the region, but none as severe as the most recent one, 26th January 2001. Languages : Gujarati, Hindi, and local dialects like Kutchi Wild Life : The home of the last remaining population of khur (wild ass) in India. There is also a bird population, particularly of the large flamingos. Both are protected in 5,000 km Little Rann Sanctuary, near Dhangadhra; one has to get permission to enter from the sanctuary superintendent's office in Dhangadhra.
