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Indian national calendar facts for kids

Kids Encyclopedia Facts

The Indian national calendar is the official calendar used by the government of India. It is also known as the Saka calendar. This calendar helps India's government with official documents, news, and other communications.

How the Calendar Works

The Indian national calendar has 12 months, just like the calendar many of us use. Here's a look at its months, how long they are, and when they usually start in the Gregorian calendar (the one used worldwide):

Month Length Start date (Gregorian)
1 Chaitra 30/31 March 22
2 Vaisakha 31 April 21
3 Jyaistha 31 May 22
4 Asadha 31 June 22
5 Sravana 31 July 23
6 Bhadra 31 August 23
7 Asvina 30 September 23
8 Kartika 30 October 23
9 Margashirsh (Agrahayana) 30 November 22
10 Pausa 30 December 22
11 Magha 30 January 21
12 Phalguna 30 February 20

You might notice that the first six months of the year all have 31 days. This is because the sun appears to move a bit slower across the sky during that part of the year.

In a leap year, the first month, Chaitra, has 31 days instead of 30. It starts on March 21 in a leap year.

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See also

Kids robot.svg In Spanish: Calendario shaka para niños

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Indian national calendar Facts for Kids. Kiddle Encyclopedia.