Which one among the following State capitals is closest to the Equator?

To determine which state capital is closest to the Equator, we must compare their latitudes. The Equator is at 0° latitude, and the value increases as one moves north. Based on geographic coordinates, Panaji (Goa) is located at approximately 15°29' N. Hyderabad (Telangana) is further north at approximately 17°22' N [1]. Mumbai (Maharashtra) is situated at approximately 19°04' N, and Bhubaneswar (Odisha) is located at approximately 20°16' N [1]. Since Panaji has the lowest numerical latitude among the given options, it is the southernmost city and therefore the closest to the Equator. Understanding that India's mainland extends from 8°4' N to 37°6' N helps contextualize these positions.

Sources

1. [1] Introduction to the Constitution of India, D. D. Basu (26th ed.). > Chapter 35: TABLES > TERRITORY OF INDIA > p. 506