Many great empires of India have ruled the state of Madhya Pradesh. Dynasties like that of Sungas, Andhras, Satavahanas, Ksaptrapas, Nagas and the Guptas ruled over this place. It was also governed by the Mughals and later by the Britishers. In the earlier times, the influence of religions like Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism and Islam are still evident in the historical places here. After the British took over the state, it was declared as the central province. After Independence, under the provision of the State Reorganisation Act of 1956, Madhya Pradesh was given the status of a proper state on 1st November 1956. Chattisgarh was carved out as a new state in November 2000 to fulfil a demand that was long due.