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The Saka Samvat (also known as the Saka Era) is an Indian calendar system based on the solar calendar and is believed to have been introduced by the ancient Indian king Shalivahana, who ruled in the 2nd century CE.

It is used alongside the Gregorian calendar by The Gazette of India, in news broadcasts by All India Radio, and in calendars and official communications issued by the Government of India. Saka Samvat is generally 78 years behind of Gregorian Calendar, except during January to March, when it is behind by 79 years.

The Saka Era begins in the 78th year of the Indian National Calendar, which is equivalent to 78 AD. Each year in the Saka Era is divided into 12 months, similar to the Julian and Gregorian calendars. The Saka Era is commonly used in the Indian states of Gujarat, Maharashtra, Karnataka and Andhra Pradesh.

The Saka Samvat is also used in Nepal, and it is known as the Nepal Samvat. It begins from the year 56-57 BC and is widely used in official and administrative documents.

Some Indian states use the Saka Samvat along with the Gregorian calendar for different purposes. It's important to note that the Saka Samvat is not widely used or recognized outside of India and Nepal.

Calendar structure

The calendar months follow the signs of the tropical zodiac rather than the sidereal zodiac normally used with the Hindu and Buddhist calendars.