Exploring the Smallest Districts of Uttar Pradesh by Area
Uttar Pradesh, the most populous state in India, boasts a diverse range of districts, each with its own unique characteristics. Among these, some districts stand out due to their relatively small area. In this article, we will delve into the details of the smallest districts in Uttar Pradesh, focusing on their geographic, historical, and economic nuances.
The Smallest Districts by Area
Among the smallest districts of Uttar Pradesh by area, two stand out:
Sant Ravidas Nagar (formerly Bhadohi)
Geography and demographic data
According to recent data, the smallest district in terms of area is Sant Ravidas Nagar (formerly known as Bhadohi). This district, nestled in the northern parts of Uttar Pradesh, has an area of just 1015 square kilometers. It is located within the administrative division of Mirzapur, with its headquarters set in the city of Gyanpur.
History and culture
The district holds rich historical significance. Named after the revered 15th-century saint Sant Ravidas, it boasts a deep cultural heritage going back to the Mahābhārata era. Legends state that the Pandavas took refuge in this region during the ancient times, and Mata Sita lived in the ashram of Maharshi Balmiki.
During the medieval period, the district was part of the Kingdom of Jaunpur and later became a sub-division under the Mughal Empire. It was officially recognized as a district in 1994 under the Mayawati government, before its name was changed back to Bhadohi in 2014 by the Akhilesh Yadav government, and finally to its current name as the Sant Ravidas Nagar.
Economy and industries
The district is known for its thriving carpet industry, which emerged in the 16th century during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. This region is renowned for its hand-knotted carpets and has been a significant export hub for India. In 2010, the carpets of Bhadohi were granted a Geographical Indication (GI) tag, signifying their unique origin and quality.
In November 2018, Bhadohi further received a boost with the export excellence tag, ensuring better financial assistance for the carpet industry, improved export infrastructure, and global market outreach.
Bhadohi (formerly Sant Ravidas Nagar)
Interestingly, the district was known as Bhadohi before it gained the name Sant Ravidas Nagar. It is situated at the intersection of ancient pilgrimage routes, connected to important sites like Varanasi and Prayagraj (Allahabad).
Vital statistics and geography
As of 2011, Bhadohi had a population of 1,554,203, with a population density of 1,531 inhabitants per square kilometer. The district is enveloped by other significant districts such as Jaunpur to the north, Varanasi to the east, Mirzapur to the south, and Allahabad to the west. The main rivers include the Ganges, Varuna, and Morva.
Divisions and tehsils
The district comprises three tehsils: Aurai, Bhadohi, and Gyanpur, along with six blocks: Bhadohi, Suriyawan, Gyanpur, Deegh, Abholi, and Aurai. There are 1075 populated villages and 149 non-populated ones, contributing to a total of 1,554,203 inhabitants.
Economic activities
The carpet industry remains the backbone of the local economy, employing a vast number of rural artisans. In 2010, the annual turnover of carpet exports from Bhadohi alone was around 25 billion Indian rupees, with organizations based in Bhadohi accounting for approximately 75% of the total carpet exports from India.
Conclusion
Understanding the smallest districts in Uttar Pradesh not only highlights the diversity and complexity of Indian geography but also underscores the importance of local industries and cultural heritage. Cities like Bhadohi and Sant Ravidas Nagar continue to thrive, contributing significantly to the economic and cultural fabric of Uttar Pradesh.