District Profile of Uttar Pradesh

DISTRICT PROFILE OF UTTAR PRADESH

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Uttar Pradesh is one of the largest and most populous states in India. It has a total of 75 districts divided into 18 divisions. Understanding the administrative structure is important for grasping how the state is governed.

What is a District?

A district is a geographical area that serves as an administrative unit. Each district is governed by a District Magistrate (DM), who is responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting revenue, and implementing government policies.

Uttar Pradesh has the highest number of districts in India, which reflects its large population and vast area.

READ MORE – DEMOGRAPHIC PROFILE OF UTTAR PRADESH

Divisions of Uttar Pradesh

A division is a group of districts. Each division is overseen by a Divisional Commissioner. This role is crucial in managing the coordination between different districts in the division.

Here’s a table showing the 18 divisions and the districts under each:

DivisionHeadquartersDistricts Included
Agra DivisionAgraAgra, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Mathura
Aligarh DivisionAligarhAligarh, Etah, Hathras, Kasganj
Allahabad DivisionAllahabadAllahabad, Fatehpur, Kaushambi, Pratapgarh
Azamgarh DivisionAzamgarhAzamgarh, Ballia, Mau
Bareilly DivisionBareillyBareilly, Budaun, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur
Basti DivisionBastiBasti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Siddharthnagar
Chitrakoot DivisionChitrakootBanda, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, Mahoba
Devipatan DivisionDevipatanBahraich, Balarampur, Gonda, Shravasti
Ayodhya DivisionFaizabadAmbedkar Nagar, Amethi, Barabanki, Faizabad, Sultanpur
Gorakhpur DivisionGorakhpurDeoria, Gorakhpur, Kushinagar, Maharajganj
Jhansi DivisionJhansiJhansi, Jalaun, Lalitpur
Kanpur DivisionKanpurAuraiya, Etawah, Farrukhabad, Kannauj, Kanpur Dehat, Kanpur Nagar
Lucknow DivisionLucknowHardoi, Lakhimpur Kheri, Lucknow, Raebareli, Sitapur, Unnao
Meerut DivisionMeerutBaghpat, Bulandshahr, Gautam Buddh Nagar, Ghaziabad, Hapur, Meerut
Mirzapur DivisionMirzapurMirzapur, Sant Ravidas Nagar, Sonbhadra
Moradabad DivisionMoradabadAmroha, Bijnor, Moradabad, Rampur, Sambhal
Saharanpur DivisionSaharanpurMuzaffarnagar, Saharanpur, Shamli
Varanasi DivisionVaranasiChandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, Varanasi

Importance of Divisions and Districts

  1. Efficient Administration: Divisions make it easier to manage several districts by grouping them under one administrative unit.
  2. Law and Order: The Divisional Commissioner and District Magistrates work together to maintain law and order across districts.
  3. Implementation of Policies: Divisions and districts help in the smooth implementation of state and central government schemes.

Additional Information:

  • Fertile Land and Population: Uttar Pradesh has fertile plains, which contribute to its high population. This is also why the state has so many districts.

Quick Facts:

  • Largest Number of Districts: Uttar Pradesh has the largest number of districts in India.
  • Total Divisions: The state is divided into 18 divisions, each with several districts.

Agra Division Overview

The Agra Division is one of the important administrative divisions in Uttar Pradesh, known for its rich historical background and cultural significance. The division includes four districts: Agra, Firozabad, Mainpuri, and Mathura. Each district has its own unique features, history, and importance.

Agra District

  • Formation: Agra was founded in 1504 AD by Sikandar Lodhi. The ancient name of Agra is believed to have been mentioned by the geographer Ptolemy. Agra served as the capital of Uttar Pradesh (then North-West Province) from 1836 to 1858 before it was shifted to Allahabad.
  • Location and Boundaries: Agra is bordered by Mathura, Hathras, and Etah districts to the north, Firozabad and Etawah districts to the east, Madhya Pradesh to the south, and Rajasthan to the west and southwest.
  • Famous For: Agra is world-renowned for the Taj Mahal, a symbol of love, and the Moti Masjid, both built by Emperor Shahjahan. It is also famous for its sweet delicacy, Petha. Other important tourist attractions include the Agra Fort and Buland Darwaza.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 4041 sq km
  • Headquarters: Agra
  • Population: 44,18,797
  • Density: 1094/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 868 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 71.6%

Firozabad District

  • Formation: The district of Firozabad was named after Firoz Shah Mansabdar in 1566 during the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. The district was officially established on 2nd February 1989.
  • Location and Boundaries: Firozabad is bordered by Etah in the north, Mainpuri and Etawah in the east, and Agra in the south and east.
  • Famous For: Known as the Glass City of India, Firozabad is famous for its beautiful glass bangles and crafts. Notable tourist spots include the Mata Teela Temple, Kotla Fort, Chandraveer Gate, Vaishno Devi Temple, Sofi Sahab Mazar, and Jain Mandir.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 2407 sq km
  • Headquarters: Firozabad
  • Population: 24,98,156
  • Density: 1038/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 875 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 71.9%

Mainpuri District

  • Formation: Mainpuri was historically part of the Kannauj kingdom and later became the headquarters of Etawah district in 1801. It was officially recognized as a district in 1856.
  • Location and Boundaries: Mainpuri is bordered by Etah in the north, Farrukhabad and Kannauj in the east, Etawah in the south, and Firozabad in the west.
  • Famous For: Mainpuri is known for its mining and tobacco industries. Key tourist attractions include the Maharaja Tej Singh Chauhan Fort, Sheetla Mata Mandir, Samman Bird Sanctuary, and Lohia Park.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 2760 sq km
  • Headquarters: Mainpuri
  • Population: 18,68,529
  • Density: 677/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 881 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 76.0%

Mathura District

  • Formation: The ancient name of Mathura was Madhuvan, which evolved to Madhupura and then Mathura. It is famously known as the birthplace of Lord Krishna.
  • Location and Boundaries: Mathura is bordered by Aligarh in the northeast, Hathras in the southeast, Agra in the south, Rajasthan in the west, and Haryana in the northwest.
  • Famous For: Mathura is famous for its milk industry and is home to India’s first Elephant Hospital. Important tourist destinations include Raman Reti, Gokul, Radha Raman Temple, Shri Banke Bihari, Prem Mandir, and Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwa Vidhyalaya Evam Gau Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU).
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 3340 sq km
  • Headquarters: Mathura
  • Population: 25,47,184
  • Density: 763/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 863 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 70.4%

Aligarh Division Overview

The Aligarh Division is an administrative division in Uttar Pradesh, encompassing the districts of Aligarh, Etah, Hathras, and Kasganj. Each district within this division holds historical significance and cultural importance.

Aligarh District

  • Formation: The ancient name of Aligarh was ‘Kol’. The current name ‘Aligarh’ was given by Majaf Khan, a Shia commander. The district was formed in 1804 AD by merging the second, third, and fourth British divisions with parts of Anupshahr from Moradabad and Sikandra Rao from Etawah.
  • Location and Boundaries: Aligarh is bordered by Gautam Budh Nagar, Bulandshahr, and Sambhal districts in the north, Badaun and Kasganj districts in the east, Hathras and Mathura districts in the south, and Haryana state in the west. The Eastern Kali River is the main river in the district.
  • Famous For: Aligarh is globally recognized for its lock industry, as well as for horse rearing, brass hardware, and sculptures. The renowned Aligarh Muslim University was established by Sir Syed Ahmad Khan as Mohammedan Anglo-Oriented College in 1875 and was renamed in 1920.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 3650 sq km
  • Headquarters: Aligarh
  • Population: 36,73,889
  • Density: 1007/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 882 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 67.5%

Etah District

  • Formation: Etah city was established by Raja Sangam Singh, a Sardar of Prithviraj Chauhan.
  • Location and Boundaries: Etah is bordered by Kasganj district in the north, Farrukhabad district in the east, Mainpuri, Firozabad, and Agra districts in the south, and Hathras district in the west. The Isan River is the main river in this district.
  • Famous For: Important tourist attractions in Etah include the Patna Bird Sanctuary, Awagarh Fort, and Kailash Temple.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 2431 sq km
  • Headquarters: Etah
  • Population: 17,74,480
  • Density: 730/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 873 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 70.8%

Hathras District

  • Formation: Hathras district was created on 3rd May 1997 by incorporating parts of Aligarh, Mathura, and Agra districts and Khair Tehsil. Initially named Mahamaya Nagar after the mother of Gautam Buddha, it was renamed Hathras in 2012.
  • Location and Boundaries: Hathras is bordered by Aligarh district in the north, Kasganj and Etah districts in the east, Agra district in the south, and Mathura district in the west. The Kali and Karban (Karo) rivers are the main rivers in this district.
  • Famous For: Hathras is known for its Rasia Folk Theatre, Dance, Nautanki of Harishchandra and Amar Singh Rathore, and Swang. It is also famous for its oil mills and cotton mills.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 1840 sq km
  • Headquarters: Hathras
  • Population: 15,64,708
  • Density: 850/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 871 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 71.6%

Kasganj District

  • Formation: Kasganj is the 71st district of Uttar Pradesh, created on 17th April 2008 by dividing Etah district. It was initially named Kanshiram Nagar by then-Chief Minister Mayawati but was renamed Kasganj in 2012.
  • Location and Boundaries: Kasganj is bordered by Badaun district in the north, Farrukhabad district in the east, Etah district in the south, and Hathras district in the west. The Kali River is the main river in this district, which is located on the fertile Ganga and Yamuna Doab region.
  • Famous For: Key tourist spots include Murlidhar Ghanta Ghar, Soron Shukar Kshetra (Pilgrimage Centre), Harpadi Ganga, Chisti Peer Baba Mazar, and Jama Masjid.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 1955 sq km
  • Headquarters: Kasganj
  • Population: 14,36,719
  • Density: 755/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 880 Females/1000 Males

Prayagraj Division Overview

The Prayagraj Division in Uttar Pradesh consists of the districts Prayagraj (Allahabad), Fatehpur, Pratapgarh, and Kaushambi. Each district in this division holds historical significance and contributes to the cultural and religious heritage of the state.

Prayagraj (Allahabad) District

  • Formation: The city was founded by Emperor Akbar in 1575 AD under the name ‘Illahabas’, which later evolved into ‘Allahabad’. In October 2018, the district was renamed ‘Prayagraj’.
  • Location and Boundaries: Prayagraj is bordered by Pratapgarh and Jaunpur districts to the north, Sant Ravidas Nagar and Mirzapur districts to the east, the state of Madhya Pradesh to the south, and Chitrakoot and Kaushambi districts to the west. The district is notable for being at the confluence of the Ganga, Yamuna, and the mythical Saraswati rivers, known as the Triveni Sangam.
  • Famous For: Prayagraj is famous for its religious and cultural landmarks, including the Sangam (Kumbh Mela), Allahabad Fort, All Saint’s Cathedral, Khusro Bagh, Alfred Park, and Ulta Qila. The North Central Zone Cultural Centre was established here in 1986.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 5482 sq km
  • Headquarters: Prayagraj
  • Population: 59,54,391
  • Density: 1086/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 901 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 72.3%

Fatehpur District

  • Formation: Mentioned in Puranic Literature, the district’s Bhitaura and Asani Ghats are described in the Puranas. In 1814 AD, Fatehpur was designated as a sub-division and later became a district headquarters in 1826 AD.
  • Location and Boundaries: Fatehpur is bordered by Unnao and Raebareli districts to the north, Kaushambi district to the east, Chitrakoot and Banda districts to the south, and Hamirpur and Kanpur Nagar districts to the west. The district is situated along the banks of the Ganga and Yamuna rivers.
  • Famous For: Fatehpur is known for several tourist sites, including Chawk Bazar, Bawani Imali, Om Ghat, Hathgam (the birthplace of Ganesh Shankar Vidyarthi), Renah Village (a village from the Mahabharat period), and Shivrajpur (a temple of Lord Krishna).
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 4152 sq km
  • Headquarters: Fatehpur
  • Population: 26,32,733
  • Density: 634/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 901 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 67.4%

Pratapgarh District

  • Formation: The district was named after Raja Pratap Singh (1628-1682), who built a fort called Pratapgarh. The district was officially established in 1858.
  • Location and Boundaries: Pratapgarh is bordered by Amethi and Sultanpur districts to the north, Jaunpur district to the east, Prayagraj and Kaushambi districts to the south, and Raebareli and Fatehpur districts to the west. The important rivers in this district include the Ganga, Gomti, Sai, Loni, and Sakani.
  • Famous For: Pratapgarh is home to many significant religious and cultural sites, such as Baba Bhayaharan Nath Dham, Ghuisarnath Vyakti Dham, Chandikan Devi Shaktipeeth, Bela Devi, Shani Dev Temple, Bhakti Dham, and Ghushmeshwar Nath Dham.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 3717 sq km
  • Headquarters: Pratapgarh
  • Population: 32,09,141
  • Density: 863/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 998 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 70.1%

Kaushambi District

  • Formation: The ancient name of Kaushambi was ‘Kaushamb’. According to the Puranas, it was established by Raja Nicaksu of Hastinapur. The district was carved out of Prayagraj district on 4th April 1997.
  • Location and Boundaries: Kaushambi is bordered by Pratapgarh district to the north, Prayagraj district to the east, Chitrakoot district to the south, and Fatehpur district to the west. The Yamuna and Sasurkhaderi rivers are the main rivers in this district.
  • Famous For: Kaushambi is an important pilgrimage site for both Jainism and Buddhism. Key tourist spots include the Sheetla Devi Temple, Prabhasgiri, Shri Ram Temple, and the Saint Malook Das Ji Kara (Ashram and Samadhi of Saint Malook Das).
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 1779 sq km
  • Headquarters: Kaushambi
  • Population: 15,99,596
  • Density: 899/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 908 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 61.3%

Azamgarh Division Overview

The Azamgarh Division in Uttar Pradesh includes the districts Azamgarh, Ballia, and Mau. This division is rich in history and cultural heritage, with each district contributing unique aspects to the state.

READ MORE –CASTES AND TRIBES OF UTTAR PRADESH

Azamgarh District

  • Formation: The town of Azamgarh was founded by Azam, the son of Vikramajit, in 1665. The district was named after the town and officially came into existence in 1932.
  • Location and Boundaries: Azamgarh is located on the banks of the Tamsa river. It is surrounded by Gorakhpur district to the north, Mau district to the east, Jaunpur district to the southwest, Sultanpur district to the west, and Ambedkar Nagar district to the northwest. The important rivers in the district include Ghaghara, Tamsa, Saryu, Gangi, Beso, Majhui (Manjusha), Udanti, Kunwar, Silani, Bhaisahi, Mangayi, and Loni.
  • Famous For: Azamgarh is known for its sugar mills and weaving of garments. The district is also the birthplace of the famous politician Amar Singh.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 4054 sq km
  • Headquarters: Azamgarh
  • Population: 46,13,913
  • Density: 1138/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 1019 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 70.9%

Ballia District

  • Formation: Ballia is also known as Bagi Ballia. The district’s name is derived from ‘Rakshasraj Bali’.
  • Location and Boundaries: Ballia is bordered by Deoria district to the north, the state of Bihar to the northeast, east, and south, Ghazipur district to the southwest, and Mau district to the west. The district lies at the confluence of two major rivers, the Ganga and Ghaghra. Other important rivers include the Saryu, Ghaghra, and Ganga.
  • Famous For: Ballia is known for its important tourist spots like Surha Taal and the Dadri Mela. The district is also famous as the birthplace of the freedom fighter Mangal Pandey.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 2981 sq km
  • Headquarters: Ballia
  • Population: 32,39,774
  • Density: 1087/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 937 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 70.9%

Mau District

  • Formation: The ancient name of the district was ‘Maunath’, which was later renamed Mau. The district was officially formed on 19th November 1988.
  • Location and Boundaries: Mau district is bordered by Gorakhpur and Deoria districts to the north, Ballia district to the east, Ghazipur district to the south, and Azamgarh district to the west. It is located on the banks of the Tamsa river, with the Tamsa and Ghaghra being the important rivers.
  • Famous For: Mau is known for its tourist attractions, such as the Van Devi Mandir, Muktidham Dohrighat, and Sheetla Mata Mandir.
  • Important Statistical Data:
  • Area: 1713 sq km
  • Headquarters: Mau
  • Population: 22,05,968
  • Density: 1288/sq km
  • Sex-Ratio: 979 Females/1000 Males
  • Literacy Rate: 73.1%

Bareilly Division

The Bareilly Division in Uttar Pradesh comprises four key districts: Budaun, Bareilly, Pilibhit, and Shahjahanpur. Below is a simplified summary of each district, designed to be easily understood by 9th-10th standard students.

Budaun

  • Formation: Budaun was established as a district in 1911, named after Koli Prince Budh.
  • Location: Budaun is bordered by Rampur and Bareilly (North), Shahjahanpur (East), Farrukhabad and Kasganj (South), and Aligarh and Sambhal (West). The Ganga River is an important river here.
  • Famous For: Budaun is known for its historical sites like the Great Mosque, Nizamuddin Auliya, and the Gurukul Sanskrit Mahavidyalaya.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 5168 sq km
  • Population: 3,681,899
  • Density: 712 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 871 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 51.3%

Bareilly

  • Formation: During the Mahajanapada period, Bareilly was known as Ahichhatra/Kampilaya, the capital of Northern Panchala. In 1774, it became part of Awadh and was annexed by the British in 1801.
  • Location: Bordered by Uttarakhand (North), Pilibhit and Shahjahanpur (East), Budaun (South), and Rampur (West). Located on the banks of the Ramganga River.
  • Famous For: Tourist spots include Kargil Chowk, Ahichhatra Temple, Ala Hazrat Dargah, Rani Laxmi Bai Park, and Fun City Amusement Park. In 2016, Bareilly was included in the list of 100 smart cities.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 4120 sq km
  • Population: 4,448,359
  • Density: 1080 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 887 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 58.5%

Pilibhit

  • Formation: Pilibhit was recognized as a separate tehsil during the British period and became a district after 1824.
  • Location: Bordered by Uttarakhand (North), Nepal (North), Lakhimpur Kheri (East), Shahjahanpur (South), and Bareilly (West). The Gomati River originates here, and other important rivers include Sharda, Devha, and Khakra.
  • Famous For: Pilibhit is called “Chhota Punjab” or “Mini Punjab” due to the large Sikh population that settled here after 1947. Tourist attractions include Gauri Shankar Temple, Raja Venu Ka Teela, Chuka Beach, and Lagga-Bagga Forest Area.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 3686 sq km
  • Population: 2,031,007
  • Density: 551 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 895 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 61.5%

Shahjahanpur

  • Formation: Established by Dilir Khan and Bahadur Khan, advisors of Mughal Emperor Shahjahan.
  • Location: Bordered by Bareilly and Pilibhit (North), Lakhimpur Kheri (East), Hardoi and Farrukhabad (South), and Budaun (West). The district lies at the junction of the Khannaut and Garra rivers.
  • Famous For: Shahjahanpur is known for Hanuman Dham, Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Kali Badi Temple, Shaheed Dwar, and Ram Prasad Bismil Smarak. Freedom fighter Ram Prasad Bismil was born here.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 4575 sq km
  • Population: 3,006,538
  • Density: 685 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 872 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 59.5%

Basti Division

The Basti Division includes three districts: Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, and Siddharth Nagar.

Basti

  • Formation: Established as a district in 1865.
  • Location: Basti is surrounded by Siddharthnagar (North), Sant Kabir Nagar (East), Ambedkar Nagar (South), and Faizabad (South-West), Gonda (West and North-West). Important rivers include Ghaghra, Khai, Manwar, and Manorama.
  • Famous For: Tourist places like Makhauda Dham, Shringinari, Chhawani, Bhadeshwar Nath, Kateshwar Park, and Rashtriya Van Chetna Kendra.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 2688 sq km
  • Population: 2,464,464
  • Density: 917 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 963 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 67.2%

Sant Kabir Nagar

  • Formation: Established on 5th September 1997, named after Saint Kabir whose mausoleum is in Maghar.
  • Location: Surrounded by Siddharth Nagar (North), Gorakhpur (East and South-East), Ambedkar Nagar (South and South-West), and Basti (West). Important rivers are Ghaghra, Kunao, and Rapti.
  • Famous For: Tourist places include Maghar (Sant Kabir Chaura), Fort of Qazi Khailil-ur-Rahman, Bardhahiya Bazar, Samay Mata Temple, Bakhira Sanctuary, and Bakhira Moti Jheel.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 1646 sq km
  • Population: 1,715,183
  • Density: 1042 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 972 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 66.7%

Siddharth Nagar

  • Formation: Carved out from Basti district on 29th December 1988, named after Gautam Buddha’s childhood name, Siddhartha.
  • Location: Surrounded by Nepal (North), Maharajganj (East), Sant Kabir Nagar and Basti (South), Gonda (South-West), and Balrampur (West and North-West). Important rivers include Rapti, Budi Rapti, Bana Ganga, and Parsi Kudda.
  • Famous For: Included among India’s 250 most backward districts in 2006. Key sites are Piprahwa Stupa, Bharat Bhari Temple, Yogmaya Temple.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 2895 sq km
  • Population: 2,559,297
  • Density: 884 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 976 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 59.2%

Chitrakoot Dham Division

This division includes four districts: Banda, Chitrakoot, Hamirpur, and Mahoba.

Banda

  • Formation: Became a district in 1998, previously known as Bundelkhand.
  • Location: Bordered by Fatehpur (North), Chitrakoot (East), Madhya Pradesh (South), and Mahoba and Hamirpur (West). Important rivers include Yamuna, Ken, and Baghein.
  • Famous For: Tourist spots include Maheshwari Devi Temple, Khatri Pahar, Four Stone Pillar, Bhuragarh Fort, Bamdev Temple.
  • Important Data:
  • Area: 4408 sq km
  • Population: 1,799,410
  • Density: 408 people per sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 863 females per 1000 males
  • Literacy Rate: 66.7%

Chitrakoot

Location: Situated on the banks of the Mandakini River and surrounded by the Vindhyachal mountain range. Bordered by Fatehpur (North), Kaushambi (North-East), Prayagraj (East), Madhya Pradesh (South), and Banda (West). Important rivers are Yamuna, Gunta, Baghein, Ohan/Balmiki, **Bard

Formation: Carved out from Banda district on 6th May 1997.

Devipatan Division

Bahraich

  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Nepal to the North, Shravasti to the East, Gonda to the South-East, Barabanki to the South-West, and Lakhimpur Kheri and Sitapur to the West. It’s located on the banks of the Saryu River.
  • Rivers: Saryu and Ghaghra.
  • Famous For: Dargah Sharif Syed Salar Masood Ghazi, Katarnia Ghat Wildlife Sanctuary, Mari Mata Mandir, and Sangharan Mandir.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 5,237 sq km
  • Population: 3,487,731
  • Density: 666/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 892
  • Literacy Rate: 49.4%

Balrampur

  • Formation: Formed on 25th May 1997, originally part of Gonda district.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Nepal to the North, Siddharthnagar to the East, Gonda to the South and South-West, and Shravasti to the West. Located on the Rapti River.
  • Famous For: Jetavana Monastery, Devi Patan Temple, Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary, Jhalidham, Jaiprabhagram.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 3,349 sq km
  • Population: 2,48,665
  • Density: 642/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 928
  • Literacy Rate: 49.5%

Gonda

  • Formation: Originally part of Bahraich; separated in 1856 and again in 1997 to form Balrampur.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Shravasti to the North, Balrampur and Siddharthnagar to the North-East, Basti to the East, Faizabad to the South, Barabanki to the South-West, and Bahraich to the North-West.
  • Rivers: Ghaghra, Saryu, and Kuano.
  • Famous For: Prithvinath Temple, Shree Swaminarayan Temple Chhapaiya, Pateshwari Temple.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 4,003 sq km
  • Population: 3,433,919
  • Density: 858/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 921
  • Literacy Rate: 58.7%

Shravasti

  • Formation: Established in May 1997.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Nepal to the North, Balrampur to the East, Gonda to the South, and Bahraich to the West. Located near the Rapti River.
  • Famous For: Vibhuti Nath Temple, Suhaildev Wildlife Sanctuary, Kacchi Kuti, Pakki Kuti.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 1,640 sq km
  • Population: 1,117,361
  • Density: 681/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 881
  • Literacy Rate: 46.7%

Ayodhya Division

Ambedkar Nagar

  • Formation: Created on 29th September 1995, named after Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Gorakhpur, Sultanpur, Ayodhya, and Azamgarh. Rivers: Tamsa and Saryu.
  • Famous For: Gobind Sahab Dham, Kichhauchha Sharif Dargah, famous for terricot fabric, NTPC Thermal Power Station.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,350 sq km
  • Population: 2,397,888
  • Density: 1020/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 978
  • Literacy Rate: 72.2%

Amethi

  • Formation: Formed on 1st July 2010, originally part of Sultanpur and Raebareli districts.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Ayodhya, Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Barabanki, and Raebareli. Gomati River is significant.
  • Famous For: Seat of power for the Nehru-Gandhi dynasty, Hindustan Aeronautics Limited, Malik Muhammad Jayasi Mazar, Nandmahar Dham.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 3,063 sq km
  • Population: 1,867,678
  • Density: 855/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 930
  • Literacy Rate: 59.5%

Barabanki

  • Formation: Believed to be named after Bhagwan Baarah, the district is known as the “Entrance of Purvanchal.”
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Sitapur, Bahraich, Gonda, Faizabad, Amethi, Raebareli, and Lucknow.
  • Rivers: Ghaghra and Gomati.
  • Famous For: Handkerchief production hub, Kohwa Dham, Mahadeva Temple, Dewa Sharif.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 4,402 sq km
  • Population: 3,260,699
  • Density: 741/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 910
  • Literacy Rate: 61.7%

Ayodhya

  • Formation: Originally Kosala, renamed Faizabad in 1722, reverted to Ayodhya in November 2018.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Gonda, Basti, Ambedkar Nagar, Sultanpur, Amethi, and Barabanki. Rivers: Ghaghara, Saryu, Gomati, Tamsa.
  • Famous For: Birthplace of Lord Rama, Hanuman Garhi Fort, Ramkot, Nageshwar Temple.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,341 sq km
  • Population: 2,470,996
  • Density: 1056/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 962
  • Literacy Rate: 68.75%

Sultanpur

  • Formation: Initially named Kusapura, later changed to Sultanpur by Sultan Alauddin Khilji.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Azamgarh, Jaunpur, Pratapgarh, and Amethi.
  • Rivers: Gomati.
  • Famous For: Shri Aluminium Company, Sundar Lal Memorial Hall (Victoria Manzil), Dhopap Mandir.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 4,436 sq km
  • Population: 3,797,117
  • Density: 856/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 983
  • Literacy Rate: 69.3%

Gorakhpur Division

Deoria

  • Formation: Carved out from Gorakhpur on 16th March 1946.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Kushinagar, Bihar, Ballia, Mau, and Gorakhpur. Rivers: Ghaghra, Rapti, and Chhoti Gandak.
  • Famous For: Sri Tirupati Balaji Mandir, Dewaraha Baba Ashram, Dugdheswarnath Mandir.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,540 sq km
  • Population: 3,100,946
  • Density: 1221/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 1017
  • Literacy Rate: 71.1%

Gorakhpur

  • Formation: Named after Guru Gorakhnath, became a district in 1801 AD.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Maharajganj, Kushinagar, Deoria, Ambedkar Nagar, Azamgarh, and Mau. Rivers: Rapti and Rohini.
  • Famous For: Geeta Press, North-Eastern Railway Zone headquarters, Gorakhpur Industrial Development Authority (GIDA).
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 3,321 sq km
  • Population: 4,440,895
  • Density: 1337/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 950
  • Literacy Rate: 70.8%

Kushinagar

  • Formation: Carved out from Deoria on 13th May 1994, renamed from Padrauna in 1997.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Bihar, Deoria, Gorakhpur, and Maharajganj. Located on the Gandak River.
  • Famous For: Site of Lord Buddha’s Mahaparinirvana (483 BC), Kushinagar Museum, Mahaparinirvana Temple.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,905 sq km
  • Population: 3,564,544
  • Density: 1227/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 961
  • Literacy Rate: 65.2%

Maharajganj

  • Formation: Carved out from Gorakhpur on 2nd October 1989, originally known as Karapath.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Nepal, Kushinagar, Gorakhpur, and Deoria. Rivers: Gandak, Rohini, Rapti.
  • Famous For: Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary, Nepal Route through Thuthibari, Lehra Devi Temple.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,951 sq km
  • Population: 2,684,703
  • Density: 910/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 945
  • Literacy Rate: 59.2%

Varanasi Division

Azamgarh

  • Formation: Founded by Azam, the son of Vikramajit, a descendant of Gautam Rajputs.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Mau, Ballia, Ghazipur, Jaunpur, and Gorakhpur. Rivers: Tamsa, Choti Saryu, Gangi, and Magai.
  • Famous For: Birthplace of poet Rahul Sankrityayan, association with national movements, Shri Durvasa Rishi Ashram, and its Amla production.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 4,054 sq km
  • Population: 4,613,913
  • Density: 1142/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 1019
  • Literacy Rate: 71.93%

Chandauli

  • Formation: Carved out of Varanasi on 20th May 1997.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Bihar, Ghazipur, Mirzapur, Varanasi, and Jaunpur. Rivers: Ganga and Karmnasha.
  • Famous For: Laxmi Narayan Temple, Chandra Prabha Sanctuary, historical remains at Rajdari and Devdari.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 2,548 sq km
  • Population: 1,952,756
  • Density: 766/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 920
  • Literacy Rate: 71.5%

Ghazipur

  • Formation: Founded by Ghazuddin, a general of Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Bihar, Jaunpur, Azamgarh, Ballia, Chandauli, and Mau.
  • Rivers: Ganga, Gomti, and Magai.
  • Famous For: Tomb of Lord Cornwallis, Handloom products, and rose-scented “Gulab Jal.”
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 3,378 sq km
  • Population: 3,620,268
  • Density: 1072/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 1005
  • Literacy Rate: 73.05%

Jaunpur

  • Formation: Founded by Feroz Shah Tughlaq and named after his cousin, Sultan Muhammad Bin Tughlaq, who was known as Jauna Khan.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Sultanpur, Pratapgarh, Bhadohi, Varanasi, Ghazipur, Azamgarh, and Ayodhya.
  • Rivers: Gomti and Sai.
  • Famous For: Shahi Bridge, Atala Masjid, Shahi Fort, and educational institutions like TD College.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 4,038 sq km
  • Population: 4,494,204
  • Density: 1113/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 1016
  • Literacy Rate: 73.66%

Varanasi

  • Formation: One of the world’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, also known as Kashi or Benaras.
  • Location & Boundaries: Surrounded by Jaunpur, Ghazipur, Chandauli, Bhadohi, and Mirzapur. The Ganga River flows through the city.
  • Famous For: Kashi Vishwanath Temple, Banaras Hindu University, Sarnath, Ramnagar Fort, Ghats of Varanasi.
  • Statistics:
  • Area: 1,535 sq km
  • Population: 3,676,841
  • Density: 2395/sq km
  • Sex Ratio: 909
  • Literacy Rate: 77.05%

FAQs

Question 1: Which of the following is not a district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Dehradun

Question 2: Where is the Moti Masjid located in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Agra

Question 3: Which place in Uttar Pradesh is known as the ‘Glass City of India’?
ANSWER: Firozabad

Question 4: Where is Pandit Deen Dayal Upadhyaya Pashu Chikitsa Vigyan Vishwavidyalaya Evam Go Anusandhan Sansthan (DUVASU) located?
ANSWER: Mathura

Question 5: Which place in Uttar Pradesh is famous worldwide for its ‘Lock Industry’?
ANSWER: Aligarh

Question 6: Where is the North Central Zone Cultural Centre located in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Prayagraj (Allahabad)

Question 7: Which place in Uttar Pradesh is an important pilgrimage site for both Jainism and Buddhism?
ANSWER: Kaushambi

Question 8: Amar Singh, a famous politician, belongs to which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Azamgarh

Question 9: Mangal Pandey, the famous freedom fighter, belongs to which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Ballia

Question 10: Hazrat Nizamuddin Auliya was associated with which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Budaun

Question 11: Bareilly district is located on the banks of which river?
ANSWER: Ramganga

Question 12: Which district is also known as ‘Mini/Chhota Punjab’?
ANSWER: Pilibhit

Question 13: Ram Prasad Bismil was born in which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Shahjahanpur

Question 14: In which year was Sant Kabir Nagar established?
ANSWER: 1997

Question 15: Chitrakoot district is located on the banks of which river?
ANSWER: Mandakini

Question 16: Where is the Betel Leaf Experiment and Training Centre located in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Mahoba

Question 17: Where is Jetavana Monastery located?
ANSWER: Balrampur

Question 18: Which is the main district of the Faizabad (Ayodhya) division?
ANSWER: Ambedkarnagar

Question 19: Which district is known as the ‘Entrance of Purvanchal’?
ANSWER: Barabanki

Question 20: GIDA has been established in which place of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Gorakhpur

Question 21: Maharishi Ved Vyas is associated with which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Jalaun

Question 22: Which is the only district in Uttar Pradesh where uranium is found?
ANSWER: Lalitpur

Question 23: Which district was known as Mahodya Shri?
ANSWER: Kannauj

Question 24: Which place in Uttar Pradesh is known as the ‘Grasse of the East’?
ANSWER: Kannauj

Question 25: In which district is the Sharda Dam situated?
ANSWER: Lakhimpur Kheri

Question 26: Where is Rumi Darwaza situated in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Lucknow

Question 27: Which district of Uttar Pradesh is famous for the production of ‘Dashari Mangoes’?
ANSWER: Lucknow

Question 28: Where is the world’s largest rail coach factory situated?
ANSWER: Raebareli

Question 29: In which district of Uttar Pradesh is the Ashram of Dadhichi situated?
ANSWER: Sitapur

Question 30: Where is Shahid Chandra Shekhar Bird Sanctuary located in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Unnao

Question 31: On the banks of which river is Baghpat district situated?
ANSWER: Yamuna

Question 32: In which district of Uttar Pradesh is the Narora Atomic Centre located?
ANSWER: Bulandshahar

Question 33: Where is the Okhla Bird Sanctuary located in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Gautam Buddh Nagar

Question 34: Noida is situated in which district of Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Gautam Buddh Nagar

Question 35: Which district in Uttar Pradesh has the world’s largest power plant?
ANSWER: Ghaziabad

Question 36: Mirzapur is famous for what in Uttar Pradesh?
ANSWER: Kajari Songs

Question 37: Sant Ravidas Nagar is famous for what?
ANSWER: Carpet

Question 38: Which district of Uttar Pradesh is known as the ‘Energy Capital of India’?
ANSWER: Sonbhadra

Question 39: Which district of Uttar Pradesh is famous for wood carving?
ANSWER: Saharanpur

Question 40: Which of the following is not correctly matched? (City: Importance)
ANSWER: Jhansi: Industrial Centre

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