This time let’s go to Jharkhand. The dense forests there will invite you to get lost in their greenery, while the waterfalls like Rajrappa and Koyal will fascinate you with their beauty.
If you are a history lover, then the sacred land of Sammed Peak and the temple of Chhinnamasta are waiting for you. Love adventure? So trekking in the hills of Netarhat or water sports in Damodar Valley will double your thrill.
Jharkhand is a unique confluence of nature, history and adventure. So pack your bags and set out to feel the passion of Jharkhand in your hearts!
Table of Contents
Introduction to Jharkhand
Jharkhand: Land of Forests and Tribes
Come, let us go today to the beautiful valleys of Jharkhand, where dense forests invite us to get lost in their greenery and tribal traditions mesmerize with their richness.
- Geographical Overview
Jharkhand, located in Eastern India, is covered with forests as per its name. Its name is formed by combining “Jhar” meaning forest and “Khand” meaning region. This state makes Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Odisha, Uttar Pradesh and Bihar its neighbors. Ranchi is the capital of Jharkhand, while Dumka is known as the sub-capital.
Most of the land here is situated on the Chhotanagpur plateau. Many rivers like Damodar, North Koel, Barakar, South Koel flow through this plateau. Due to being rich in forests, it is also home to elephants and tigers.
- In the depths of history (Historical Background)
The history of Jharkhand is linked with the stories of tribal communities. Tribal communities like Munda, Santhal and Oraon have lived here for centuries. These communities have their own rich traditions, customs and folklore.
Jharkhand’s contribution has also been important in India’s freedom struggle. Tribal leaders like Bhagwan Birsa Munda fought for self-rule. Ultimately, in the year 2000, Jharkhand separated from Bihar and became an independent state.
- Fragrance of Culture (Cultural Heritage)
The culture of Jharkhand is steeped in tribal traditions. The folk art, dance, music and costumes here tell the tribal lifestyle. Crowns decorated with flowers and feathers, attractive jewelery like Dhumkud, colorful paintings like Mandar ki Thap and Sohrai are the specialties of Jharkhand’s culture.
Apart from this, there are many Hindu pilgrimage places also. Religious places like Vaidyanath Dham, Sammed Shikhar and Rajhara attract devotees.
The natural beauty and rich culture of Jharkhand mesmerize the tourists. So what are you waiting for, you also come and embrace the beauty of Jharkhand in your hearts.
Administrative Divisions
Administrative Divisions of Jharkhand
The administration of Jharkhand is divided into three levels – districts, municipalities and rural areas. Let us try to know these administrative departments closely –
- Districts of Jharkhand
There are total 19 districts in Jharkhand state. These districts are the first unit of state administration. Every district has its own Deputy Commissioner, who is in charge of the development and law and order of the district.
Some of the major districts are Ranchi (capital), Jamshedpur (industrial city), Dhanbad (coal zone), Bokaro (steel city), Dumka (sub-capital), Hazaribagh and Giridih.
You can get information about all the districts on the official website of Jharkhand Government.
| District | important city |
|---|---|
| Ranchi | Ranchi |
| Jamshedpur | Jamshedpur |
| Dhanbad | Dhanbad |
| Bokaro | Bokaro |
| Dumka | दुDumka |
| Hazaribagh | Hazaribagh |
| Giridih | Giridih |
- Municipalities and Urban Centers
Jharkhand has many important municipalities and urban centres. These cities are the backbone of Jharkhand’s economy. Various industries are established here and there is a lot of business activity.
Some major cities are –
Ranchi – Being the capital of Jharkhand, Ranchi is the center of administration. Along with this, there are many important educational institutions here.
Jamshedpur – Thanks to big companies like Tata Steel, Jamshedpur is known as “Steel City”.
Dhanbad – Dhanbad, known as Koylanchal, is the main source of energy of Jharkhand.
Bokaro – Bokaro Steel Plant is one of the major steel plants in the country. This is why Bokaro is called “Steel City“.
Dumka – Dumka, the sub-capital of Jharkhand, is a major center of tribal culture.
These cities are the industrial and business centers of Jharkhand.
- Rural Administrative Setup
Rural administration in Jharkhand is divided into three levels –
Gram Panchayat – is the lowest unit of villages. Gram Panchayat handles the local development works, like – road construction, Panchayat building construction, repair of canals etc.
Panchayat Samiti – is a group of several villages. Panchayat Samiti coordinates the development works of its area.
Zilla Parishad – The Zilla Parishad oversees the development work of the entire district.
This administrative structure plays an important role in ensuring development in rural areas.
Economy of Jharkhand
Jharkhand: Treasure Trove of Forests and Minerals
Now let us talk about the economy and social culture of Jharkhand. This state, rich in forests and minerals, has a cluster of industries, while tribal traditions are still alive.
Economy
1 Industries and Mining
Industries and mining have an important contribution in the economy of Jharkhand.
Mineral wealth – Jharkhand is the richest mineral region of the country. Minerals like iron, copper, coal, mica are found in abundance here. Due to these minerals, industries like steel and cement are flourishing here. Tata Steel’s Jamshedpur factory is a living example of this.
Other Industries – Apart from minerals, vehicle manufacturing, silk production and handloom industries are also growing rapidly in Jharkhand.
2 Agriculture and Allied Sectors
Although Jharkhand is dominated by industries, agriculture is also the main source of livelihood for the people here.
Paddy cultivation – Paddy cultivation is done the most in Jharkhand. Besides this, maize, wheat and pulses are also grown.
Income from forests – Tribal communities make their source of income by collecting fruits, flowers, medicinal plants and herbs etc. from forests.
3 Economic Growth and Development Initiatives
Jharkhand government is taking many initiatives for the economic development of the state.
Promotion of investment – The government is giving various concessions to investors to set up industries in the state.
Skill Development – Skill development programs are being run to prepare the youth for employment.
Rural Development – The government is also focusing on agriculture, irrigation and infrastructure development to strengthen the rural economy.
Infrastructure and Development
Jharkhand: On the Path to Development
If we talk about modern amenities and development, Jharkhand is progressing rapidly. Let us take a closer look at Jharkhand’s infrastructure, development work and environmental challenges –
Infrastructure and Development
- Transportation Network
A network of road, rail and air transport has been established in Jharkhand.
Roads – A network of national highways and state routes is being laid in the state, which has made transportation between villages and cities easier.
Railways – The railway network in Jharkhand is also quite old and extensive. Trains run from here to different parts of the country.
Airports – Cities like Ranchi, Jamshedpur and Bokaro also have airports, which provide air travel facilities.
- Power and Energy Sector
Due to the presence of coal reserves in Jharkhand, there is great potential for power generation.
Coal based power plants – There are many coal based power plants installed in the state. However, attention is also being given to alternative energy sources.
Solar Energy – The government is running many schemes to promote solar energy.
- Education and Healthcare Facilities
Progress is also being made in the fields of education and health in Jharkhand.
Education – The state government is promoting government schools as well as private schools. Many technical institutes and universities have also been established.
Health – Hospitals and health centers are being opened in villages and cities. Besides, the scope of health services is being expanded in tribal areas also.
Environmental Concerns
- Deforestation and Wildlife Conservation
Deforestation is a serious concern in forest-rich Jharkhand. Due to this, the natural habitat of wildlife is also being endangered.
Forest Conservation Programs – The government is running several programs to stop deforestation and promote tree plantation.
Sanctuaries and National Parks – There are many sanctuaries and national parks in Jharkhand, where wild animals like elephants, tigers, deer are protected.
- Pollution Control Measures
Due to industrial development in Jharkhand, the problem of pollution is also increasing.
Air Pollution – To reduce air pollution, the government is taking strict action against polluting industries.
Water Pollution – Sewage treatment plants are being installed to prevent rivers and water sources from getting polluted.
- Sustainable Development Initiatives
Jharkhand government is taking care of environmental protection along with development.
Promotion of renewable energy sources – Renewable energy sources like solar energy and wind energy are being adopted to save the environment.
Eco-tourism – To preserve the natural beauty and tribal culture of Jharkhand, the government is promoting eco-tourism. This will promote tourism and will also take care of the environment.
Tourism in Jharkhand
Come, Let’s Roam the Beautiful Valleys of Jharkhand
Since we have talked about Jharkhand, then don’t forget to talk about travelling. Filled with natural beauty, historical places and thrilling adventures, Jharkhand will not disappoint you in terms of tourism.
- Beauty of Nature (Natural Attractions)
Surrounded by forests – Jharkhand is covered with dense forests. You can wander through the lush green hills of Netarhat, see elephants and tigers in Betla National Park, or capture the wild creatures roaming in Hazaribagh Wildlife Sanctuary.
Music of Waterfalls – The waterfalls of Jharkhand are worth seeing during monsoon. There is Rajrappa waterfall near Ranchi, while there is beautiful Koel waterfall in Netarhat. Having a picnic or taking a boat ride around these falls can be a memorable experience.
Stream of rivers – Many rivers irrigate the land of Jharkhand. Be it roaming on the banks of Damodar River, or admiring the beauty of Koel River originating from Kaimur Hills, every shade of nature in Jharkhand will mesmerize you.
- Historical and Cultural Sites
Parasnath Hill – Parasnath Hill is the sacred land of Sammed Shikharji, the pilgrimage site of Jainism. There are many ancient Jain temples here.
Chhinnamasta Temple – The temple of Chhinnamasta located near Ranchi is known as a Shaktipeeth. A fair is organized here every year.
Itkhori – Remains of Buddhism can be seen in Itkhori. There is also a grand Kali temple here.
- For adventure lovers (Adventure Tourism Opportunities)
Trekking – Enjoy trekking on the beautiful hills of Netarhat. The experience of trekking amidst picturesque views will be unforgettable.
Water Sports – Water sports facilities are available in Damodar Valley Corporation. You can enjoy exciting activities like speed boating, water skiing.
Rock Climbing – Jharkhand also has many excellent places for rock climbing. If you like adventure, then definitely try rock climbing.