Simdega Pincodes

Simdega, an administrative hub in Jharkhand, rests at 418 meters above sea level, spanning 3,750 sq km. Surrounded by Gumla, Ranchi, West Singhbhum, and Chhattisgarh’s Jashpur Nagar, it neighbors Rourkela, Odisha, just 83 km away. Accessible via National Highway 143 from Rourkela and Ranchi, it links through Bano railway station. Historically under Gajapati Kings and influenced by Odia culture, Simdega is a blend of indigenous and Odia heritage. Its rich past resonates with Emperor Ashoka’s connection and Buddhism, evident in local archaeological discoveries, shaping the region’s cultural tapestry.

History

Simdega, once the Kingdom of Kaisalpur-Birugarh Parganas ruled by King Ganga Vamsi of the Gajapati Royal family, carries a rich legacy. Kesalpur, granted as a jagir in the 16th century by King Khukhragarh to Raja Hari Deo, holds historical significance. The Gajapati Royal Family still resides in Biru, 11 km from Simdega city on NH-23. This plateau region is home to tribal and Odia communities, attracting missionaries who established educational institutions, hospitals, and parishes. Christian missionaries, notably the Society of Jesus, played a pivotal role in spreading education, establishing multiple Christian schools across this culturally diverse landscape.

Demography

As per the 2011 Census, Simdega boasted a population of 42,944, comprising 51% males and 49% females. Within the 0–6 age bracket, the count stood at 5,421. Notably, 85.46% of individuals over 6 years old were literate, totaling 32,067. Comparatively, the 2001 Census reported a population of 33,962, with males at 52% and females at 48%. The literacy rate stood at 68%, surpassing the national average, with male literacy at 73% and female literacy at 63%. Moreover, 15% of Simdega’s populace was under 6 years old, illustrating a demographic shift over the decade.

Geography

Situated at 22.62°N 84.52°E, Simdega spans 36.20 km2. The region lies within the Chota Nagpur Plateau, characterized by undulating plateaus and hills depicted in the southwest on the map. Approximately 32% of the district is forested, as marked on the map. With 92.83% residing in rural areas, the district heavily relies on rain-fed agriculture, given an average rainfall of 1,100-1,200 mm annually. Agriculture sustains a major part of the rural populace, defining their livelihoods amidst this predominantly rural landscape.

Economy

Simdega thrives on agriculture, focusing on crops like paddy, corn, and groundnut, complemented by Shellac production, animal husbandry (poultry, Emu, Ducks, pigs), and aquaculture. Fertile soil yields diverse fruits and vegetables, promoting local consumption via farmer markets. ATMA offers advanced agricultural training, emphasizing techniques like Lac and Honey production. Proximity to Odisha’s industrial zones bolsters the economy, leveraging industrial advantages. Efforts to boost cultural and eco-tourism signal recent initiatives for regional development, spotlighting the area’s heritage and natural landscapes. Simdega emerges as a hub for agricultural innovation, industrial connectivity, and burgeoning tourism.