Umaria Pincodes

About Umaria

Umaria district, situated in Madhya Pradesh, has its administrative center in the town of Umaria and falls within the jurisdiction of Shahdol Division. Spanning an expansive 4548 square kilometers, the district is home to a population of 644,758 residents. Umaria boasts abundant natural wealth in the form of extensive forests and valuable mineral deposits. Notably, the coal mines within the district serve as a reliable and significant source of revenue, contributing to its economic stability. This combination of natural resources and strategic location underscores Umaria’s importance in the region and its potential for sustainable development.

History

Umaria was once under the dominion of the Lodhi Rajputs, a prominent ruling family. They commissioned the construction of the Lakshmi Narayan temple on the southern banks of Narbada Barman ghat. Additionally, on the northern bank, they erected the impressive Hathi Darwaza, a grand gateway designed to accommodate the passage of their elephants. The historic Bandhavgarh fort was bestowed as a dowry to Karan Deo, son of Maharaja Vyaghradev, upon his marriage to Padamkuwari, daughter of Somdutt Karchuli of Mandla. Bandhogarh, situated within these fortifications, served as the initial capital of the Baghel dynasty, and even witnessed the formative years of Emperor Akbar.

Demography 

As per the 2011 census, Umaria District boasts a population of 644,758, approximately on par with the nation of Montenegro or the US state of Vermont. This positions it at the 513th rank among Indian districts, out of a total of 640. The district exhibits a population density of 158 individuals per square kilometer (410 per square mile) and experienced a population growth rate of 24.73% during the period from 2001 to 2011. The sex ratio in Umaria stands at 953 females for every 1000 males, with a literacy rate of 67.34%. Around 17.15% of the population resides in urban areas, while Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes constitute 9.02% and 46.64% of the populace, respectively. The Gonds represent the largest tribal group, comprising 40% of the total ST population, along with other significant tribes such as the Baigas and Kols.

Economy

In 2006, the Ministry of Panchayati Raj designated Umaria as one of India’s 250 most underprivileged districts out of a total of 640. Presently, it is among the 24 districts in Madhya Pradesh that are beneficiaries of the Backward Regions Grant Fund Programme (BRGF). This initiative channels funds towards addressing the developmental needs and challenges faced by these regions, aiming to uplift their socio-economic status and improve living conditions. Umaria’s inclusion in this program underscores the commitment to bridging the development gap and fostering progress in the district, in alignment with broader efforts to enhance the well-being of its residents.