Ballia
Ballia is a city and district in the eastern part of Uttar Pradesh, India. It is known for its historical significance, particularly its role in India's freedom struggle, earning it the nickname "Baghi Ballia" (Rebel Ballia). The district is situated at the confluence of the Ganges and Ghaghara rivers, bordering Bihar state.[1]
| Ballia | |
|---|---|
| State | Uttar Pradesh |
| District | Ballia |
| Founded | 1879 |
| Population | 104,424 (2011 census) |
History
Ballia has a rich historical background, with evidence of human settlement dating back to ancient times. The region played a significant role in the Indian independence movement:
- In 1942, Ballia briefly became independent from British rule during the Quit India Movement, under the leadership of Chittu Pandey.[2]
- The city was a center of revolutionary activities and produced many freedom fighters.
Geography and Climate
Ballia is located at 25.75°N 84.15°E, covering an area of 2,981 km². The district experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and cool winters.[3]
Demographics
As per the 2011 census:
- Population: 104,424
- Literacy rate: 73.94%
- Sex ratio: 937 females per 1000 males[4]
Economy
The economy of Ballia is primarily agrarian, with major crops including rice, wheat, and sugarcane. The district is also known for:
- Handloom industry, particularly silk sarees
- Small-scale industries
- Growing service sector[5]
Culture and Education
Ballia has a rich cultural heritage, reflected in its festivals, literature, and music. Notable cultural aspects include:
- Dadri Mela, one of the largest cattle fairs in India
- Contribution to Hindi literature, with many renowned poets and writers hailing from the region
Educational institutions in Ballia include:
- Satish Chandra College
- Shri Murli Manohar Town Post Graduate College
- Kamla Nehru Institute of Physical and Social Sciences[6]
Notable People
- Mangal Pandey - Indian freedom fighter
- Jayaprakash Narayan - Political leader and social reformer
- Chandra Shekhar - Former Prime Minister of India
- Murli Manohar Joshi - Politician and former Union Minister[7]
References
- ↑ https://ballia.nic.in/about-district/
- ↑ https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/other-states/the-story-of-ballia-which-declared-itself-independent-in-1942/article65763255.ece
- ↑ https://ballia.nic.in/geography/
- ↑ https://www.census2011.co.in/census/district/551-ballia.html
- ↑ https://dcmsme.gov.in/dips/DIP-Ballia.pdf
- ↑ https://ballia.nic.in/education/
- ↑ https://ballia.nic.in/eminent-personalities/