Unveiling the Remarkable Cachar District : History, Culture, and More

Introduction

Nestled in the southern part of Assam, Cachar District is a region rich in history, culture, and natural beauty. Known for its lush tea gardens, diverse communities, and vibrant economy, Cachar is a significant part of Assam’s Barak Valley. With Silchar as its administrative headquarters, the district has evolved into a major hub for trade, education, and tourism. From historical landmarks to picturesque landscapes, Cachar offers a unique blend of tradition and modernity. In this blog, we will explore the district’s geography, history, economy, education, and tourist attractions, providing a comprehensive look at what makes Cachar truly special.

Cachar District Overview:

• Headquarters: Silchar
• Area: 3,786 sq. km
• HQ PIN Code: 788001
• HQ STD Code: 03842
• Official Website: www.cachar.nic.in
• Population (2011 Census): 17,36,319
  • Male: 8,86,616
  • Female: 8,49,703
• Sex Ratio: 958 females per 1,000 males
• Population Density: 459 per sq. km
• Literacy Rate: 80.36%
• Official Language: Bengali
• Spoken Languages: Bengali, Sylheti, Manipuri, Dimasa, Rongmei-Naga, Mizo, Kuki, Khasi

Administrative Structure

Cachar is one of the 27 districts of Assam. It has two subdivisions:

• Silchar Subdivision
• Lakhipur Subdivision

The district is further divided into 5 Revenue Circles (Tehsils):

1. Silchar
2. Lakhipur
3. Sonai
4. Udharbond
5. Katigorah

From a developmental perspective, Cachar is categorized into 15 Community Development Blocks.

Historical Background

Cachar district has a rich historical background linked to the Kachari Kingdom. Initially, it included the present-day Karimganj and Hailakandi districts. The British annexed the Kachari Kingdom in 1830, forming the present district. Over time, the region was reorganized, creating separate districts:

• 1951: North Cachar became an independent district
• 1983: Karimganj was separated
• 1989: Hailakandi was made a separate district

Geographical Location

• North: Bounded by the Barail and Jaintia hills
• South: Shares a border with Mizoram
• East: Bounded by Hailakandi and Karimganj
• West: Gateway to Mizoram and Manipur

Despite its strategic location, transportation remains a challenge due to difficult terrain.

Climate of Cachar District

• Humidity: High throughout the year
• Summer: Hot and humid
• Monsoon: Heavy rainfall (May to October)
• Winter: Mild compared to northern India

Major Tourist Attractions in Cachar District

1. Bhubaneswar Temple (Shiva Mandir)
   • Located 35 km from Silchar on Bhuvan Hills.
   • Dedicated to Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati.
   • Pilgrims visit throughout the year, especially during festivals.
2. Maniharan Tunnel
   • 5 km north of Bhubaneswar Temple.
   • Associated with Lord Krishna as per legends.
   • River Tribeni flows beneath it, attracting pilgrims.
   • Celebrations include Doljatra, Shivratri, and Baruni.
3. Martyr’s Tomb (Shahid Minar)
   • Located at Gandhi Bag near a lake.
   • Memorial for 11 martyrs of the 1961 Bengali language movement.
   • Key historical site for Bengali-speaking communities.
4. Hindustan Paper Mill, Panchgram
   • One of Asia’s largest paper mills.
   • Established by Moinul Haq Choudhury in the 1960s.
   • Surrounded by lush greenery, offering scenic views.
5. Kanchakanti Kali Mandir
   • Located 15 km from Silchar.
   • Dedicated to a unique blend of Goddess Kali and Goddess Durga.
   • A popular pilgrimage site believed to fulfill devotees’ wishes.
6. Palace of the Kachari Kings
   • Located 10 km from Silchar.
   • Remnants of the Bodo-Kachari dynasty.
   • Historical significance as the last capital of the Kachari kingdom.

Economy of Cachar District

The district’s economy relies mainly on agriculture, horticulture, forestry, and industry.

• Agriculture: Jhum cultivation is widely practiced. Main crops include rice, maize, ginger, turmeric, and vegetables.
• Horticulture: Pineapple, oranges, papayas, and bananas are major products.
• Livestock & Poultry: Common animals include buffalo, pigs, ducks, and chickens.
• Forestry: Produces timber, bamboo, and cane.
• Industries: Includes cement factories, sawmills, and the paper industry. Four major cement plants operate in the district.

Cultura of Cachar District

The people of Cachar celebrate various festivals with great enthusiasm, including Bihu, Durga Puja, Holi, and Eid, reflecting the district’s religious and cultural diversity. The indigenous folk music and dance forms, such as Bhatiali and Baul songs, as well as Manipuri Ras Leela, showcase the artistic richness of the region. Handloom weaving, pottery, and traditional crafts are integral to the local economy and cultural identity.

Cuisine in Cachar District is another highlight, featuring unique flavors influenced by Bengali and Assamese culinary styles. Dishes like fish curry, pithas, and traditional sweets are widely enjoyed. The district’s deep connection with tea plantations also adds to its cultural significance.

With its historical landmarks, diverse traditions, and warm hospitality, Cachar District offers a fascinating glimpse into the cultural fabric of Assam. Whether through its festivals, folk performances, or traditional crafts, the district continues to preserve and celebrate its rich heritage, making it a must-visit for cultural enthusiasts.

Educational Institutions in Cachar District

1. Assam University, Silchar

• Established in 1994 as a Central University.
• Located 20 km from Silchar, spread over 600 acres of scenic land.
• 9 Schools with 29 Departments in various disciplines.

2. Silchar Medical College & Hospital (SMC)

• Established in 1968, serving as the primary medical center for Barak Valley, Mizoram, Tripura, Manipur, and Meghalaya.
• Includes advanced medical facilities and a referral hospital.

3. National Institute of Technology (NIT), Silchar

• Established in 1967, upgraded to an NIT in 2002.
• Spread across 600 acres with high-tech computing and internet facilities.
• Among the top technical institutes in India.

4. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya (JNV), Cachar

• Located in Pailapool Village.
• CBSE-affiliated central government school.
• Known for highly qualified faculty and excellent academic performance.

5. Women’s College, Silchar

• Established in 1963, offering Arts and Commerce courses.
• Affiliated with Assam University, Silchar.
• Recognized by UGC and accredited by NAAC.

Banking Services in Cachar District

1. Central Bank of India, Borkhola – Ph: +91-3842-286432
2. State Bank of India, Silchar – Ph: +91-3842-245678
3. Punjab National Bank, Udharbond – Ph: +91-3842-265432

Conclusion

Cachar District is a region that beautifully blends history, culture, and economic progress. With its rich heritage, diverse communities, and flourishing industries, it stands as a key contributor to Assam’s growth. From the bustling town of Silchar to the serene landscapes of its tea gardens and rivers, Cachar offers a unique experience for residents and visitors alike. Whether it’s in education, trade, or tourism, the district continues to evolve while preserving its deep-rooted traditions. As Cachar moves forward, its cultural richness and economic potential make it a vital part of Assam’s future.

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