Why in the News?

In a significant administrative decision, the Uttar Pradesh government has declared the Maha Kumbh area in Prayagraj as a new district, named Maha Kumbh Mela. This move aims to ensure better management and streamlined administration of the upcoming Maha Kumbh, a globally renowned spiritual and cultural event held every 12 years.

About the Maha Kumbh Mela District

• Purpose of Creation
  • To facilitate efficient organization and governance during the Maha Kumbh Mela.
  • Announced by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath during the Magh Mela 2024.
• Upcoming Maha Kumbh 2025
  • Schedule: January 13 to February 26, 2025.
  • Location: Prayagraj, Uttar Pradesh.
  • Significance: The Maha Kumbh is expected to promote Indian cultural heritage on a global scale and attract millions of pilgrims and tourists.
• Global Impact
  • The Maha Kumbh Mela, recognized as an Intangible Cultural Heritage by UNESCO, will reinforce Uttar Pradesh’s position as a cultural and spiritual hub.
  • The newly formed district will act as a model for the seamless execution of large-scale events in India.

About Uttar Pradesh

• Formation and Historical Significance
• Formation Date: 24^th January 1950, after being renamed from the United Provinces.
• Capital: Lucknow; Judicial capital in Allahabad (Prayagraj).
• Historical Background: Uttar Pradesh (UP) has played a pivotal role in India’s history, from the Indus Valley Civilization to the Indian Independence Movement.
• Geography
  • Boundaries: Shares borders with Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Haryana, Rajasthan, Madhya Pradesh, Chhattisgarh, Jharkhand, Bihar, and Nepal.
  • Rivers: Ganga, Yamuna, and Ghaghara are the prominent rivers.
  • Climate: Subtropical climate with a mix of hot summers, monsoonal rains, and cool winters.
• Demographics
  • Population: Largest state by population, contributing to over 16% of India’s total.
  • Languages: Predominantly Hindi and Urdu.
  • Religion: Known for its religious diversity, with Hinduism and Islam as the major religions.
• Economy
  • Agriculture: Major crops include wheat, sugarcane, rice, and pulses, making UP India’s agricultural powerhouse.
  • Industries: IT, textiles, leather, and handicrafts form a significant part of the economy.
  • Tourism: A hub of cultural tourism, with destinations like Taj Mahal, Varanasi, and Prayagraj.
• Cultural and Religious Heritage
  • Pilgrimage Sites: Varanasi, Ayodhya, Prayagraj, Mathura, and Vrindavan.
  • Festivals: Holi, Diwali, Navratri, and Kumbh Mela are celebrated with grandeur.
  • Art and Culture: Known for Kathak dance, Chikankari embroidery, and Awadhi cuisine.
  • Protected Areas and Biodiversity
  • Notable parks include Dudhwa National Park, Kaimoor Wildlife Sanctuary, and Sohagi Barwa Wildlife Sanctuary.
  • Rich biodiversity with species like tigers, elephants, and migratory birds.
• Governance
  • Political Influence: UP plays a vital role in Indian politics with the highest number of Lok Sabha (80) and Rajya Sabha (31) seats.
  • Chief Minister: Yogi Adityanath.
  • Governor: Anandiben Patel (as of the latest updates).
  • Infrastructure and Development
  • Transport: Well-connected by air, road, and rail, with recent developments in expressways like Purvanchal Expressway and Yamuna Expressway.
  • Urban Development: Smart cities like Lucknow and Kanpur are part of India’s urban transformation initiatives.

Map of Uttar Pradesh