State Profile: Jharkhand

Jharkhand, a land of unparalleled beauty and rich cultural heritage, offers a life that is both vibrant and fulfilling. For the people of Bihar, becoming citizens of this remarkable state is not just a relocation, but an opportunity to embrace growth, prosperity, and a deep connection to nature. Jharkhand, with its majestic hills, serene rivers, and lush green forests, is a sanctuary that provides the perfect balance between natural beauty and modern living. Its diverse traditions and vibrant festivals make it a state full of warmth, where every corner pulses with life and history.

The state’s abundant natural resources, from minerals to fertile lands, fuel its rapid economic development, creating plenty of opportunities for its residents. The cities like Ranchi, Jamshedpur, and Dhanbad combine modern infrastructure with a respect for tradition, offering both comfort and growth. Whether it’s the burgeoning industrial hubs or the emerging education centers, Jharkhand is evolving into a beacon of progress.

As citizens of Jharkhand, the people of Bihar can now take pride in belonging to a state that promises not just a bright future, but an inclusive society where opportunities are endless. With warm-hearted people and a strong sense of community, Jharkhand welcomes all to build a prosperous life, where each day brings new hope, and every effort counts toward shaping a brighter tomorrow. It’s not just about living here; it’s about growing, thriving, and becoming part of something greater.

General Information

• State Name: Jharkhand
• Abbreviation: JH
• Capital: Ranchi
• Largest City: Jamshedpur
• Area: 79,714 square kilometers
• Population (2021): Approximately 38 million
• Official Language: Hindi
• State Animal: Elephant
• State Bird: Asian Koklass Pheasant
• State Tree: Sal Tree
• State Flower: Palash (Flame of the Forest)

Geography

• Location: Jharkhand is located in the eastern part of India, bordered by the states of Bihar to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the northwest, Chhattisgarh to the west, Odisha to the south, and West Bengal to the east. The state is characterized by hills, forests, rivers, and plateaus.
• Topography: The state lies on the Chhotanagpur Plateau, known for its mineral-rich soils and undulating terrain. Jharkhand is also part of the Deccan Plateau and has a varied topography that includes hills, rivers, forests, and dense valleys.
• Rivers:
  • Subarnarekha: A major river that flows through Jharkhand into West Bengal.
  • Damodar: The Damodar River is a key waterway and is vital for the mining industries, particularly for its role in the coal belt.
  • Koel and Kharkai: These rivers contribute to the region’s agricultural and industrial activities.
• Climate: Jharkhand has a tropical climate with three distinct seasons:
  • Summer (March to June): The temperature during summer can range from 25°C to 45°C.
  • Monsoon (June to September): The monsoon brings significant rainfall to the region.
  • Winter (October to February): Winters are pleasant with temperatures ranging from 5°C to 25°C.
  • The state experiences high humidity levels in the summer, and rainfall is concentrated in the southern and eastern parts.
• Forest Cover: Jharkhand is one of the most forest-rich states in India, with around 29% of its total area under forest cover. These forests are home to a variety of flora and fauna and are essential for the livelihood of local tribal communities.

Administrative Divisions

Jharkhand is divided into 5 divisions and 24 districts. These are further grouped into administrative units, each headed by a Divisional Commissioner. Below is a detailed table:

Administrative Divisions of Jharkhand

Details about the Divisions

1. South Chhotanagpur Division (Ranchi):
   • Headquarters: Ranchi
   • Districts: Ranchi, Lohardaga, Gumla, Simdega, Khunti
     This division is the heart of Jharkhand, with the capital city, Ranchi, as its center. It is an important cultural, political, and economic hub of the state.
2. North Chhotanagpur Division (Hazaribagh):
   • Headquarters: Hazaribagh
   • Districts: Hazaribagh, Chatra, Kodarma, Ramgarh, Giridih
     This division is known for its rich history and natural beauty, with dense forests and hilly terrain.
3. Santhal Pargana Division (Dumka):
   • Headquarters: Dumka
   • Districts: Dumka, Deoghar, Godda, Jamtara, Pakur, Sahibganj
     Santhal Pargana is the cultural heart of Jharkhand, predominantly inhabited by indigenous tribes. It has significant historical importance with places like Baba Baidyanath Temple in Deoghar.
4. Kolhan Division (Chaibasa):
   • Headquarters: Chaibasa
   • Districts: East Singhbhum, West Singhbhum, Seraikela-Kharsawan
     Kolhan Division is primarily known for its industrial development, with Jamshedpur (East Singhbhum) being a major industrial center, hosting Tata Steel.
5. Palamu Division (Daltonganj):
   • Headquarters: Daltonganj
   • Districts: Palamu, Garhwa, Latehar, Chatra, Hazaribagh
     Palamu Division has a large tribal population and is also rich in forests, with numerous wildlife sanctuaries and national parks.

Economy

• Key Industries: Jharkhand’s economy is driven by industries, mining, and agriculture. The state’s abundant natural resources, including coal, iron ore, bauxite, and limestone, support industries in steel, power, and cement.
  • Steel Industry: The state hosts several key industrial plants such as Tata Steel in Jamshedpur, one of the largest steel plants in India, and Bokaro Steel Plant, one of the largest public sector steel plants under Steel Authority of India Ltd. (SAIL).
  • Mining and Minerals: Jharkhand is rich in mineral resources. It produces approximately 60% of India’s coal and has abundant iron ore, bauxite, and mica. Major mining areas include Dhanbad, Hazaribagh, and Bokaro.
  • Power Generation: With its vast mineral wealth, Jharkhand plays an essential role in power generation in India, housing several thermal power plants such as the Tenughat Thermal Power Station and the Patratu Thermal Power Station.
  • Cement Industry: The state also has a large cement industry, with companies like Shree Cement and ACC Cement having plants in Jharkhand.
• Agriculture: The state has a significant agrarian sector with crops such as rice, maize, pulses, oilseeds, and vegetables being grown. Paddy is the main crop, and wheat and gram are also cultivated.
  • Horticulture: Jharkhand is known for its fruit crops, including mangoes, papayas, and guavas.
  • Livestock: The state is involved in animal husbandry, with cattle, goats, and poultry being raised.
• Tourism:
  The state’s rich history, natural beauty, and tribal culture make it an attractive tourist destination. Key tourist spots include:
  • Betla National Park (for wildlife and safaris)
  • Hundru Falls, Jonha Falls, and Dassam Falls (for scenic landscapes)
  • Ranchi Lake and Tagore Hill (in Ranchi)

Culture and Heritage

• Tribal Population:
  Jharkhand has a rich tribal heritage. The majority of the population belongs to Scheduled Tribes. Prominent tribes include:
  • Santhals (the largest tribe)
  • Mundas
  • Oraons
  • Ho, Bhumij, Kharia, and Gond tribes
• Languages:
  In addition to Hindi, many tribal languages are spoken, including Santhali, Mundari, Ho, and Kharia. These languages hold cultural significance and are part of the state’s heritage.
• Fairs and Festivals:
  • Sarhul: A festival celebrating nature and spring, observed by the Munda tribe.
  • Karma: A harvest festival marking the arrival of the monsoon.
  • Tusu: A folk festival celebrated by the Santhals.
• Traditional Art and Craft: Jharkhand is renowned for its handicrafts, including:
  • Dokra Art: Traditional metal-casting techniques.
  • Patthar Art: Stone sculptures crafted by local artisans.
  • Woodcraft: Intricate wooden figurines and furniture.
  • Tribal Jewelry: Colorful and distinctive jewelry made from beads, brass, and other materials.
• Folk Music and Dance:
  • Chhau Dance: A traditional martial dance form performed during festivals.
  • Jhumar Dance: A dance performed to celebrate the harvest season.
  • Laheri: A traditional form of singing by tribal communities.

Religion

• Hinduism: Hinduism is the predominant religion, with various temples, including Baba Baidyanath (Deoghar), Jagannath Temple (Ranchi), and Tata Steel Temple (Jamshedpur).
• Christianity: A significant portion of the population, especially the tribal communities, practices Christianity. Churches and religious festivals are an integral part of community life.
• Indigenous Beliefs: Many tribal communities follow animism, believing in spirits and nature worship.

Education

• Literacy Rate: Jharkhand’s literacy rate has improved in recent years but still lags behind the national average. The literacy rate is around 67.6% (Census 2021).
• Notable Institutions:
  • List of institutions of higher education in Jharkhand
    • AISECT University, Jharkhand, Hazaribagh
    • Arka Jain University, Jamshedpur
    • Binod Bihari Mahto Koyalanchal University, Dhanbad
    • Birsa Agricultural University, Kanke, Ranchi
    • Central University of Jharkhand, Brambe, Ranchi
    • Jharkhand Rai University, Ranchi
    • Jharkhand Raksha Shakti University, Ranchi
    • Kolhan University, Chaibasa
    • National University of Study and Research in Law, Ranchi
    • Nilamber-Pitamber University, Medininagar
    • Radha Govind University, Ramgarh
    • Ranchi University, Ranchi
    • Sarala Birla University, Ranchi
    • Sido Kanhu Murmu University, Dumka
    • Vinoba Bhave University, Hazaribagh
  • Autonomous
    • Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee University, formerly Ranchi college
    • Indian Institute of Information Technology, Ranchi
    • Indian Institute of Management Ranchi
    • Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad
    • National Institute of Foundry and Forge Technology (NIFFT), Ranchi
    • National University of Study and Research in Law
    • National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur
    • St. Xavier’s College, Ranchi
    • Xavier Institute of Social Service (XISS), Ranchi
    • Xavier Labour Relations Institute (XLRI), Jamshedpur
  • Agriculture
    • Indian Institute of Agricultural Biotechnology, Ranchi
    • Engineering
    • Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi
    • Birla Institute of Technology, Mesra, Ranchi
    • Birsa Institute of Technology Sindri, Dhanbad
    • DAV Institute of Engineering & Technology, Daltonganj
    • Indian Institute of Technology (Indian School of Mines), Dhanbad, Dhanbad
    • National Institute of Foundry and Forge Technology (NIFFT), Ranchi
    • National Institute of Technology, Jamshedpur
  • Management
    • Indian Institute of Management Ranchi IIM-Ranchi
    • XLRI – Xavier School of Management, Jamshedpur
    • NSIBM – Netaji Subhas Institute of Hotel & Business Management, Jamshedpur
  • Medical colleges
    • All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), Deoghar
    • Hazaribag College of Dental Sciences and Hospital, Hazaribagh
    • Mahatma Gandhi Memorial Medical College (MGM), Jamshedpur
    • Medini Rai Medical College and Hospital, Palamu, Palamu
    • Phulo Jhano Murmu Medical College and Hospital, Dumka
    • Rajendra Institute of Medical Sciences (RIMS), Ranchi
    • Shaheed Nirmal Mahto Medical College, Dhanbad, Dhanbad
    • Shaheed Sheikh Bhikhari Medical College and Hospital, Hazaribagh
  • Psychiatry
    • Central Institute of Psychiatry, Ranchi
• Challenges:
  Despite strides in education, Jharkhand faces issues like low female literacy, poor school infrastructure in rural areas, and a high dropout rate in tribal areas.

Politics

• Form of Government: Jharkhand follows a parliamentary democracy and has a bicameral legislature.
  • Governor: The head of state, appointed by the President of India.
  • Chief Minister: The head of the government, elected by the state legislative assembly.
• Key Political Parties:
  • BJP (Bharatiya Janata Party)
  • JMM (Jharkhand Mukti Morcha)
  • INC (Indian National Congress)
  • AJSU (All Jharkhand Students Union)
  • RJD (Rashtriya Janata Dal)

Famous Personalities

• Birsa Munda: A tribal freedom fighter who played a crucial role in the Indian Independence Movement and is considered a martyr for his efforts against British rule.
• Shibu Soren: Known as the “Guruji,” he was the founder of Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM) and served as the Chief Minister of Jharkhand.
• Babulal Marandi: The first Chief Minister of Jharkhand, representing the BJP.
• Subodh Kant Sahay: Former Union Minister and leader from Jharkhand.
• Shibu Soren: A prominent political leader, founder of the Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (JMM).
• Ravi Shankar Prasad: Union Minister and prominent politician from Jharkhand.

Notable Landmarks

• Ranchi Lake: A serene lake located in the capital city.
• Jagannath Temple, Ranchi: A famous Hindu pilgrimage site.
• Betla National Park: Known for its wildlife and dense forests.
• Hundru Falls: One of the largest waterfalls in Jharkhand.
• Tata Steel Zoological Park, Jamshedpur: One of the most famous zoological parks in the state.
• Mahadev Hill, Dhanbad: Famous for its temples and stunning panoramic views.

Social Challenges

• Poverty and Inequality: Despite its mineral wealth, Jharkhand has high levels of poverty, particularly in tribal areas.
• Unemployment and Migration: The state faces high rates of unemployment, especially among young people, leading to migration for better job opportunities.
• Education and Health Disparities: Limited access to education and healthcare facilities in remote tribal areas.

Environmental Challenges

• Deforestation and Loss of Biodiversity: Large-scale deforestation due to mining activities.
• Pollution: Industrial pollution, especially in mining regions like Dhanbad and Bokaro.
• Climate Change Impacts: The state is increasingly vulnerable to changing rainfall patterns, affecting agriculture and water resources.

This comprehensive profile offers a deeper look into the various facets of Jharkhand, its geography, culture, economy, and social and environmental conditions.

Unique Traditions and Practices of Jharkhand

Jharkhand is a state that boasts a rich cultural heritage and is home to numerous tribal communities. These communities, with their unique customs and practices, contribute significantly to the state’s cultural identity. Here are some of the distinctive traditions and practices of Jharkhand:

1. Tribal Festivals and Celebrations

• Sohrai and Karam: These are two major tribal festivals celebrated by the Santhal and Munda tribes, among others. Sohrai marks the beginning of the harvest season, and it involves rituals of offering prayers to nature and animals. Karam is celebrated in the honor of Karam Devi, the goddess of power, and involves songs, dances, and offerings.
• Chheba: This is another festival that is celebrated in various districts like Simdega and Khunti. It involves the worship of the goddess of forests and is an important event for the tribal people living close to nature.

2. Traditional Handicrafts

• Dokra Art: Jharkhand is famous for its Dokra metal casting, which is a traditional craft that involves making metal artifacts using the lost-wax casting technique. This craft is primarily practiced by the tribal artisans in the West Singhbhum and Seraikela-Kharsawan districts.
• Bamboo and Cane Crafts: The state is known for its expert craftsmanship with bamboo and cane. Tribal communities in districts like Simdega and Khunti create beautiful items such as baskets, mats, and hats, all handcrafted with skill and precision.

3. Tribal Music and Dance

• Theatrical Dances: Traditional dances like the Chhau dance of the Seraikela-Kharsawan and Purulia regions are performed during festivals and important occasions. It is a martial dance form that combines elements of storytelling, drama, and dance, often depicting mythological stories and local folklore.
• Santhal Tribal Dance: The Santhal tribes of Jharkhand are known for their Santhal Dance, which involves rhythmic drumming and footwork that tells stories of daily life and nature. It is often performed during festivals like Sohrai and Maghi Purnima.

4. Traditional Dress and Adornments

• The tribal people in Jharkhand wear distinctive clothing made from natural materials. For example, the Munda tribe wears traditional dhoti and angarkha made of cotton, while the Santhal tribes often wear traditional sarees or lungis. Women are also known for wearing silver jewelry, and in some tribes, they decorate their bodies with piercings and tattoos.
• Rope Necklace: A common ornament among the tribal women is the rope necklace, which is made from natural materials like threads or reeds and worn during important festivals and ceremonies.

5. Rural and Village Practices

• Jaher Than: One of the most significant practices among Jharkhand’s tribal communities is the worship of nature spirits, particularly through rituals performed at Jaher Than (sacred groves). These sacred places are considered the abodes of ancestral spirits and are protected by the community. Regular offerings and prayers are made to ensure the well-being of the tribe and its members.
• Animal Sacrifice: Some tribal groups in Jharkhand practice animal sacrifice during important religious ceremonies and festivals as a way of seeking blessings from the deities. This practice is primarily seen during Karam and Sohrai festivals.

6. Healing Practices

• Herbal Medicine and Folk Remedies: Tribal communities in Jharkhand have a deep connection with nature, and many rely on traditional medicine derived from plants and herbs for treating ailments. The tribes have an intimate knowledge of local plants that have medicinal properties, passed down through generations.
• Traditional Healers (Ojas and Baigas): Healers known as Ojas or Baigas are respected figures in the tribal communities. They use herbs, roots, and rituals to treat physical and spiritual ailments, offering healing through ancient practices that are still prevalent in rural parts of the state.

7. Farming and Agriculture Practices

• Sustainable Agriculture: The tribal farmers in Jharkhand often practice shifting cultivation or slash-and-burn agriculture called ‘Jhumming’, especially in the hilly and forested regions. The crops cultivated include rice, maize, and vegetables. This method, though traditional, helps in maintaining soil fertility and sustaining the forest ecosystem.
• Paddy Cultivation: The Santhal and Munda tribes are known for their rice cultivation. The harvesting season is marked by the celebration of Maghi Purnima and Sohrai, where rituals are performed to thank the Earth for its bountiful harvest.

8. Spiritual Practices and Beliefs

• Animism: Most of the tribal communities in Jharkhand follow animism, believing that spirits reside in the trees, rivers, rocks, and animals. They consider everything in nature as sacred and worship natural elements. The Munda and Santhal tribes often perform rituals involving fire, water, and earth.
• Bamboo Worship: In certain tribal groups, the worship of bamboo holds spiritual significance. During festivals like Karam, a bamboo tree is adorned and worshiped as a symbol of strength and fertility.

9. Festivals Associated with Agriculture

• Maghi Purnima: Celebrated by the Santhal and Munda tribes, Maghi Purnima marks the conclusion of the harvest season. The festival is a time of offering prayers to the ancestors and deities of nature for prosperity and good harvests.
• Baha: This is an agricultural festival celebrated by the Munda and Oraon tribes, where they offer prayers and sacrifices to the Karam Devi for ensuring a good harvest of fruits and crops.

The traditions and practices of Jharkhand are deeply intertwined with its tribal culture and natural environment. These customs not only represent the state’s rich cultural diversity but also reflect the strong connection between its people and the land they inhabit. Whether it is through festivals, handicrafts, or spiritual beliefs, the state offers a glimpse into a way of life that has been preserved for centuries, making Jharkhand a unique cultural landscape in India.

Government of India Support to Citizens of This Districts

Certainly! Here’s the updated table with an additional column, “Government of India Support”, indicating the primary support or schemes provided by the Government of India to the citizens of each district. These schemes could include government welfare programs, agricultural subsidies, industrial support, infrastructure development, healthcare initiatives, and more.

Economic Profile of Jharkhand’s Districts

Explanation of Major Key Economic Activities

• Mining:
  Jharkhand is a mineral-rich state with abundant reserves of coal, mica, iron ore, and limestone. Major mining activities contribute significantly to the state’s economy, particularly in districts like Dhanbad, Jamshedpur, Bokaro, and Giridih. The coal mines in Dhanbad and Bokaro are among the largest in India, and Mica mining in Giridih and Koderma is also notable.
• Steel Industry:
  The steel industry is a key economic driver in Jharkhand, particularly in Jamshedpur (Tata Steel) and Bokaro (Bokaro Steel Plant). These industries are essential for both industrial growth and employment.
• Agriculture:
  Rice, maize, and pulses are staple crops grown in many districts like Palamu, Simdega, Hazaribagh, and Garhwa. Jharkhand’s agricultural sector also includes horticulture (fruits) and livestock (cattle and poultry).
• Tourism:
  Deoghar, home to the Baba Baidyanath Temple, is an important pilgrimage destination. Ranchi and Hazaribagh also have significant tourism potential due to their natural beauty, wildlife sanctuaries, and tribal culture.
• Handicrafts and Tribal Economy:
  Tribal handicrafts such as Dokra art, woodcraft, basket weaving, and tribal jewelry are vital economic activities in several districts like Dumka, Khunti, and Seraikela-Kharsawan.

Parameters for Rating District Importance (Level 1-10)

1. Level 10 (Highly Important):
   Districts with a major industrial base, critical role in the national economy, and large-scale contribution to India’s GDP. These districts drive large industries like steel, coal, and power, making them significant contributors to both the state and national economies.
   Example: Dhanbad, Jamshedpur (East Singhbhum), Bokaro, Ranchi.
2. Level 8-9 (Very Important):
   Districts with important industries (e.g., coal mining, agriculture, tourism, and handicrafts), but they may not contribute as heavily to national GDP as Level 10 districts. These districts receive significant support from the government for infrastructure development, industrial expansion, and tourism promotion.
   Example: Hazaribagh, Deoghar, Ramgarh, East Singhbhum.
3. Level 6-7 (Moderately Important):
   Districts that contribute to the state economy through agriculture, small industries, mining, or regional trade but are less significant on a national scale. These districts are crucial for sustaining local economies, providing employment, and receiving targeted government welfare.
   Example: Simdega, Giridih, Chatra, Godda.
4. Level 4-5 (Less Important):
   Districts with smaller economies, focused on local agriculture, craftsmanship, and natural resources. These regions might not have significant industrial presence and are typically supported by the government for rural development, livelihood schemes, and tribal welfare.
   Example: Latehar, Pakur, Sahibganj.

Government of India Support

• Industrial Development: The government provides financial and technical support for industrialization, particularly in mining, manufacturing, and steel industries. Key initiatives like the Make in India program and Atmanirbhar Bharat benefit districts like Dhanbad, Jamshedpur, and Bokaro.
• Agriculture Support: Schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana (PMKSY) and Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) provide financial assistance for improving agricultural productivity and irrigation in Palamu, Simdega, and other agricultural districts.
• Tourism Development: The government is investing in tourism infrastructure (e.g., hotels, roads, and marketing) in areas like Deoghar, Ranchi, and Hazaribagh to attract both domestic and international tourists.
• Tribal Welfare: Government support in tribal areas includes financial aid, training for tribal artisans, vocational programs, and social welfare schemes to empower marginalized communities.

This table and the explanation of parameters should give a clear overview of Jharkhand’s districts, their economic importance, and the key government initiatives in supporting these areas.

Key Terms:

• agriculture
,
• Atmanirbhar Bharat
,
• Bokaro
,
• Chatra
,
• Coal
,
• Deoghar
,
• Development Programs
,
• Dhanbad
,
• Dumka
,
• East Singhbhum
,
• eco-tourism
,
• economic activities
,
• economy
,
• Education
,
• Forest-based Economy
,
• Giridih
,
• Godda
,
• Government Schemes
,
• government support
,
• handicrafts
,
• Hazaribagh
,
• Health
,
• Industrial Development
,
• industrial growth
,
• Infrastructure
,
• Jamshedpur
,
• Jharkhand
,
• Jharkhand Districts
,
• Khunti
,
• Koderma
,
• Kolhan
,
• Livestock
,
• Make in India
,
• Mica
,
• Mica Mining
,
• Mining
,
• North Chhotanagpur
,
• Palamu
,
• Palamu Division
,
• Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchayee Yojana
,
• Ranchi
,
• Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana
,
• Rice Cultivation
,
• Rural Development
,
• Rural Welfare
,
• Santhal Pargana
,
• Simdega
,
• South Chhotanagpur
,
• steel industry
,
• Steel Manufacturing
,
• Sustainable Development
,
• tourism
,
• Tribal Economy
,
• Tribal Welfare
,
• Vocational Training
,
• West Singhbhum

Disclaimer: The information provided here has been compiled from various sources to the best of our knowledge. While every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the details, there may be occasional errors or omissions. If you find any discrepancies or incorrect information, kindly inform us so we can make the necessary corrections. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.