Overview
Hoshangabad district is an administrative district in the central Indian state of Madhya Pradesh. The district takes its name from its headquarters town, Hoshangabad, which is situated on the southern bank of the Narmada River. In 2021, the Government of Madhya Pradesh renamed the district as Narmadapuram, after which it has been officially referred to as Narmadapuram district.
Key facts
| Country | India |
|---|---|
| State | Madhya Pradesh |
| Headquarters | Hoshangabad (Narmadapuram) |
| Division | Hoshangabad / Narmadapuram division |
| Principal river | Narmada |
| Renamed | Narmadapuram (2021) |
Geography
The district lies in the Narmada valley, with the river forming an important geographical feature along its northern reaches. To the south, the terrain rises into the Satpura Range, which contains forested tracts and hill country. The Pachmarhi hill station, a notable highland area in central India, lies within this broader region. The district's landscape combines alluvial plains suited to intensive agriculture with forested highlands.
Etymology and name change
The town and district were named after Hoshang Shah, the first sultan of Malwa, who is associated with the early development of the settlement. In February 2021, the state government announced that the district would be renamed Narmadapuram, "the city of the Narmada", reflecting the river's cultural and religious importance in the region.
Administration
The district is part of the Hoshangabad division (also referred to as Narmadapuram division) of Madhya Pradesh. It is subdivided into tehsils and development blocks for revenue and rural administration. The Collector and District Magistrate heads the district administration, while the Superintendent of Police oversees law and order.
Economy
Agriculture forms the mainstay of the district's economy, with the fertile Narmada valley supporting wheat, soybean, gram, and pulses. The district is also known for the Security Paper Mill at Hoshangabad, operated by the Security Printing and Minting Corporation of India, which produces specialised paper used for Indian currency notes and other secure documents.
Culture and significance
The Narmada riverfront at Hoshangabad, locally known as Sethani Ghat, is a major site for religious bathing and festivals, particularly during Narmada Jayanti. Pachmarhi, located in the Satpura highlands within the wider region, is a recognised hill station and biosphere reserve area. The district is historically associated with rock shelters and prehistoric sites in the Satpura foothills.
Related topics
- Narmadapuram district
- Madhya Pradesh
- Narmada River
- Satpura Range
- Pachmarhi
- Districts of Madhya Pradesh
References
- Wikidata entity: Q620801
- Government of Madhya Pradesh, district administration portal