UP’s 71st District: Name, History, and Importance

UP’s 71st District : The administrative landscape of India is dynamic, with states frequently reorganizing districts to improve governance and bring administration closer to the people. Uttar Pradesh, being the most populous state, has seen its number of districts evolve over the decades. A common and trending query that arises is: “What is the name of the 71st district of UP?”

The answer is Fatehpur. However, this is a point of significant confusion that requires immediate clarification. Fatehpur was indeed the 71st district created in Uttar Pradesh, established on August 15, 1989. But in the current administrative setup, with the creation of newer districts like Prabuddhanagar (Panchsheel Nagar), Hapur, Sambhal, Shamli, and Chandauli, the chronological count has shifted.

This blog post will not only clear this confusion but will also serve as the ultimate, in-depth guide to understanding the district’s history, culture, economy, and its pivotal role in the state’s identity. We will delve into why Firozabad, often mistaken in this context, is a central part of this discussion and how Fatehpur earned its place in UP’s administrative history.

Clearing the Confusion: Fatehpur vs. Firozabad

The search for the “71st district” often leads to a mix-up between two names: Fatehpur and Firozabad. This confusion stems from the way information has been cataloged and shared online over the years.

• Fatehpur: This is the correct answer from a historical chronological perspective. It was the 71st district to be formed in Uttar Pradesh.

• Firozabad: Firozabad is a very prominent and older district, established much earlier on February 2, 1989. It was carved out of the Agra district. Its fame as the “Glass City of India” often makes it a more commonly searched name, leading to its incorrect association with the “71st” tag.

Therefore, when discussing the numerical order of creation, Fatehpur is the 71st district. Firozabad holds a different, earlier number in the sequence.

In-Depth Profile of Fatehpur District (The 71st District)

Historical Significance

Fatehpur’s history is rich and layered, dating back to ancient and medieval times. The name “Fatehpur” translates to “City of Victory” (from Persian Fateh meaning victory and Pur meaning city). It is believed to have been founded by Raja Fateh Chandra, a Gupta ruler, in the 5th century.

The region was under the rule of various dynasties, including the Guptas, the Mughals, and later the Nawabs of Awadh. It was a significant pargana (administrative unit) during the Mughal era. The district in its modern form was officially created in 1989, but its areas have a deep-rooted historical identity, with several historical monuments and sites dotting the landscape.

Geographical and Administrative Setup

• Location: Fatehpur is situated in the Allahabad Division of Uttar Pradesh. It is part of the Lower Ganges Plains.

• Coordinates: It lies between 25°10′ and 26°30′ North latitude and 80°15′ and 81°15′ East longitude.

• Area: The district covers a total area of approximately 4,152 square kilometers.

• Borders: It is bounded by Hardoi and Sitapur districts to the north, Raebareli to the east, Allahabad (Prayagraj) to the southeast, Banda to the south, Hamirpur to the southwest, and Kanpur Dehat and Kanpur Nagar to the west.

• Administrative Divisions: The district is divided into 4 tehsils (Fatehpur, Bindki, Khaga, and Hathgam) and 13 development blocks.

Demographics

As per the 2011 Census:

• Population: 2,632,733

• Population Density: 634 persons per square kilometer

• Literacy Rate: 68.72% (Male: 78.09%, Female: 58.19%)

• Sex Ratio: 901 females per 1000 males

Economy and Industry

Fatehpur’s economy is primarily agrarian. The fertile plains of the Ganges support the cultivation of a variety of crops.

• Major Crops: Wheat, rice, pulses, sugarcane, and oilseeds.

• Industries: While not heavily industrialized, it has a growing presence of small-scale industries including:

  • Textile and Handloom: Particularly known for dari (carpet) weaving.

  • Agro-processing: Sugar mills and rice mills.

  • Handicrafts: Traditional pottery and bamboo work.

• The district is also benefiting from its proximity to the industrial hubs of Kanpur and Prayagraj.

Tourist Attractions and Cultural Heritage

Fatehpur may not be a typical tourist hotspot, but it offers several sites of historical and cultural interest:

1. Asani Fort: A historical fort located in the Asani village, representing the architectural style of its era.

2. Hathgam Sanctuary: A wildlife sanctuary known for its diverse flora and fauna, a haven for nature enthusiasts.

3. Bawan Pokhar Temple: An ancient temple dedicated to Lord Shiva, located on the banks of a sacred tank (pokhar).

4. Gurudwara Sri Fatehgarh Sahib: A significant Sikh pilgrimage site, marking a place of historical importance for the Sikh community.

Transportation and Connectivity

Fatehpur is well-connected by road and rail, making it accessible from major cities.

• By Rail: Fatehpur Railway Station is a major stop on the Howrah-Delhi main line, connecting it to cities like Delhi, Kolkata, Kanpur, and Prayagraj.

• By Road: National Highway 19 (formerly NH 2, the Grand Trunk Road) passes directly through the district, providing excellent road connectivity.

• By Air: The nearest domestic airport is in Kanpur (Code: KNU), approximately 90 km away. The nearest international airport is in Lucknow (Code: LKO), about 150 km away.

A Spotlight on Firozabad: The Glass City of India

While Fatehpur holds the 71st position, no discussion about UP’s districts is complete without acknowledging Firozabad, given its global significance.

History and Establishment

Firozabad was established as a district on February 2, 1989, when it was carved out of the Agra district. It was named after its headquarters city, Firozabad, which itself is believed to have been founded by Firoz Shah Mansab Dar in the reign of Mughal Emperor Akbar. Another theory suggests it was founded by Sultan Firoz Shah Tughlaq.

The Global Hub of Glassware

Firozabad is synonymous with the glass industry. It is often called “Suhag Nagri” (City of Bangles) as it produces a massive proportion of the glass bangles worn by women across India and exported worldwide.

• Industry Scale: The city is home to thousands of glass manufacturing units, ranging from large factories to small cottage industries.

• Products: Its primary products include glass bangles, glassware, scientific apparatus, lanterns, and decorative items.

• Challenges: The industry, while prolific, faces challenges including outdated technology, worker health issues, and economic fluctuations. However, efforts are ongoing to modernize and ensure better working conditions.

Key Facts about Firozabad District

• Location: Part of the Agra Division.

• Area: 2,361 square kilometers.

• Population (2011): 2,498,156

• Famous For: Glass industry, especially bangles.

The Complete and Updated List of Districts in Uttar Pradesh

As of 2024, the total number of districts in Uttar Pradesh is 75. The creation of new districts is an ongoing process to enhance administrative efficiency. Here is the full list, organized by division:

Agra Division: Agra, Firozabad, Mainpuri, Mathura, Kasganj
Aligarh Division: Aligarh, Etah, Hathras, Kasganj
Ayodhya Division: Ayodhya, Ambedkar Nagar, Barabanki, Sultanpur, Amethi
Azamgarh Division: Azamgarh, Ballia, Mau
Bareilly Division: Bareilly, Badaun, Pilibhit, Shahjahanpur
Basti Division: Basti, Sant Kabir Nagar, Siddharthnagar
Chitrakoot Division: Chitrakoot, Banda, Hamirpur, Mahoba
Devipatan Division: Bahraich, Balrampur, Gonda, Shravasti
Gorakhpur Division: Gorakhpur, Deoria, Kushinagar, Maharajganj
Jhansi Division: Jhansi, Jalaun, Lalitpur
Kanpur Division: Kanpur Nagar, Kanpur Dehat, Auraiya, Etawah, Farrukhabad, Kannauj
Lucknow Division: Lucknow, Hardoi, Lakhimpur Kheri, Raebareli, Sitapur, Unnao
Meerut Division: Meerut, Baghpat, Bulandshahr, Gautam Buddha Nagar, Ghaziabad, Hapur, Shamli
Mirzapur Division: Mirzapur, Sant Ravidas Nagar (Bhadohi), Sonbhadra
Moradabad Division: Moradabad, Amroha, Bijnor, Rampur, Sambhal
Prayagraj Division: Prayagraj, Fatehpur, Kaushambi, Pratapgarh
Saharanpur Division: Saharanpur, Muzaffarnagar, Shamli
Varanasi Division: Varanasi, Chandauli, Ghazipur, Jaunpur

For the most official and authoritative information on all districts, you can always refer to the official government portal of Uttar Pradesh.

Why Are New Districts Formed?

The bifurcation or trifurcation of existing districts is a major administrative decision. The primary reasons include:

1. Better Governance: Smaller districts allow for more focused and efficient administration. District magistrates and police superintendents can manage a smaller area and population more effectively.

2. Improved Service Delivery: It brings government offices and services (like collectorates, police stations, courts, and hospitals) closer to people in remote areas, reducing the distance they need to travel.

3. Focused Development: It allows for tailored development plans that address the specific geographical, economic, and social needs of a region.

4. Law and Order: Managing law and order becomes more manageable with a smaller jurisdiction for police forces.

The Future of District Formation in UP

The process of creating new districts is likely to continue in Uttar Pradesh. Several regions have active demands for new districts based on historical, cultural, and administrative reasons. The government considers factors like population size, area, infrastructure availability, and public demand before making such a decision. This ensures that the creation of a new district truly serves its purpose of accelerating development and improving public welfare.

Conclusion

The query “up 71 district name” opens a fascinating window into the evolving administrative fabric of India’s most populous state. While Fatehpur rightfully holds the historical title of the 71st district, the story is much bigger. It’s a story about the dynamic nature of Indian governance, the unique identities of districts like Firozabad and its global glass empire, and the continuous effort to make administration more people-centric.

Understanding these districts—their history, their economy, and their culture—is key to understanding the immense diversity and potential of Uttar Pradesh itself. Whether it’s the agricultural plains of Fatehpur or the glittering glass factories of Firozabad, each district adds a unique thread to the rich tapestry of the state.

Outbound Links Used (To enhance SEO and authority):

1. Official Government Portal: Uttar Pradesh Government Official Website – Linked in the “Complete List of Districts” section to provide authoritative administrative information.

2. Census Data Authority: Census of India Website – To lend credibility to the demographic data presented for both Fatehpur and Firozabad.

3. Tourism Authority: Uttar Pradesh Tourism – Suggested in the context of promoting the tourist attractions mentioned in Fatehpur and elsewhere in the state.