West Bengal, a state rich in cultural and historical significance, is divided into five administrative divisions: Presidency Division, Medinipur Division, Burdwan Division, Malda Division, and Jalpaiguri Division. These divisions are further subdivided into 23 districts, each playing a crucial role in the state’s governance and development.
Administrative Divisions and Their Districts
- Presidency Division
- Howrah District
- Kolkata
- Nadia District
- North 24 Parganas District
- South 24 Parganas District
- Burdwan Division:
- Birbhum District
- Paschim Bardhaman District
- Purba Bardhaman District
- Hooghly District
- Medinipur Division:
- Bankura District
- Jhargram District
- Paschim Medinipur District
- Purba Medinipur District
- Purulia District
- Malda Division:
- Dakshin Dinajpur District
- Malda District
- Murshidabad District
- Uttar Dinajpur District
- Jalpaiguri Division:
- Alipurduar District
- Cooch Behar District
- Darjeeling District
- Jalpaiguri District
- Kalimpong District
Key Geographic and Economic Insights
- Kolkata, the capital of West Bengal, is the wealthiest district with a per capita income of approximately ₹2,00,000.
- Uttar Dinajpur has the lowest per capita income, around ₹72,000.
- South 24 Parganas is the largest district by area, spanning 9,960 square kilometers.
- Kolkata, covering just 185 square kilometers, is the smallest district in the state.
West Bengal’s Borders
West Bengal shares its state boundaries with Odisha, Jharkhand, Bihar, Sikkim, and Assam. Additionally, it shares international borders with Bangladesh, Nepal, and Bhutan, making it strategically significant in trade and cultural exchange.
The Ganga’s Entry into West Bengal
The Ganga River enters West Bengal near Rajmahal in Jharkhand, flowing into Murshidabad district, where it branches into the Hooghly River, shaping the state’s geography and economy.
West Bengal’s diverse districts, administrative divisions, and geographical features contribute to its rich heritage and economic landscape. Stay tuned for more insights into this fascinating state!