Chirang District

District Overview: Chirang District

• • Location: Bodoland Territorial Region, Assam, India.
  • Established: June 4, 2004 (carved out from parts of Bongaigaon and Kokrajhar districts).
  • Known For: Rich cultural heritage, diverse ethnic communities, and abundant natural resources.

History of Chirang

Formation

• • Established on June 4, 2004 as part of the Bodoland Territorial Area District (BTAD).

  • Carved out from Kokrajhar, Bongaigaon, and Barpeta districts.

  • Formed under the 90th Amendment Act (2003), which granted autonomy to tribal areas under the Sixth Schedule of the Indian Constitution.

Etymology

• • Derived from the Garo language:

    • “Chi” = Water

    • “Rang” = Wealth

  • Some interpretations link it to the Bodo word “Sirang,” meaning life and money.

Bodoland Movement Connection

• • The district’s creation is a result of the Bodoland movement, advocating for:

    • Greater autonomy for indigenous tribes.

    • Political representation and cultural preservation within Assam.

Geography of Chirang District

• • Area: Approximately 1,170 square kilometers.
  • Topography: Predominantly plain, with some undulating areas.
  • Border:
    • North : Bhutan.
    • South : Bongaigaon
    • East : Baksa
    • West : Kokrajhar
  • Rivers: Includes Champawati, Aie, and Manas rivers etc.
  • Climate: Subtropical, with warm and humid summers and dry, cool winters.

Socio-Economy of Chirang District

• • Economy: Predominantly agrarian, with >70% people involved in farming.
  • Key Crops: Rice, jute, mustard, and various fruits and vegetables.
  • Industries: Small-scale industries that contribute to local employment.
  • Biodiversity: The presence of Manas National Park adds to the region’s rich biodiversity, attracting wildlife enthusiasts and tourists.
  • Challenges: Infrastructure development and market access.

Transport in Chirang District

• • Main Town: Kajalgaon, the transport hub.
  • Railway Station: Located in Kokrajhar, connecting the district to other parts of Assam.
  • Public Transport: Buses and auto-rickshaws for local travel.

Demographics of Chirang District

• • Population (2011 Census): Around 481,818.
  • Population Density: Varies with a balanced sex ratio of 969 females per 1,000 males.
  • Literacy Rate: Approximately 64.71%.
    • Male Literacy: 70.24%
    • Female Literacy: 56.65%
  • Ethnic Communities: Diverse mix of Bodo, Assamese, and other tribal groups.

  • Population Distribution

    • Urban Population: Approximately 7.33% (35,337 individuals)

    • Rural Population: Approximately 92.67% (446,825 individuals)

    Age Distribution

    • Children (0-6 years): 73,215 (15.18% of the total population)

    Religious Composition

    • Hindu: 66.50% (320,647)

    • Muslim: 22.66% (109,248)

    • Christian: 10.32% (49,747)

    • Others: Minor percentages for Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, and others.

    Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes

    • Scheduled Castes: Approximately 7.29%

    • Scheduled Tribes: Approximately 37.06%

Administrative Setup of Chirang District

• • Sub-divisions: Two – Kajalgaon (Sadar) and Bijni (Civil).
  • Revenue Circles: Three – Borobazar, Sidli Chirang, and Bijni.
  • Development Blocks: Three – Borobazar, Sidli Chirang, and Bijni.
  • Administrative HQ: Kajalgaon.

Rainfall in Chirang District

• • Average Annual Rainfall: Ranges from 2,000 mm to 3,000 mm.
  • Monsoon Season: Heavy rainfall from June to September, supporting agriculture.

Attractive Tourist Places

• • Manas National Park: A UNESCO World Heritage Site with rich biodiversity and wildlife.
  • Bodo Cultural Sites: Cultural festivals and events that celebrate Bodo traditions.
  • Kalamati Hills (Rumourd for- Elephant eat soil of this hill) – it is an eco tourism site.
  • Bhairabkunda – Picnic spot and picturesque location marks the confluence of the Jia Dhansiri, Bhairabi, and Daodhara rivers.
  • Chirang reserve forest – for trekking and birdwatching, offering a peaceful environment amidst lush greenery.
  • Kalamati A natural habitat for orchids and butterflies, close to the Bhutan border
  • Rock Cut Caves of Jogighopa Ancient tunnels carved into the hillsides near the Brahmaputra River, offering a glimpse into the region’s history
  • Natural Landscapes: Scenic views along rivers and hills, offering opportunities for eco-tourism.

Languages Spoken in Chirang District

• • Bodo: 37.83%
  • Bengali: 28.86%
  • Assamese: 17.66%
  • Other Languages: 4.73%