Bihar, one of the oldest inhabited regions of India, is rich in history and culture. Known as the birthplace of ancient kingdoms and spiritual movements, Bihar today is divided into 38 districts, grouped into 9 administrative divisions. This blog offers a comprehensive look at these districts, their population, and administrative structure, making it a valuable resource for competitive exams and general knowledge.
Administrative Divisions of Bihar
To streamline governance and administration, Bihar is divided into 9 divisions, each comprising multiple districts. These divisions help in the efficient management of resources, law enforcement, and development programs.
List of Divisions in Bihar
- Patna Division
- Tirhut Division
- Darbhanga Division
- Kosi Division
- Purnia Division
- Bhagalpur Division
- Munger Division
- Magadh Division
- Saran Division
Each division is headed by a Divisional Commissioner who oversees the functioning of district authorities within their jurisdiction.
List of 38 Districts in Bihar
Here are the districts categorized under their respective divisions:
1. Patna Division
- Patna
- Nalanda
- Bhojpur
- Buxar
- Rohtas
- Kaimur
2. Tirhut Division
- Muzaffarpur
- Vaishali
- Sitamarhi
- Sheohar
- East Champaran (Motihari)
- West Champaran (Bettiah)
3. Darbhanga Division
- Darbhanga
- Madhubani
- Samastipur
4. Kosi Division
- Saharsa
- Supaul
- Madhepura
5. Purnia Division
- Purnia
- Araria
- Kishanganj
- Katihar
6. Bhagalpur Division
- Bhagalpur
- Banka
7. Munger Division
- Munger
- Jamui
- Lakhisarai
- Sheikhpura
8. Magadh Division
- Gaya
- Nawada
- Aurangabad
- Jehanabad
- Arwal
9. Saran Division
- Saran (Chhapra)
- Siwan
- Gopalganj
Population of Bihar
Bihar is the third most populous state in India, with a population of over 104 million, as per the 2011 Census. It accounts for nearly 8.6% of India’s total population, making it a significant contributor to the country’s demographic structure.
Key Population Statistics:
- Urban Population: Approximately 11.3%
- Rural Population: Approximately 88.7%
- Literacy Rate: 61.8%
The high rural population emphasizes the importance of agrarian policies and rural development initiatives in the state.
Map and Geographical Importance of Bihar
Bihar is spread across 94,163 square kilometers, bordered by Nepal to the north, Uttar Pradesh to the west, Jharkhand to the south, and West Bengal to the east. The Ganga River, one of India’s most important rivers, flows through the state, dividing it into north and south Bihar.
This geographical positioning makes Bihar a crucial hub for trade and agriculture. The fertile Gangetic plains of the state contribute significantly to its economy.
Cultural and Historical Significance of Bihar
Bihar is renowned for its cultural heritage and historical importance. It has been home to some of the greatest empires in Indian history, including the Maurya and Gupta dynasties. Important spiritual movements like Buddhism and Jainism originated here.
Notable Cities of Historical Importance:
- Patna: The state capital and ancient city of Pataliputra.
- Bodh Gaya: A UNESCO World Heritage Site, where Lord Buddha attained enlightenment.
- Nalanda: Famous for its ancient university and rich scholarly traditions.
Administrative Role of Divisions and Districts
The administrative structure of Bihar ensures efficient governance and equitable development. Each district is headed by a District Magistrate (DM), responsible for law and order, revenue collection, and implementation of government schemes.
The divisional setup further streamlines inter-district coordination and helps in addressing issues unique to each region.
Why Knowing Bihar’s Districts is Important for Exams
For aspirants of competitive exams like UPSC, BPSC, and state PCS, understanding Bihar’s administrative divisions and districts is crucial. These topics are frequently covered in General Studies papers, especially in geography, polity, and governance sections.
Conclusion
The 38 districts of Bihar, along with their administrative divisions, reflect the state’s diverse geography and cultural richness. From fertile plains to historical landmarks, each district plays a vital role in shaping Bihar’s identity.
Whether you are preparing for an exam or simply exploring the state’s administrative framework, this guide provides all the essential details you need to know about Bihar’s districts.
For in-depth knowledge and expert guidance on topics like Bihar's districts, history, and administrative structure, join SHRI RAM IAS in Mukherjee Nagar. Recognized as the best IAS coaching in Delhi, we provide comprehensive study material and personalized mentoring to help you excel in UPSC and state-level exams like BPSC. Our experienced faculty ensures you grasp every detail crucial for your preparation. Join SHRI RAM IAS today to secure your success in competitive exams!