Currently, India has a total of 780 districts spread across 28 states and eight Union Territories. These include both census districts and administrative districts. However, many may not know that India’s first district was established in 1770 by the British East India Company. Once infamous as a haven for dacoits, this region has now emerged in a new avatar with the touch of modernity.

Purnia The First District of India, Born in 1770

Purnia district in Bihar is India’s first district. On February 10, 1770, the British East India Company established it as a military frontier province towards the end of Mughal rule in India. The British conquered Purnia in 1765. At that time, the region was covered in dense forests. Five years later, a trading post was established there, and then on February 10, 1770, it was officially declared a district.

At that time, Purnia was infamous as a hideout for dacoits and miscreants. After the British seized power, they launched campaigns to eradicate criminals and anti-social elements, but locals dared not enter the deep jungles. The name Purnia is also believed to have originated from ‘Purna-Aranya’, meaning ‘complete jungle’.

Radical Changes After Independence

Since independence, Purnia, like many other parts of the country, has witnessed radical changes. It is now a smart city with all modern amenities, including schools, colleges, public parks, hospitals, improved roads, and renovated historical sites to promote local tourism.

Purnia is one of Bihar’s 38 districts and carries the heritage and culture of Bihar. Its administrative office is located in this district. A special tradition of Purnia city is that the national flag is hoisted precisely at 12:07 AM on every Independence Day. This tradition has continued since 1947 to this day.

This historical background and modern transformation of Purnia serve as a significant example of the evolution and development of districts in India.