Guwahati is the largest city in Assam and a gateway to Northeast India. Located on the banks of the Brahmaputra River, it is known for its rich history, ancient temples and vibrant cultures. As a major trade and educational hub, Guwahati combines modern development with deep-rooted traditions, making it a unique and bustling city.

An Overview of Guwahati

Guwahati, the largest city is Assam and northeastern India, is known as the “Gateway to North East India.” Located on the South bank of the Brahmaputra River, it houses Dispur, Assam’s capital. The city is a major riverine port, surrounded by hills, and one of India’s fastest-growing cities.

Old Name of Guwahati

Guwahati, the largest city in Assam, has a rich history and cultural heritage. Its old name, Pragjyotishpur, means “The Light of the East.” This name comes from the Assamese words “Guwa,” which means areca nut and “Haat,” which means market. Let’s explore more about its fascinating history and attractions.

Ancient City

Guwahati is an ancient city with roots going back to the early centuries. It was once the capital of the Varman Dynasty between 350 and 650 AD., a period when the region flourished culturally and politically.

Capital of the Hindu Kingdom

Around 400 C.E., the city was known as Pragjyotisa and served as the capital of the Hindu Kingdom of Kamarupa. This kingdom played a significant role in shaping the history and culture of Assam.

Guwahati under Ahom Rule

In 1681, Guwahati came under the rule of the Ahoms, who made it an important administrative center. By 1786, it became the capital of the Ahom Raja. The city continued to grow in importance during this period.

British Rule and Changes

The British took control of Guwahati in 1826 and made it the capital of Assam. However, in 1874, the capital was shifted to Shillong. Guwahati remained a key city for trade and governance under British rule.

Location of Guwahati

Guwahati is located between the foothills of the Shillong Plateau and the banks of the Brahmaputra River, offering scenic landscapes and a strategic position for trade and travel.

Nearby Attractions of Guwahati

Guwahati is home to some famous attractions, such as:

• Kamakhya Temple: A revered Shakti temple located on Nilachal Hills.
• Navagraha Temple: A temple dedicated to the nine celestial bodies, situated on Chitrachal Hills.
• Basistha: An area known for its archaeological remains and historical significance.

India is known for its diverse agricultural production, with several states contributing significantly to the cultivation of various crops. Among these, mustard holds a special place as an important oilseed crop. Its production is vital for cooking oil, spices and other uses, making it a key part of the agricultural economy in India. In this article, we will know about the largest mustard producing Indian state.

Mustard Production in India

India’s mustard production is set to reach a record high in the 2023-24 year, with a target of 131.4 lakh tonnes. This marks an increase from the 126.43 lakh tonnes produced in 2022-23, highlighting the growing importance of mustard as a key crop in the country.

Know About Mustard

Mustard is made from the seeds of mustard plants like white, brown or black mustard. The seeds are mixed with water, vinegar or other liquids to create a flavorful paste or sauce ranging from sweet to spicy. Widely used worldwide, mustard enhances meat, vegetables, sauces and cuisines across India, Europe, Asia and more.

Largest Mustard Producing State in India 2024

Rajasthan is the largest mustard-producing state in India, contributing approximately 45-49% of the country’s total production. The state’s climate and soil are ideal for growing mustard, especially in regions like Alwar, Hanumangarh, Sriganganagar and Bharatpur. With advanced farming techniques and high-yielding varieties, Rajasthan continues to dominate in mustard protection.

Contribution of Other States in Mustard Production

While Rajasthan leads, other states also play an important role in mustard production:

• Haryana: Contributing 12.44%, Haryana is the second-largest mustard producer. The state benefits from fertile lands and modern farming methods.
• Madhya Pradesh: Producing 11.32%, Madhya Pradesh is another key mustard-growing state, known for its diverse agriculture.
• Uttar Pradesh: With a share of 10.60%, Uttar Pradesh ranks fourth in mustard production, supported by its large agricultural base.
• West Bengal: Adding 7.53%, West Bengal plays a significant role in mustard cultivation, especially in areas with small and marginal farmers.

Why Mustard is Important?

Mustard is widely used in India, mainly for extracting mustard oil, which is a popular cooking oil. It is also used in making mustard seeds, which are essential in Indian cuisine. The crop provides livelihood to millions of farmers and supports industries like oil mills.