Rajouri, a picturesque district in the Indian union territory of Jammu and Kashmir, is nestled in the Pir Panjal range of the Himalayas. With its breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and strategic importance, Rajouri has emerged as a significant destination for tourists, entrepreneurs, and students.
Geography and Climate
Rajouri district spans over 2,630 square kilometers, with an average elevation of 1,150 meters above sea level. The district shares borders with Poonch district to the west, Udhampur district to the east, and Kathua district to the south. The climate varies from subtropical to temperate, with cold winters and mild summers.
Demography
As per the 2011 census, Rajouri district has a population of approximately 6.49 lakh (649,000).
Religion-wise Demography:
| District | Rajouri |
|---|---|
| Population | 642,415 |
| Hindu | 34.54 % |
| Muslim | 62.71 % |
| Christian | 0.15 % |
| Sikh | 2.41 % |
| Buddhist | 0.03 % |
| Jain | 0.00 % |
| Others | 0.00 % |
| Not Available | 0.15 % |
Major Talukas and Tehsils:
1. Rajouri
2. Thanamandi
3. Nowshera
4. Kalakote
5. Sunderbani
6. Darhal
Major Villages:
1. Rajouri city
2. Thanamandi
3. Nowshera
4. Kalakote
5. Sunderbani
6. Darhal
7. Kotranka
8. Budhal
9. Manjakote
10. Doongi
Education
Top Schools:
1. Kendriya Vidyalaya, Rajouri
2. Army Public School, Rajouri
3. Jawahar Navodaya Vidyalaya, Rajouri
4. Delhi Public School, Rajouri
5. St. Anthony's Convent School, Rajouri
Top Colleges:
1. Government Degree College, Rajouri
2. Government Degree College for Women, Rajouri
3. Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU) constituent college
4. Rajouri College of Education
5. New Modern College of Education
Top Universities:
1. Baba Ghulam Shah Badshah University (BGSBU)
2. Jammu University (off-campus)
Economy and Business
Major Industries:
1. Agriculture (wheat, rice, maize)
2. Horticulture (fruits, vegetables)
3. Forestry
4. Mining (limestone, gypsum)
5. Small-scale manufacturing (textiles, food processing)
Top Business Ventures:
1. J&K State Industrial Development Corporation (SIDCO)
2. J&K Small Scale Industries Development Corporation (SICOP)
3. Rajouri Cements Limited
4. J&K Minerals Limited
5. Himalayan Forest Products Limited
Tourism
Major Sites to Visit:
1. Rajouri Fort: A historic fort built by the Mughal Empire
2. Thanamandi: A scenic town with ancient temples and mosques
3. Manjakote: A revered shrine of Mata Vaishno Devi
4. Dehra Ki Gali: A picturesque pass connecting Rajouri to Poonch
5. Kotranka: A beautiful valley with trekking routes
6. Budhal: A historic town with ancient temples and ruins
7. Rajouri Golf Course: An 18-hole golf course amidst scenic hills
8. Shahdara Sharif: A revered Sufi shrine
Infrastructure Development
Rajouri has witnessed significant infrastructure development in recent years, including:
1. Rajouri-Poonch National Highway: Connecting the district to major cities
2. Rajouri Airport: Proposed to enhance air connectivity
3. Rail Link: Under construction, connecting Rajouri to Jammu
4. Hydroelectric Power Projects: Enhancing power generation
Conclusion
Rajouri, with its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and growing economy, offers immense opportunities for tourism, education, and entrepreneurship. As the district continues to develop, it is poised to emerge as a significant hub in Jammu and Kashmir.
Statistics:
- Population (2011 census): 6,49,000
- Area: 2,630 sq. km
- Literacy rate (2011 census): 68.17%
- Sex ratio (2011 census): 850 females per 1000 males
- Urban population (2011 census): 13.44%
- Rural population (2011 census): 86.56%
Note: The statistics provided are based on the 2011 census data. The current numbers may have changed.
