Mymensingh Division

Mymensingh Division is one of the eight administrative divisions of Bangladesh. It was officially formed as the country's eighth division on 14 September 2015, carved out of the northern part of the Dhaka Division. Mymensingh Division is notable for its rich history, cultural heritage, and educational institutions. It is bordered by the Indian states of Meghalaya, Assam, and Tripura to the north and west, and by the Dhaka Division, Sylhet Division, and Rangpur Division within Bangladesh.

History

The region that is now known as Mymensingh Division has a rich history that dates back to ancient times. It was part of the kingdom of Kamatapur and later became a significant area during the Mughal era. The British colonial period saw Mymensingh becoming an important administrative and educational center. The decision to elevate Mymensingh to a division was aimed at improving administrative efficiency and accelerating development in the region.

Geography

Mymensingh Division is characterized by its diverse geographical features, including rivers, hills, and plains. The Brahmaputra River, one of the major rivers of Bangladesh, flows through this division. The division is also home to the Haluaghat upazila, known for its scenic beauty and the Birishiri area, famous for its ceramic hills.

Economy

The economy of Mymensingh Division is primarily based on agriculture, with rice, jute, and vegetables being the main crops. The division also has a significant contribution from the fisheries sector due to its abundant rivers and water bodies. In recent years, there has been a focus on developing small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to diversify the economic base of the division.

Education

Mymensingh Division is renowned for its educational institutions, including the Bangladesh Agricultural University, one of the leading agricultural universities in the country. The division also hosts several historical and prestigious colleges and schools, contributing significantly to the educational development of Bangladesh.

Culture

The culture of Mymensingh Division is rich and diverse, with numerous festivals, folk music, and traditional practices. The region is famous for its folk literature, including the Mymensingh Geetika, a collection of folk ballads that depict the life and culture of the people living in the area.

Administrative Subdivisions

Mymensingh Division is divided into several districts, including Mymensingh District, Netrokona District, Jamalpur District, and Sherpur District. Each district is further subdivided into upazilas, which are then divided into unions and villages.

Tourism

The division offers a variety of attractions for tourists, including the Brahmaputra riverbank, the Birishiri ceramic hill, and the Durgapur hill tracts. The region's natural beauty and cultural heritage make it a unique destination for visitors.

Challenges

Despite its potential, Mymensingh Division faces several challenges, including the risk of river erosion, flooding, and the need for improved infrastructure and services to support its growing population and economic activities.

Conclusion

Mymensingh Division, with its rich history, cultural heritage, and natural beauty, plays a significant role in the socio-economic development of Bangladesh. Efforts to address its challenges and harness its potential will be crucial for the overall development of the division and the country.