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Historical background of the district

Over two centuries ago, English indigo planters established indigo farms in this region. Due to the area's fertile land being favorable for indigo cultivation, a greater number of indigo factories and farms were established in Nilphamari compared to other parts of the country. In the early 19th century, indigo factories were set up in places like Durakuti, Dimla, Kishoreganj, and Tengonmari.

At that time, within the greater Rangpur region, Nilphamari produced the highest quantity of crops, thanks to its fertile soil. Consequently, a significant influx of indigo planters occurred in this area, leading to the establishment of numerous indigo farms. About three kilometers north of the current Nilphamari town, near the old railway station, there was a large indigo factory.

It is believed that the local farmers referred to the "indigo farm" as "Nil Khamari" (meaning "place of indigo farming"). Over time, the name evolved into "Nilphamari."

Nilphamari is an ancient settlement. Various historical relics and ancient texts indicate the existence of primitive settlements in the area. Excavations reveal that the great pond of King Virat (Binnadighi, as it is now known) dates back to the 9th century BC, reminding us of Nilphamari’s ancient history. Other historical landmarks of the district include the ruins of the fort of the almost-forgotten Dharmapala, Harishchandra’s Path, Bhim's mother's stove, and the fortress of Mainamati.

Situated at the foothills of the Himalayas, Nilphamari is formed by the alluvium carried down from the Himalayan mountains. The alluvial soils of the Karatoya, Atrai, and Teesta rivers have contributed to the region's soil formation and fertility. This land is classified as a piedmont alluvial plain. Through various natural transformations, the river courses of Nilphamari have changed repeatedly over time, turning it into an increasingly fertile region.

Nilphamari has been the center of many significant events. From different archaeological findings and artifacts, it is evident that primitive settlements once existed beneath Nilphamari’s soil. The area's fertile land attracted people from various places, and through battles and conflicts over time, many of them eventually settled permanently. Important chapters in Nilphamari’s history include the peasant uprisings, the Indigo Rebellion, the Tebhaga movement, the Language Movement of 1952, and the Liberation War of 1971. The people of Nilphamari were vocal and active participants in each of these movements.

With a population of nearly two million, Nilphamari is known as a neglected, impoverished, and underdeveloped region. Unequal land ownership, a high number of landless people, dependency on agriculture, lack of industrialization, and widespread unemployment are the primary causes of its economic backwardness. Despite many socio-economic and infrastructural challenges, factors such as fertile land, the controlled use of river water for irrigation through the Teesta Barrage, and an abundance of manpower have helped the region remain one of the country’s major food surplus areas. By ensuring quality education, proper utilization of human resources, and encouraging industrial development, Nilphamari can be transformed into a region full of potential.