Overview
Nagaur district is an administrative district of the state of Rajasthan in north-western India. The district takes its name from its headquarters town of Nagaur, a historic settlement located roughly midway between Jodhpur and Bikaner. It lies in the semi-arid Marwar region on the eastern fringe of the Thar Desert and forms part of the Ajmer division.
Key facts
| Country | India |
|---|---|
| State | Rajasthan |
| Division | Ajmer |
| Headquarters | Nagaur |
| Region | Marwar |
| Official language | Hindi |
| Regional language | Marwari |
Geography
The district occupies a largely flat to gently undulating tract characterised by sandy plains, scattered low hills, and saline depressions. The terrain forms a transition zone between the arid desert districts to the west and the comparatively greener districts of central Rajasthan to the east. The region contains the Sambhar Salt Lake on its eastern boundary, one of the largest inland salt lakes in India, which is shared with neighbouring districts. Rainfall is low and erratic, and the climate is marked by hot summers and cool winters typical of the Thar fringe.
Administration
The district is administered by a District Collector and Magistrate, with subordinate sub-divisional officers and tehsildars overseeing tehsils and revenue circles. Nagaur is divided into multiple tehsils and community development blocks, and elected local government is exercised through the Zila Parishad at the district level along with panchayat samitis and gram panchayats. The district is represented in the Rajasthan Legislative Assembly through several constituencies and sends representatives to the Lok Sabha from the Nagaur parliamentary constituency.
History
Nagaur has a long recorded history and was an important fortified town in medieval north India. The Ahhichatragarh Fort (Fort of the Hooded Cobra) at Nagaur is associated with successive ruling powers including the Chauhans, the Delhi Sultanate, the Mughals, and the Rathores of Marwar. The town served as a notable garrison and trading centre on routes connecting Delhi, Ajmer, and the desert kingdoms. Under the princely order, the area formed part of the Jodhpur State, and it was integrated into the new state of Rajasthan after Indian independence and the unification of the Rajputana states.
Economy
The district's economy is predominantly agricultural and pastoral. Major crops include bajra (pearl millet), moth, moong, guar, wheat, gram, and oilseeds, with cultivation closely tied to the monsoon and to groundwater availability. Animal husbandry is a major activity, and Nagaur is widely associated with the Nagauri breed of draught cattle. The district is also known for handicrafts, leatherwork, and trade in cumin, fenugreek, and other spices, with Merta being a recognised market town for cumin. Mining and stone-related industries, particularly the working of sandstone and other building stone, contribute to local livelihoods.
Culture
Nagaur is closely associated with the Bhakti tradition through the saint-poet Mirabai, who is traditionally connected with Merta in the district. The region has a strong folk culture of Marwari music, ballads, and seasonal fairs. The annual Nagaur Cattle Fair, held near the town of Nagaur, is among the largest livestock fairs in India and draws traders, breeders, and visitors from across the country. The Sufi shrine of Hamiduddin Nagauri at Nagaur is also a significant religious site.
Notable places
- Ahhichatragarh Fort, Nagaur — a medieval fort known for its painted chambers and water systems.
- Merta City — historic town associated with Mirabai and a major spice market.
- Khimsar — known for its fort and proximity to sand dunes.
- Kuchaman — site of a hilltop fort overlooking the town.
- Deh Mata, Jayal area — locally important religious sites.
Related topics
References
- Wikidata entity: Q1507174
- Government of Rajasthan, district administration portal for Nagaur.