Mirpur District

Mirpur District
Name	Mirpur District
Native name	ضلع میرپور
Settlement type	District
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Pakistan
Subdivision type1	Administrative unit
Subdivision name1	Azad Kashmir
Subdivision type2	Division
Subdivision name2	Mirpur Division
Established title	Established
Seat type	Headquarters
Seat	Mirpur
Population as of	2017
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	Pakistan Standard Time
Utc offset	+5
Blank name sec1	Number of Tehsils
Blank1 name sec1	Main language(s)
Blank1 info sec1	Mirpuri

Mirpur District. It is a district located in the southwestern part of the Pakistan-administered territory of Azad Kashmir. The district is named after its principal city, Mirpur, which serves as its administrative and commercial hub. Historically significant for its role in regional development and migration, the district is known for its large diaspora community, particularly in the United Kingdom.

History

The region has a rich historical tapestry, with influences from various empires and rulers. In ancient times, the area was part of larger kingdoms and saw the influence of Buddhism before the advent of Islam. During the medieval period, it came under the control of the Mughal Empire, leaving architectural and cultural imprints. The Sikh Empire under Ranjit Singh also held sway in the 19th century before the region was incorporated into the Princely state of Jammu and Kashmir under the Dogra dynasty. The pivotal Partition of India in 1947 and the subsequent Indo-Pakistani War of 1947 led to its current political status. A major historical event was the construction of the Mangla Dam in the 1960s, which submerged old Mirpur town and led to significant population displacement and resettlement.

Geography

Mirpur District is characterized by a diverse topography that includes the foothills of the Himalayas and the plains of the Punjab region. The district is bordered by the Jhelum River to the west and features the large artificial Mangla Lake, created by the Mangla Dam, which is one of the largest earth-fill dams in the world. The climate is generally subtropical, with hot summers and mild winters. Key geographical features include the Poonch River and the surrounding Mirpur Division, which connects it to other districts like Bhimber District and Kotli District.

Demographics

According to the 2017 Census of Pakistan, the district has a population predominantly composed of ethnic Kashmiris and Punjabis. The primary language spoken is the Mirpuri dialect, a variety of Pahari-Pothwari, while Urdu serves as the official language. A significant majority of the population adheres to Islam, with Sunni Islam being the dominant sect. The district is notable for its substantial overseas diaspora, with a large number of residents having emigrated to the United Kingdom, particularly to cities like Bradford, Birmingham, and Manchester, contributing to a culture of remittances.

Economy

The economy of the district is driven by several key sectors. Remittances from the large expatriate community in the United Kingdom, Middle East, and other parts of Europe form a major financial backbone. Agriculture remains important, with crops like wheat, rice, and sugarcane cultivated in the fertile plains. The Mangla Dam is a critical asset, providing hydroelectric power to the national grid through Water and Power Development Authority and supporting irrigation. Other economic activities include small-scale industries, trade, and a growing services sector centered in Mirpur city, which is also a hub for banking and real estate development.

Culture

The cultural life of Mirpur District is a vibrant blend of traditional Kashmiri culture and influences from the Punjab region. The district is renowned for its distinctive Mirpuri diaspora culture, especially evident in communities abroad. Traditional music includes forms like Mahiya and Dhol music, while popular festivals include Eid al-Fitr, Eid al-Adha, and Muharram. Cuisine features dishes such as Kashmiri pulao, Rogan josh, and local breads. Notable cultural figures and sports personalities, including cricketers like Sajid Mahmood, have roots in the district. The University of Mirpur and other institutions contribute to educational and cultural activities.

Administration

The district is part of the Mirpur Division within the administrative structure of Azad Kashmir. It is subdivided into two tehsils: Mirpur Tehsil and Dadyal Tehsil. The district headquarters is located in the city of Mirpur, which houses the offices of the Deputy Commissioner and other civil authorities. Law and order are maintained by the Azad Kashmir Police, with the district falling under the jurisdiction of the Mirpur Range. The district is represented in the Azad Kashmir Legislative Assembly by constituencies such as LA-15 Mirpur-I and LA-16 Mirpur-II.

Category:Districts of Azad Kashmir Category:Mirpur District