Hubbry Logo
BehrorBehrorMain
Open search
Behror
Community hub
Behror
logo
8 pages, 0 posts
0 subscribers
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Be the first to start a discussion here.
Behror
Behror
from Wikipedia

Behror (IPA: [bɛɦɾoːɽ] ) is a city in the Kotpulti-Behror district of Rajasthan[8] of the Jaipur division. It serves as the administrative headquarters of the eponymous Behror Tehsil and shares headquarters for Kotputli-Behror district with Kotputli. It is equidistant from both state capital Jaipur and national capital New Delhi.[9] Located 120 km south-west of New Delhi and as a part of National Capital Region, it is regulated under National Capital Region Planning Board which is a federal authority for urban planning purposes in NCR.[10] Along with Shahjahanpur and Neemrana it is grouped as SNB Complex (Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror) of NCR- which includes 137 revenue villages, in which Behror municipality is the largest urban conglomeration.[11] This region is also known as 'Ahirwal region' or simply as Raath[1] and is an important industrial hub for the state of Rajasthan.[12] Behror municipality spreads out in an area of 15 km2 is divided into four revenue villages namely Behror tarf Gangabishan, Behror tarf Doongrasi, Behror tarf Nainsukh, Behror tarf Balram.[13]

Key Information

Toponym

[edit]

According to most commonly accepted legend, the name "Behror" is thought to be derived form corruption of word 'Bhairun' in the name "Mohalla Bhairunpura". Mohalla Bhairunpura was named after Bhairun temple in the city established by King Shalivahan.[4]

History

[edit]

In and around Sahibi River Basin which flows near to Behror city several late harappan period pottery and archaeological artefacts have been found.[14][15]

Behror and surrounding region formed the southern fringe of the Bhramvrat described in Manusmriti, though due to varied interpretations the precise location and size of the Brahmvrata region has been the subject of academic uncertainty. Dhosi hill in nearby city of Narnaul is an extinct volcano of the Aravali Range and has been referred to be abode of many rishis in ancient Indian texts chief among them Maharishi Chyawan. Khetri is a copper age settlement around 60 km away. Matsya-Bairath region of which it is part has been numerously referenced in Mahabharata and Manusmriti.

Around 9th century AD, regions north-west of Sahibi River were ruled by King Mauradhwaj and was succeeded by King Shaliwahan who established two new cities, Kot and Shaliwahapur. Kot whose remains are found in present Singhali village of Mundawar tehsil.[3] While, Mohalla Bhairunpura in Shaliwahpur later came to be known as Behror city.[2]

During later part of Mughal rule over Delhi Sultanate, this region rapidly underwent change of rulers due to wars between Mughal and Maratha armies, in such fights around late 18 and early 19th century the main fort of the city called "Mitti Ka Qila" in Garh Mohalla was permanently destroyed and the businesses suffered heavy losses from which town took a long time to recover subsequently.

Rao Mitra Sen an Ahir fromed Behror was minister under Rao Bhawani singh and Rao Dilel singh of Rewari. He became the ruler of Ahirwal in 18th century with capital at Rewari. He also fought Battle of Mandan and annexed Mandan, Jhunjhunu etc. In 1785, a Maratha expedition to Rewari was repelled by Rao Mitra Sen of Rewari.[16][17]

Gokul Sikka 2 - Rewari

With the establishment of Alwar princely state by Naruka Clan descendant Rao Raja Pratap Singh, the areas surrounding Alwar were consolidated either by War or treaty after the waning of Mughal Power, loss of Maratha in North and ascendancy of British Power. During the reign of Rao Pratap Singh (Ruler of Alwar), Behror and surrounding Bansur area were incorporated in Alwar Princely state.

After the battle of Laalsevadi in 1803 against Marathas by British, Behror was given back to Ahmed Bakshkhan of Alwar Princely state as a gift of service rendered by Alwar princely state in help of British against Marathas. This battle of Laalsevadi is important as Marathas' defeat in this battle rendered their hold on North India weak while Britishers subsequently strengthened their hold on Delhi.[3]

Before Independence Behror was a Tehsil and urban center under Alwar Princely state.

In first freedom movement Pran Sukh Yadav, who fought along with Rao Tula Ram against the British in 1857 Freedom Struggle at the battle of Naseebpur near Behror in Narnaul, hailed from Behror Tehsil and was important in raising local population of Aheers against British.[18][19]

Raja Rao Tula Ram

After independence, and in the subsequent accession of Alwar state to Indian Union on 1 July 1947 it became part of newly formed Republic of India. In 1948, it became part of United States Of Matsya under Indian Union which was formed through a covenant with Union Government of India by states of Alwar, Bharatpur, Dholpur and Karauli with capital being Alwar. Then one year later in 1949, these were again merged with other princely states of Rajputana to form Rajasthan and through this Behror came to be part of Rajasthan state. In 1953, Behror along with Alwar were again considered to be included in to be formed Brij Pradesh or Greater Delhi by State Reorganisation Commission but those proposals were never implemented and subsequently dropped.[20]

Behror has remained important center in Ahirwal region and as a part of the larger Matsya Region, also due to proximity to Delhi.[21] The years in the late 20th century show rapid changes in the town with establishment of RIICO Industrial Zones new avenues of commercial activity were born and were reflected in the sharp variation in population figures after it.

Since independence Behror has been a part of Alwar district but in 2023, Behror along with Kotputli were declared as one of the 19 new districts of Rajasthan.[9] The governing body of the city was changed from Municipality to Municipal Council on 17 August 2023 by order of the Governor of Rajasthan.[5]

Geography

[edit]

Located at co-ordinates 27°53′N 76°17′E / 27.88°N 76.28°E / 27.88; 76.28.[22] with an average elevation of 312 metres (1,024 ft) Behror sits amidst generally plain and very fertile agricultural land with Aravali Range mountains running north–south approximately 5 km to west of Behror.

According to CGWA, it has been identified as an area for regulating withdrawal of ground water (Dark Zone) since there are limited surface water resources and mostly ground water is used as main source of water.[23] Sahibi River, which is an ephemeral river flows 10 km south-east of Behror, flowing south-west to north-east. Usually these days it is dry. Sota river is 7 km to south- west[24] of Behror and drains in Sahibi river.[25] The main water bodies of the city are:

  1. Sesada
  2. Bhojada
  3. Govind Devji Pond
  4. Hanuman Mandir Pond

The climate is mostly dry, and mainly summer, winter and a short rainy season are the main seasons, winter starts from November and till March, summer remains till July.[26] January is the coldest month when it may get as cold as 2 °C. Around four-fifths of the average rainfall is received in July, August and September.[27]

The soil is highly fertile and agriculture is one of the main occupation in the region. Mattiyar, a type of loamy soil, is most commonly found in Behror.[28]

The city falls under Seismic Activity Zones 4 with some area of Tahsil under Zone 3 and another under Zone 4.

Forests are mainly of deciduous hilly type found along tracts of Aravalli hills with dominant trees being kikar, neem and dhak.[29] Main mineral found is quartz. There has been rapid changes in the environment surrounding city due to rapid urbanisation and increased pollution.[30]

Administration

[edit]

Behror City is a Municipal Council administered city according to Rajasthan Government classification system and is proposed to become a Regional Centre city.[31]

Eponymous Behror Tehsil is an administrative unit comprising Behror city and surrounding gram panchayats/villages. Behror Legislative constituency is the political constituency including Behror city and surrounding villages for election of representative to State legislature.[32]

Behror municipality

[edit]

The Behror municipality – which is Behror city proper – is divided into 25 wards for which elections are held every five years.[citation needed]

Behror Legislative Constituency

[edit]

Behror Legislative Constituency is categorised as rural seat in Legislative constituency classification. There are a total of 211,534 voters in the seat, which includes 110,515 male voters, and 101,019 female voters. In the 2018 Rajasthan elections, Behror recorded a voter turnout of 74.69%. In 2013 the turnout was 76%, and in 2008 it was 69%.[33]

Behror Tehsil

[edit]

Behror Tehsil comprises 62 Gram panchayats and 64 Patwar circles with ILR Code - 5.[citation needed]

Economy

[edit]

Agriculture, manufacturing and services are the major contributors to the GDP. Behror is a leading producer of mustard and wheat. Apart from this, it also plays an important role in the production of cotton.[34] Due to rapid development waste disposal has become a problem in the municipality and wider region with no proper waste disposal sites.[35]

Drone View of Xaviers School Behror towards Rewali

Transportation

[edit]

Behror municipality is well connected to major Urban conglomerations in the area.[36]

Roadways

[edit]

The most important connecting road is six-lane NH-8 (NH - 48) which passes through the city connects it to Delhi to the North-East and Jaipur to the South-West. This important link is a part of the Golden Quadrilateral project of NHAI.[23] RTDC run Hotel Midway is situated on NH-8 in Behror.[37]

Behror is midway between Jaipur and Delhi, at a distance of 130 km from the State Capital and 120 km from the National Capital.

Behror has direct connectivity to Alwar city which is 60 km away. Behror Tehsil borders Haryana's Narnaul district and is connected to Narnaul City by State Highway - 14.[35]

MDR (Major District Road) - 78 road connects Behror to Rewari and Inland Container Depot at Kathuwas to North and Nangal Chaudhary to South.[38]

Railways

[edit]

Nearest major Railway station is Narnaul railway station 25 km away on Phulera-Rewari-Delhi Railway Line.[39] Inland Container Depot is located in Kathuwas 25 km away on Western Dedicated Freight Corridor DMRC project.[11] Integrated Multimodal Logistics hub at Nangal Chaudhary is 20 km away.[40]

Airways

[edit]

The nearest airport is Indra Gandhi International Airport which is 110 km towards Delhi on Jaipur- Delhi Highway.[41] Nearest Airstrip is Bacchod Airstrip of 3000 feet at Bachhod Village of Mahendragarh District around 25 km away. Another international airport is proposed at Kotkasim of Khairthal district which is only 50 km away.[42]

Landmarks and monuments

[edit]

Forts

[edit]
Neemrana Fort ( Chouhan Clan ) Located 10 km away is a heritage hotel now .
Neemrana Fort

Neemrana Fort Complex located 10 km away is the most important Landmark. The famous Neemrana fort was built in the 16th century and was occupied by Chouhan Rajputs till 1947.[43]

Taseeng Fort located in Aravali hills 5 km away is another place of attraction but now in poor condition due to neglect. It was last occupied by Badgurjar Clan. Before them Chouhans from Machedi were its inhabitants.[44]

Taseeng Fort ( Chouhan and Badgurjar Clans ) Located 5 km away from city center in Foothills Of taseeng Aravallis is a formidable fort .
Taseeng Fort

Temples

[edit]

Mansa Devi Temple in Dahmi is thronged by devotees far and wide during Navratris.[45] It is a 637-year-old temple.[46]

Taseeng Baori

Jeelani Mata Mandir built 500 years ago located behind Kutchery is another historical temple.[47]

Demographics

[edit]

According to 2011 Indian Census, Behror Municipality had population of 29,531 of which 15,570 were males and 13,961 were females. Children between the age of 0 to 6 years were 3770 which is 12.77% of total population. Female sex ratio was of 897. The total number of literates Behror was 21,656, which constituted 73.33% of the total population with male literacy of 80.04% and female literacy of 65.85%. The effective literacy rate of 7+ population of Behror was 84.1%, of which male literacy rate was 92.4% and female literacy rate was 75.1%. The Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes have a population of 4,466 and 940 respectively. Behror municipality has total administration over 5,484 houses.[48] The population of Behror fell in the first decades of 20th century attributable to the reasons of Influenza outbreaks in 1918, Plague outbreak in 1907, and deaths of enlisted soldiers in Rajputana units in the battlefields of World War 1 and China War in 1900, indeed this was true of most of Alwar state and Rajputana.[49]

Decadal population growth in Behror municipality[50][51][4][48]
Decade Population Growth rate ( in % )
1801 5,710 -
1881 Decrease 5,533 -
1901 Steady 5,540 -
1911 Decrease 5,253 -0.05
1921 Decrease 4,108 -0.22
1941
1951 Increase 4,465 -
1961 Increase 5,462 22.32
1971 Increase 6,868 40.55
1981 Increase 9,653 40.05
1991 Increase 16,238 68.21
2001 Increase 22,856 40.76
2011 Increase 29,531 29.20

Languages

[edit]

Hindi is being the official language of city. Rajasthani is the most spoken language of the city. But in this border area most common vernacular language - Raathi/Ahirwati - has influences of administrative Hindi, Haryanvi / Bangru, Mewati.[52] It is influenced by Bangru the most, and seems rough to people not used to it.[7]

Culture and festivals

[edit]

The Rath cattle fair is organised in the month of May for the improvement of the Rath breed in Kotputli-Behror district.[45]

See also

[edit]

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia
from Grokipedia
Behror is a and tehsil headquarters in , , , positioned along National Highway 48 in the northeastern part of the state. As of the 2011 , the town had a of 29,531 residents across an area of 15.12 square kilometers, with a density of approximately 1,953 persons per square kilometer. The city serves as a gateway between and , lying about 120 kilometers southwest of Delhi and 60 kilometers northwest of , facilitating its growth as a logistics and commercial node. Behror features historical ties to the , where local figure Pran Sukh Yadav allied with in resistance against British forces near the town. In recent decades, Behror has developed into an industrial center, bolstered by Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) zones that draw manufacturing and investment due to proximity to the National Capital Region and robust infrastructure connectivity. Nearby heritage sites, such as Taseeng Fort and Fort, underscore the region's cultural depth amid its economic expansion.

Etymology

Origin of the Name

The precise etymology of "Behror" remains undocumented in primary historical records or inscriptions. Local traditions, as recorded in regional accounts, associate the town's establishment with the community, who purportedly built a significant fort there around the , but provide no explicit link to the name's linguistic origins, which may stem from or local dialects without further substantiation. Claims of derivation from specific words or places, such as corruptions involving names like Bhairun, appear in anecdotal narratives but lack corroboration from archaeological or textual evidence, highlighting the challenges in tracing pre-medieval in the region.

History

Pre-Colonial and Medieval Periods

The region surrounding Behror formed part of the ancient Matsya kingdom, referenced in texts like the , with settlements dating to around 1500 BC and serving as a prominent center in the broader area. Archaeological evidence from the includes prehistoric sites, though direct artifacts specific to Behror are limited to sporadic remains surveyed in the 19th century. In the medieval period, Behror lay within the Rath region, controlled by Chauhan Rajput lineages claiming descent from earlier rulers like , amid the fragmentation of larger kingdoms following invasions by Turkic forces in the 12th-13th centuries. Taseeng Fort, situated 5 km from Behror in the Aravalli hills, exemplifies this era's defensive architecture and was successively held by Chauhan rulers from the Machedi area before transitioning to Badgurjar () clan control, a Suryavanshi group prominent in northeastern during the late medieval centuries. Nearby, Neemrana Fort, constructed in 1464 AD by Chauhan chieftain Rao Rajdeo, reinforced regional fortifications against potential threats, highlighting the enduring Chauhan influence until the rise of Mughal suzerainty. These structures underscore Behror's strategic role in medieval trade routes and clan rivalries, with the Badgurjars later asserting local authority in fortified outposts like Taseeng.

Colonial and Early Modern Era

During the , the Rath region encompassing Behror came under the expanding control of Pratap Singh Naruka, a chieftain who founded the Alwar state around 1770 by consolidating territories previously held under Macheri and other local holdings. Pratap Singh incorporated areas including Lachmangarh, Ramgarh, Bansur, Behror, and Mandawar into the state, shifting the capital from Rajgarh to Alwar in 1775 to centralize authority amid regional power struggles involving Marathas and . This integration marked Behror's transition from localized zamindari rule to a structured princely domain, with the area's strategic location along trade routes contributing to its administrative significance. The onset of colonial influence arrived with the Battle of Laswari on November 1, 1803, where Alwar's ruler Bakhtawar Singh provided critical support to British forces under Lord Lake against the Maratha confederacy led by Sindhia and Holkar. In recognition, Alwar signed India's first treaty of offensive and defensive alliance with the later that year, establishing British paramountcy while preserving internal autonomy for the . , as a within Alwar, benefited from this arrangement, serving as an urban and administrative hub with relative stability under oversight, though direct British administrative intervention remained minimal beyond oversight of succession and . Alwar's loyalty to the British extended to the 1857 revolt, during which the state suppressed rebel movements in its territories; however, localized resistance occurred nearby, including a battle at Naseebpur close to involving forces aligned with of . Participants such as Pran Sukh , who fought alongside Tula Ram, later resettled with kin of fallen soldiers in Nihalpura village within . The period saw incremental infrastructure like roads and revenue systems influenced by British models, but retained its role as a semi-autonomous until the princely state's accession to in 1948.

Post-Independence Developments

Following India's independence on August 15, 1947, Behror, situated in the former Alwar , acceded to the Union of India, with Alwar formally merging into the Matsya Union on March 18, 1948, before integration into on March 30, 1949. The town continued as a headquarters within , benefiting from Rajasthan's post-independence land reforms and agricultural modernization efforts initiated in the 1950s, which included the abolition of zamindari systems and promotion of irrigation projects. Industrialization accelerated with the formation of the Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) in , which established industrial areas in Behror to leverage its proximity to and the National Capital Region. Post-1991 , Behror emerged as a key node for , particularly in sub-sectors like automobiles and , with RIICO developing estates that attracted investments; by the , the region hosted over 500 industrial units, contributing to employment growth from agrarian bases. The Neemrana-Behror corridor, including Japanese-exclusive zones established in the , further boosted , with infrastructure upgrades like the widening of National Highway 48 in the 2010s enhancing connectivity. Administrative evolution culminated in 2023, when the government, led by , notified the creation of Kotputli-Behror as one of 17 new districts (later adjusted to 19), bifurcating territories from , , and districts to improve and development focus. Recent infrastructure initiatives include the Delhi- Regional System (RRTS), with Phase 2 covering Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror, slated for construction starting August 2026, promising to reduce travel times to to under 90 minutes and spur urban complexes under the Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror Urban Complex master plan. These developments have driven influx and growth, positioning Behror as an emerging to the national capital.

Notable Incidents and Controversies

In 2017, dairy farmer Pehlu Khan was assaulted by a group of cow vigilantes on April 1 near Behror while transporting cattle along National Highway 48, succumbing to injuries two days later. The incident involved Khan and companions lacking required permits for the cattle, which were later found to be intended for slaughter, complicating the prosecution's narrative of unprovoked violence. A convicted six individuals initially but acquitted them in August 2019, citing insufficient evidence, witness contradictions, and investigative lapses by Behror police, including reliance on a disputed . On September 6, 2019, over a dozen armed assailants, equipped with AK-47s and other weapons, stormed to rescue Haryana-based Vikram alias Papla, held on charges, firing indiscriminately and escaping with seized cash. Police negligence—officers reportedly asleep or bathing—prompted the suspension of a deputy superintendent and termination of two constables, with the BJP labeling the breach a premeditated failure under the . Following , authorities paraded 13 suspects in underwear through public streets on September 22, sparking concerns over dehumanizing tactics despite claims of deterring networks. A key orchestrator, Rajvir alias Lara, evaded capture until his in May 2025 by Rajasthan's anti- task force.

Geography

Location and Topography

Behror is situated in the of northeastern , , approximately 120 kilometers southwest of and 60 kilometers northwest of , serving as a key junction on National Highway 48 (NH48). The town's geographic coordinates are 27°53′N 76°17′E. The topography of Behror features predominantly flat, fertile alluvial plains in the basin, ideal for agriculture in a semi-arid environment, with an average elevation of 312 meters (1,024 feet) above . Approximately 5 kilometers to the west lie the north-south trending mountains, which rise to elevations of 250–375 meters in the vicinity and influence local drainage patterns through rivers like the Sota, a of the Sahibi that merges near Behror. This juxtaposition of plains and nearby hills results in undulating terrain transitioning from agricultural lowlands to rugged foothills, with the Aravalli formations providing a natural barrier and contributing to varied microclimates.

Climate and Environment

Behror lies in a hot zone classified as BSh under the Köppen system, marked by extreme variations, low and erratic , and prolonged typical of Rajasthan's eastern semi-arid tracts. Annual averages 557 mm, concentrated in the months of to , with often recording the highest monthly around 165 mm; the from to June sees minimal , averaging less than 10 mm per month in winter. Summer temperatures peak from March to June, with May highs averaging 41.9°C and occasional extremes surpassing 45°C, accompanied by low and storms; winters from to February bring cooler conditions, with January lows dipping to 9.9°C and occasional frost. Diurnal ranges are significant, often exceeding 15°C, influenced by the region's continental location and proximity to the Aravalli hills, which provide minor orographic effects but do not substantially alter the arid regime. The local environment reflects semi-arid ecology, with sparse xerophytic vegetation including scrub and trees adapted to , supporting limited amid the Aravalli foothills; depletion and pose challenges, exacerbated by agricultural and industrial demands. Rapid industrialization in areas like the RIICO Behror complex has raised concerns over air quality degradation from emissions and effluent discharge, prompting regulatory oversight by the State Pollution Control Board to mitigate impacts on nearby bodies and . Mining activities in surrounding zones have contributed to river and , though Behror-specific data indicate ongoing monitoring for sustainable .

Demographics

Population Statistics

According to the 2011 Indian , the population of stood at 29,531, consisting of 15,570 males and 13,961 females, with a of 897 females per 1,000 males. This represented a decadal increase of 29.2% from 22,856 residents recorded in the 2001 . Behror tehsil recorded a total of 359,248 in 2011, including 188,850 males and 170,398 females, for a of 902 females per 1,000 males. The tehsil's grew by 17.6% over the previous decade, from 305,688 in 2001. Covering an area of 742 square kilometers, the tehsil had a of 484 persons per square kilometer, with rural residents numbering 312,737 and urban dwellers 46,511.
Census YearBehror Municipality PopulationBehror Tehsil Population
200122,856305,688
201129,531359,248
The 2021 census was postponed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, leaving 2011 as the most recent official enumeration; unofficial projections estimate the tehsil population at approximately 432,000 by 2025, reflecting continued growth driven by industrial development.

Linguistic and Religious Composition

According to the 2011 Census of India, the religious composition of Behror municipality reflects a strong Hindu majority, with 98.19% of the population (28,996 individuals) identifying as Hindu. Muslims constitute 1.12% (330 individuals), Christians 0.20% (60 individuals), Sikhs 0.19% (55 individuals), and Jains 0.19% (55 individuals), with negligible shares for other religions or those not stating a religion. This distribution aligns with the broader tehsil-level data, where Hindus comprise 98.85% (355,104 individuals) and Muslims 0.86% (3,103 individuals), indicating minimal religious diversity compared to Rajasthan's statewide average of 88.5% Hindu and 9.1% Muslim. Hindi serves as the and is the most widely spoken in Behror, consistent with its status across where it functions as the medium of administration, education, and daily communication. Local dialects of Rajasthani, particularly , are prevalent among residents, especially in Behror and surrounding areas of western , reflecting the Indo-Aryan linguistic continuum in the region. Detailed mother-tongue breakdowns from the 2011 census at the town level emphasize Hindi's dominance, though dialects like contribute to the vernacular speech patterns without separate enumeration in aggregated public data.

Administration and Governance

Municipal and Tehsil Structure

Behror is governed at the municipal level by the Nagar Palika Behror, a municipal council under the Urban Local Self Government Department, responsible for urban services including sanitation, , property taxation, and local infrastructure maintenance. The council operates with an elected body of ward councilors and an executive administration led by a Chief Municipal , who oversees daily operations and implementation of policies. As of recent records, the Chief Municipal is Smt. Manisha . The divides the urban area into wards for electoral representation, with 20 wards delineated based on the 2011 Census, enabling localized through councilors elected every five years to address community-specific issues such as road repairs and . This ward-based system aligns with Rajasthan's municipal framework, where councilors form committees for functions like and , subject to oversight from the state Urban Development and Housing Department. At the tehsil level, constitutes a revenue and administrative subdivision within , headed by a who manages land revenue, record maintenance, dispute resolution, and subordinate magisterial duties. The tehsil encompasses 179 villages alongside the municipal town, covering 742 square kilometers of mixed rural-urban terrain, and coordinates with panchayat samitis for block-level development. Kotputli-Behror district, formed by bifurcating parts of and districts, shares its headquarters between and Behror, integrating with adjacent ones like and Bansur for coordinated district administration, including disaster management and programs. The structure supports higher district and state revenue hierarchies, with patwar circles handling village-level records under the Tehsildar's supervision.

District Formation and Political Representation

The Kotputli-Behror district, which includes the city of Behror, was established on August 7, 2023, through the bifurcation of territories from the adjacent and districts. The creation was announced by Chief Minister on March 18, 2023, as part of a broader initiative to form 19 new districts ahead of state assembly elections, aiming to enhance administrative efficiency in underdeveloped regions. Following a change in government, the subsequent administration in December 2024 annulled nine of these new districts due to concerns over viability and resource allocation but retained Kotputli-Behror, citing its strategic location and developmental potential. Politically, the district aligns with the , represented since 2019 by Balak Nath of the , who secured re-election in 2024 amid national polls emphasizing regional infrastructure development. At the state level, (No. 56), a key segment of the district, is held by of the , who won the seat in the November 2023 elections with 78,000 votes, defeating the candidate by highlighting local industrial grievances. The district also encompasses and Bansur assembly constituencies, contributing to a mixed political landscape where economic issues like industrial zoning and highway connectivity have driven voter priorities in recent cycles.

Economy

Traditional Sectors

and have historically dominated the traditional economy of Behror, reflecting the semi-arid agrarian character of the and surrounding areas in . Prior to industrial expansion, the majority of the rural workforce depended on crop cultivation, with and mustard serving as principal rabi crops, supplemented by kharif crops such as bajra and . These staples formed the backbone of local sustenance and trade, supported by rainfall-dependent farming and limited from wells and canals in the pre-modern period. Livestock rearing complemented arable farming, providing draft power for plowing, for , and secondary income through , , and . , sheep, and goats were prevalent, aligning with Rajasthan's broader economy, where accounts for nearly half of agricultural allied sector output as of 2023-24. In Behror , as per 2011 data, a substantial share of the 176,970 workers was involved in primary activities, underscoring agriculture's role in employing over half the rural labor force at the time. Small-scale artisanal activities, such as and , existed marginally but were secondary to farming, often integrated into household economies for local consumption rather than commercial export. This structure persisted until the late , when proximity to the National Capital Region began shifting labor toward non-farm opportunities, though primary sectors retained significance for rural households.

Industrial Expansion

The RIICO Industrial Area in Behror, established to promote manufacturing and attract investments, has expanded significantly as part of the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC) initiative, facilitating logistics and trade along NH-48. This development has drawn multinational and domestic companies, with the area hosting units in sectors such as chemicals, laminates, and alcohol production, including facilities like Agronics Pvt. Ltd. in nearby Shyampur. Expansions in the Sotanala section of the RIICO area, such as proposed projects for bulk drugs by Sharika Life Science Ltd., underscore ongoing growth in pharmaceuticals. Recent investments have accelerated industrial expansion in the Kotputli-Behror region, including a ₹1,200 electric bus plant by PMI Electro Mobility Solutions on 65 acres in the Ghiloth Industrial Area, announced in October 2025, marking Rajasthan's first such facility and expected to create substantial employment. Additionally, Emerge Pvt. Ltd. committed ₹500 in 2025 for a unit in Kotputli-Behror, reinforcing the area's emergence as a hub for advanced . Other projects, such as a ₹100 agro-chemicals plant and a ₹10 distillery in Behror , further indicate diversified industrial momentum. Proximity to Neemrana's RIICO zones, which complement Behror's infrastructure, has amplified expansion, with the combined Behror-Neemrana belt positioning itself as a key node in Rajasthan's industrial landscape through improved connectivity and policy incentives. These developments are supported by state efforts to enhance power, water, and road infrastructure, though challenges like land acquisition persist in greenfield expansions.

Recent Investments and Growth Drivers

Behror's economy has been bolstered by its strategic positioning within the Delhi-Mumbai Industrial Corridor (DMIC), particularly as part of the Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror (SNB) Urban Complex, which facilitates industrial expansion through dedicated infrastructure and policy support. The Rajasthan State Industrial Development and Investment Corporation (RIICO) manages key industrial areas in Behror, attracting manufacturing investments in sectors such as chemicals, automobiles, and pharmaceuticals. In August 2023, Insecticides India Ltd. announced plans to invest approximately 100 in a new manufacturing at Sotanala in Behror district, as part of a broader 150 capacity expansion across and . This initiative aims to enhance production capabilities for agrochemicals, leveraging Behror's proximity to major markets. In October 2025, a 1,200 electric bus manufacturing facility was approved for Ghiloth in Behror district, marking 's first such and expected to generate significant employment. Key growth drivers include enhanced road connectivity via National Highway 48 (NH-48), linking Behror to and , and impending rail integration through the Delhi-Gurugram-Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror rapid rail corridor. Government incentives under the Rajasthan Investment Promotion Scheme (RIPS) 2024 further support new setups by offering exemptions on land, , and electricity duties, targeting green growth and export-oriented units. The presence of established firms like and Taiyo Bharat in the RIICO Behror area underscores the region's appeal for further industrial clustering. These factors have driven plot allotments and unit establishments, with RIICO facilitating ongoing expansions in the local industrial zones.

Transportation and Infrastructure

Road Connectivity

Behror lies on National Highway 48 (NH 48), the primary artery connecting to and further south, providing the town with direct access to major urban centers. The highway, a six-lane corridor, spans approximately 120 km from in the north and 130 km to in the south, facilitating efficient logistics and travel that underpin the region's industrial expansion. State Highway 14 (SH 14) links Behror to , traversing 65 km via Sodawas as a current two-lane route, with the Ministry of Highways initiating upgrades to four lanes in 2025 to address rising traffic volumes driven by local economic activity. This highway forms part of the broader Bharatpur-Narnaul corridor, intersecting regional networks and supporting connectivity to nearby districts. Key junctions, including the NH 148B intersection near Kotputli-Behror, bolster supplementary links to surrounding areas like , while incorporates a to manage intra-town and decongest the NH 48 alignment. These roadways collectively position Behror as a vital node in Rajasthan's northern transport grid, with NH 48's strategic role amplifying its accessibility for commerce and residency. Behror does not possess a dedicated major railway station. The closest principal rail junction is Alwar Junction, situated approximately 50 kilometers southeast, which facilitates connections to key destinations such as Delhi via the Ajmer Shatabdi Express and other intercity trains. Narnaul railway station, about 26 kilometers north, serves as another nearby option on the Phulera-Rewari line, handling regional passenger and freight traffic. A minor halt at Mahta Saras Suplayars, located in the Behror area, accommodates limited departures, including the Jodhpur-Delhi Rajasthan Sampark Kranti Express, though it lacks comprehensive amenities for long-distance travel. Ongoing infrastructure initiatives aim to bolster rail access. The Delhi-Gurugram-Shahjahanpur-Neemrana-Behror (SNB) corridor, part of the rapid regional transit system, is under development to link Behror directly to Delhi's terminal, with integration planned at Aerocity for multimodal connectivity including metro and access. Furthermore, the Delhi-Ahmedabad project, spanning 657 kilometers through , includes a proposed station at Behror among nine stops in the state, traversing districts including and to enable travel speeds exceeding 300 kilometers per hour. Air connectivity relies on proximate international airports, as Behror has no local airfield. in , the nearest major hub handling over 100 million passengers annually, lies roughly 108-120 kilometers northwest and offers extensive domestic and global flights. , approximately 127 kilometers south, serves as an alternative for regional routes within and northern . Ground transport from these airports to Behror typically involves buses or taxis covering the distance in 2-3 hours via National Highway 48.

Emerging Projects

The Delhi–Alwar Regional Rapid Transit System (RRTS) represents a key emerging rail initiative for Behror, forming part of a 164 km semi-high-speed corridor linking Delhi's Aerocity to Alwar via Gurugram, Manesar, Rewari, Neemrana, and Behror. Phase 1, spanning Delhi to Dharuhera (70.72 km) with 13 stations, integrates Namo Bharat trains to enable faster regional commuting, with full operationalization targeted to enhance connectivity by 2025–2026. This project aims to reduce travel times between Delhi and Alwar to under two hours, supporting industrial logistics in Behror's RIICO areas while integrating with road and air modes at hubs like Aerocity. Road infrastructure enhancements include central government allocation of ₹1,154 crore for 27 roads across in November 2024, with 28.62 km specifically designated for the to bolster local connectivity amid industrial expansion. These developments complement the operational Delhi–Mumbai Expressway's influence, which has diverted traffic from NH-48 through , prompting upgrades to handle increased volumes and reduce congestion. Sustainable transport initiatives feature the establishment of Rajasthan's first electric bus manufacturing facility in Ghiloth, Behror, on 65 acres, announced in October 2025 to produce state-of-the-art for regional public transit networks. Regionally, the upcoming Airport, set for operationalization in 2025–2026, will improve air links for Behror, approximately 60 km away, by facilitating cargo and passenger traffic tied to industrial growth.

Cultural Heritage

Festivals and Traditions

Behror residents predominantly celebrate major Hindu festivals with regional Rajasthani customs, including in October or November, characterized by illumination of homes with oil lamps, fireworks displays, and exchange of sweets among families and neighbors. in March involves communal bonfires, application of colored powders, and folk singing, reflecting agrarian roots tied to the harvest cycle. , observed by women in July or August during the onset, features fasting, swings adorned with flowers, and processions honoring , emphasizing marital bliss and fertility. A distinctive local event is the annual Rath cattle fair held in May, focused on breeding and trading Rath oxen, a sturdy draft valued for in the ; it includes veterinary demonstrations, auctions, and cultural performances to enhance quality. Gangaur in March or April sees married women dressing in colorful attire, offering prayers to Gauri () for spousal harmony, accompanied by traditional music and dances. Cultural traditions in Behror, influenced by the Ahir (Yadav) community's pastoral heritage, incorporate Krishna devotion through events like Janmashtami with Rasleela dances and decorated processions during festivals. Folk performances such as , a circular by women in swirling ghagras, occur during weddings and fairs, preserving oral histories and rhythmic clapping patterns passed across generations. These practices underscore causal ties to rural livelihoods, where cattle fairs double as social hubs for and reinforcement amid semi-arid conditions.

Monuments and Landmarks

Taseeng Fort, positioned roughly 5 kilometers northwest of Behror's city center amid the Aravalli hills, represents a key historical defensive site linked to the Chauhan rulers of the Machedi kingdom and later the Badgurjar clan. Constructed approximately 800 years ago, the fort encompasses remnants of temples, bastions, and walls indicative of medieval , though it has deteriorated into ruins from prolonged exposure and minimal maintenance. Local accounts highlight its role in regional conflicts, but no major restoration efforts have been documented as of 2025. Adjacent to the fort lies Taseeng Baori, a traditional structure integral to the site's water , now in advanced states of disrepair with collapsed steps and debris accumulation. These features underscore the area's pre-industrial reliance on hill fortifications for security and resource storage. Fort, situated about 18 kilometers south of Behror along National Highway 48, dates to 1464 CE when founded by Raja Rajdeo Chauhan as a strategic outpost overlooking routes. Repurposed since 1991 as a heritage , it preserves original elements like hanging balconies, courtyards, and a zip-line addition for , drawing visitors for its panoramic views and preserved 15th-century layout despite commercial adaptations. The site's elevation at 1,222 meters provided defensive advantages, evidenced by its multi-level design and proximity to ancient caravan paths.

Controversies and Social Issues

On April 1, 2017, a mob of approximately 200 individuals, identifying as , assaulted Pehlu Khan, a 55-year-old dairy farmer from in , along with his two sons and two companions while they transported 30 cattle from a market in toward on National Highway 48 near Behror in , . The attackers, suspecting illegal cattle transport for slaughter in violation of Rajasthan's strict cow protection laws prohibiting beef consumption and sales, beat the victims with sticks and rods, an incident captured on video by participants. Khan sustained severe injuries, including to his head and chest, and died two days later on April 3, 2017, at a hospital in ; his companions survived with injuries. Rajasthan police initially registered a case of and attempted murder under relevant sections of the , arresting eight individuals, including members of groups like the Rashtriya Gau Raksha Dal, though some arrests followed public outcry and video evidence. In 2019, two years after the incident, Alwar police filed a chargesheet against Khan posthumously and his companions for alleged illegal cattle transport without required permits under Rajasthan's livestock laws, a move criticized by Khan's family as retaliatory but reflecting state enforcement priorities on cow smuggling. A local court quashed these charges against Khan and his sons in October 2019, citing misuse of and lack of evidence for smuggling intent, as the cattle were reportedly for purposes. In August 2019, an court acquitted all six adult accused in Khan's , granting benefit of doubt due to insufficient , contradictory statements, and video deemed inconclusive in identifying perpetrators amid the crowd; the court noted reliance on unverified videos and potential fabrication. Two juvenile co-accused were tried separately and convicted in March 2020 under juvenile justice laws for their roles, receiving reformative sentences rather than imprisonment. The and Khan's family appealed the adult acquittals to the in 2019, arguing flaws in the investigation and trial, though the appeals remained pending as of late 2023 with no final resolution reported. This case exemplifies broader patterns of extralegal cow in , where mobs have intercepted suspected smugglers despite state bans on cow slaughter since , leading to over 50 reported lynchings nationwide by , though Behror-specific incidents remain limited to this prominent event. Police investigations highlighted challenges in prosecuting large mobs, with initial reliance on self-recorded videos often backfiring due to poor and participant boasts complicating attribution. No other major cases tied directly to Behror urban areas have been documented in court records, underscoring the incident's singularity amid regional tensions over livestock laws.

Corruption and Law Enforcement Challenges

In June 2024, two Behror police officers, including the , were arrested by the Rajasthan Bureau for demanding a consisting of an and ₹15,000 from a complainant to prevent his inclusion as an accused in a registered case. This incident underscored patterns of petty corruption within local , where officers allegedly exploited procedural leverage for personal gain. A high-profile jailbreak at Behror on September 6, 2019, exposed significant operational vulnerabilities, as an armed gang of at least 12 members, wielding rifles, stormed the facility and freed notorious criminal Vikram Singh alias Papla Gurjar, wanted in multiple murder cases. Police personnel were reportedly asleep, bathing, or unresponsive during the assault, prompting disciplinary actions including the dismissal of two head constables, suspension of a , and transfer of 69 others to lines; a was filed in November 2019. The event drew widespread for indolence and inadequate protocols at the station, which had prior allegations of tarnishing its reputation. Corruption scandals have also implicated Behror-linked political figures, such as former MLA , against whom the Anti-Corruption Bureau registered an in December 2024 for irregularities in a sports equipment supply scheme involving overpriced from four companies. The conducted raids in January 2025, investigating tied to the same under the Prevention of Money Laundering Act. Additionally, probes into the Jal Jeevan Mission scheme revealed graft through interrogations of a Behror executive engineer, leading to cases against higher officials including former minister in November 2024. These cases reflect broader challenges in oversight of and in the region, often involving between officials and contractors.

References

  1. https://travel.nears.me/countries/[india](/page/India)/behror-travel-guide/
  2. https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Behror_Taseeng_Baori.jpg
Add your contribution
Related Hubs
User Avatar
No comments yet.