Ahilya Devi Holkar

News:
The government has decided to name Ahmednagar district after Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar.
What:
- The government has decided to rename Ahmednagar district as Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar.
- The city of Ahmednagar was previously proposed to be renamed as ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.
Why:
- The decision to rename Ahmednagar district is to honor the significant contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar.
Where:
- Ahmednagar district is located in the Western region of Maharashtra, India.
- It was founded by Ahmad Nizam Shah I (of the Nizam Shahi dynasty) in 1494 and was named after him too.
- It has been a part of several significant kingdoms including the Marathas.
- The famous Ahmednagar Fort is located near here.
Who:
- Ahilyabai Holkar was an 18th century Holkar queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom.
- She was born in in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar in 1725.
- During her reign, she is known to have personally led armies into battles.
- She is noted for her role in building temples and Dharmashalas. For instance, she renovated the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
- Her efforts in promoting the textile industry in Maheshwar is another noteworthy contribution. Today, the region is famous for its GI-tagged Maheshwari sarees.
Question:
With reference to the recent changes and historical significance of Ahmednagar district, consider the following statements: copyright©iasexpress.net
- The government has renamed Ahmednagar district as ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.
- Ahmednagar district was founded in the 15th century by Ahmad Nizam Shah I.
- Ahilyabai Holkar was the queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom and played a significant role in promoting the textile industry in Maheshwari.
How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None
Answer: [B] Only two
Explanation:
- Statement 1 is incorrect. The government has renamed Ahmednagar district as ‘Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar’, not ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.
- Statement 2 is correct as Ahmednagar district was indeed founded by Ahmad Nizam Shah I in the 15th century.
- Statement 3 is also correct as Ahilyabai Holkar was the queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom and she did make significant contributions to the textile industry, particularly in Maheshwar.
Responses