About Anantapur District

Anantapur District, also known as Ananthapuramu, holds significant historical, geographical, and administrative importance in the state of Andhra Pradesh. Its name is derived from ‘Anaatasagaram’, a large tank that translates to "Endless Ocean." The villages of Anaantasagaram and Bukkarayasamudram were constructed by Anantarasa Chikkavodeya, a minister of Bukka-I, a ruler of the Vijayanagar Empire. There are differing opinions regarding its name origin.

Anantapur City

Anantapur is the main city of Anantapur District in the Rayalaseema region of Andhra Pradesh. The city has deep cultural and political roots that have spanned centuries. It is located just 208 km from Bangalore via rail, and the influence of high-quality urban life is reflected in the city's numerous posh localities. With a notable literacy rate of 90%, the education sector is flourishing here.

Climate

The district experiences a semi-arid climate, with temperatures reaching as high as 42°C. Due to insufficient rainfall, the agricultural sector often faces challenges in maintaining productivity.

Transportation

Anantapur is well-connected by road and rail to other parts of Andhra Pradesh. Air travel is available through Puttaparthi Airport, located nearby, while international travel is facilitated by Bangalore Airport, which is just 208 km by rail or 225 km by road from Anantapur.

Economy

The economy of Anantapur is fueled by its abundant mineral resources. Several industries involved in mineral extraction and export are located in the district, generating a turnover of billions of rupees. However, agriculture faces challenges due to the semi-arid conditions, leading many families to focus on educating their children for employment opportunities. As a result, the education sector in Anantapur is robust, with numerous schools, colleges, and engineering institutions.

Many of the younger and middle-aged citizens of Anantapur work in IT companies in nearby metropolitan areas, particularly in Bangalore and Hyderabad. Since Bangalore is close to the city and a major IT hub, a significant portion of Anantapur's educated workforce settles in Bangalore. Additionally, a growing number of small-scale industries provide employment to many residents, contributing to the local economy.

Formation and Expansion

The district was formed in 1882 after being separated from the Bellary District. It expanded in 1910 with the inclusion of Revenue Mandals from Kadiri Taluk in the Cuddapah District and further reorganized in 1956 with the addition of Mandals from Bellary District.

Geography

Population

As of the 2011 Census, Anantapur has a population of 4,083,315, accounting for 4.82% of the state's total population, with a decadal growth of 12.16%.

Administrative Divisions

The district is divided into 5 Revenue Divisions and comprises 63 Revenue Mandals:

• Anantapur Division (19 Mandals)
• Dharmavaram Division (8 Mandals)
• Penukonda Division (13 Mandals)
• Kalyandurg Division (11 Mandals)
• Kadiri Division (12 Mandals)

Education

Anantapur is a significant educational hub, hosting renowned institutions such as:

• Jawaharlal Nehru Technological University (JNTU) Anantapur – Offers technical and management programs.
• Sri Sathya Sai Institute of Higher Learning – Located in Puttaparthi, known for values-based education.
• Sri Krishnadevaraya University – Established in 1981, provides arts, science, and management courses.

Tourist Attractions

Anantapur is home to several attractions:

• Puttaparthi – Spiritual center and home to the Sathya Sai Baba Ashram.
• Lepakshi Temple – Known for its intricate architecture.
• Penukonda Fort – A historical site from the Vijayanagar Empire era.
• Thimmamma Marrimanu – Home to the world’s largest banyan tree.
• Gooty Fort – Offers panoramic views of the district.