Kaushambi district is one of the districts on the southern part of the state of Uttar Pradesh.

Manjhanpur town is the district headquarter & Bharwari municipality is the main market for shopping and business. The present Kaushambi district was carved out of then Allahabad (Now Prayagraj) districton 04April1997.

Kaushambi District is situated on the southern part of the State of Uttar Pradesh and surrounded by the district Allahabad in the east, Fatehpur in the west, Chitrakoot in the south and district Pratapgarh in north. The total geographical area of the district is 1903.17 Sq. Km. The coordinates of Kaushambi are 25º 31’ 26’’ N latitude and 81º 23’ 41’’E longitude.

District Kaushambi lies in Central Plane Zone “V” of U.P(Agro-climatic Zone). The District Kaushambi is mainly an agricultural district in which the main crops are wheat and rice Some area is cultivated under pulses also like Arhar, Urad and Chana. The famous Allahabad variety of Guava is thespecialty of Kaushambi. The principal sources of irrigation are canals and tubewells. The district is characterized by semi-humid as per standard climatic classification. Average rainfall of the district is 904 mm. Maximum temperature around 43 °C (109°F) and the minimum is in the 3 to 4 degrees. Relative humidity of the district is 67. The climate of the district could be described as semi-arid.

As given in the below table, the total number of industrial units in Kaushambi district are 2231 units giving employment to around 6083 people with an investment of around 115 crores. According to the types of industry, the most prominent ones are agrobased with 934 units employing 1880 individuals with 3674 Lakhs and wood and wooden based structure with 857 unit, employing 750 and with an investment of INR 2450 Lakhs.Repairing and Servicing sector of MSME with 3863 units in the district is the most prominent and economy contributing sector of the district. It is followed by sectors such as “Agro based and Metal Based Products” with 2171 and 514 units, respectively.

Out of total population of 15, 99,596 (2011 census), 6, 39,086 are working population. Out of total working population, 15.55% are working in other industries, 22.08% are cultivators and 29.21% are agricultural labourers and only 4.77% are household industry workers. This indicates that agriculture is the main source of income in the district.

The total export from Kaushambi is approximately INR 60 lakhs for the period of September 2020 to November 2021. The following table depicts the value of export of major products from Kaushambi:

The diverse climate of Uttar Pradesh is suitable for producing all kinds of horticultural crops.. In fact, Uttar Pradesh holds a leading position in total production of horticultural crops in the country. In fact, for more than 92% of small holding farmers, horticultural crops are the main source of higher income, employment and nutrition per unit area. With the increasing importance of horticultural crops its producers are aware and are improving economic status by adopting the horticultural crops while optimum utilization of the available resources. Horticultural crops are diverse which include all kinds of fruits, vegetables, flowers, medicinal and aromatic crops, root and tuber crops, spices and bee-keeping as well as mushroom cultivation as a subsidiary enterprise along with their processing and value addition. Uttar Pradesh has vast source of raw agricultural material for food processing industry and has prominent share in India’s agricultural and horticultural production. Some prominent features of Uttar Pradesh as one of the state of India are:
► Share in Wheat production – 34%
► Share in Fruits production – 19%
► Share in Vegetables production – 30%
► Contributes 60 % of meat exports from India
► 35% share in Sugarcane output, ranks 2nd in sugar production
► Established three agro food parks at Barabanki, Varanasi, Ayodhya and four pack houses at Lucknow, Saharanpur, Barabanki, Varanasi
► Mega Food Park proposed at Jagdishpur
The Banana cultivation in UttarPradesh is spread over more than 48698 hectares, whereas the production of banana is 3005640 MT which is 10% of the total production of the country. In 2010-11, the total production of banana was 1599000MT over an area of 37000hectares. The production capacity has increased substantially over the years in Uttar Pradesh. The varieties of banana cultivated in Uttar Pradesh are Dwarf Cavendish, Alpon, Chinia ,ChiniChampa, Malbhig,Muthia, Kothia , Gauria. Farmers are also cultivating Grand Naine Variety through Tissue culture. The technology was first adopted from Israel.In1988, Ram Saran Verma was first introduced tissue culture (G9) for banana farming in Barabanki Uttar Pradesh. The prominent belts of banana cultivation in the state are Gorakhpur, Fatehpur, Barabanki, Kaushambi, Kushinagar, etc., whereas Gorakhpur is leading and producing more than 800,000 MT of Banana over an area of 18000 hectares.

The variety of plantain called Nendran is the most suitable for chips processing, giving them a natural deep yellow color. The Dwarf Cavendish is also suitable for making banana chips. Over 90% of bananas produced in India are consumed domestically as fresh fruit and it is estimated that processing in banana is only to an extent of 2.5% of which about 1.80% is used to process banana chips. The rest is processed into the banana puree, banana pulp, banana beer, banana powder and so on. The snack food market in India is reported to be growing at 7 to 8 % annually. And potato chips are estimated to constitute nearly 85% of total salty snack food market. In the face of competition from branded potato chips in the market, local banana chips industry must upgrade their product by using attractive packaging and increasing the variety of flavours, to attract more consumer to buy it and occupy more market share.
Banana is one of the most abundant fruit crops in India. It is also one of the sources of income for farmers. Banana has various uses that can be turned into many processed products. In addition to banana exporting, processing banana into different products could mean additional income for banana farmers. Banana can be processed to make Banana Flour, , Banana Puree, Dried Banana Blossoms, Banana Chips, Banana Vinegar, Banana Figs, Banana Sauce, and Banana Powder.

The following are the key products manufactured in the cluster: The banana is an edible fruit – botanically a berry – produced by several kinds of large herbaceous flowering plants in the genus Musa. In some countries, bananas used for cooking may be called plantains, in contrast to dessert bananas. The fruit is variable in size, color and firmness, but is usually elongated and curved, with soft flesh rich in starch covered with a rind which may be green, yellow, red, purple, or brown when ripe. The fruits grow in clusters hanging from the top of the plant. Banana Wafers (Chips) Banana chips are deep-fried or dried slices of bananas (fruits of herbaceous plants of the genus Musa of the soft, sweet "dessert banana" variety). They can be covered with sugar or honey and have a sweet taste, or they can be fried in oil and spices and have a salty or spicy taste. Banana chips are commonly found in India and Indonesia (as kripik). Variants of banana chips may be covered with chocolate instead. Banana chips are similar tochifle, usually made from firmer, starchier fruit varieties of the genus Musa commercially called plantains or "cooking bananas". ;
Banana powder Banana powder is a powder made from processed bananas. It is used as a component for production of milk shakes and baby foods. It is also used in the manufacture of various types of cakes and biscuits. Banana Beer Banana beer is an alcoholic beverage made from fermentation of mashed bananas. Sorghum, millet or maize flour are added as a source of wild yeast.

The following table lists the HS codes under which the products are exported from the district:;

The export scenario of India and Uttar Pradesh has been analysed basis the export statistics of HS codes mentioned above under which products are exported. Alongside are the key facts pertaining to the analysed product codes. Based on our analysis, we have identified key synergies that should be developed to expand our current reach and potential; These synergies are divided into immediate and long term. The immediate synergies include countries with Signed FTA’s, high growth potential, and one is catered by India and not UP. Whereas the long-term synergies include countries with untapped market potential which can only be fulfilled if UP’s exporters comply and raise the quality of the product to the highest standards, freight rates are more subsidized and major efforts is required in marketing which will require time to accommodate the same. ;

► The total exports of Banana and Banana product from Kaushambidistrict is negligible.
► Other prominent export sector from Kaushambi District is Tourism as Kaushambi is one of the oldest historical cities of India.
► The cluster has tremendous export potential, but owing to lack of proper market assessment mechanism, more specific value added products, specific demand preferences.
► Hence, it was pointed out that the proper study of the foreign market, region specific demand patterns to be ascertained. Along with that, a common platform to be created where there can be integration between the local producers, exporters and importers, thereby making the export ecosystem robust and effective.
► IndiaexportedUSD77422ThousandvalueofBananaplantainproductsin2019.8India'sexportsrepresent 0.6% of world exports for this product, ranking it number 20. The value of India’s exports has gradually increased since 2015-2019, There has been an increase by CAGR 8% in the past 5 years, and as per data FY 2015-19 for exports from India.
Product 080390: Uttar Pradesh exports this product to Nepal, Iran, Qatar and Iraq. Below figure shows the top importers for this product (080390) in the world:

Product Diversification is one of the most crucial product uplifting strategies which in turn is an important part of a product’s export. This plays a vital role in any products exports as it is a product uplifting strategy. Most processors are not bothered about changing their product range and they fail to understand that it is an integral part of comprehensive marketing. Diversification can be brought in the cluster by:
1. Development of a new products: The processors of the district should be encouraged to diversify the product categories and must be provided with enough resources to create advance processed banana products without losing the nutritional value and essence of Banana. The cluster requires more focus on new varieties of Banana and Banana products which are in high demand in the global market like Vacuum Fried Banana Chips, Osmo Vacuum-IMF Dried banana, Banana Flour Based Ready-To-Eat Products, Fibre Enriched Banana Peel Pasta, Raw Banana Flour, Raw Banana Flour Ethnic Health Mix, Banana Beer, Banana wine, Banana puree, Banana pulp etc. 2. Use of new and advanced processing techniques It has also been found that most of the banana processors are using old techniques in Banana processing. The requirement of advance processing machineries is essential so that the nutritious value of final product should be similar to Banana.

Uttar Pradesh is the fourth largest state in India, with an approximate area of 2,40,928Sq.Km. It is also the most populous state in the country, with a population of 199.5 million. Uttar Pradesh is one of the most favoured states for tourists in India, with a consistent ranking amongst the top states in terms of tourist arrivals. Uttar Pradesh is a land of cultural and geographical diversity. It is blessed by tranquil expanses of meadows, perennial rivers, dense forests and fertile soil. It is the heartland of India and plays a crucial role in the culture, politics, agriculture, education, industry and tourism of India. Uttar Pradesh is the largest tourist destination in India and abounds with beautiful spots and pilgrimage centres. Situated in the northern part of India, it shares boundary with Uttarakhand, Bihar, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, Haryana, Delhi, Himachal Pradesh, and an international border with Nepal. Uttar Pradesh has a glorious history. It is the land of Lord Rama, Krishna, Buddha and Mahavir. The epics Ramayana and the Mahabharata were written in UttarPradesh. It was here that the Buddha lived and preached to his disciples. The Mughals established their empire here. It is also home to India's most visited site, the Taj Mahal, the oldest living and holiest city Varanasi. In, 2019, Uttar Pradesh was ranked the1st state in in terms of the domestic tourist arrivals and 3rd in terms of foreign tourist arrivals. The Tourism industry in Uttar Pradesh has a significant contribution to the states’ economic growth. The contribution of tourism to the employment generation, both direct and indirect, is of immense importance to the state.
U.P. StateTourismPolicy,2018 To establish Uttar Pradesh a preferred tourism destination in India and achieve countries highest tourist arrival and earn tourist receipts, driving employment generation, the Uttar Pradesh Govt has announced its tourism policy, 2018 with following objectives- To become the most preferred tourist destination in the country by 2023. • To achieve an annual increase of 15% domestic tourist arrival and 10% foreign tourist consistently over the next five years. • To attract employment of approximately 500000per year. • ToattractinvestmentswithatargetofINR5000 Crore per year. • Toimparttrainingto10000tourismserviceproviders over the next five years. • To attract 1,00,000 tourists to national parks and wildlife sanctuaries in Uttar Pradesh per year • To convert 5 heritage buildings (Buildings with heritage value) to heritage hotels per year. • To improve regional connectivity of all religious and cultural attractions within the state through road, rail and air • To promote the state as leading MCE destination in the country • To elevate the standards of public service facilities across the state and provide high quality visit or experience

The ruins of the well-known site of Kaushambi (25o 20’ 30” N., 81o 23’12” E.) are situated on the left blank of the river Yamuna at 51.2 km from Allahabad in a south-westerly direction. The remains of the ancient city viewed from a distance give the impression of an imposing hillock, which, when approached nearer, reveals itself as a chain of rolling mounds, standing high above the surrounding plains, girdled on the south by the Yamuna. The Vindhyan range across the horizon at not a great distance beyond the river Yamuna provides the southern frame of the Panorama. During Buddha’s time Kaushambi was one of the six most important and prosperous towns of India. It was a nerve centre of ancient Indian communications as the principal routes from north to south and east to west met at the city. It was a terminus of river traffic and an important emporium of Madhya desa. The city retained its importance at least up to the sixth century A.D., as it was visited by the Chinese pilgrims Fa-Hien and Yuan-Chwang.
Kaushambi is well connected with other parts of country via motor ways and Railways. The district head quarter Manjhanpur is around 55km away from Prayagraj. Apart from Prayagraj and Kanpur other railway heads within the district are Sirathu and Bharwari. The Civil Airport at Prayagraj has also become functional since 2019. All these factors are strengths of this great city with a great potential to make this city a great hub of International Tourism. The trends in the year of 2019 of Domestic and International Tourist Arrival in Kaushambi are mentioned in below table.

Kaushambi is considered as one of the two important sites in Ganga valley, the excavation of which would unravel the early history of the Indian people. Tourism in Kaushambi District is rich in historical places. In this district, Kara, Prabhas Giri and Kaushambi are the main historical centers. This district of Uttar Pradesh is full of temples in which Sheetla temple of Kara Dham and the Jain temple of Prabhosa are the main attractions. Major attractions of Kaushambi District are as follows - Sheetla Temple of Kara: Historical and religious importance of Kara is very old. This place is situated in the north-west of Prayagraj about 69 kms away. There are so many temples in Kara among which Sheetla Mata temple, Chhetrapal Bhairav temple, Hanuman temple and Kaleshwar Mahadev temple are famous. Sheetla Mata Temple is situated on the bank of Ganga River. It is a major Shakti Peeth. Kara has been a religious pilgrimage centres since 1000 AD. Kara was also an important township in the kingdoms of medieval kings of the northern India. Even today one can see the remains of the fort of king Jaichand, the last king of Kannauj. Kara is also the birth place of famous saint Malukdas (1631 - 1739 AD).
Prabhas Giri: Prabhas Giri or Prabhosa is famous as a religious historical place on the bank of Yamuna River. It is located at the Manjhanpur Tehsil about 50 kms away in the north of Allahabad. It is also said that Lord Krishna died at this place. In the earlier days there was a big Jain temple here. There is a cave which is around 9 feet long and 7 feet wide. In this cave, some records are found in Brahmiscript of second century before Gupta dynasty. Durga Devi Temple of Manjhanpur: This temple is situated about 1 km away in the south-west of Manjhanpur town. In this temple there is an idol of black stone of Goddess Durga and Lord Shiva. It is believed that these idols are of the time of Lord Buddha. On the occasion of Navratri, large number of devotees gathers here. Kamasin Devi Temple: This temple is situated on the bank of a pond about 10 kms away in the west of Manjhanpur. Local people have great faith on the divine powers of this temple.All these tourist sites of Kaushambi District are worth visiting and they attract large number of travellers from far and wide. Sant Malookdas Ashram: Maluk das was born in Kada, Kaushambi near Allababad, in 1574. Themes of his songs include social reform, religious tolerance, goodwill among men, equality and the oneness of God. In this way he resembles other singers of the Bhakti movement including Kabir and Guru Nanak. He is considered a saint of Bhakti Parampara. He believed that God is in form who created the universe and still pervades through each and every shape. The Mughal Badshah Aurangzeb recognised Das's value and donated two villages to him and his disciples. A Muslim Officer sent by Aurangzeb to Maluk Das received the name Meer Mahdav, a combination of the Muslim name Meer and the Hindu word Madhav. His grave stands near Das's own. His birthplace and grave in Kaushambi have been refurbished by Swami Yogiraj Nanak Chand. How to Reach Kaushambi District Kaushambi District's headquarter Manjhanpur is around 55 kms away from Prayagraj. It can be easily reached from all the major cities of the state through roadways and railways. Apart from Prayagraj and Kanpur other railway heads within the district are Sirathu and Bharwari. Suggestions to strengthen and promote tourism in district Kaushambi
► Better security for travelers and their transactions
► Reduced environmental impact i.e. promoting green tourism - sustainable tourism
► setting up a state green tourism mission
► Automation in hotels and resorts with better facilities, asset, and inventory management for hotels and resorts
► Regular tourism orientation programmes may be organized.
► Inculcating values of old Indian tradition “Atithi Devo Bhava – Guest is God” in service providers of tourism sector.
► Tourist Facilitation Centers at the Destinations
► Ensuring Cleanliness, Hygiene and Public Conveniences
► Robust public transport within the city and better connectivity from one tourist spot to other
► Crisis Management and Communication Plan
► Use of Digital Technologies – Incredible India Mobile App – Incredible Uttar Pradesh
► Quality restaurants, better hospitality sector
► Better connectivity – number of trains, luxury buses/electric buses connecting Kaushambi with Prayagraj, Chitrakoot, Varanasi and Lucknow may be increased.
► Enhancing the existing luxury tourism products
► Organizing water laser show & movies based on the spiritual themes
► In Kaushambi, infrastructure may be developed in mission mode for promotion to Heritage and Culture, Spirituality, Heritage Walks, Yoga, Ayurveda / Holistic Health Systems / Wellness, Meetings, Incentives, Conferences & Exhibitions (MICE), Rural / Village / Farm or Agritourism / Plantation/village haats, Cuisine, Shopping, Fairs & Festivals, Banana festivals, Destination Weddings.
► Caravan Tourism - development and encouragement of Caravan Tourism in Kaushambi district. This initiative aims at exploring the possibility of turning accessible but unexplored places in the state into alluring destinations for the caravan travellers to park and stay. It may be designed to make tourism a sustainable activity that would bring benefits to local communities and also scale up opportunities for the tourism industry. Such initiatives are also useful for making tourism an evergreen industry even during pandemic like Covid 19. Similar initiative has been envisaged by the Government of Kerala.