The Union Home Ministry has approved the renaming of Ahmednagar district in Maharashtra to Ahilyanagar, as announced by State Revenue Minister Radhakrishna Vikhe Patil on Friday.
Approval Process and Historical Significance
Minister Vikhe Patil explained that the state cabinet made the decision to rename Ahmednagar in March of this year, after which they sought approval from the central government. He noted that Ahilyabai Holkar, the 18th-century ruler of Indore in Madhya Pradesh, originated from this district.
This change follows previous renamings by the Eknath Shinde government, which changed Aurangabad to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Osmanabad to Dharashiv.
Official Notification Issued
Shortly after Minister Vikhe Patil announced the Centre’s approval for the name change, a formal notification was issued on Saturday, October 5, confirming that Ahmednagar district is now officially Ahilyanagar. This renaming honors Ahilyabai Holkar, who is celebrated for her contributions as a Maratha queen.
Background on the Renaming Initiative
The decision to rename the district was first revealed by Maharashtra Chief Minister Eknath Shinde during a public event in May 2023, coinciding with the 298th birth anniversary of Ahilyabai Holkar. The Chief Minister highlighted that she was born in Chondi village within Ahmednagar district.
In March 2024, the Maharashtra government officially approved the proposal and submitted it to the Centre for final endorsement, which has now been granted.
Context of Recent Name Changes in Maharashtra
This development marks the third significant renaming initiative in Maharashtra. In September 2023, the state government also issued notifications to rename the Aurangabad and Osmanabad Revenue Divisions to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar and Dharashiv, respectively.