Located within the Kumarkhali Upazila of Kushtia district, Panti Union is a region steeped in history and rich in cultural heritage. Spanning approximately 25.90 square kilometres (10.00 square miles), the union is home to a population of around 31,192 people as per the 2001 census. It comprises 21 villages and 19 mouzas, making it a significant administrative and social entity in the region.
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Origins and Historical Background
The name “Panti” is believed to have originated from a local legend involving a woman named “Panchi.” It is said that a local sage married her, and over time, the name “Panchi” evolved into “Panti,” giving the union its distinctive identity.
Panti’s administrative history is notable as well. Initially governed under the Village Chowkidar Act of 1870, the Union Parishad’s role and functions have evolved over the decades. In 1960, the late Maulvi Toffazzal Hossain began operating the Union Parishad from his residence, marking an important chapter in local governance.
Demographics and Infrastructure
The union covers an area of 10 square miles and, according to updated figures, houses a population nearly equally divided between males (15,449) and females (15,743), totalling 31,192. There are 19,954 registered voters within its boundaries.
Infrastructure-wise, Panti boasts:
- 25 kilometres of paved roads and 60 kilometres of unpaved roads
- 254 shallow tube wells and 6 deep tube wells
- 135 motorised pumps supporting local agriculture
Education Facilities
Education is a priority in Panti Union, evidenced by its numerous institutions:
- Panti Degree College: A reputable institution offering higher secondary and undergraduate education across science, humanities, and business faculties.
- Secondary Schools: Two boys’ schools and three girls’ schools provide education from classes six to ten.
- Madrasas: Four religious schools offer Islamic and general education, including Panti Dakhil Madrasa.
- Primary Education: Ten government primary schools and three private primary schools serve the younger generation, alongside one orphanage.
- Literacy Rate: Overall literacy stands at 46%, with males at 46.57% and females at 37.31%.
Economy and Markets
Agriculture dominates the local economy with 1,760 hectares of cultivable land. Crop patterns include:
- Single-crop farming: 332 hectares
- Double-crop farming: 591 hectares
- Triple-crop farming: 837 hectares (not included in official statistics)
Local commerce thrives through its markets and haats:
- Panti Weekly Haat and Daily Market: Held every Friday, this is the main market offering agricultural produce, household items, clothing, and food.
- Sandiyara Weekly Haat and Daily Market: Occurs on Saturdays and Tuesdays, pivotal for local farmers.
- Kachari Bazar Weekly Haat: Known for livestock trade, including cattle and goats, held every Monday.
- Krishnapur Market: A daily market catering to the residents’ daily necessities.
Governance and Administration
The Union Parishad is led by Chairman Mr. Md. Hafizur Rahman Hafiz, a graduate engaged in business. The Union Parishad office occupies a 55-decimal plot with a two-storey building containing 12 rooms, renovated in 2007. The office staff includes a secretary, a Dafadar, and eight Mohalladars.
Religious and Health Services
The union supports a diverse religious population with 37 mosques and 10 temples. Health facilities include four health centres providing essential medical services.
Places of Interest
- Dasha Mass Grave: Located in Dasha village, this memorial honours those who sacrificed their lives during Bangladesh’s Liberation War of 1971. Annual commemorations are held here with reverence.
- Mawlana Shamsuddin Saheb’s Shrine: A spiritual centre in the union, this shrine attracts devotees annually during the Urs festival, celebrating the life of a prominent Islamic scholar and community leader.
Connectivity
Panti Union is accessible via several routes:
- Approximately 10 km from Kumarkhali by river crossing
- 21 km from Kushtia district headquarters
- 15 km from the Islamic University via Shekhpara and Horinarayanpur
Population of Selected Villages
| Village Name | Total Population | Male Population | Female Population |
| Bagbariya | 1,521 | 744 | 777 |
| Valuka | 4,395 | 2,180 | 2,215 |
| Birikya | 895 | 426 | 469 |
| Dakshin Mulgram | 1,751 | 865 | 886 |
| Dakshin Ramnagar | 1,308 | 638 | 670 |
| Dasha | 1,579 | 762 | 817 |
| Dasbashi | 824 | 398 | 426 |
| Janbosi | 337 | 181 | 156 |
| Khagrabariya | 895 | 432 | 463 |
| Khorddvaluka | 1,539 | 758 | 781 |
| Krishnapur | 1,747 | 854 | 891 |
| Nagorkya | 1,251 | 620 | 631 |
| Panti | 7,478 | 3,748 | 3,730 |
| Pitambarbashi | 1,544 | 761 | 783 |
| Raj Narayanpur | 1,306 | 670 | 636 |
| Ramdia | 813 | 409 | 404 |
| Sandiyara | 578 | 279 | 299 |
| Tusharmaliyat | 214 | 118 | 96 |
| Washi | 1,217 | 606 | 611 |