Banda (बांदा) is a district in southern Uttar Pradesh, in the Bundelkhand region of India, bordering Madhya Pradesh. Its administrative headquarters is Banda city. The district is known for its rugged landscape, agricultural communities and historic sites. The Ken River is an important feature of its geography.
Hindi and Bundeli shape everyday conversation and local culture, alongside folk traditions, religious festivals and rural fairs. Farming, livestock rearing, small businesses and trade support many livelihoods, with wheat, pulses and oilseeds among the crops grown. Kalinjar Fort, a historic hilltop stronghold, is one of the district’s best-known landmarks.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, irrigation, groundwater conservation and resilience to drought and extreme heat. Residents also care about farm incomes, employment opportunities, roads, sanitation, electricity and access to schools and healthcare. Improving services in villages and smaller settlements, while protecting rivers and historic places, remains important to the district’s development.