Banka (बांका) is a district in southeastern Bihar, India, bordering Jharkhand. Its administrative headquarters is Banka town. The district is known for its agricultural countryside and Mandar Hill near Bounsi, a prominent pilgrimage destination associated with Hindu and Jain traditions.
Most residents live in rural communities, and Angika is widely spoken alongside Hindi. Farming, agricultural labour, small businesses and local trade support livelihoods, while migration for work also shapes family economies. Rice and other field crops are important to agriculture. Religious festivals, village fairs and the annual gathering around Mandar Hill contribute to local cultural life.
Common civic concerns include reliable irrigation, access to drinking water, road maintenance and transport connections between villages and towns. Residents also care about school quality, accessible healthcare, electricity supply and employment opportunities close to home. Improving public services while protecting hills, water bodies and pilgrimage sites is an important local development priority.