Dumka (दुमका) is a district in northeastern Jharkhand, India, within the Santhal Pargana region. Its headquarters, Dumka town, serves as Jharkhand’s sub-capital. The district is known for its strong Santhal heritage, rural landscapes and importance as an administrative and cultural centre.
Santhal communities are central to local life, alongside other communities speaking Santali, Hindi, Bengali and regional languages. Festivals such as Sohrai and Baha reflect traditions connected with agriculture and nature. Farming, local trade, public services and forest-based livelihoods support the economy. Notable places include the Baba Basukinath temple, an important Hindu pilgrimage destination, and Maluti village, known for its historic terracotta temples.
Common civic concerns include reliable drinking water, irrigation, road connectivity and access to healthcare and schools, especially in remote villages. Residents also care about employment, migration, tribal land rights and access to welfare programmes. Protecting forests and cultural heritage while improving public infrastructure remains an important local priority.