Chirkunda

Chirkunda is a city and a notified area in Dhanbad district in the state of Jharkhand, India.

Demographics

As of 2001 India census, Chirkunda had a population of 39,121. Males constitute 53% of the population and females 47%. Chirkunda has an average literacy rate of 64%, higher than the national average of 59.5%; with male literacy of 71% and female literacy of 56%. 14% of the population is under 6 years of age. The official language and most widely spoken language is Marwari, Khortha - a linguistic blend of Bengali and Magahi. Other languages which are used here are Bengali and Hindi. Hinduism is the prominent religion here, followed by Islam.

Economy

Chirkunda is situated amidst rich coal mines of Jharia and Raniganj. Major industries in and around this area includes refractory making, coal making, iron and steel plants, food processing, retailing, and service industry. Due to its strategic location, Chirkunda has many big business houses of the Dhanbad district such as the Sharma's, Chulania's, Gaddhyan's, Kharkia's, Choudhary's, Nigania's to name a few. Some major factories in this belt includes Fatka Refractories, Associated Ceramic, Chirkunda Ceramic Works, Maithan Ceramic Ltd., Maithan Alloys Ltd., Arun Fuels, Bharat Ceramic, Shree Ganesh Hardcoke, etc. KFS, once India's largest refractory producer when it was in operation is situated in this area. Mc Nally Bharat Engineering is also situated in the outskirts of Chirkunda. The presence of DVC's Maithon Dam and Panchet Dam, power stations is another major factor for the development of industries in and around this area. Maithon Power Limited, a Joint venture of Tata Power and DVC Maithon holds brighter prospects for the future and prevalent industries.Many educated professionals are also living in Chirkunda. Nearby areas include Kumardhubi, Mugma, Nirsa, Barakar, Kulti and Panchet.