Ahilya Devi Holkar

News:

What:

The government has decided to rename Ahmednagar district as Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar.
The city of Ahmednagar was previously proposed to be renamed as ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.

Why:

The decision to rename Ahmednagar district is to honor the significant contributions of Ahilyabai Holkar.

Where:

Ahmednagar district is located in the Western region of Maharashtra, India.
It was founded by Ahmad Nizam Shah I (of the Nizam Shahi dynasty) in 1494 and was named after him too.
It has been a part of several significant kingdoms including the Marathas.
The famous Ahmednagar Fort is located near here.

Who:

Ahilyabai Holkar was an 18th century Holkar queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom.
She was born in in Jamkhed, Ahmednagar in 1725.
During her reign, she is known to have personally led armies into battles.
She is noted for her role in building temples and Dharmashalas. For instance, she renovated the Kashi Vishwanath Temple.
Her efforts in promoting the textile industry in Maheshwar is another noteworthy contribution. Today, the region is famous for its GI-tagged Maheshwari sarees.

Question:

With reference to the recent changes and historical significance of Ahmednagar district, consider the following statements:

The government has renamed Ahmednagar district as ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.
Ahmednagar district was founded in the 15th century by Ahmad Nizam Shah I.
Ahilyabai Holkar was the queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom and played a significant role in promoting the textile industry in Maheshwari.

How many of the above statements are correct?
[A] Only one
[B] Only two
[C] All three
[D] None

Answer: [B] Only two

Explanation:

Statement 1 is incorrect. The government has renamed Ahmednagar district as ‘Punyashlok Ahilya Devi Holkar’, not ‘Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Nagar’.
Statement 2 is correct as Ahmednagar district was indeed founded by Ahmad Nizam Shah I in the 15th century.
Statement 3 is also correct as Ahilyabai Holkar was the queen of the Maratha Malwa kingdom and she did make significant contributions to the textile industry, particularly in Maheshwar.