Varanasi, also known as Benares or Kashi, is a North Indian city on the banks of the Ganges in Uttar Pradesh, India, 320 kilometres south-east of the state capital, Lucknow. The city's name originates from the river Varuna (a tributary of the Ganga) and Assi ghat (the southernmost ghat) hence the name Varanasi)
The city is one of the oldest living cities in the world and is revered by millions being spiritual capital of India. It is the holiest of the seven sacred cities (Sapta Puri) in Hinduism and Jainism, and is also of significant importance to Buddhists.
It is the district headquarters of Varanasi district and is well connected to other parts of the country by road, rail and air.
Prominent sources of employment in the city include silk weaving, carpets and crafts and tourism amongst others. The manufacturing sector is dominated by small-scale industries and household production.
Varanasi Nagar Nigam (VNN) was established on 24-01-1959 under the act of Uttar Pradesh Government i.e, Municipal Corporation Act of 1959 as a Nagar Mahapalika. In 1994 it was converted in to Nagar Nigam under the U.P. Government act -2.
Within its jurisdiction are some of the most densely populated areas in the world. It has also the unique distinction of providing civic services to rural and urban villages, resettlement colonies, etc. A total of 90 wards fall within its jurisdiction. At present total area under Varanasi Nagar Nigam is 81 Sq. Kms.
