Administrative Divisions in Bangladesh: Understanding the Provinces or Lack Thereof

When it comes to discussing the administrative structure of Bangladesh, the term 'provinces' might come to mind. However, a closer look reveals a different administrative setup. Bangladesh

The Current Administrative Structure

As of now, there is no concept of provinces in Bangladesh. Instead, the country is organized into eight administrative divisions, often referred to as provinces. These divisions were originally established during British rule and were part of the pre-1947 territorial divisions. Pakistan, on the other hand, retained the concept of provinces.

Eight Administrative Divisions

The eight administrative divisions of Bangladesh, which serve a similar function as provinces, are:

Dhaka Chittagong (also known as Chattogram) Mymensingh Rajshahi Barisal (also known as Barishal) Sylhet Rangpur Khulna

Each of these divisions is further divided into districts, which are the second tier of administration. Districts are then further subdivided into upazilas, sub-districts, and finally, thanas (police stations).

A Closer Look at Province vs. Division

The term 'province' in Bangladesh can be confusing because it is not exactly the same as the 'province' or 'state' in other countries like the United States or India. In federal systems like Pakistan, provinces are units within a larger federal structure. However, Bangladesh operates under a unitary system of government, where it does not have provinces in the traditional sense. As a unitary state, Bangladesh is not divided into provinces but rather into 8 divisions for administrative purposes.

The eight divisions of Bangladesh are:

Dhaka Chittagong Khulna Barisal Rajshahi Rangpur Mymensingh Sylhet

Chittagong: A Special Case

It's worth noting that Chittagong, also known as Chattogram, holds a special place in the country's administrative structure. It is one of the largest divisions and is often described with its own distinct characteristics due to its size and importance.

Conclusion

To summarize, Bangladesh does not have provinces but has eight administrative divisions for various administrative purposes. These divisions are further subdivided into districts, uniting the country's vast administrative landscape in a carefully structured manner.