The region, known as Chanda District in former Central Provinces in India, with a population composed of three main elements, viz. Marathas, Telugus and Gonds is of peculiar interest from linguistic and ethnological points of view. It has also many other claims to distinction: in mineral wealth it is remarkably rich, it possesses vast forests, its archaeological remains are of unwonted interest, its systems of agriculture are unusually varied and its irriation system is quite extensive. This interesting region of Central Indian has been described in this Gazetteer in every detail of its physical features and the history and culture of its people. The work is divided into nine broad chapters treating every aspect of the region. Chapter on history and archaeology brings the past of a forgotten area into light and those on agriculture, manufacture, trade and communications, forests and minerals, revenue administration, etc. speak about the economic conditions of the people. The chapter on population gives detailed accounts of the religions professed by different ethnic groups and their social organizations. Though much of the basic data collected in the beginning of this century, on which the work is based, have since changed, the research value of the descriptions has not diminished. It is still an important source material to the historians, archeologists, ethnologists, and social scientists.
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