History
Since the Aryan migration through current times Hisar is dominated by the Jats race. Jats, like the citizens of ancient Roman alternated between farming and fighting for their lands in this part of the world for centuries. This fierce race had been the buffer by default shielding Hindus from foreign Islamic invasions from the west. Jats have cultivated and protected the lands in and between Punjab region and doab (two rivers Yamuna and Ganga - this region today includes New Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Uttaranchal, Pakistani Punjab, Pakistani Sindh). Research conducted during the British rule identified Jats as an integral and vital part of the history of India. In the Punjab region and present day Haryana Jats had long cultivated the lands and ardently protected the inhabitants against the Islamic invasions from time to time. The city of Hisar was no different, although founded by a Muslim ruler, Firozshah Tughlaq in 1354 A.D the city was predominantly Hindu.
The word Hisar is an Arabic word, which means Fort. The city, which we know today as Hisar, was originally called Hisar Firoza (also Hisar-e-Firoza) or in other words the Fort of Firoz. But as the days rolled by, the very word "Firoza" was dropped from its original name.It was in these lands that the very first evidence of the presence of man was discovered with the excavation of Agroha, Banawali and Kunal. All of these were the pre-Harappan settlements, bringing for us the very first images of prehistoric times. The presence of the pillar in the Hisar fort belonging to the time of Emperor Ashoka (234 BC) was originally from Agroha. The discovery of coins of the Kushan Kings tells tales of ancient India.Hisar gained importance in early sixties when the Agriculture University was set up as an extension of the Punjab Agricultural University, Ludhiana. Ever since, the government"s positive policies have played a vital role in the economic development of the city. The industrial and agricultural policy of the government has attracted large number of farmers and entrepreneurs and has resulted into the industrialization in and around the city.
Geography and Climate
Hisar is located at [show location on an interactive map 29.17° N 75.72° E. It has an average elevation of 212 metres (695 feet). The city of Hisar is one of the important and fast growing urban centers of Haryana. It has grown to a vital position on the urban map of Haryana. It has risen because of its location, which is such that for any development away from the G.T. Road Hisar draws one's attention. . People from Punjab and Rajasthan come here for medical treatment, for the purchase of good quality seeds, cows, buffaloes, bullocks and sheep etc. and also to get good education.
Very hot summers and very cold winters. The maximum day temperature during the summer varies between 40 to 46 degree Celsius. During winter its ranges between 1.5 degree to 4 degree Celsius. The winds are strong and frequent during May to July. Normally the South Westerly current of summer monsoon brings the rains during July to September period. Intermittent dust storms are also common.
Economy
Hisar had a population of 256,810. Males constitute 55% of the population and females 45%. Hisar has an average literacy rate of 71%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 76%, and female literacy is 64%. In Hisar, 13% of the population is under 6 years of age.
Flora and Fauna
Various types of ducks and geese such as Graylag Goose, Bar-headed Goose, Brahminy Duck, Northern Pintail, Common Shelduck, Mallard, Gadwall, Eurasian Wigeon, Blue winged Teal, Shoveller, Common Pochard, Ferruginous Duck and Tufted Duck can be seen at the Ghaggar and tanks during winter. Some other ducks such as Comb Duck, Common Teal, Spot-billed Duck, Tree duck are found throughout the year at suitable habitat. Dabchick is also a residential bird.
Tulsi is one of the most important plants of Haryana and India. Therefore more research is needed for large scale cultivation of the plant in vacant lands and spaces. More research is also required in the use of Tulsi leaves, oil and extracts for a large number of medicinal uses and as an organic insecticide. The Ch Devi Lal Herbal Nature Garden is involved in researching and cultivating many medicinal herbs including Tulsi and Safed Musli.