Barmer

Barmer is a city and the administrative headquarters of Barmer district in the western Indian state of Rajasthan. It lies in the Thar Desert near the border with Pakistan and functions as a regional commercial and administrative center. The area experiences an arid climate with hot summers and limited rainfall, shaping the local economy and lifestyle.

The Barmer district hosts one of India's largest onshore oil fields, discovered in 2004, which has significantly influenced regional economic activity and employment. Outside of hydrocarbons, agriculture remains important, with crops such as millet, sorghum, and pulses grown by many farming households, complemented by livestock rearing. Traditional crafts, including Bandhani textiles and leather goods, contribute to rural livelihoods and cultural heritage.

In terms of language and culture, Rajasthani dialects such as Marwari are widely spoken alongside Hindi. The region is part of the Marwar cultural zone, with local customs, music, and desert folklore reflecting Rajasthan’s desert heritage. Barmer town serves as the district’s administrative center and a gateway to the surrounding rural hinterland.

Transportation and connectivity are centered on road networks linking Barmer with other parts of Rajasthan and neighboring states; rail and air access are typically via larger regional centers. The city and district form a sparsely populated, economically diverse area characterized by desert geography, energy production, and traditional craft-based livelihoods.