Panjshanbe

Panjshanbe is a town and the administrative center of Panjshanbe District in Tajikistan's Sughd Region. Its name, Panjshanbe, translates from Tajik as "Thursday," indicating its historical role as a market day. The town is located in the Fergana Valley, a fertile region in the northeastern part of the country, near the border with Uzbekistan.

The economy of Panjshanbe is largely based on agriculture, taking advantage of the valley's rich soil and irrigation systems. Cotton has historically been a significant crop, alongside fruits and vegetables. Light industry, such as food processing and textiles, also contributes to the local economy.

Panjshanbe serves as a regional hub for trade and services. Its Thursday market continues to be an important gathering place for surrounding rural communities to buy and sell goods. The town has basic infrastructure including schools, healthcare facilities, and administrative buildings.

As with many towns in Tajikistan, Panjshanbe has experienced changes since the country's independence in 1991. The region's development is influenced by national policies and its proximity to international borders. The population is predominantly Tajik, with Uzbeks also forming a notable minority in the area.