The district of Dumka , in antiquity known as 'Damin-e-ko', was the divisional headquarters of the Santhal Parganas. Dumka has a sizeable tribal population. The district is an upland tract with a hilly backbone running north to south. The fertility of the soil is poor due to extensive erosion, acidic character and low retaining capacity. The main occupation of the people is agriculture. Paddy and maize are the main crops. Fruits and vegetables are also grown. Industrial activity is restricted to small cottage industries like handloom weaving, tassar rearing, rope making, stoneware and bidi making.