Palkot block is a CD block that forms an administrative division in the Basia subdivision of Gumla district, in the Indian state of Jharkhand. History Gumla became a subdivision of Ranchi district in 1902 and it became a separate district in 1983. Simdega district was carved out of Gumla district in 2011. Subsequently, Gumla district was divided into three subdivisions – Gumla Sadar subdivision (with Gumla, Ghaghra, Bharno, Bishunpur, Raidih and Sisia blocks), Basia subdivision (with Palkot, Basia and Kamdara blocks), and Chainpur subdivision (with Chainpur, Albert Ekka (Jari) and Dumri blocks). Overview Mount Risyamook, mentioned in the Ramayana, is located in the Palkot block, which was, of sorts, the capital of the Chhotanagpur pleatau area until the 20th century. The Nagvanshi rajas ruled from Lalgarh which is located in Palkot. Palkot has an interesting historical background. In the ancient period it was known as Nagri and Pampapuri. This is the capital of tribal kings Bali and Sugriv. In epics age Ghorlata was the place for army which they use to hide oneself. At 3 km from block headquarter. Shitalpur and Malmalpur are two most beautiful picnic spots. It has said that in this cave chilled air flows during summer. It has a drinking water source inside the cave.Palkot is also known for bronze utensils. Gobbarsilli is one of the most famous tourist places in Palkot. There is a big stone balanced naturally. It is said that if anyone throws a pebble over the stone and if the stone passes to other side of this rock than he will be the lucky person and God will fulfill his desire. Maoist activities The Maoist insurgency started spreading around the mid-1990s and poses a big challenge to peace and development of the district. It “is involved in abduction, extortion, extortion killings.” The banned organisation is active largely in the eastern part of the district mainly in Kamadara, Basia, Palkot, Gumla, Raidih, Sisai and Bharno police stations. In order to counter the activities of the insurgents, arms, ammunition and security equipment have been provided in every police station. It includes bullet-proof and landmine-proof vehicles. Geography In the southern portion of Gumla district, there are flat topped hills called pat, with an elevation ranging from 2,500 feet to 3,000 feet. The pat region is spread across Bishunpur, Chainpur and Ghaghra CD blocks. The highest areas are Netarhat pat (3,356 ft), Lamiti pat (3,777 ft)