The Durga Ashtami Fair held in Panipat is one of the most prominent and widely celebrated fairs in the region. It takes place during the auspicious occasion of Durga Ashtami, which is the eighth day of the Hindu festival of Navratri, dedicated to the worship of Goddess Durga. This fair marks a period of intense spiritual and cultural celebrations, with people from all walks of life participating in various religious activities. The festival is a symbol of the triumph of good over evil, celebrated with much fervor across many parts of India, but Panipat's fair holds its unique significance.

The fair is a gathering point for thousands of people, both locals and visitors, who come together to pay homage to Goddess Durga. Temples in the city, particularly the Devi Talab Sriva Temple, become centers of worship, where devotees offer prayers, light incense, and perform traditional rituals. The atmosphere is filled with devotion and excitement, as people seek blessings from the goddess for prosperity, health, and success. The fair’s religious undertones are complemented by vibrant cultural programs, including music, dance, and dramatic performances that depict stories from Hindu mythology.

Apart from the religious celebrations, the Durga Ashtami Fair is also known for its lively market. Local vendors set up stalls offering a wide array of products, from traditional handicrafts and clothing to food items and religious artifacts. These markets create a bustling environment, where visitors can buy souvenirs, worship items, and enjoy local delicacies. The fair is an excellent opportunity for local artisans to showcase their work, promoting the region's rich cultural heritage and craftsmanship.

The Durga Ashtami Fair is not just a spiritual event but a community celebration that brings together people of different backgrounds. It is a time for socializing, making new connections, and strengthening community bonds. As the night falls, the city is illuminated with lights, and the festivities continue with musical performances, folk dances, and other entertainment. This combination of devotion, culture, and social interaction makes the Durga Ashtami Fair in Panipat an important event in the local calendar and an expression of the city’s vibrant traditions and customs.

Hence Option A is Correct.

The eastern boundary of Panipat district in Haryana is defined by the Yamuna River, one of the most significant rivers in northern India. This river has not only geographical importance but also cultural and historical significance for the region. Flowing from the Himalayas, the Yamuna serves as a natural border and supports the livelihoods of many communities residing along its banks.

The Yamuna River plays a crucial role in agriculture in Panipat. As a water source, it irrigates the fertile soil of the district, enabling the cultivation of crops such as wheat, paddy, sugarcane, and vegetables. The river’s presence ensures a steady supply of water for irrigation, making it a backbone of the local agrarian economy. The agricultural prosperity in the region is deeply connected to the Yamuna's consistent water flow.

Historically, the Yamuna has influenced the development and settlement patterns of Panipat. The river has been a part of Panipat's identity since ancient times, dating back to the period of the Mahabharata, when the region was known as Vanaprastha. Settlements near the Yamuna have always benefited from its resources, allowing communities to thrive through agriculture, fishing, and trade along its banks.

Additionally, the Yamuna holds religious and cultural significance. It is considered sacred in Indian culture and is associated with several myths and legends. This reverence influences the lives of people in Panipat, as many festivals and rituals revolve around the river. Despite modern challenges such as pollution, the Yamuna continues to shape the socio-economic and cultural fabric of Panipat district, marking its importance as a natural and cultural landmark.

Hence Option B is Correct.

The Samalkha division of Panipat district is renowned for its industrial contributions, particularly in the manufacturing of iron casting and agricultural machinery. This industrial hub has earned recognition for producing high-quality equipment and components essential for the agricultural sector, making it a significant contributor to the district's economy.

The iron casting industry in Samalkha is pivotal because it provides the foundation for producing durable and efficient agricultural machinery. Iron casting involves molding molten iron into specific shapes, which are then used to create parts for plows, tractors, seeders, and other farming tools. These cast iron components are celebrated for their strength, durability, and cost-effectiveness, meeting the high demands of farmers in the region and across the country.

Agriculture forms the backbone of India's economy, and the machinery produced in Samalkha directly supports this sector. The equipment manufactured here not only helps farmers improve productivity but also reduces manual labor. The availability of reliable and affordable agricultural tools enables small and medium-scale farmers to adopt modern farming practices, thus fostering growth and sustainability in agriculture.

Moreover, Samalkha’s industrial base has grown over the years due to its strategic location and access to transportation networks. Its proximity to Delhi and other industrial regions makes it an ideal center for the distribution of manufactured goods. The skilled labor force in the area also plays a vital role in maintaining the quality and precision required in manufacturing agricultural machinery.

In addition to its economic impact, the success of the iron casting and agricultural machinery industry in Samalkha contributes to local employment and development. It provides jobs for thousands of workers, supporting families and boosting the local economy. Over time, this industrial activity has transformed Samalkha into a prominent name in India's agricultural machinery sector, solidifying Panipat district's reputation as a diverse industrial hub.

Hence Option C is Correct.