After the separation of East Bengal (now Bangladesh) from India, the region of Jalpaiguri was detached from Dinajpur diocese, currently in Bangladesh. The region was raised into a diocese on Jan 17, 1952, with Bishop Ambrose Galbiati (PIME) as its first bishop.
The languages used in the diocesan territory are Bengali, Hindi, Oraon, Mundari, Kharia, Santhali, Sadri, Boro, Nepali and English.
The diocese was looked after by the Pontifical Institute of Foreign Missions, Milan (PIME) fathers.
Most of the Catholics are migrant tribals hailing from Chhotanagpur region and Jashpur diocese in central India. They came here a century ago to labor in the tea gardens by the British rulers.
Since many tea gardens are recently closed down due to less profit, the educated Catholic tribals are moving out of the diocese in search of jobs.
Most of the Catholics are Oraon tribals. Other Catholics are: Mundas, Kharias and Santals. There are also a few Bengali and Nepali Catholics. Catholics outnumber Christians of other denominations.
Other Christians are: Anglicans, Lutherans, 7th Day Adventists, Baptists, Pentecostals and other evangelical groups. Ethnic groups are Rajbanshi, Rava, Toto, Garo, Mech, Santhal, Munda, Kharia, Oraon. Majority of the people are Bengali dalits.
Jalpeshwar Shiva temple is a famous pilgrim centre for Hindus. Siliguri is the main transit point to Darjeeling, Kalimpong and the exotic north-eastern states. The town has emerged as a new commercial hub. The Hong Kong market is an important shopping place. The stadium here is venue for many international sporting events. The University of North Bengal is situated here. The diocese has an important railway junction and the Bagdogra airport is nearby. National Highway No 31 runs through the district.
Ethnic groups are Rajbanshi, Rava, Toto, Garo, Mech, Santhal, Munda, Kharia, Oraon.
Majority of the people are Bengali dalits.
Hindus are the largest religious group in the diocese with 85 percent, followed by Muslims (9 percent), Christians (3 percent) and others.