The correct option is Ahmedabad.
Explanation
The epithet "Manchester of India" is assigned to a city based on its historical dominance and capacity in the cotton textile sector, drawing a parallel to Manchester, UK, which was the global center of cotton manufacturing during the Industrial Revolution. Factors such as raw material availability, humid climate, and transport infrastructure determine this status.
Option Analysis
- Ahmedabad is correct: Ahmedabad (Gujarat) is universally recognized as the "Manchester of India." The first mill was established there in 1859. Situated in the heart of the cotton-growing belt of Gujarat, it benefits from the easy availability of raw cotton, a humid climate ideal for spinning, and a robust railway network connecting it to major ports like Mumbai.
- Coimbatore is incorrect: Coimbatore (Tamil Nadu) is known as the "Manchester of South India" due to the high concentration of textile mills in the southern peninsula.
- Surat is incorrect: Surat is primarily known as the "Diamond City of India" and is also famous for synthetic textiles (Silk City), but it does not hold the title of Manchester of India.
- Kanpur is incorrect: Kanpur (Uttar Pradesh) is historically referred to as the "Manchester of North India" due to its strategic importance in the textile industry within the northern plains.
Key Takeaway: Ahmedabad is the "Manchester of India." Distinct regional titles exist for Kanpur ("Manchester of North India") and Coimbatore ("Manchester of South India").