Okara region was an agricultural region with forests during the Indus Valley Civilization. During the period of British rule there was a forest of Okaan where the city has been built. The city is a relatively new agricultural city. The word "Okara" for this district was actually originated from word "Okan" (a lush green tree with needle like leaves). The Okan Tree gave birth to word Okanwali (Land of Okan) which ultimately finalized into Okara. During British rule the area was part of Montgomery District. At independence in 1947, one of the two textile mills that Pakistan got was in Okara. In 1982 the city became the headquarters of the newly created Okara District. Okara has had a railway line since 1892. Okara District was previously part of Montgomery District which included: Pakpattan, Sahiwal, Okara, districts, of Punjab.
Okara District is famous for its fertile lands, peaceful natural environment and green fields of Potato, tomato, sugarcane, wheat, rice and maize crops. Oranges and Mangoes orchards are common. World famous Mitchels Farms also are located in District Okara in nearest town Renala Khurd.
Okara Cantt was established during the year 1967 in the district of Okara which is a district of Punjab situated on South-west to the city of Lahore. It is situated in the middle of Lahore and Multan and is connected to both cities by National Highway and Railway Tracks. It is approximately 25 km from Division Sahiwal. Adda Gamber is a part of Okara Cantt and falls in the revenue limits of District Sahiwal.
Group of Military Dairy Farm/Factory is also part of Okara. The total Area of Okara Cantonment is approximately 14830 Acres which includes an area of 191 Acres as Defence Land and a Bazar Area of 162.96 Acres. Okara Cantonment is a Class – II having total population of 0.067 million as per latest census.
Okara Cantonment now covers an area of 14830 Acres.
As per yardstick provided vide Section 13 of the Cantonments Act, 1924 and as per census of 2017 showing a civil population of (67955) individuals. The Cantonment of Okara is a Class – II Cantonment. It has been divided into Five Electoral Ward. Okara Cantonment has a Bazar Area of 162.96 Acres.