Iron Age in Tamil Nadu Dates Back to 4th Millennium BCE + UPSC?.ToString()?? UPSC?.ToString()+" Current Affairs";

Why in the News?
In a groundbreaking discovery, Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M.K. Stalin released a report stating that the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu began as early as the 4th millennium BCE, making it one of the earliest regions in the world to use iron. The findings were based on samples excavated from the Sivagalai site in Thoothukudi district.
Key Takeaways:
Significance of Findings
Carbon dating results reveal that iron was used in Tamil Nadu as early as 3345 BCE, over 5,300 years ago.
The usage of smelted iron could date back to the middle of the 3rd millennium BCE, marking a significant milestone in global archaeology.
Research Validation
Samples underwent rigorous testing through Accelerator Mass Spectrometry (AMS) and Optically Stimulated Luminescence (OSL).
Labs involved include Beta Analytic Testing Laboratory (USA), Birbal Sahni Institute of Palaeosciences (Lucknow), and Physical Research Laboratory (Ahmedabad).
Archaeological Significance
The findings suggest that Tamil land had advanced iron-smelting technology over 5,300 years ago.
Compared to other metals, iron-smelting requires a high temperature (1,200-1,400°C), showcasing the technological expertise of the region.
Global Impact
Experts like Dilip Kumar Chakrabarti (Cambridge University) highlighted the global importance of the discovery, marking Tamil Nadu as a pioneer in early iron usage.
nRole of Iron in Civilizatio
Iron tools revolutionized agriculture, enabling trade and the formation of early states.
Unlike northern regions that experienced the Copper Age, the limited availability of copper ore south of the Vindhyas led Tamil Nadu to transition directly into the Iron Age.
Related Excavations
Excavations at Adichanallur, Mayiladumparai, Kilnamandi, and Mangadu suggest iron usage in Tamil Nadu dates back to 2500-3000 BCE.
Technological Mastery: The findings indicate that people in Tamil Nadu had mastered iron smelting technology around 5300 years ago, requiring temperatures of 1,200 to 1,400 degrees Celsius.