Initiative/Project Online Student Admission in Government Schools via QR Code Context: A novel initiative has been undertaken and is currently being implemented to facilitate online student admissions at the Government School in Ambur using QR codes. The Bethlehem Municipal Middle School operates in Ambur, located in the Tirupattur district. For the 2026–2027 academic year, the student admission process at the school has been innovatively advanced through digital means. With the dual objectives of boosting student enrollment in government schools and providing parents with a simple, rapid method to admit their children, the school teachers have collectively introduced a QR code-based online admission system. Awareness banners featuring the QR code have been strategically placed within the school campus, at major street intersections, and in public areas where large crowds typically gather. Informative leaflets have also been distributed. Parents can scan the QR code using their mobile phones to digitally register details—including the student's name, class, and parental information—thereby completing the admission process instantly. Consequently, there is no longer a need for parents to make multiple physical visits to the school campus. This initiative has proven to be particularly beneficial for working parents and those engaged in daily-wage labor. History & Culture Context:Archaeologists have identified a 13th century inscription in Sivaganga district that records an incident involving a warrior and a merchant, offering insights into trade, protection and social support practices in medieval Tamil society. The inscription was found at Cholapuram near Sivaganga after local resident Balasundaram informed local archaeologists about an unusual stone located in Etticheri tank. A field study was subsequently conducted by K Kaaliraja. About sivagangai inscription The inscription belongs to the uncommon "Aasiriyam" category, which is associated with protection, assistance and support rather than land grants or temple endowments commonly found in medieval inscriptions. The stone stands…
TAMIL NADU
History & Culture Bhonsala Inscriptions & the Shivaji–Afzal Khan Episode Thanjavur Big Temple Inscriptions The Brihadeeswarar Temple contains extensive inscriptions, including the largest from the Maratha period. Found on the south-western walls near the Vinayagar shrine. Written in Marathi during the reign of Serfoji II. Provides a detailed account of the history and genealogy of the Maratha kings of Thanjavur. Includes praise for the Danish missionary Christian Frederick Schwarz. Records that Serfoji II sent military support and financial aid to the British. Mentions his assistance during the conflict against the Marudu Brothers Rebellion. Highlights the political alliances and historical context of the Maratha rule in Thanjavur. Bhonsala Vamsa Charitra Published by Sarasvati Mahal Library. Chronicles Maratha history in Marathi and Tamil, with an English summary. Vividly narrates the famous encounter between Chhatrapati Shivaji and Afzal Khan. Shivaji vs Afzal Khan – Strategy & Encounter Shivaji, guided by his deity Tulja Bhavani, planned the meeting at Jawali Fort. Secret instructions were sent to surround Afzal Khan’s army if needed. During the meeting, Afzal Khan attempted to stab Shivaji. Shivaji, protected by armor, retaliated using tiger-claws (wagh nakh) and killed him. Aftermath of the Duel Afzal Khan’s minister Krishnaji Pant continued the fight. Shivaji offered him mercy, respecting his Brahmin status, but he persisted and was killed by a bodyguard. Maratha forces attacked after the nagara (war drum) signal and defeated Afzal Khan’s troops. Captured soldiers were treated with honour and released. Religious & Cultural Beliefs Shivaji’s victory was attributed to divine blessings of Tulja Bhavani. The narrative blends history, faith, and royal legitimacy. Historical Significance The episode is one of the most dramatic in Indian history. Highlights Shivaji’s strategic brilliance, courage, and ethics in warfare. The inscriptions preserve a unique Maratha perspective within a Chola monument.
