Initiatives/ Scheme Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission Context: M. Nambirajan, former Additional Director General of the Archaeological Survey of India (ASI), has been appointed as the Chairperson of the Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission. He will hold this position for the next three years. About the Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission The Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission is a statutory body empowered to identify, protect, restore, and conserve historical buildings and cultural sites in the state that do not fall under the purview of central or state archaeological laws. Although established under the Tamil Nadu Heritage Commission Act of 2012, its actual formation was delayed for years until judicial intervention prompted the state government to take action. Objectives and Scope Legal Protection: Protects regional heritage buildings, precincts, and ancient structures that do not fall under the ambit of the Monuments Acts of 1958 or 1966. Development Control: Advises the government and local bodies regarding engineering and construction projects that could damage local heritage. Structure Leadership: Led by a government-nominated Chairperson with expertise in heritage conservation. Members: Comprises up to 16 members, including key state department secretaries (Tourism, Housing, Law, Municipal Administration), the Commissioner of Archaeology, and external heritage experts. Recent Developments Delayed Implementation: Despite being enacted in 2012, the Act was brought into force only on March 1, 2024. History & Culture Phase XI Keeladi Excavation Context:The 11th phase of excavation at Keeladi in Sivagangai district, Tamil Nadu, has revealed continuous brick structures, over 1,300 artefacts, terracotta pipelines, and a closed drainage system, highlighting the existence of an advanced urban settlement during the Sangam Age. The excavation is being carried out by the Tamil Nadu State Department of Archaeology (TNSDA). About Keeladi Excavation Location: Keeladi, Sivagangai district, near Madurai, Tamil Nadu. Current Phase: 11th Phase (began on 18 March 2026). Excavating Agency: Phases…
