Fri Dec 19 12:08:07 UTC 2025: Summary:
A postgraduate archaeology student from the University of Madras, N. Thilagarajan, discovered Middle Palaeolithic stone tools made of quartz during a field survey in Mallankinaru, Virudhunagar district. The tools include cores, notches, and scrapers found near a waterbody. Experts believe the discovery could be significant as similar tools have not been previously found in the area, and further exploration and scientific analysis are planned.
News Article:
Possible Middle Palaeolithic Stone Tools Unearthed in Tamil Nadu
CHENNAI, December 19, 2025 – A field survey by a University of Madras archaeology student has led to the discovery of stone tools in Mallankinaru, Virudhunagar district, potentially dating back to the Middle Palaeolithic period. N. Thilagarajan, a postgraduate student, found the quartz tools, including cores and flake tools like notches and scrapers, in a quarried section near a waterbody.
“Based on preliminary analysis, the type and shape of the stone tools suggest they belong to the Middle Palaeolithic period,” stated Jinu Koshy, excavation in-charge at the University of Madras. He also noted the sediments were formed by fluvial activity.
The discovery is significant, as J. Soundararajan, Head of the Department of Ancient History and Archaeology, pointed out that no similar tools from that era had previously been found in the village. Further exploration and excavation are planned to unearth more artefacts and conduct detailed scientific analysis to pinpoint the site’s exact age and significance. The discovery could offer valuable insights into the region’s prehistoric past.
First Piper 