Jakkammal Karadu

Why in News?

Recently, The Centre for Heritage and Ecological Research through Arts and Literature (Cheral) has urged the Tamil Nadu government to declare Jakkammal Karadu for a dual recognition.

• Jakkammal Karadu – It is a historically significant hill and archaeological site.
• Location – Andipatti, Theni district, Tamil Nadu.
• Dual recognition
  • It is to be recognised as an Archaeological protected monument under the Tamil Nadu Ancient and Historical Monuments and Archaeological Sites and Remains Act, 1966,
  • Biodiversity heritage site under Section 37 of the Biological Diversity Act, 2002.

Archaeological Significance

• Evidence of Human Habitation – The hill shows continuous human presence from the Neolithic period (early stone age) up to recent times.
• Archaeological Discoveries
  • Neolithic tools and Megalithic potsherds found on the site.
  • Megalithic cave paintings (white pigment) on the northern side of the hill.
  • A 9^th‑century Jain Tirthankara sculpture on the western side.
  • A 400‑year‑old hero stone near the hill.
• Current scenario – These relics are decaying due to lack of protection and without conservation, they face the risk of disappearing permanently.

Quick Facts

Reference

The Hindu| Jakkammal Karadu