Neolithic Celt in Tamil Nadu's Poothinatham Village [UPSC Notes]

In June 2023, a neolithic-era celt was discovered in Poothinatham Village, Dharmapurai District of Tamil Nadu. This is an important discovery regarding India’s prehistory and hence, this topic is relevant for the IAS exam.

Neolithic Celt Discovered in Tamil Nadu

A neolithic celt has been unearthed in Poothinatham village in the Dharmapurai district of Tamil Nadu, during ongoing archaeological excavations conducted by Tamil Nadu’s Department of Archaeology.

• The celt is considered a significant discovery as it served either as a plough or an axe and is made of Doloraid stone.

Celt:

• The celt, an ancient tool crafted from stone or metal, was widely utilized during the Neolithic period for cutting and shaping tasks. 
• It served as a versatile implement, functioning as an axe, chisel, or adze. 
• This tool played a significant role in a range of activities including woodworking, farming, and construction, reflecting the ingenuity of prehistoric societies.

Significance of the Discovery:

• The discovery holds significance due to its association with the Neolithic period, providing insights into ancient human activities and tools used during that time.
• The discovery of the Neolithic celt reinforces the presence of early human settlements and their reliance on advanced tools for agricultural and resource-related activities.
• The use of the celt as either a plough or an axe sheds light on the resourcefulness and adaptability of ancient communities in utilizing a single tool for different purposes.
• It showcases the knowledge and skills possessed by Neolithic societies in shaping and using stone tools effectively.
• This finding contributes to our understanding of the cultural, technological, and historical context of the region during the Neolithic period.

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