Beginning of Iron Age Explained | Urbanization | InFocus | UPSC | Drishti IAS English

Beginning of Iron Age Explained | Urbanization | InFocus | UPSC | Drishti IAS English

Jul 20, 2026

Tamil Nadu's Chief Minister M.K. Stalin highlighted the state's role in the early Iron Age, asserting it began around 5,300 years ago. This assertion is supported by recent findings, including the radiometric dating of artifacts from sites like Mayiladumparai and Chennanoor. The new report indicates that the Iron Age in Tamil Nadu started in the 4th millennium BCE, possibly earlier than other regions in India. Excavations have uncovered iron tools, suggesting advanced metallurgy in the south long before the widespread use of copper in northern zones.