Golden Jubilee of Madras, now TN, celebrated

Chennai, Nov 1 (UNI) Landmark spots in Tamil Nadu wore a festive look as the golden jubilee of the formation of the state was celebrated with pomp and gaiety today.

Governor Surjit Singh Barnala, Chief Minister M Karunanidhi, state Ministers, leaders of political parties and leading personalities from various fields participated in a colourful function at 'Kalaivanar Arangam' here.

The Chief Minister felicitated Tamil scholars and presented them with shields on the occasion.

It was this day 50 years ago that the Madras state, later renamed Tamil Nadu, was formed.

At the time of Indian independence, Madras Presidency comprised Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh and some territorial areas of present Kerala.

In 1953, the Madras State was bifurcated into two - Andhra Pradesh, comprising Telugu speaking areas and Madras State, comprising Tamil speaking areas.

The old capital city of Madras was retained in the Madras State.

Under the States Reorganisation Act, 1956, the Madras State was further divided into the States of Kerala, Mysore and Madras.

Later, on April 1, 1960, territories of Chittoor district in Andhra Pradesh were transferred to Madras State in exchange of territories from Chengalpattu and Salem districts.

In August 1968, the Madras State was renamed Tamil Nadu.

UNI AKN AA PR BS1816