1

TAMIL DEVELOPMENT AND INFORMATIONDEPARTMENT

TAMIL DEVELOPMENT

POLICY NOTE 2013-14

“The world is wondering withawe that Tamil has all the greatnessand wealth of antiquity and the gloryof vibrant youthfulness”

Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma

INTRODUCTION

“Tamil, amongst all ancient languages of the world,

is the only language that possesses multifarious

characteristics such as antiquity, tenderness, motherliness,

purity, perfectness, vastness, splendour, youthfulness,

richness and resourcefulness” says the profound Tamil

Scholar Devaneya Pavanar. This Government evinces

enormous interest in the development of Tamil language.

The ancient grammar Tolkappiam and Sangam literature

are the living examples for the glory and ancientness of our

A land that prospers even without hard labour

Is a country: not the one demanding labour. (Kural – 739)

2 3

ancient Tamil language. The rich vocabulary and vast literary

richness of Tamil language immensely attracted the foreign

scholars. Dr.Caldwell who compiled Comparative Grammar of

Dravidian languages has stated that the Tamils who are the

owners of the language with such vast literary wealth are

undoubtedly a people with rich tradition.

According to Bharathiyar, Tamil Nadu attains sky high glory

on account of Thiruvalluvar. Thirukkural written by the immortal

sage Thiruvalluvar has been translated in several languages and

is cherished as a Universal Scripture.

We are proud of our language with its rich literary treasure

as it has captured the hearts of great foreign scholars like

Veeramamunivar, G.U. Pope, Dr.Winslow and so on.

A department for Tamil Development was exclusively established

with an objective of facilitating Tamil to attain full utility and giving

importance to art, literature, civilization and culture.

At the end of the Fifth World Tamil Conference held at

Madurai in 1981, the then Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchithalaivar

MGR emphatically declared “Tamil everywhere and Tamil in

every sphere”.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma in

her address delivered at the Eighth World Tamil Conference held

at Thanjavur in 1995 has stated that “A language should

develop, enrich and identify itself with the changes

occurring globally” and further stated “I’ve great pleasure

and feel proud in introducing a new slogan viz ‘Tamil Today

and Tamil For Ever’ to boost the growth of Tamil”

Tamil language is coping with the changes that are taking

place from time to time. As on today, Tamil is accommodating

and assimilating constructive changes. It continues to sweep

its impact and influence globally starting from household to

internet.

In tune with the observation of the Hon’ble Chief Minister

Puratchi Thalaivi Amma, Tamil Development Department is

continuing its journey towards rapid Tamil Development.

Restrain anger where it would have effect

Elsewhere, curbed or not, it matters not. (Kural – 301)

“What is truth?” if the question be

It’s speech with words evil – free. (Kural – 291)

4 5

DEPARTMENT OF TAMIL DEVELOPMENT

Our mother tongue Tamil is a language with the greatness

of the past and dynamism of the youth. Under the dynamic

leadership of the Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma,

this Government is deeply involved and committed to the

development of Tamil which is the official language of the State.

Inspection Cell of the Official Language Committee was

formed in 1957 and it evolved to function as Directorate of Tamil

Development since 1968 to promote and develop the usage of

official language in office administration. This department

undertakes the functions of implementation of official language

scheme and other activities for Tamil development.

Official Language Scheme

Review

The foremost function of this Department is to give

importance for the usage of Tamil as official language in

administrative works. The Official Language Act came into force

in 1957.

Reviews are undertaken to achieve the goal of complete

usage of Tamil in all the departments of the Government.

Review of the Department at Secretariat is done by the

Secretary, Tamil Development.

Review of the offices of the Head of Departments, Head

Office of the Boards, Corporations and Government

Undertakings is done by the Director of Tamil Development.

Review of the regional offices is done by the Regional

Deputy Directors. Review of other offices is done by the District

Assistant Directors of Tamil Development and guidance is

provided to rectify the shortcomings and implement the usage

of the Official Language.

Translation Work

As per the requirements of various Heads of

Departments, rules, codes, manuals, forms and registers are

being translated from time to time by the Directorate of Tamil

Development.

Official Language Seminars

Official Language Seminars are conducted in all districts

to create awareness on official language scheme among the

Government staff and effective functioning of this scheme.

Close amity of the noble brings more delight

As repeated reading brings more insight. (Kural – 783)

Give up your insatiable desires

And gain eternal joys. (Kural – 370)

6 7

Amount allotted for this scheme was raised from Rs.5,000 to

Rs.20,000 by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma

from 2012 -2013 onwards. Accordingly seminars are being

conducted in all districts.

Official Language Workshops

Official Language Workshops are held every year in all

districts for two days at the cost of Rs.30,000 as below:

• History of Official Language

• Official Language Act

• Implementation of Official Language

• Translation

• Writing of Notes and Drafts

• Remedial Action

Training in Official Language Scheme

The scheme for Training in Official Language for all the

Department staff in Chennai District is continuously implemented

once in two months by the Directorate of Tamil Development.

Five training classes were conducted in the Directorate of

Tamil Development during 2012 – 2013. Moreover, training for

the scheme of official language is given in Bhavanisagar Training

Institute and in other departments by the officers of Department

of Tamil Development.

Prizes for Good Drafting and Noting

In order to encourage the Government staff who are

implementing Official Language Act effectively, prizes are given

to those who are good at drafting and noting in Tamil as detailed

below:

District Level State Level Prizes

District Subordinate Secretariat Department I - Rs.3000/-

Subordinate of Heads of Department II - Rs.2000/- Local Administration

Subordinate of Head offices of III - Rs.1000/- Autonomous Autonomous

Institutions Institutions

Shields to Government Offices

Under this scheme, shields and certificates are awarded

every year to the best performing organisations i.e., one Head

of the Department, one District Collectorate and one Head of

Select and speak only such words

Not excelled by other words. (Kural – 645)

What is stronger than destiny? it is a power

That prevails over human endeavour. (Kural – 380)

8 9

Autonomous Institution for the continuous implementation of

Official Language Act. Moreover, shields and certificates are

awarded to the District Level Offices which are effectively

implementing the Official Language Scheme.

Glossary

To facilitate the preparation of notes and drafts in Tamil by

the Government employees, this Directorate has published and

distributed Glossaries to Government offices free of cost. This

Glossary was published in the year 1957 for the first time. The

seventh edition is ready for printing.

Special Glossary

Seventy five Special Glossaries were published with

equivalent Tamil words for the English words used by various

departments. Now action has been taken to publish all the

seventy five Special Glossaries in one volume for the first time.

Word Bank

The objective of this scheme is to create new Tamil words

equivalent to the new words in English and other languages for

the use of the public, Government Offices and Media.

A meeting of language experts is conducted every month

to coin new words in Tamil.

Technical Words in English and Tamil

English Technical Words j䜡 fiy¢brh‰fŸj䜡 fiy¢brh‰fŸj䜡 fiy¢brh‰fŸj䜡 fiy¢brh‰fŸj䜡 fiy¢brh‰fŸ

Articulate bjëÎw bkhêjš

Auto Stand jhå ãiya«

Banquet Hall bgUéUªJ Tl«

Blue Tooth jué

Booster Card C¡» m£il

Casino Mlit

Castle nfh£il ÅL

Caretaker m¡fiwahs®

Digital v©k«

Download gÂéw¡f«

E-Business ä‹ bjhêš

E-Governance ä‹ MSif

E-Waste ä‹ fêÎ

Flash News gÇ® brŒÂ

Fear not the open foes like swords drawn

But fear amity of foes acting like kin. (Kural – 882)

If everyone sees his faults as he sees others’

Will any evil ever fall on living beings? (Kural – 190)

10 11

Awards

Apart from the implementation of official language,

various activities such as presentation of awards to the Tamil

scholars, prizes for the best books in Tamil and providing financial

assistance for the publication of best books, etc are undertaken

by the Department of Tamil Development.

Award giving function is organized on Thiruvalluvar Day

and eminent Tamil scholars are honoured with awards in the

name of the following outstanding Tamil personalities:

Thiruvalluvar Award (From 1986)

Bharathiyar Award (From 1997)

Bharathidasan Award (From 1978)

Thiru Vi Ka Award (From 1979)

Ki Aa Pe Viswanatham Award (From 2000)

The awardees are given the award amount of

Rs.1 lakh, one sovereign of gold medal along with a citation.

Chithirai - Tamil New Year Day

To make the celebration of Chithirai Tamil New Year, the

following Awards are given to the best Tamil Organisation and

the eminent Tamil Scholars in the name of:

Thamizh Thai Award (From 2012)

Kabilar Award (From 2012)

U Ve Sa Award (From 2012)

Kambar Award (From 2013)

Sollin Selvar Award (From 2013)

‘Tamizhthai Award’ carries an amount of Rs. 5.00 lakhs, a

shield and citation and it is given to encourage and appreciate

the Tamil Organization rendering service to the cause of Tamil

in Tamil Nadu and the other states of India. Each of the other

awardees is given the award amount of Rs.1.00 lakh, one

sovereign of gold medal along with a citation.

The gift of the gab is the best of the gifts

And forms not part of other gifts. (Kural – 641)

Analyse good and bad qualities

Strike a balance and choose. (Kural – 504)

12 13

Functions

Apart from observing Chithirai Tamil New Year celebrations,

the following functions are organized and floral tributes are

offered to the statues of Tamil scholars by the Department of

Tamil Development:

Thiruvalluvar Day

Avvaiyar Statue (International Women’s Day)

Birth Day of U Ve Sa

Prize for Tamil Books

Best books are selected for prizes under the following

33 categories. The author of the book selected for the prize is

awarded Rs.30,000 along with a certificate. The publisher is

awarded with Rs.10,000 along with a certificate.

1. Traditional Poetry

2. New Poetry

3. Novels

4. Short Stories

5. Drama

6. Children’s Literature

7. Criticism

8. Linguistics / Grammar

9. Translation

10. Fine Arts

11. Dictionary

12. Travel Literature

13. Auto Biography

14. History, Inscription, Archeology, Oceanography

15. Physics, Chemistry, Astronomy, Mathematics

16. Engineering, Technology

As beasts to men, the unlearned are more

To the learned in splendid lore. (Kural – 410)

The cruel who hoard and lose know not happiness

Of gladly helping the have-nots. (Kural – 228)

14 15

17. Anthropology, Sociology, Geography, Geology

18. Law and Politics

19. Economics, Commerce, Business Management

20. Medicine, Physiology, Health

21. Tamil Medicine (Siddha, Ayurveda)

22. Religion, Spiritualism and Logic

23. Education and Psychology

24. Agriculture and Veterinary Science

25. Environmental Studies

26. Computer and Internet

27. Folklore

28. Creative Writings of Foreign Tamils

29. Journalism and Information Technology

30. Special Categories

31. Sports

32. Women’s Literature

33. Lifestyle of Tamils

Out of 33 categories, 20 categories were introduced by

the Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma during the

period from 1991-96 and 2001-2006 including Women’s

Literature and Life Style of Tamils in 2012-13.

Financial Assistance for Publication of Books

In order to encourage the publication of best books in Tamil,

the scheme of giving financial assistance to the authors is

implemented. An amount of Rs. 50,000 or 60% of the printing

expenses as per the Government Press norms (whichever is

less) is given as financial assistance to the author of the book in

two installments. Moreover, under this scheme, the annual

Imagine yourself facing the stronger

While oppressing the weaker. (Kural – 250)

The only benefit in life is glory

That comes of charity. (Kural – 231)

16 17

income of the writer should be below Rs. 50,000 to avail the

financial assistance.

Thirukkural Prizes

Thirukkural Recitation Scheme was implemented to

encourage the students to learn ethical values from Thirukkural

and enhance their memory power. During 2012-13 36 students

who were able to memorize all the 1330 couplets were given the

prize amount of Rs.10,000 each.

Competitions in Poetry, Essay and Elocution

To bring out the proficiency in Poetry, Essay and Elocution,

competitions are conducted every year for Higher Secondary

Students and College Students at district level and state level.

Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma enhanced

the prize amount as detailed below:

Category Prize Amount Enhancedgiven prior Amount

to

2011-12

(In Rupees) (In Rupees)

District Level First Prize 1000 10000

School Students Second Prize 500 7000

District Level First Prize 1000 10000

College Students Second Prize - 7000

State Level First Prize 5000 15000

School Students Second Prize 3000 12000

Third Prize 2000 10000

State Level First Prize 5000 15000

College Students Second Prize 3000 12000

Third Prize 2000 10000

Learning is supreme imperishable wealth

Other things are not real wealth. (Kural – 400)

The world goes on because of courteous men

Else it’ll bury itself in dust and ruin. (Kural – 996)

18 19

Nationalization of Books

Outstanding books of 146 eminent Tamil scholars were

nationalized to make them available to all. The legal heirs of

Tamil scholars are given royalty for the books.

The scheme of publishing one of the books of the Tamil

Scholars among the nationalized books every year is

implemented through the International Institute of Tamil Studies.

Thirukkural to All

Thirukkural Books in English are placed in Star Hotels and

Government Guest Houses. Thirukkural couplets with

translation in Hindi, Bengali and English in a single volume has

been compiled and is ready for publication by the International

Institute of Tamil Studies.

Financial Assistance for the Aged Tamil Scholars

The aged Tamil scholars who have rendered yeoman

service to Tamil are given financial assistance under this scheme.

The Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma has

enhanced the Financial Assistance from Rs.1,000 to Rs.2,000

and also raised the ceiling of annual income from Rs.12,000 to

Rs.24,000. 30 Tamil Scholars have been sanctioned

financial assistance under this scheme in the year 2012-13.

Financial Assistance for Tamil Scholars

Hon’ble former Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivar MGR

introduced the scheme of rendering financial assistance to the

Tamil Scholars in appreciation of their service and sacrifice for

the excellence of Tamil Language and Tamil Culture throughout

their lifetime and to their legal heirs after their demise.

A monthly financial assistance of Rs.3,000 with a medical

allowance of Rs.15 is given to Tamil Scholars and a monthly

financial assistance of Rs.1,500 and a medical allowance of

Rs.15 to their legal heirs. Financial assistance is sanctioned to

2 Tamil Scholars and 88 legal heirs in the year 2012-13.

Financial Assistance for Border Saviours

Financial assistance is given to the persons who saved

the boundaries of Tamil Nadu throughout their life time in

appreciation of their service.

Punish those who have done great evils

By shaming them with good deeds. (Kural – 314)

Whatever be the matter of whatever quality

True wisdom is to see its reality. (Kural – 355)

20 21

A monthly financial assistance of Rs.4,000 with a medical

allowance of Rs.15 is given to Border Saviours and a monthly

financial assistance of Rs.2,000 with a medical allowance of

Rs.15 to their legal heirs. During 2012-13 12 Border saviours

and 19 legal heirs of the deceased Border Saviours were

sanctioned.

Grants and Financial Assistance

Tamil Nadu Government under the dynamic leadership of

the Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma has doubled

the sanction of grants and financial assistance towards Tamil

Development as detailed below.

Sl. Organisation Subject AmountNo. Sanctioned

(Rupees)

1. Tamil University Salary and otherExpenditure (7,95,97,000)

Thirukkural in Chinese (41,70,000)

Tamil Development throughComputer (Tamil NaduInformation Data Base)

(12,00,000) 8,49,67,000

The glory of the learned is amply revealed

In the scriptures of their land indeed. (Kural – 28)

Sl. Organisation Subject Amount

No. Sanctioned(Rupees)

2. International Annual Grant, RetirementInstitute of Benefits (1,93,62,000)Tamil Studies

Poems of Bharathiyar andBharathidasanin Arabic (10,00,000) 2,03,62,000

3. World Tamil Annual Grant 38,52,000Sangam, Madurai

4. Institute of Asian Annual Grant – TamilStudies, Chennai Research scheme 22,50,000

5. Tamil Virtual Tamil Development throughAcademy, computer(Tamil Nadu InformationChennai Data Base) 12,00,000

6. Ariviyal Tamil Annual Grant 8,14,000Mandram,Chennai

7. International Annual Grant 5.00,000School ofDravidianLinguistics,Thiruvananda-puram

8. Dravidian Financial assistance to theUniversity, students of M.A, M.Phil andKuppam Ph. D in Tamil 3,67,350

Total 11,43,12,350

This deed, by these means, if he can perform

Test him; if convinced, assign it to him. (Kural – 517)

22 23

Thirukkural in Mandarin / Arabic

Thirukkural has been translated in Mandarin and Arabic

languages. The work has been completed and the books are

ready for publication.

Bharathiyar / Bharathidasan Poems in Mandarin / Arabic

The poems of Bharathiyar and Bharathidasan have been

selected and the translation in Mandarin is in progress and an

amount of Rs.60 lakhs has been earmarked. An amount of

Rs.10 lakh for Arabic has been sanctioned for translation in

Arabic.

Schemes Implemented during the year 2012-13

The following schemes have been implemented during the

year 2012-13:

1) Tamil Literary Workshop for Youth

The above workshop was organized in Srirangam,

Tiruchirapalli for one week for the youth who evince keen interest

in Tamil Literary work to enhance poetic skills, writing skills,

oratorical skills covering 100 College students at a cost of

Rs.10.00 lakhs.

2 A) Official Language Refresher Course

Based on the ‘Manual on Official Language’ published

by this department in 2012, all State Government employees ,

employees of Corporations, Boards and Co-operative Societies

in the State (excluding Chennai) have been given Refresher

Training Course regarding the History of Official Language,

Official Language Act and Implementation of Official Language

at a cost of Rs.9.30 lakhs.

B) Seminar on Official Language

Orders have been issued to enhance the amount of the

expenditure for conducting Seminar on Official Language in every

As the whole world looks to the sky for rainfall

All subjects look to the king for just rule. (Kural – 542)

Not a blade of grass will be seen

If the sky showers no rain. (Kural – 16)

24 25

district from Rs.5,000 to Rs.20,000. Accordingly seminars

have been conducted in all districts.

3) Rare Tamil Books Across the World

Rare books have been identified which are not available

in Tamil Nadu but available in foreign libraries. Action has been

taken for digitalizing and publishing 10 rare books.

4) Website for Tamil Development Department

(www.tamilvalarchithurai.org)

An exclusive website for the Tamil Development was

launched by Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma at

a cost of Rs.4.45 lakhs to bring out all latest developmental

activities of the Department, such as Implementation of Official

Language Scheme, Nationailzation Books, Administrative

Glossaries

At a click, viewers can see video films, photographs of

Tamil conferences, events, etc.

5) Tamil in the Eyes of Foreign Scholars

The views of the foreign scholars on the glory of Tamil

language has been compiled for publication in Tamil and English.

6) Treasury of Ethics

To imbibe ethical values in the minds of students of

Government Schools compilation of ethical quotes from Tamil

literature has been completed and it will be given free of cost

soon.

7) Anthology of Golden Sayings

The golden sayings from Sangam Literature to Modern

Literature have been compiled and the book will be published

soon.

8) Prizes for Tamil Books

Prizes were given for best books to newly created

categories i.e Women’s Literature, Tamils’ Life Style.

9) World Tamil Organization

World Tamil Organization namely Tamil Sangam has been

revived and envisaged by Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi

Thalaivi Amma

10) New Vehicles

Two new jeeps were purchased for the office of the

Assistant Directors in Tamil Development Department in Ariyalur

and Tirupur Districts.

The great ever perform rarer deeds

The mean can’t do such deeds. (Kural – 26)

Real joy springs from virtue alone; all other joys

Are painful and devoid of praise. (Kural – 39)

26 27

TRANSLATION WING – SECRETARIAT

There is an inimitable adage which states: “Translation

enriches Tamil Development” with regard to the typical usage in

the field of Official Language implementation. This wing is

functioning under the control of Tamil Development and

Information Department in Secretariat.

For a very long time, functions of legislative and executive

wings of the Government were mostly conducted in English only.

In this circumstances, translating all those proceedings of the

Government from English to Tamil has become essential after

Independence and therefore, translation was given priority.

In the process of translation new words are being coined; new

expressions are framed to add to the modern vocabulary. This

function effectively supplements and complements the

functioning of official language implementation.

Government Documents

The following items which are prepared / drafted in English

are being translated to Tamil:

• Notes for Cabinet

• Gazette Notifications

• Confidential Files of Public (Strictly Confidential)

Department

• Enquiry Commission Reports

• Government Orders issued by various Departments of

the Government

• Note for Circulation

• Citations for police medals

• Demands for Grants and Supplementary Estimates

emanating from all Departments of Secretariat

• Public Accounts Committee & Public Undertakings

Committee Reports

• Forest Department Notifications

• Draft schemes of Hindu Religious and Charitable

Endowments Department

• State Human Rights Commission Reports

• Press Releases

Major Translations :

The following are among the significant documents

translated from English to Tamil during the last year:

An ideal wife maintains dignity of home

And lives within her husband’s income. (Kural – 51)

If domestic life has love and virtue

There will be grace and gain true. (Kural – 45)

28 29

• Hon’ble Chief Minister’s Speeches

• Hon’ble Ministers’ Speeches

• Annual Reports of Tamil Nadu State Information

Commission

• Annual Reports of Tamil Nadu State Human Rights

Commission

• Annual Reports of Vigilance Commission

• Guidelines regarding Protection of Environment

• Road Safety (Amendment) Rules

• Guidelines on marriages to Overseas Indians

• All India Services (Conduct) Rules (Amendments)

• Reports on Cauvery River Water Disputes

• Petitions on Political Pension for Freedom Fighters

• Coining of 547 Chemical terms in Tamil

• Agenda and Notes for Boards of State Government

Besides, official translation, Officers of Translation Wing

are involved in the translation work of Thirukkural in Mandarin,

Arabic.

INTERNATIONAL INSTITUTE OF TAMIL STUDIES

“I will be the first person to welcome the idea of inception

of an Institution for Tamil with scholars and researchers,

akin to French Academy”

Perarignar Anna

Second World Tamil Conference-1968

In tune with the above vision of Perarignar Anna

International Institute of Tamil Studies was constituted.

Objective

• To promote and enrich the higher research in Tamil

studies

• To create an academic environment which shall be very

much conducive to encourage high level Tamil research

• To establish and maintain a research oriented library

• Teaching Tamil language to Non-Tamils

• To train the researchers of inter-discipline

• Making Memorandum of Understanding with other

Countries so as to develop the Tamil research

Of all blessings we know nothing is greater

Than begetting children wiser. (Kural – 61)

The loveless grab all for themselves

The loving give even their bones. (Kural – 72)

30 31

• Making mutual ideological exchange with Overseas Tamil

Scholars

• To promote and establish overseas contracts for creating

and strengthening an intellectual atmosphere at International

Institute of Tamil Studies.

Governing Council

The Institute is functioning with an autonomous status for

conducting Tamil research works under the Chairmanship of

Hon’ble Minister for School Education, Sports and Youth Welfare.

Faculties

1. Tamil Literature and Manuscriptology

2. Tamil Language and Linguistics

3. Sociology, Arts and Culture

4. Overseas Tamils

Activities

The faculty members of this higher research institute are

engaged in accomplishing the project works such as Tamil

Literature, Tamil Grammar, Tamil Sociology, Tamil Culture, Tamil

Folklore and Translation of Tamillore.

• Teaching of Tamil language to Non-Tamils

• Research Guidance for Ph.D. degrees affiliated to

University of Madras

• M.Phil programmes affiliated to Tamil University

• Conducting certificate courses

• Organizing National level and International level

Seminars and Conferences.

Endowment Lectures

The endowments were established with donations given

by the individuals and groups at this Institute to develop

Tamil studies. So far it has established 34 endowments.

16 endowments were conducted in 2012-13 and books

to that tune have been published.

Birthday Events of Hon’ble Chief Minister

On the occasion of the birthday of Hon’ble Chief Minister

Puratchi Thalaivi Amma, various Tamil research events such as

Seminars, Workshops, Cultural programmes, Endowment

The earth, the good maiden, will laugh surely

If idlers are idle on the plea of penury. (Kural – 1040)

Anicham withers when smelt

Cold look withers the guest. (Kural – 90)

32 33

lectures were organized in this Institute for the whole month of

February 2013. The details are as follows:

• Imparting Tamil Language in School Education

• Arts and Artists

• Computational Tamil Language

• Overseas Tamil Literature

• Compilations of Manuscripts

Mother Tongue Day

UNESCO declared 21st February as Mother Tongue Day

in 1999. Mother Tongue Day was celebrated on 21.2.2013 in

International Institute of Tamil Studies. Several cognitive

competitions like a Essay Writing, Speech, Oration, Drawing,

Poetry and Debates were conducted among the M.Phil students

and Research scholars at the Institute and the winners were

rewarded prizes along with certificates.

Translation Day

Translation day was celebrated on 16-3-2013 at

International Institute of Tamil Studies on the necessity of

translation. The Director General of Economic and Cultural

Centre of Taiwan, Deputy Ambassador of Malaysia and Director

of Publication of Oxford University participated in the aforesaid

event.

Publications of Books

So far, this Institute has published 751 research oriented

titles. They are academic staff project works, Seminar Article

compilation, Endowment lectures, Manuscript publications,

Translations, Reprints of rare books and Writings of other Tamil

scholars.

Journal of Tamil Studies

This Institute brings out Journal of Tamil Studies, a

bi-annual, bi-lingual from September 1972 onwards, without

break. This journal is a connecting bridge which unites the

research scholars all over the world. Provision has been made

to download the articles from this Institute website

(www.ulakaththamizh.org).

Educational Degrees

Full time/ part time Ph.D research programmes are being

conducted with the recognition of University of Madras and

The words uttered by the righteous

Are sweet, kind and guileless. (Kural – 91)

There is escape from sin even for virtue-killers

But not for the gratitude-killers. (Kural – 110)

34 35

Tamil University, Thanjavur. This year 16 Ph.D. scholars and 48

M.Phil scholars are studying in the Institute.

Research Library

A library is functioning for benefiting not only the

researchers but also IAS aspirants, post graduate students and

Tamil scholars. The library has a rich collection of 1,00,800 books.

Grants

Every year, the Government of Tamil Nadu is releasing

grants to the institute to take over the expenditures. For the

financial year 2013-14, the Government has sanctioned an

amount of Rs.147.80 lakh for regular expenditure and Rs.29.60

lakh grant for retirement service benefit.

New Administrative Building

As ordered by Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi

Amma, three storey administrative building is to be constructed

shortly in Tharamani at an estimation of Rs. 3.60 crores. The

Technical Education Division of the Public Works Department

will be undertaking the building construction.

Tamil Literary Park

Tamil Literary Park consisting of trees such as Akil,

Kondrai, Gaya, Kanchi and plants such as Kurinchi, Kanthal,

Mullai, Thondri, Ambal, etc. which have found place in sangam

literature is created in this Institute.

Thirukkural in Arabic Language

Thirukkural has been translated in 13 Indian languages,

10 Asian languages and 14 European languages: So for 97

English Translations have been published . Thirukkural has been

translated in Arabic and the book will be published soon.

Bharathiyar and Bharathidasan Poems in Arabic Language

Poems of Bharathiyar and Bharathidasan have been

selected for Arabic Translation.

Not being one-sided like an even balance

Is an ornament to the wise. (Kural – 118)

Value the unenvying nature of the heart

As the code of good conduct. (Kural – 161)

36 37

DIRECTORATE OF TAMIL ETYMOLOGICALDICTIONARY PROJECT

The Directorate of Tamil Etymological Dictionary Project

was formed to compile and publish Tamil Etymological

Dictionaries in 12 volumes and in 31 parts. Under this scheme,

a Lexicon of 31 parts in 12 volumes with 12000 pages was

published by this Directorate.

A revised edition will be published as ready reference to

be used by Language Researchers, Teachers and Students.

TAMIL UNIVERSITY, THANJAVUR

Tamil language is the best amongst the ancient languages

of the world. The Tamils always consider all the nations as their

and all the people in the world as their kinsmen. The poetic

expression “All the Countries are ours and all the people are

our kin” reflects the supreme quality of the Tamils. With these

supreme objectives the Tamil University was founded by the then

Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchithalaivar MGR on 15th September

1981, on the eve of the birth anniversary of Perarignar Anna.

Tamil University stands unique in its performance rendering

yeoman service to Tamil studies.

Objectives

• Undertaking research on the contribution of Tamil Culture to

the Indian Culture

• Reviving and reconstructing the scientific thoughts, intellectual

contributions and the outstanding industrial knowledge of the

ancient Tamils for the use of the contemporary needs

Control your tongue if not anything; otherwise

A slip of the tongue brings evils. (Kural – 127)

Good conduct is the sign of noble birth

Bad conduct is the sign of low birth. (Kural – 133)

38 39

• Studying linguistic and grammatical theories and structure of

Tamil language devising the modern methods for language

teaching

• Translating the rare books of Tamils into other languages and

vice versa

• Preserving and publishing Tamil inscriptions, palm-leaf

manuscripts, rare-paper manuscripts and rare books

• Publishing encyclopedias related to literature, grammar,

science and mysticism

• Recovering and publishing of the lost cultural components of

Tamil and the historical monuments through systematic

research

• Facilitating researches on the cultural impacts of the Tamil

Diaspora and the foreign relations of Tamil Nadu

Faculties

• Faculty of Arts

• Faculty of Manuscriptology

• Faculty of Developing Tamil

• Faculty of Language

• Faculty of Science

25 Departments are functioning under the above faculties.

Main Projects

• Dictionary Project of pure Tamil words

• Encyclopedia Project

• Mega Dictionary Project

Educational Works

Tamil University offers Ph.D., M.Phil, Post graduate

courses in Science and Arts.

New Courses

M.Ed. Degree

The way to keep one’s wealth undwindled

Is not to covet wealth in another’s hand. (Kural – 178)

However great one may be, one becomes nought

If one covets another’s wife without thought. (Kural – 144)

40 41

Students Admission

Ph.D - 137

M.Phil - 284

M.A. and M.Sc. - 171

M.Ed. - 35

B.Ed. - 100

Distance Education

The Tamil University started the Directorate of Distance

Education in the academic year 2006-07.

Four Master Degree courses are being offered in various

courses such as Tamil Literature, History, Tamil Music and

Geography.

Five Bachelor Degree courses are also being offered.

Diploma courses in Bharata Natyam, Herbal Science,

Beautician and Gemmology are also offered.

Certificate courses are being offered in Music, Tamil Pandit

and Library and Information Science.

The University offers the technical courses such as BBA,

MBA and BCA, B.Ed degree course.

During the academic year 2011-12, there were 2317 students

in the above courses. There are 500 students in B.Ed course

through Distance Education for the current year.

The University has tie-up with various educational institutions

for imparting Acupuncture Science and DTP Tamil computing

courses. It is pertinent to note that all these courses are being

taught in Tamil medium.

Scholarships

The Government have sanctioned Rs.64,24,477 as

scholarship to 723 students of this University.

Research Activities

Besides the teaching activities, the teachers of this

University are doing Major and Minor research projects funded

by the University Grants Commission, Central Institute of

Classical Tamil and other agencies.

Better are they who endure bitter insults

Than those who fast and do penance. (Kural – 160)

A fool who knows not and heeds not the wise

is a plague until he dies. (Kural – 848)

42 43

Tamil University has recognized the International Institute

of Tamil Studies as a centre to offer M. A., M.Phil. courses and

recently Ph.D. courses are also offered through this Institute.

At present 9 research projects under UGC funding, 20

research projects under funding from other agencies and 43

research projects under Tamil University funding are being under

taken.

Endowment Lectures and Seminars

During 2012-13, 41 endowment lectures and 26 seminars

were conducted in various Departments of Tamil University.

Research, Training and Development Activities

• A sum of Rs.15.00 lakhs has been sanctioned by

this Government under Part II scheme for the year

2012-13. This amount was utilized for purchase of a

mini bus for the use of students and computer

software and equipment for the use of finance section

of the University.

• For reviving the unique status of the University, this

Government sanctioned a sum of Rs.1,35,85,000

for academic research projects during 2012-13. The

amount was allocated to almost all the Departments

and 59 Research projects have been taken-up.

• A sum of Rs.12.00 lakhs has been sanctioned by

this Government for creating a Tamil information data

base for research and development. The data were

uploaded in the website of Tamil Virtual Academy.

• Three training programmes were conducted to 40

officers of the Indian Administrative Service, the

Indian Forest Service and the Indian Police Service.

• A World Classical Languages Research Centre is

functioning in Tamil University; it has prepared two

research books. It published a book on World

Classical Literature, first volume and the Book on

Chinese Literature is under print now.

• Creation of a website pertaining to Dravidian Word

Net is under progress at a cost of Rs.16.39 Lakhs.

• A major data project on Indian languages is under

progress at the cost of Rs.16 lakhs.

Whatsoever is heard, from whomsoever

To discern the truth is wisdom clear. (Kural – 423)

Resources, means, time, place and deed –

Examine these five before you proceed. (Kural – 675)

44 45

• An intensive training programme on First Aid was

organized to 500 students for which the University

received an award from His Excellency, The Governor

of Tamil Nadu.

Community Radio

A Community Radio Unit of Tamil University is

broadcasting Thirukkural, Tamil Music, songs related to scientific

awareness and other useful programmes.

Finance

1. Grants for Salaries and maintenance received from Government of Tamil Nadu for the year 2012-13

S.No Particulars Amount

in Rs

1. Block grant first installment 95,29,750

2 VIth Pay Arrears Ist and 2ndinstallments of 60./. as Advance Grant 1,51,34,000

3. Block grant second installmentRs.95,29,750/- additional block grant1st and 2nd installments(Rs. 27,50,000+27,50,000) 1,50,29 750

4. Block grant 3rd installment 1,22,79,750

5. Block grant 4th installment 1,22,79,750

Total 6,42,53,000

Sl. Particulars AmountNo ` in Rs

1 Creating a Data base for Tamilology through TamilVirtual Academy and Research Development 12,00,000

2 Training for I A S 90,018

3 Training for I P S 25,900

4 Part II Scheme-purchase of Mini Bus 13,00,000

5 Part II Scheme-purchase of counting machine,and fake note identifying machine computeraccessories software etc to finance section 2,00,000

6 Towards the salary of Dr. T. Nallathambi, EmeritusProfessor from March 2011 to Feb 2012 2,57,008

7 Thirukkural translation into Chinese 41,70,000

8 Towards Research Projects 1,30,85,000

9 Publication of Periodical Journals 5,00,000

Total 2,08,27,926

(Rupees Two crores eight lakhs twenty seven thousand nine

hundred and twenty six only)

Love and high-born dignity

Are two ways of courtesy. (Kural – 992)

What is the use of countless millions earned

If it is not shared and enjoyed? (Kural – 1005)

2. PROJECT’S GRANT

(Rupees Six crores forty two lakhs and fifty three thousand only)

46 47

Flourishes the country which is free

From hunger, plague and enmity. (Kural – 734)

Tillers who work with their hands

Beg not but give the seekers. (Kural – 1035)

ULAGA TAMIL SANGAM, MADURAI

Hon’ble former Chief Minister Puratchithalaivar MGR

announced the formation of Ulaga Tamil Sangam, Madurai

during the Fifth World Tamil Conference 1981 and 14.15 acres

of land was allotted for Ulaga Tamil Sangam in Thallakulam,

Madurai in 1982.

Objectives

• Preservation of Muthtamil

• Tapping the genius of the Tamil Diaspora

• Proliferation of books on Tamil Literature,

Grammar, research, etc

• Propagation of Tamil, Art and Culture to the

Children of Tamil Diaspora

As ordered by the Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi

Amma, Ulaga Tamil Sangam has been revived and following

steps have been taken up:

• By-laws have been framed and Ulaga Tamil Sangam

has been registered with Hon’ble Minister for School

Education, Sports and Youth Welfare as Chairman.

• An Office has been created with a Special Officer and

other staff

• Financial assistance of Rs.100 crores have been

sanctioned

• Architectural design is under preparation for the

construction of administrative building at a cost of

Rs.25 crores

48 49

INSTITUTE OF ASIAN STUDIES

The Institute of Asian Studies was established in 1982 with

Japanese collaboration. Hon’ble former Chief Minister

Puratchithalaivar MGR ordered for sanctioning payment of

regular annual grants to the Institute from the year 1983.

Accordingly, annual grants have been sanctioned to the Institute

for the past 29 years.

Works

• To promote Tamil Studies with the participation of

scholars of various countries with multi-disciplinary

comparative perspective.

• To study in depth the historical contacts of the Tamils

with other countries of Asia.

• To study the enriching contributions of the Tamils to

the composite cultures of other Asian countries.

• To study the affinities between Tamil and the other

languages of Asia.

• To study the cultural lives and social problems faced

by emigrant Tamil communities that live in the diaspora

countries since generations.

• To prepare reference materials in international

languages about the literatures, cultures and

civilizations of Tamil people with a view to promote

Tamil studies at a wider global level.

• This Institute has published with English version a

number of rare unpublished Tamil works from fragile

palm-leaf manuscripts. It is also publishing the Tamil

classics with their English version.

Publication Works

• Rare unpublished Tamil works from fragile palm leaf

manuscripts – English version.

• Encyclopaedia of Tamil literature in English version.

• Descriptive catalogue of palm-leaf manuscripts in

Tamil.

Face is the clear index of the mind

As crystal reflects things around. (Kural – 706)

What can withstand the innate brain

Combined with learning’s gain? (Kural – 636)

50 51

Conclusion

“Bring out the entire treasure trove of wisdom into

Tamil and enrich the incomparable Tamil in the

ensuing centuries”

Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma

Eighth World Tamil Conference, Thanjavur-1995

The reign of Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma

is the golden period of Tamil Development. Our Hon’ble Chief

Minister Puratchi Thalaivi Amma has given numerous schemes

for the development of our primordial Tamil. To cite a few:

• Announcing Chithirai first day as Tamil New Year in

tune with the Tamil tradition

• Financial sanction of Rs.100 crores for revival of

Ulaga Tamil Sangam.

• Revival of the uniqueness of Tamil University,

Thanjavur with a sanction of Rs.12 crores

• Sanction of Rs.2 crores towards restoring the glory of

the Tamil University buildings

• Translation of Thirukkural in Mandarin and Arabic

languages

• Treasury of Ethics and Anthology of Golden Sayings

to School Students

• Enhanced pension for Aged Tamil Scholars

• Creation of Tamilthai award for best Tamil Organization

• Creation of new awards for Tamil Scholars such as

UVeSa award, Kabilar award, Kambar award and

Sollin Selvar award

• Enhanced prize amount for Poetry, Essay and

Elocution for School and College Students

• Introduction of Tamil Literary Workshop for Youth

• Creation of an exclusive Tamil Development Website

Whoever can read another’s unspoken mind

Is a jewel of the sea-locked world. (Kural – 701)

Examine disease, cause and means of cure

And then resort to remedial measure. (Kural – 948)

52 53

• Rs.3.23 crores grant for International Institute of Tamil

Studies

Tamil Nadu Government under the dynamic

leadership of Hon’ble Chief Minister Puratchi Thalaivi

Amma, is giving topmost priority to the Tamil development

activities.

Dr. VAIGAICHELVAN

Minister for School Education,Sports and Youth Welfare.

Choose and use those who comprehend

Good and bad and love to do good. (Kural – 511)

ANNEXURE - I

PLAN ESTIMATES FOR 2013-14

Net expenditure – Rupees in thousands

Subject 2012-13 2012-13 BudgetBudget Revised Estmiate

Estimate Estimate for

2013-14

2059 Public Works 9,50 8,00 8,00

2202 General Education 23,85,63 29,19,75 29,07,34

2251 SecretariatSocial Works 6,73,35 5,34,05 8,13,69

4202 Capital Outlay onEducation, Sports,Arts and Culture - - 2,00,00

7610 Loans toGovernmentServants etc 1 40,00 1

Total 30,68,49 35,01,80 39,29,04

53

TAMIL DEVELOPMENT

POLICY NOTE

2013-2014

INDEX

Page

1 Introduction 1-3

2 Department of Tamil Development 4-25

3 Translation Wing –Secretariat 26-28

4 International Institute of Tamil Studies 29-35

5 Directorate of Etymological Dictionary Project 36

6 Tamil University, Thanjavur 37-45

7 Ulaga Tamil Sangam, Madurai 46-47

8 Institute of Asian Studies 48-49

9 Conclusion 50-52

10 Plan Estimates for 2013-2014 53

11 Part II Schemes for 2013-2014 55