Palakkad District
Palakkad District
Palakkad, also historically known as Palghat, is a district in the Indian state of Kerala. It is renowned for its rich history, diverse geography, and vibrant culture. The district headquarters is the town of Palakkad, which serves as a vital administrative and commercial hub of the region.
Geography
Palakkad district, located in the central part of Kerala, is the second largest district in the state, following Idukki district. It is bordered by the Malappuram district to the northwest, the Thrissur district to the southwest, the Nilgiris district to the northeast, and the Coimbatore district of Tamil Nadu to the east.
The district is often referred to as "The granary of Kerala" due to its extensive paddy fields. A key geographical feature of Palakkad is the Palakkad Gap, a natural pass in the Western Ghats that serves as a gateway to Kerala. The Anginda peak, standing at 2,383 meters, is the highest point in the district and is located in the Silent Valley National Park.
History
Palakkad's history is closely intertwined with the broader history of Kerala. It was originally part of the South Malabar region during the British Raj and became a distinct district on January 1, 1957, when it was carved out of the Malabar District. The municipality of Palakkad was established on November 1, 1866, making it one of the oldest modern municipalities in Kerala, alongside Kozhikode, Kannur, Thalassery, and Fort Kochi.
Demographics
According to the 2011 Census of India, Palakkad had a population of approximately 2.8 million, with a literacy rate of 89.31%. The district has a sex ratio of 1067 females for every 1000 males. Despite being an agrarian district, Palakkad also has urban centers and municipalities that are densely populated.
Education
Palakkad is a center for higher education in the region. It is home to the Government Victoria College, one of Kerala's oldest educational institutions established in 1888. Another prominent institution is the NSS College of Engineering, which opened in 1960 and is one of the earliest engineering colleges in Kerala. The Mercy College, established in 1964, is the first women's college in the district, contributing significantly to female education.
Culture
The culture of Palakkad is a vibrant tapestry of traditional Kerala customs and influences from neighboring Tamil Nadu due to its geographical proximity. The district is known for its festivals, temples, and classical music traditions.