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'Karaikal' (also 'Karikal' or 'Karaikkal') is a city and a municipality in Karaikal district in the Indian state of Puducherry.

Contents

History

Culture

Economy

Demographics

External links

See also

History

Before 1739 Karaikal was under the regime and control of Raja Pratap Singh of Tanjore. Karaikal and six villages were sold to the French for 50,000 chakras. On 14 February, 1739, Mr. Gratien Golard took possession of Karaikal. Until 1 November, 1954, it was under French Rule. Though the Terrority was handed over to the Republic of India on November 1, 1954 Municipal Administration was continued pursuant to the Arrete dated March 8, 1880. This was replaced by promulgation of Pondicherry Municipality Act, 1973, with effect from January 26, 1974. Mr.Gaudart was the first Mayor of Karaikal in 1884 and Mr. V. Govindarajan was the last elected Mayor of Karaikal up to 1979.

Culture

Located 132 km south of the city of Pondicherry, 'Karaikal' is known for its rich religious heritage, and is a destination for those seeking leisure and serenity. The town boasts a harmonious society comprising of Hindus, Muslims, Christians and people of other religious persuations. Tamil is the predominant native language of the people. As the area was formerly a French possession, the French language is also found, especially among the elder generation.

Economy

The town houses the offices of the Oil and Natural Gas Corporation (ONGC), which explores, produces and supplies oil and natural gas. The town's economy depends to a large extent on this organization.
On 26 December 2004, Karaikal faced its worst tragedy. Tsunami waves hit this coastal town in India. More than 500 people, mostly fishermen families, were washed away by the killer waves.

Demographics

As of 2001 India census^[1], Karaikal had a population of 74,333. Males constitute 49% of the population and females 51%. Karaikal has an average literacy rate of 73%, higher than the national average of 59.5%: male literacy is 79%, and female literacy is 68%. In Karaikal, 12% of the population is under 6 years of age.

External links

★ Official Karaikal website

★ Mayiladuthurai Online

See also

★ French India

★ French colonial empire

★ French East India Company

★ Municipal Administration in French India

★ Causes for Liberation of French colonies in India

★ Marakkar


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