Significance of the State Honour
Honouring Literary Excellence in Tamil Nadu: The Kalaignar Ezhuthukol Award 2024 reflects Tamil Nadu’s continued commitment to recognising impactful literary and journalistic contributions. The award is named after Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi, celebrated for his prolific writing and public leadership. It aims to strengthen the state’s cultural narrative by encouraging writing that shapes public understanding.
Static GK fact: Kalaignar Karunanidhi served as Tamil Nadu Chief Minister five times, making him one of India’s longest-serving regional leaders.
Recognition of T.E.R. Sukumar
T.E.R. Sukumar, the Managing Editor of Daily Thanthi, received the award for his sustained influence in Tamil journalism. His editorial leadership has played a key role in shaping contemporary media discourse in the state. The honour highlights his dedication to ethical reporting and public communication.
Static GK Tip: Daily Thanthi, founded in 1942, is one of India’s largest Tamil-language newspapers.
Role of the Chief Minister in Cultural Promotion
The Tamil Nadu Chief Minister personally presenting the award underscores the government’s focus on strengthening literary platforms. This gesture reflects the state’s belief that journalism and literature are central to democratic participation. Such recognitions also bridge creative communities with public institutions.
Static GK fact: Tamil Nadu is known for its long-standing patronage of arts and letters, with state awards spanning literature, music, drama, and social contributions.
Importance of Literary and Media Contributions
The award honours individuals whose work enhances societal awareness and cultural dialogue. Journalism, especially in regional languages, continues to influence public opinion and civic engagement. By recognising editors and writers, the award strengthens Tamil Nadu’s literary ecosystem.
Static GK Tip: India ranks among the world’s largest newspaper markets, with regional-language readership expanding steadily.
Advancing Regional Language Journalism
Regional media houses like Daily Thanthi have shaped Tamil Nadu’s socio-political landscape for decades. Awards of this nature reaffirm the relevance of Tamil journalism in documenting lived realities and preserving linguistic heritage. The state’s support boosts credibility and motivates young writers.
Static GK fact: Tamil is one of the world’s oldest classical languages, recognised officially as a Classical Language of India in 2004.
Strengthening Cultural Legacy
By honouring distinguished contributors, Tamil Nadu builds a long-term cultural archive where literature and journalism coexist as pillars of public life. Awards such as the Kalaignar Ezhuthukol Award 2024 serve as reminders of the state’s historic literary legacy and its evolving creative future.
Static GK Tip: The Tamil Nadu Government annually presents several cultural awards, including the Bharathi Award and Avvaiyar Award.
Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table
Honouring Literary Excellence in Tamil Nadu:
| Topic | Detail |
| Award Presented | Kalaignar Ezhuthukol Award 2024 |
| Presented By | Tamil Nadu Chief Minister |
| Awardee | T.E.R. Sukumar |
| Position of Awardee | Managing Editor, Daily Thanthi |
| Purpose of Award | Recognising literary and journalistic contributions |
| Newspaper Founded | Daily Thanthi founded in 1942 |
| Award Named After | Kalaignar M. Karunanidhi |
| Significance | Promotes Tamil literary and journalistic excellence |
| Language Highlight | Tamil recognised as a Classical Language of India |
| Cultural Focus | Strengthening regional literature and media influence |





