Keralam cannot have a complete history without including the history of Kasaragod, said Minister for Archaeology, Archives, Museum, O.J. Janeesh.

He was speaking after inaugurating the Kasaragod Archaeological Survey 2026, organised by the State Archaeology department at NKB Memorial Hall in Nileshwaram.

The Minister said the comprehensive archaeological survey was being conducted as part of the government’s 100-day action programme with the objective of identifying, documenting, and systematically recording the historical and archaeological evidence within Kasaragod.

Pointing out that the historical roots of Kasaragod, known as the ‘Land of Forts’, extend back to the stone age, Mr. Janeesh said the district was also a place that made visitors reluctant to leave once they arrived.

Kasaragod is rich in Megalithic monuments dating from the period following the Stone Age, including Iron Age laterite caves and umbrella stones, the Minister said.

He noted that the district has a long and diverse history shaped by successive periods of rule including that of Alupas, local chieftains, the Vijayanagara empire, the Ikkeri Nayakas, and European powers.

Sandeep Varier, MLA, presided over the function. Govindan Pallikappil, MLA, and District Collector Sridhanya Suresh were present.