Tinnevely District (Madras Presidency)

Tinnevely District was a former administrative district of British India, located in the Madras Presidency. It encompassed a large region in the southern part of the present-day state of Tamil Nadu. The district was bordered by the princely state of Travancore to the west, Madurai and Ramnad districts to the north, and the Gulf of Mannar and Indian Ocean to the east and south.

The district's name derived from the town of Tinnevelly (now Tirunelveli), which served as its administrative headquarters. The region was historically significant, having been ruled by various dynasties, including the Pandyas, Cholas, and Nayaks before coming under British control.

Agriculture was a major component of the district's economy, with rice cultivation being particularly important. Other significant crops included cotton, millets, and pulses. The district also had a substantial weaving industry, producing cotton textiles.

Administratively, Tinnevely District was divided into taluks, which were further subdivided into villages. The British administration was responsible for maintaining law and order, collecting revenue, and providing basic services such as education and healthcare.

Over time, Tinnevely District underwent changes in its boundaries and organization. In the mid-20th century, following India's independence, the district was reorganized and subsequently split into new districts for administrative efficiency. The former area of Tinnevely District now comprises parts of Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Tenkasi, and Kanyakumari districts of Tamil Nadu. The legacy of the district remains evident in the region's historical and cultural landscape.