Tamil Nadu horticulture is Witnessing a significant transformation as farmers in the Pachamalai Hills move from traditional tapioca cultivation to high-value vegetable farming, driven by improved market prospects and sustained government support. Farmers who once depended heavily on tapioca are now cultivating tomatoes, beans, brinjal, chilli, and coriander—marking a major shift in agricultural practices in the region. This transition aligns with broader Tamil Nadu horticulture development agency initiatives aimed at strengthening farmer incomes and ensuring long-term sustainability.
Initiatives by Tamil Nadu Horticulture Encourage Farmers
This season, 35 farmers have adopted vegetable cultivation across more than 40.5 hectares. A decade ago, Pachamalai recorded nearly 1,000 hectares under tapioca, which has now reduced to 607 hectares due to falling market prices and limited profitability. The diversification efforts come under the Tolkudiyinar Velanmai Melanmai Thittam – Ainthinai programme, implemented by the Department of Tribal Welfare in partnership with the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research (IIHR), Bengaluru. Under the initiative, 125 tribal farmers were initially identified and provided with quality seeds, green manure, and high-yield Arka seedlings supplied free of cost. These efforts mirror the State’s push toward modern agriculture—similar to schemes like Tamil Nadu horticulture terrace garden kit distribution and the facility to apply online (Tamil Nadu horticulture) for various horticulture benefits, especially in urban hubs like Tamil Nadu horticulture Chennai.
Award Winning Farmers Inspire Many to Follow the Footprints
Award-winning farmers like K. Palani from Sengattupattai have further inspired others after achieving superior yields using IIHR-recommended methods. His success encouraged growers like N. Annadurai and N. Vijayakumar, who have now allocated portions of their land to vegetables, hoping for better returns. Officials highlight that the recently signed MoU between the Tamil Nadu Tribal Welfare Department and IIHR will ensure continued access to high-quality seeds, bio-fertilisers, and modern horticulture practices. With the rise of new agricultural opportunities—alongside emerging sectors such as wind farms in Tamil Nadu, cow farm Tamil Nadu, and expanding dairy farms in Tamil Nadu—tribal communities are witnessing improved income prospects.
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