Tamil Nadu Government to Foster Organic and Natural Farming Across the State

Chennai, March 16 (NationPress) The Tamil Nadu government has unveiled a range of awareness initiatives and programs aimed at boosting organic and natural farming throughout the state.

These initiatives will encompass the creation of natural farming clusters, marketing assistance for organic products, and financial incentives for farmers making the switch to organic practices.

According to State Agriculture Minister M.R.K. Panneerselvam, the government has earmarked Rs 12 crore to execute various activities in 37 districts to promote organic farming.

In alignment with the National Mission on Natural Farming, a two-year initiative will be launched to develop natural farming clusters, which will benefit 7,500 farmers. Furthermore, the agriculture department plans to organize exposure visits for 38,600 higher secondary school and college students to organic farms across Tamil Nadu, with the goal of raising awareness among the younger generation about sustainable agricultural methods.

To motivate farmers who have attained organic certification, the state will offer financial incentives. Farmers pursuing organic certification will be completely exempt from the certification fee, simplifying their compliance with organic farming standards.

The government has also revealed the introduction of the ‘Nammazhvar Award’ for the Best Organic Farmer, set to be awarded to three farmers in the 2025-26 financial year. Each winner will receive a certificate and a cash prize of Rs 2 lakh.

To uphold the quality of organically grown products, including traditional rice varieties, vegetables, and spices, the government will set up four quality control laboratories at the Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). These laboratories, situated in Chennai, Thoothukudi, Coimbatore, and Madurai, will assist farmers in testing their organic produce to comply with premium market standards. An allocation of Rs 6.16 crore has been approved for this project.

To further bolster organic farming, an additional Rs 3.5 crore will be invested in the production of organic manure. The government has also announced a special package for the 29 non-delta districts of Tamil Nadu to enhance paddy cultivation and food grain production.

Currently, paddy is cultivated on 34 lakh acres in these districts. To increase production during the Kar, Kuruvai, and Sornavari seasons, farmers will receive subsidies for machine planting and access to quality-certified seeds. An allocation of Rs 102 crore has been designated for this initiative. Additionally, subsidies will be made available for pesticide residue testing, and organic farmers will receive assistance for certification fees.

To ensure improved market access for organic and natural farming products, the government will facilitate their sale in government buildings such as the Poomalai market complex. This initiative will enable farmers to connect directly with consumers and promote organic produce in local markets. Through these comprehensive measures, the Tamil Nadu government aims to enhance organic farming, elevate food quality, and foster sustainable agricultural practices throughout the state.