Chennai, 06 August (H.S): Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Minister R. Vinoth on Thursday presented the Tamilaga Vettri Kazhagam (TVK) government’s first Agriculture Budget, rolling out a package of measures focused on soil conservation, higher production of pulses and oilseeds, millet cultivation and technology-enabled services for farmers.
Presenting the Agriculture Budget for 2026-27 in the Legislative Assembly, Vinoth said the government would continue existing schemes while introducing new initiatives to improve agricultural productivity and strengthen farmers’ incomes.
The Minister said the Budget was drawn up after consultations with farmers, agricultural exporters and other stakeholders, and reflected Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay’s long-term vision for the farm sector.
A key announcement was the Tamil Nadu Soil Conservation Mission, with an allocation of Rs 122.51 crore. The programme will seek to protect soil fertility, improve soil health and encourage sustainable farming practices across the State.
The government has also allocated Rs 34.72 crore for the production of quality paddy seeds and subsidised distribution to farmers.
Technology will play a greater role in agricultural services, with the government proposing an AI-powered application to provide personalised information and digital assistance to farmers. Rs 2 crore has been earmarked for developing the platform.
The Budget provides Rs 203.64 crore for a Self-Sufficiency Mission for Pulses and Oilseed Crops, aimed at increasing production and reducing Tamil Nadu’s dependence on supplies from outside the State.
Another Rs 63.81 crore has been allocated for the Tamil Nadu Millet Mission to expand the area under millet cultivation and improve productivity while promoting the nutritional benefits of traditional crops.
Vinoth said agriculture remained the backbone of the State’s economy and strengthening the sector was essential for sustained economic growth.
The Agriculture Budget was presented a day after the TVK government tabled its Revised Budget Estimates for 2026-27.
Meanwhile, opposition DMK legislators attended the Assembly wearing black shirts as a mark of protest.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman
