DMK’s Farm Reforms Stop Farmer Suicides in Tamil Nadu Says Panneerselvam

In a remarkable turnaround for Tamil Nadu’s agriculture sector, the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK) government’s pro-farmer initiatives have not only revitalized farming but also eliminated farmer suicides in the state, according to Agriculture Minister M R K Panneerselvam. Speaking at the National Coconut Conclave in Dona Paula, organized by Gomantak Private Ltd Sakal Media Group in collaboration with the Government of Goa and Agrowon, India’s only agriculture-focused daily newspaper, on October 10, 2025, the minister highlighted the transformative impact of the DMK’s policies under Chief Minister M K Stalin.

Panneerselvam emphasized that Tamil Nadu is on track to become India’s leading agricultural state, driven by a dedicated agriculture budget and innovative schemes. “In the past, we faced the tragic reality of farmer suicides. Today, thanks to Chief Minister Stalin’s visionary leadership and welfare-focused initiatives, such incidents are no longer reported in Tamil Nadu,” he declared. The state has allocated approximately Rs 50,000 crore annually to agriculture, ensuring financial stability for farmers and boosting production across key crops like paddy, coconut, and cashew.

Tamil Nadu’s agricultural achievements are impressive. The state leads the nation in cashew and coconut production, with 40% of its farmers engaged in coconut cultivation. To support this, the government has distributed 50.32 lakh coconut saplings free of cost through the Kalaignar Integrated Agricultural Development Project. Additionally, a dedicated Cashew Board has been established to enhance cashew production, and efforts are underway to increase sugarcane and sorghum yields to meet national demands. The minister also highlighted the provision of 24 lakh free agricultural electricity connections, with the government covering the electricity costs, easing the financial burden on farmers.

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The DMK government has also prioritized direct market access for farmers. Across Tamil Nadu, 193 farmers’ markets have been established, enabling 8,000 vegetable and fruit growers to sell 2,300 metric tonnes of produce daily, benefiting three lakh consumers. This initiative has empowered farmers by eliminating middlemen and ensuring fair prices. Furthermore, Rs 5,971 crore has been disbursed to 16 lakh farmers under crop insurance schemes, providing a safety net against unforeseen losses.

Panneerselvam underscored the government’s commitment to making Tamil Nadu a model for agricultural excellence. “With robust policies and unwavering support for our farmers, we are not just improving livelihoods but setting a benchmark for the nation,” he said. The state’s focus on sustainable practices, such as promoting new coconut sapling varieties and increasing copra prices, has further strengthened the agricultural economy. As Tamil Nadu continues to innovate, its farmers are reaping the rewards of a government dedicated to their welfare, marking a new era of prosperity and hope for the state’s rural communities.

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