Agriculture Minister R. Vinoth on Thursday (August 6, 2026) announced that the Tamil Nadu government would establish a Diploma College for Organic Agriculture in the name of renowned natural farming scientist, the late Nammalvar, at Sakkottai near Kumbakonam. The project has been estimated at ₹15 crore, with an initial allocation of ₹5 crore from the State fund for the current year.

Presenting the Agriculture Budget 2026-27 in the Legislative Assembly, the Minister also announced that the Horticultural Research Station at Ooty in the Nilgiris would be upgraded into a state-of-the-art Agricultural Technology Research Centre. The initiative aims to promote chemical-free and sustainable farming practices, improve the livelihoods of farmers in the Nilgiris, and create better market opportunities for their produce. The upgradation will be carried out at a total cost of ₹10 crore, with an initial State allocation of ₹5 crore.

To encourage organic farming across the State, Mr. Vinoth announced the institution of the Nammalvar Award during 2026-27. The award will recognise five outstanding organic farmers for excellence in natural and organic farming practices. Each recipient will receive a cash prize of ₹2 lakh along with a Certificate of Appreciation. The government has earmarked ₹11 lakh from the State fund for the awards.