Human Geography of Tamil Nadu | Tamil Nadu State PSC (TNPSC): Preparation - TNPSC (Tamil Nadu) PDF Download

 Page 1


  
Introduction
Human geography refers to the study of 
ways of development of human societies and 
their operation in relation to their physical 
environment. This chapter focuses on the 
distribution, characteristics and utilisation of 
different resources in Tamil Nadu. We have 
studied earlier that the earth is endowed with a 
variety of natural resources such as landforms, 
rivers, soil, natural vegetation, water and wildlife. 
These resources are useful only when they are 
utilised. Human beings use these resources 
using their intelligence and skill. Thus, the 
human beings are the most significant resource 
on the earth surface. They turn all these natural 
resources into useful products with their skills 
and abilities.
 Agriculture
The word "agriculture" is derived from the 
Latin words "ager and cultura" , which means 
field and growing. Agriculture is a practice of 
farming that includes the cultivation of crops, 
rearing of animals, birds, forestry, fisheries 
and other related activities. Agriculture is the 
major occupation in Tamil Nadu. Agriculture 
has been the mainstay of the state’s economy 
since independence with more than 65% of the 
population depends upon this sector for their 
living. Agriculture provides employment for 
rural people on a large scale. There is a strong 
link between agriculture and economic growth. 
Paddy, millets and pulses are the principal food 
crops of the state. Sugarcane, cotton, sunflower, 
coconut, cashew, chillies, gingelly, groundnut, 
tea, coffee, cardamom and rubber are the major 
commercial crops.
   Geographical determinants 
of Agriculture
Landform, climate, soil and irrigation are the 
factors that determine the growth of agriculture.
Landform
Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscape 
comprising of hills, plateaus and plains. 
Among them the plains are most suitable 
for agriculture. The plains with alluvial soil 
enhances agricultural productivity. Example: 
Plains of cauvery. Agriculture in the plateau is 
moderate and is poor on the hills.
 
 
 
 
 
  
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 07-02-2023   14:14:32 07-02-2023   14:14:32
Page 2


  
Introduction
Human geography refers to the study of 
ways of development of human societies and 
their operation in relation to their physical 
environment. This chapter focuses on the 
distribution, characteristics and utilisation of 
different resources in Tamil Nadu. We have 
studied earlier that the earth is endowed with a 
variety of natural resources such as landforms, 
rivers, soil, natural vegetation, water and wildlife. 
These resources are useful only when they are 
utilised. Human beings use these resources 
using their intelligence and skill. Thus, the 
human beings are the most significant resource 
on the earth surface. They turn all these natural 
resources into useful products with their skills 
and abilities.
 Agriculture
The word "agriculture" is derived from the 
Latin words "ager and cultura" , which means 
field and growing. Agriculture is a practice of 
farming that includes the cultivation of crops, 
rearing of animals, birds, forestry, fisheries 
and other related activities. Agriculture is the 
major occupation in Tamil Nadu. Agriculture 
has been the mainstay of the state’s economy 
since independence with more than 65% of the 
population depends upon this sector for their 
living. Agriculture provides employment for 
rural people on a large scale. There is a strong 
link between agriculture and economic growth. 
Paddy, millets and pulses are the principal food 
crops of the state. Sugarcane, cotton, sunflower, 
coconut, cashew, chillies, gingelly, groundnut, 
tea, coffee, cardamom and rubber are the major 
commercial crops.
   Geographical determinants 
of Agriculture
Landform, climate, soil and irrigation are the 
factors that determine the growth of agriculture.
Landform
Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscape 
comprising of hills, plateaus and plains. 
Among them the plains are most suitable 
for agriculture. The plains with alluvial soil 
enhances agricultural productivity. Example: 
Plains of cauvery. Agriculture in the plateau is 
moderate and is poor on the hills.
 
 
 
 
 
  
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 07-02-2023   14:14:32 07-02-2023   14:14:32
  
Climate 
Tamil Nadu is situated in the tropical 
zone, which is nearer to the equator. The state 
experiences a tropical climate. Hence, the 
temperature in Tamil Nadu is relatively high 
almost throughout the year. So, only the tropical 
crops are cultivated. Water is another limiting 
factor of agriculture. Northeast monsoon is 
the major source of rainfall for Tamil Nadu. 
Therefore, the major cropping season begins 
with this season. The rainfall in this season and 
the irrigation facilities affect agriculture to a 
large extent.
Soil
Soil is one of the most essential elements 
of agriculture. It provides essential minerals or 
nutrients for the growth of crops and vegetation. 
The regions of river valleys and the coastal 
plains are the most agriculturally productive 
regions of the state as they are covered with 
fertile alluvial soil.
Irrigation
Monsoon rainfall in the state is highly 
irregular. Further it is seasonal. Hence, irrigation 
becomes necessary for successful cultivation of 
crops in the state. In the dry regions, rain-fed 
crops are cultivated.
in the soil. Accordingly, the state has the 
following cropping seasons.
Name Sowing Harvesting Major crops
Sornavari
(chittirai 
pattam )
April-May
August-
September
Millets and 
cotton
Samba 
(Adipattam) 
July-
August
January-
February
Paddy and 
sugarcane
Navarai
November 
-December
February-
March
Fruits, vegetables, 
cucumber and 
watermelon
    Distribution of major 
crops in Tamil Nadu
Paddy
Paddy is the most important staple food 
crop of Tamil Nadu. Ponni and kichadi samba 
are the major varieties of paddy grown in Tamil 
Nadu. Though it is cultivated all over Tamil 
Nadu, its cultivation is highly concentrated 
in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Tiruvallur, 
Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore and 
The Tamil Nadu Rice 
Research Institute (TRRI) is an 
Indian research institute working 
in the field of rice under Tamil 
Nadu Agricultural University 
(TNAU).It is situated at Aduthurai, in Thanjavur 
district, it was established in April, 1985 in TNA U 
to meet the research requirements of the region 
with the help of existing Agricultural Colleges 
and Research centres and perform lead function 
for rice and rice based cropping system research.
Farming type Area practiced
Subsistence 
intensive 
agriculture
Practiced all over 
Tamil Nadu with few 
exceptions.
Plantation 
Agriculture
Hill slopes of Eastern 
and Western Ghats.
Mixed farming
Banks of River 
Cauvery and 
Thenpennai.
Types and regions of Agriculture 
Practices in Tamil Nadu
  Cropping Seasons in 
Tamil Nadu
Farmers select different crops for 
different seasons of cultivation. It is based on 
the temperature and availability of moisture 
Paddy Cultivation
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
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Page 3


  
Introduction
Human geography refers to the study of 
ways of development of human societies and 
their operation in relation to their physical 
environment. This chapter focuses on the 
distribution, characteristics and utilisation of 
different resources in Tamil Nadu. We have 
studied earlier that the earth is endowed with a 
variety of natural resources such as landforms, 
rivers, soil, natural vegetation, water and wildlife. 
These resources are useful only when they are 
utilised. Human beings use these resources 
using their intelligence and skill. Thus, the 
human beings are the most significant resource 
on the earth surface. They turn all these natural 
resources into useful products with their skills 
and abilities.
 Agriculture
The word "agriculture" is derived from the 
Latin words "ager and cultura" , which means 
field and growing. Agriculture is a practice of 
farming that includes the cultivation of crops, 
rearing of animals, birds, forestry, fisheries 
and other related activities. Agriculture is the 
major occupation in Tamil Nadu. Agriculture 
has been the mainstay of the state’s economy 
since independence with more than 65% of the 
population depends upon this sector for their 
living. Agriculture provides employment for 
rural people on a large scale. There is a strong 
link between agriculture and economic growth. 
Paddy, millets and pulses are the principal food 
crops of the state. Sugarcane, cotton, sunflower, 
coconut, cashew, chillies, gingelly, groundnut, 
tea, coffee, cardamom and rubber are the major 
commercial crops.
   Geographical determinants 
of Agriculture
Landform, climate, soil and irrigation are the 
factors that determine the growth of agriculture.
Landform
Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscape 
comprising of hills, plateaus and plains. 
Among them the plains are most suitable 
for agriculture. The plains with alluvial soil 
enhances agricultural productivity. Example: 
Plains of cauvery. Agriculture in the plateau is 
moderate and is poor on the hills.
 
 
 
 
 
  
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 07-02-2023   14:14:32 07-02-2023   14:14:32
  
Climate 
Tamil Nadu is situated in the tropical 
zone, which is nearer to the equator. The state 
experiences a tropical climate. Hence, the 
temperature in Tamil Nadu is relatively high 
almost throughout the year. So, only the tropical 
crops are cultivated. Water is another limiting 
factor of agriculture. Northeast monsoon is 
the major source of rainfall for Tamil Nadu. 
Therefore, the major cropping season begins 
with this season. The rainfall in this season and 
the irrigation facilities affect agriculture to a 
large extent.
Soil
Soil is one of the most essential elements 
of agriculture. It provides essential minerals or 
nutrients for the growth of crops and vegetation. 
The regions of river valleys and the coastal 
plains are the most agriculturally productive 
regions of the state as they are covered with 
fertile alluvial soil.
Irrigation
Monsoon rainfall in the state is highly 
irregular. Further it is seasonal. Hence, irrigation 
becomes necessary for successful cultivation of 
crops in the state. In the dry regions, rain-fed 
crops are cultivated.
in the soil. Accordingly, the state has the 
following cropping seasons.
Name Sowing Harvesting Major crops
Sornavari
(chittirai 
pattam )
April-May
August-
September
Millets and 
cotton
Samba 
(Adipattam) 
July-
August
January-
February
Paddy and 
sugarcane
Navarai
November 
-December
February-
March
Fruits, vegetables, 
cucumber and 
watermelon
    Distribution of major 
crops in Tamil Nadu
Paddy
Paddy is the most important staple food 
crop of Tamil Nadu. Ponni and kichadi samba 
are the major varieties of paddy grown in Tamil 
Nadu. Though it is cultivated all over Tamil 
Nadu, its cultivation is highly concentrated 
in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Tiruvallur, 
Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore and 
The Tamil Nadu Rice 
Research Institute (TRRI) is an 
Indian research institute working 
in the field of rice under Tamil 
Nadu Agricultural University 
(TNAU).It is situated at Aduthurai, in Thanjavur 
district, it was established in April, 1985 in TNA U 
to meet the research requirements of the region 
with the help of existing Agricultural Colleges 
and Research centres and perform lead function 
for rice and rice based cropping system research.
Farming type Area practiced
Subsistence 
intensive 
agriculture
Practiced all over 
Tamil Nadu with few 
exceptions.
Plantation 
Agriculture
Hill slopes of Eastern 
and Western Ghats.
Mixed farming
Banks of River 
Cauvery and 
Thenpennai.
Types and regions of Agriculture 
Practices in Tamil Nadu
  Cropping Seasons in 
Tamil Nadu
Farmers select different crops for 
different seasons of cultivation. It is based on 
the temperature and availability of moisture 
Paddy Cultivation
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
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Tirunelveli districts. It ranks third in the 
production of rice among the states of India. The 
deltaic region of river cauvery (the undivided 
Thanjavur district) is the major rice-producing 
region of Tamil Nadu. So, this region is rightly 
called as the "Granary of Tamil Nadu."
Millets
Millets form staple food of nearly one- 
third of human population of Tamil Nadu. 
Sorghum/jowar (cholam), ragi (kezhvaragu) 
and bajra (kambu) are the major millets. These 
are grown not only in drier areas but also in 
the coastal plains. Sorghum is grown in the 
Coimbatore plateau and Kambam valley. Ragi is 
grown in Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Vellore and 
Cuddalore districts. Bajra is mostly cultivated in 
Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Karur, 
Perambalur and Salem districts.
India observed 2018 as national year of 
millets. FAO has decided to observe 2023 as 
the International year of millets.
Pulses
Pulses are the major source of protein. 
Bengal gram, black gram, green gram, cowpea 
and horse gram are the important pulses grown 
in Tamil Nadu. Pulses are grown in a wide range 
of climatic conditions mostly in drier regions 
with or without irrigation. Mild cool climate 
and a low to moderate rainfall are best suited 
for these crops. Pulses serve as excellent fodder. 
Pulses are grown in almost all districts in the 
state except  Chennai, Nilgiris and Kanyakumari. 
Coimbatore leads in the production of Bengal 
gram. Vellore and Salem districts produce red 
gram. Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai 
and Thoothukudi districts are the principal 
producers of green gram and black gram. Horse 
gram is widely cultivated in Dharmapuri and 
Krishnagiri districts.
Oil Seeds
Groundnut, gingelly castor, coconut, 
sunflower and mustard are some of the oilseeds 
that are grown in Tamil Nadu. Apart from its 
use in food preparation, it is used in industries 
as a lubricant, in the manufacture of varnish, 
soaps, candles, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. 
Groundnut is the major oilseed of the state. The 
cultivation of groundnut is mostly concentrated 
in Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, 
Kalakurichi, Salem and Pudukottai districts. It 
is also grown to some extent in Dharmapuri, 
Cuddalore, Perambalur and Madurai. 
Erode, Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai and 
Virudhunagar districts are its minor producers. 
Coconut is grown in Coimbatore, Thanjavur 
and Kanyakumari districts.
Sugarcane
It is one of the major cash crops of the state. 
It is an annual crop. It requires high temperature 
and heavy rainfall. It grows well in the tropical 
region. Major sugarcane-producing districts 
are Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, 
Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Cuddalore, 
Tiruchirapalli, Coimbatore, Erode, Tirunelveli 
and Tenkasi.
Cotton
Cotton is a fibre and cash crop. It requires 
black soil, long frost-free condition and warm 
and humid weather for its cultivation. Humid 
weather in the early stages and hot, dry weather 
during harvest period is suitable for this crop. 
It is predominantly cultivated in Coimbatore 
plateau and Vaigai-Vaippar river basins. It is 
also cultivated in Madurai, Ramanathapuram, 
Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Salem 
and Dharmapuri districts.
Second Green Revolution (Eco-Farming 
or Organic Farming)
In organic farming synthetic fertilizers, 
pesticides, growth regulator and livestock 
feed additives are not used. This type of 
farming rely on crop rotation, crop residues, 
animal manure, off-farm organic wastes 
and biological pest control to maintain soil 
productivity. This farming method is being 
adopted by very few farmers in the state. 
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   221 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   221 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
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Page 4


  
Introduction
Human geography refers to the study of 
ways of development of human societies and 
their operation in relation to their physical 
environment. This chapter focuses on the 
distribution, characteristics and utilisation of 
different resources in Tamil Nadu. We have 
studied earlier that the earth is endowed with a 
variety of natural resources such as landforms, 
rivers, soil, natural vegetation, water and wildlife. 
These resources are useful only when they are 
utilised. Human beings use these resources 
using their intelligence and skill. Thus, the 
human beings are the most significant resource 
on the earth surface. They turn all these natural 
resources into useful products with their skills 
and abilities.
 Agriculture
The word "agriculture" is derived from the 
Latin words "ager and cultura" , which means 
field and growing. Agriculture is a practice of 
farming that includes the cultivation of crops, 
rearing of animals, birds, forestry, fisheries 
and other related activities. Agriculture is the 
major occupation in Tamil Nadu. Agriculture 
has been the mainstay of the state’s economy 
since independence with more than 65% of the 
population depends upon this sector for their 
living. Agriculture provides employment for 
rural people on a large scale. There is a strong 
link between agriculture and economic growth. 
Paddy, millets and pulses are the principal food 
crops of the state. Sugarcane, cotton, sunflower, 
coconut, cashew, chillies, gingelly, groundnut, 
tea, coffee, cardamom and rubber are the major 
commercial crops.
   Geographical determinants 
of Agriculture
Landform, climate, soil and irrigation are the 
factors that determine the growth of agriculture.
Landform
Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscape 
comprising of hills, plateaus and plains. 
Among them the plains are most suitable 
for agriculture. The plains with alluvial soil 
enhances agricultural productivity. Example: 
Plains of cauvery. Agriculture in the plateau is 
moderate and is poor on the hills.
 
 
 
 
 
  
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 07-02-2023   14:14:32 07-02-2023   14:14:32
  
Climate 
Tamil Nadu is situated in the tropical 
zone, which is nearer to the equator. The state 
experiences a tropical climate. Hence, the 
temperature in Tamil Nadu is relatively high 
almost throughout the year. So, only the tropical 
crops are cultivated. Water is another limiting 
factor of agriculture. Northeast monsoon is 
the major source of rainfall for Tamil Nadu. 
Therefore, the major cropping season begins 
with this season. The rainfall in this season and 
the irrigation facilities affect agriculture to a 
large extent.
Soil
Soil is one of the most essential elements 
of agriculture. It provides essential minerals or 
nutrients for the growth of crops and vegetation. 
The regions of river valleys and the coastal 
plains are the most agriculturally productive 
regions of the state as they are covered with 
fertile alluvial soil.
Irrigation
Monsoon rainfall in the state is highly 
irregular. Further it is seasonal. Hence, irrigation 
becomes necessary for successful cultivation of 
crops in the state. In the dry regions, rain-fed 
crops are cultivated.
in the soil. Accordingly, the state has the 
following cropping seasons.
Name Sowing Harvesting Major crops
Sornavari
(chittirai 
pattam )
April-May
August-
September
Millets and 
cotton
Samba 
(Adipattam) 
July-
August
January-
February
Paddy and 
sugarcane
Navarai
November 
-December
February-
March
Fruits, vegetables, 
cucumber and 
watermelon
    Distribution of major 
crops in Tamil Nadu
Paddy
Paddy is the most important staple food 
crop of Tamil Nadu. Ponni and kichadi samba 
are the major varieties of paddy grown in Tamil 
Nadu. Though it is cultivated all over Tamil 
Nadu, its cultivation is highly concentrated 
in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Tiruvallur, 
Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore and 
The Tamil Nadu Rice 
Research Institute (TRRI) is an 
Indian research institute working 
in the field of rice under Tamil 
Nadu Agricultural University 
(TNAU).It is situated at Aduthurai, in Thanjavur 
district, it was established in April, 1985 in TNA U 
to meet the research requirements of the region 
with the help of existing Agricultural Colleges 
and Research centres and perform lead function 
for rice and rice based cropping system research.
Farming type Area practiced
Subsistence 
intensive 
agriculture
Practiced all over 
Tamil Nadu with few 
exceptions.
Plantation 
Agriculture
Hill slopes of Eastern 
and Western Ghats.
Mixed farming
Banks of River 
Cauvery and 
Thenpennai.
Types and regions of Agriculture 
Practices in Tamil Nadu
  Cropping Seasons in 
Tamil Nadu
Farmers select different crops for 
different seasons of cultivation. It is based on 
the temperature and availability of moisture 
Paddy Cultivation
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   220 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
www.tntextbooks.in
  
Tirunelveli districts. It ranks third in the 
production of rice among the states of India. The 
deltaic region of river cauvery (the undivided 
Thanjavur district) is the major rice-producing 
region of Tamil Nadu. So, this region is rightly 
called as the "Granary of Tamil Nadu."
Millets
Millets form staple food of nearly one- 
third of human population of Tamil Nadu. 
Sorghum/jowar (cholam), ragi (kezhvaragu) 
and bajra (kambu) are the major millets. These 
are grown not only in drier areas but also in 
the coastal plains. Sorghum is grown in the 
Coimbatore plateau and Kambam valley. Ragi is 
grown in Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Vellore and 
Cuddalore districts. Bajra is mostly cultivated in 
Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Karur, 
Perambalur and Salem districts.
India observed 2018 as national year of 
millets. FAO has decided to observe 2023 as 
the International year of millets.
Pulses
Pulses are the major source of protein. 
Bengal gram, black gram, green gram, cowpea 
and horse gram are the important pulses grown 
in Tamil Nadu. Pulses are grown in a wide range 
of climatic conditions mostly in drier regions 
with or without irrigation. Mild cool climate 
and a low to moderate rainfall are best suited 
for these crops. Pulses serve as excellent fodder. 
Pulses are grown in almost all districts in the 
state except  Chennai, Nilgiris and Kanyakumari. 
Coimbatore leads in the production of Bengal 
gram. Vellore and Salem districts produce red 
gram. Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai 
and Thoothukudi districts are the principal 
producers of green gram and black gram. Horse 
gram is widely cultivated in Dharmapuri and 
Krishnagiri districts.
Oil Seeds
Groundnut, gingelly castor, coconut, 
sunflower and mustard are some of the oilseeds 
that are grown in Tamil Nadu. Apart from its 
use in food preparation, it is used in industries 
as a lubricant, in the manufacture of varnish, 
soaps, candles, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. 
Groundnut is the major oilseed of the state. The 
cultivation of groundnut is mostly concentrated 
in Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, 
Kalakurichi, Salem and Pudukottai districts. It 
is also grown to some extent in Dharmapuri, 
Cuddalore, Perambalur and Madurai. 
Erode, Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai and 
Virudhunagar districts are its minor producers. 
Coconut is grown in Coimbatore, Thanjavur 
and Kanyakumari districts.
Sugarcane
It is one of the major cash crops of the state. 
It is an annual crop. It requires high temperature 
and heavy rainfall. It grows well in the tropical 
region. Major sugarcane-producing districts 
are Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, 
Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Cuddalore, 
Tiruchirapalli, Coimbatore, Erode, Tirunelveli 
and Tenkasi.
Cotton
Cotton is a fibre and cash crop. It requires 
black soil, long frost-free condition and warm 
and humid weather for its cultivation. Humid 
weather in the early stages and hot, dry weather 
during harvest period is suitable for this crop. 
It is predominantly cultivated in Coimbatore 
plateau and Vaigai-Vaippar river basins. It is 
also cultivated in Madurai, Ramanathapuram, 
Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Salem 
and Dharmapuri districts.
Second Green Revolution (Eco-Farming 
or Organic Farming)
In organic farming synthetic fertilizers, 
pesticides, growth regulator and livestock 
feed additives are not used. This type of 
farming rely on crop rotation, crop residues, 
animal manure, off-farm organic wastes 
and biological pest control to maintain soil 
productivity. This farming method is being 
adopted by very few farmers in the state. 
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   221 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   221 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
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PADDY
LEGEND
SUGARCANE
MILLETS
RAGI COTTON OIL SEEDS
PULSES TEA COFFEE RUBBER
TAMIL NADU
MAJOR CROPS
E W
N
S
Not to Scale
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   222 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   222 07-02-2023   14:14:34 07-02-2023   14:14:34
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Page 5


  
Introduction
Human geography refers to the study of 
ways of development of human societies and 
their operation in relation to their physical 
environment. This chapter focuses on the 
distribution, characteristics and utilisation of 
different resources in Tamil Nadu. We have 
studied earlier that the earth is endowed with a 
variety of natural resources such as landforms, 
rivers, soil, natural vegetation, water and wildlife. 
These resources are useful only when they are 
utilised. Human beings use these resources 
using their intelligence and skill. Thus, the 
human beings are the most significant resource 
on the earth surface. They turn all these natural 
resources into useful products with their skills 
and abilities.
 Agriculture
The word "agriculture" is derived from the 
Latin words "ager and cultura" , which means 
field and growing. Agriculture is a practice of 
farming that includes the cultivation of crops, 
rearing of animals, birds, forestry, fisheries 
and other related activities. Agriculture is the 
major occupation in Tamil Nadu. Agriculture 
has been the mainstay of the state’s economy 
since independence with more than 65% of the 
population depends upon this sector for their 
living. Agriculture provides employment for 
rural people on a large scale. There is a strong 
link between agriculture and economic growth. 
Paddy, millets and pulses are the principal food 
crops of the state. Sugarcane, cotton, sunflower, 
coconut, cashew, chillies, gingelly, groundnut, 
tea, coffee, cardamom and rubber are the major 
commercial crops.
   Geographical determinants 
of Agriculture
Landform, climate, soil and irrigation are the 
factors that determine the growth of agriculture.
Landform
Tamil Nadu is a land of diverse landscape 
comprising of hills, plateaus and plains. 
Among them the plains are most suitable 
for agriculture. The plains with alluvial soil 
enhances agricultural productivity. Example: 
Plains of cauvery. Agriculture in the plateau is 
moderate and is poor on the hills.
 
 
 
 
 
  
17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 17_Geography_Unit_7_EM.indd   219 07-02-2023   14:14:32 07-02-2023   14:14:32
  
Climate 
Tamil Nadu is situated in the tropical 
zone, which is nearer to the equator. The state 
experiences a tropical climate. Hence, the 
temperature in Tamil Nadu is relatively high 
almost throughout the year. So, only the tropical 
crops are cultivated. Water is another limiting 
factor of agriculture. Northeast monsoon is 
the major source of rainfall for Tamil Nadu. 
Therefore, the major cropping season begins 
with this season. The rainfall in this season and 
the irrigation facilities affect agriculture to a 
large extent.
Soil
Soil is one of the most essential elements 
of agriculture. It provides essential minerals or 
nutrients for the growth of crops and vegetation. 
The regions of river valleys and the coastal 
plains are the most agriculturally productive 
regions of the state as they are covered with 
fertile alluvial soil.
Irrigation
Monsoon rainfall in the state is highly 
irregular. Further it is seasonal. Hence, irrigation 
becomes necessary for successful cultivation of 
crops in the state. In the dry regions, rain-fed 
crops are cultivated.
in the soil. Accordingly, the state has the 
following cropping seasons.
Name Sowing Harvesting Major crops
Sornavari
(chittirai 
pattam )
April-May
August-
September
Millets and 
cotton
Samba 
(Adipattam) 
July-
August
January-
February
Paddy and 
sugarcane
Navarai
November 
-December
February-
March
Fruits, vegetables, 
cucumber and 
watermelon
    Distribution of major 
crops in Tamil Nadu
Paddy
Paddy is the most important staple food 
crop of Tamil Nadu. Ponni and kichadi samba 
are the major varieties of paddy grown in Tamil 
Nadu. Though it is cultivated all over Tamil 
Nadu, its cultivation is highly concentrated 
in Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Tiruvallur, 
Kancheepuram, Villupuram, Cuddalore and 
The Tamil Nadu Rice 
Research Institute (TRRI) is an 
Indian research institute working 
in the field of rice under Tamil 
Nadu Agricultural University 
(TNAU).It is situated at Aduthurai, in Thanjavur 
district, it was established in April, 1985 in TNA U 
to meet the research requirements of the region 
with the help of existing Agricultural Colleges 
and Research centres and perform lead function 
for rice and rice based cropping system research.
Farming type Area practiced
Subsistence 
intensive 
agriculture
Practiced all over 
Tamil Nadu with few 
exceptions.
Plantation 
Agriculture
Hill slopes of Eastern 
and Western Ghats.
Mixed farming
Banks of River 
Cauvery and 
Thenpennai.
Types and regions of Agriculture 
Practices in Tamil Nadu
  Cropping Seasons in 
Tamil Nadu
Farmers select different crops for 
different seasons of cultivation. It is based on 
the temperature and availability of moisture 
Paddy Cultivation
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Tirunelveli districts. It ranks third in the 
production of rice among the states of India. The 
deltaic region of river cauvery (the undivided 
Thanjavur district) is the major rice-producing 
region of Tamil Nadu. So, this region is rightly 
called as the "Granary of Tamil Nadu."
Millets
Millets form staple food of nearly one- 
third of human population of Tamil Nadu. 
Sorghum/jowar (cholam), ragi (kezhvaragu) 
and bajra (kambu) are the major millets. These 
are grown not only in drier areas but also in 
the coastal plains. Sorghum is grown in the 
Coimbatore plateau and Kambam valley. Ragi is 
grown in Coimbatore, Dharmapuri, Vellore and 
Cuddalore districts. Bajra is mostly cultivated in 
Ramanathapuram, Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Karur, 
Perambalur and Salem districts.
India observed 2018 as national year of 
millets. FAO has decided to observe 2023 as 
the International year of millets.
Pulses
Pulses are the major source of protein. 
Bengal gram, black gram, green gram, cowpea 
and horse gram are the important pulses grown 
in Tamil Nadu. Pulses are grown in a wide range 
of climatic conditions mostly in drier regions 
with or without irrigation. Mild cool climate 
and a low to moderate rainfall are best suited 
for these crops. Pulses serve as excellent fodder. 
Pulses are grown in almost all districts in the 
state except  Chennai, Nilgiris and Kanyakumari. 
Coimbatore leads in the production of Bengal 
gram. Vellore and Salem districts produce red 
gram. Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai 
and Thoothukudi districts are the principal 
producers of green gram and black gram. Horse 
gram is widely cultivated in Dharmapuri and 
Krishnagiri districts.
Oil Seeds
Groundnut, gingelly castor, coconut, 
sunflower and mustard are some of the oilseeds 
that are grown in Tamil Nadu. Apart from its 
use in food preparation, it is used in industries 
as a lubricant, in the manufacture of varnish, 
soaps, candles, cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. 
Groundnut is the major oilseed of the state. The 
cultivation of groundnut is mostly concentrated 
in Vellore, Tiruvannamalai, Villupuram, 
Kalakurichi, Salem and Pudukottai districts. It 
is also grown to some extent in Dharmapuri, 
Cuddalore, Perambalur and Madurai. 
Erode, Ramanathapuram, Sivagangai and 
Virudhunagar districts are its minor producers. 
Coconut is grown in Coimbatore, Thanjavur 
and Kanyakumari districts.
Sugarcane
It is one of the major cash crops of the state. 
It is an annual crop. It requires high temperature 
and heavy rainfall. It grows well in the tropical 
region. Major sugarcane-producing districts 
are Tiruvallur, Kancheepuram, Chengalpattu, 
Vellore, Ranipet, Tirupattur, Cuddalore, 
Tiruchirapalli, Coimbatore, Erode, Tirunelveli 
and Tenkasi.
Cotton
Cotton is a fibre and cash crop. It requires 
black soil, long frost-free condition and warm 
and humid weather for its cultivation. Humid 
weather in the early stages and hot, dry weather 
during harvest period is suitable for this crop. 
It is predominantly cultivated in Coimbatore 
plateau and Vaigai-Vaippar river basins. It is 
also cultivated in Madurai, Ramanathapuram, 
Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi, Salem 
and Dharmapuri districts.
Second Green Revolution (Eco-Farming 
or Organic Farming)
In organic farming synthetic fertilizers, 
pesticides, growth regulator and livestock 
feed additives are not used. This type of 
farming rely on crop rotation, crop residues, 
animal manure, off-farm organic wastes 
and biological pest control to maintain soil 
productivity. This farming method is being 
adopted by very few farmers in the state. 
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PADDY
LEGEND
SUGARCANE
MILLETS
RAGI COTTON OIL SEEDS
PULSES TEA COFFEE RUBBER
TAMIL NADU
MAJOR CROPS
E W
N
S
Not to Scale
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Plantation crops
Tea, coffee, cashew, rubber and pepper are 
the major plantation crops of the state. Tamil 
Nadu ranks second in area and production of 
tea in India next to Assam. Tea plantations are 
found in the hills of the Nilgiris and Coimbatore. 
Coffee plants are grown in the hilly slopes of 
Dindigul, Madurai, Theni, Namakkal and Salem 
districts. Y ercaud, Kolli Hills and Kodaikanal are 
notable for coffee plantations. T amil Nadu stands 
second in area and production of coffee next to 
Karnataka. Rubber plantations are significant in 
Kanyakumari. Pepper is confined to the warm 
and wet slopes of Eastern and Western Ghats of 
Tamil Nadu. Cashew is extensively cultivated in 
Cuddalore district.
To promote organic farming a central 
scheme named ‘National Project on Organic 
Farming’ was launched Apart from general 
things (creating awareness, promoting 
organic fertilizers, training, capacity building 
etc.), the scheme provides financial assistance 
through Capital Investment Subsidy Scheme 
for agro-waste compost production units, 
bio-fertilizers/bio-pesticides production 
units, development and implementation 
of quality control regime, human resource 
development etc.
  L i ve s t o c k / A n i m a l Husbandry
Livestock has remained an integral part of 
socio-economic fabric of rural people. 
Goat
Goat is also known as ‘poor man’s cow’ 
in India. It forms a very important component 
in dry land farming system. In the marginal or 
undulating lands unsuitable for rearing of other 
types of cattle like cow or buffalo, goat is the best 
alternative. With very low investments, goat 
rearing can be made into a profitable venture 
for small and marginal farmers.
Sheep
Sheep is used for multiple purposes like 
wool, meat, milk, skins and manure, and 
forms an important component of the rural 
economy, particularly in the arid, semi-arid and 
mountainous areas of Tamil Nadu. It provides a 
dependable source of income to the shepherds 
through the sale of wool and animals.
Fishing
Since Tamil Nadu is a coastal state, fishing 
is one of the major occupations in the state. 
With widespread reservoirs and rivers, inland 
fishing also is also seen to a considerable extent. 
Marine Fishing 
Tamil Nadu coastal length is 906.9 km. 
An area of 41,412 sq.km of continental shelves 
of the state favours coastal fishing and Tamil 
Nadu is one of the leading states in marine 
fish production. Marine fishing is also called 
inshore fish or neritic fishing, carried out in 
oceans and seas. Large mechanised boats are 
used for fishing. In ocean or seawaters, fishing 
within few kilometres from the shoreline is 
called inshore fishing and the fishing far from 
the shore typically 20–30 miles out in water 
hundreds and thousands of feet deep is called 
off-shore fishing. The fish varieties caught 
are sharks, flying fish, counch, catfish, silver 
bellies, and crabs. Chennai, Kanyakumari, 
Tirunelveli, Nagapattinam, Thanjavur and 
Ramanathapuram districts contribute about 
40% to marine fish production in the state. Their 
coastal location favours fishing in these regions. 
Tamil Nadu Dairy Development 
Corporation Ltd. was transformed into the 
newly registered Tamil Nadu Co-operative 
Milk Producers Federation Limited 
Popularly known as “Aavin”. 
TANTEA (TANTEA-Tamil Nadu Tea 
Plantation Corporation Limited) is one of 
the Biggest Black Tea Producers in India 
with high quality clonal tea. Its plantation 
spreads over nearly 4500 hec. 
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