The SRM College of Agricultural Sciences, part of SRMIST, Kattankulathur, hosted ‘Agri Startup 2.0,’ providing a platform for farmers, youth, women entrepreneurs, and innovators across Tamil Nadu to exchange ideas and explore sustainable agriculture solutions.
The event was organised in collaboration with the Isha Save Soil Movement, which has been active in Tamil Nadu for nearly three decades. The event aims to transform India into a natural farming nation by focusing on revitalising soil health, improving farmers’ livelihood, and ensuring toxin-free food for all.
Speaking at the event, C Muthamizhchelvan, Vice-Chancellor, SRMIST, said: “By 2047, strong agriculture will be essential for national prosperity. At SRMIST, our agricultural college, research, and start-up, incubation initiatives are driving sustainable farming, empowering farmers, and securing the future of food and rural development.”
He added that SRMIST runs a College of Agricultural Sciences in Achirapakkam to provide land and financial assistance for people looking to start agriculture-related businesses.
The programme was attended by N. Selvam, Joint Director (Extension), Directorate of Extension, Department of Agriculture & Farmer Welfare, and Narendra Kumar, Executive Vice-President and Head CSR, Cholamandalam Investment and Finance Company.
“Across Tamil Nadu, we’ve trained farmers in sustainable techniques that improve livelihoods and provide chemical-free food. With 47 research centres and two model farms in Thiruvannamalai and Coimbatore, we demonstrate high-yield, cost-effective natural farming,” said Kumar. He added that over ₹10 crore worth of produce has been sold, benefiting 11,500 farmers on 60,000 acres.
Published on August 18, 2025