Hyderabad: Prime Minister Narendra Modi interacted with farmers at the South India Natural Farming Summit 2025 in Coimbatore, reviewing advancements in natural farming, value-added products, and export-driven agricultural opportunities.
Banana, Tea and Moringa Products Show Market Expansion
The Prime Minister began by examining banana-based value-added items. A farmer informed him that their products, made entirely from banana waste, are sold online, exported, and stocked in supermarkets across India. He added that each Farmer Producer Organization in the region includes nearly one thousand members, strengthening collective production and marketing.
During his interaction with tea producers, Narendra Modi was briefed on varieties such as black tea, white tea, oolong tea, and green tea. The Prime Minister noted the strong market presence of white tea, and the farmer agreed, highlighting rising global demand.
The discussion then shifted to Moringa. Farmers explained that Moringa leaves are processed into powder and exported. Major markets include the United States, African countries, Japan, and Southeast Asia. The Prime Minister remarked that demand for Moringa powder has grown significantly in recent years.
GI Products and Traditional Varieties Gain Wider Reach
Farmers displayed 25 Geographical Indication products from Tamil Nadu, including Kumbakonam’s betel leaves and Madurai’s jasmine. When Narendra Modi asked whether these items reach Varanasi, the farmer confirmed that they are supplied across India.
Another farmer showcased nearly one thousand traditional paddy varieties. He explained that many varieties possess nutritional qualities comparable to millets. The Prime Minister praised Tamil Nadu’s efforts, calling them unmatched in preserving paddy heritage and promoting value-added rice products.
Youth Participation Strengthens Natural Farming Movement
The Prime Minister asked whether young farmers were embracing natural farming. A farmer confirmed that many highly educated youth have joined, and several earn nearly ₹2 lakh per month. He added that they have trained 7,000 farmers and 3,000 college students through their model natural-farming farm. The group markets its products directly, exports to multiple countries, and processes items such as soap, copra, and hair oil.
Modi Highlights Gujarat’s “Cattle Hostel” Model
Sharing past experiences, Narendra Modi spoke about Gujarat’s “cattle hostel” model, which keeps villages clean and simplifies livestock management. A farmer responded that the system helps in mass production of jeevamrit, which is supplied to surrounding farms.
Governor R.N. Ravi and Union Minister Dr. L. Murugan were present during the interaction.
Here are highlights from a very insightful interaction with farmers at the South India Natural Farming Summit in Coimbatore. Their passion for agriculture, innovation and sustainability is noteworthy. pic.twitter.com/GXacGtR1c2
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) November 20, 2025
