In a move that could reshape Tamil Nadu’s agri-business landscape, IIT Madras has partnered with the state government to strengthen rural development and bring innovation into the heart of the farming and food processing sectors. From farm to market, this collaboration aims to enhance the process of growing, handling, packaging, and selling food, with technology, research, and training playing central roles.

The partnership was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between IIT Madras and the Tamil Nadu Agri Business and Food Processing Export Corporation (TNAPEx), the nodal agency for promoting agri exports and food processing.

The MoU was signed at the Tamil Nadu Secretariat in the presence of Dr. Atul Anand, IAS, Additional Chief Secretary, MSME Department, Government of Tamil Nadu.

Speaking at the event, Dr. Atul Anand said the state government is committed to improving rural supply chains, reducing post-harvest losses, and raising incomes for farmers. He welcomed the expertise IIT Madras brings to the partnership, particularly in creating solutions that are grounded in real-world needs.

Professlr V Kamakoti, Director of IIT Madras, said the institute would bring together experts from different fields to work on improving efficiency, sustainability, and marketing within Tamil Nadu’s agri-business ecosystem.