It explains how chemical farming degrades the ecosystem and offers systematic, step-by-step methods to transition a farm from chemical-dependent to 100% organic.
Farming is not an industry; it is a sacred co-existence with nature. Core Agricultural Techniques Highlighted in His Books
Nammalvar was a prolific writer who authored several books in both Tamil and English on natural farming, natural pesticides, and organic fertilizers. His writings, often compiled from series published in magazines like Pasumai Vikatan , have become essential reading for organic farming aspirants, researchers, and policymakers. Below is a detailed look at some of his most important works.
His relentless advocacy, backed by the scientific principles in his books, forced regional governments to formulate organic farming policies and support organic markets.
Instead of chemical pesticides that kill both harmful and beneficial insects, Nammalvar detailed formulas for Poochi Viratti (herbal pest repellents). Using botanical extracts from neem, vitex, and calotropis, these mixtures repel harmful pests while keeping the farm's predatory, beneficial insects alive. Why Nammalvar’s Books Matter Today nammalvar books agriculture
: He believed education should provide the "power to acquire knowledge for oneself" and the ability to rule oneself. Academic and Technical Papers
Born in 1938 in the village of Elangadu in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, Nammalvar came from an agricultural family and graduated from Annamalai University with a B.Sc. in Agriculture. In 1963, he began his career as a scientist at the Agricultural Regional Research Station in Kovilpatti, conducting trials on spacing and manure levels for cotton and millet crops.
Resigning from his post in 1969, he dedicated his life to spreading ecological and organic farming practices across India. He was famously described as the "green crusader" who walked bare-chested with a green shawl, taking his message to the masses through simple language, powerful speeches, and prolific writing.
The resurgence of interest in traditional millets and organic rice varieties in modern retail markets can be traced directly back to the awareness created by his books and rallies. It explains how chemical farming degrades the ecosystem
Nammalvar authored several books in both Tamil and English. Below is a detailed guide to his most significant works, organized by theme and language.
Treating soil as a living organism, not a chemical sponge.
: Traces the historical context of agricultural practices in Tamil Nadu.
Look for these specific pasurams (verses): His writings, often compiled from series published in
: Discusses the ethics of food production and ensuring food security through local farming. Ayiram Perai Thedukiren (Searching for a Thousand People)
When his warnings were ignored by his peers at the research institute, Nammalvar made a courageous decision. He quit his government job and joined Islands of Peace, an NGO founded by Nobel Laureate Dominique Pire, where his focus shifted to improving living standards through agricultural development in rural Tamil Nadu.
A quick-fermenting mix designed to rapidly multiply beneficial soil microbes.