Despite rapid industrialization, agriculture remains a vital sector in Tamil Nadu, sustaining a large portion of the rural population. The Kaveri River delta, particularly around Thanjavur, is known as the "Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu." Rice is the staple crop, but the state is also a leading producer of bananas, turmeric, tapioca, and groundnuts.
Commercial crops such as sugarcane, cotton, and oilseeds are cultivated extensively. In the hilly regions of the Nilgiris and Anaimalai, plantations produce high-quality tea, coffee, and spices. With a long coastline, Tamil Nadu also supports a massive marine fisheries industry, alongside robust inland aquaculture and livestock farming (dairy and poultry).