1. Tea Plantations: The Nilgiris is renowned for its extensive tea plantations that cover vast areas of the district. The cool climate and high altitude are ideal for growing tea, making it a significant agricultural commodity. Tea estates in the Nilgiris produce high-quality tea leaves, contributing to the region’s reputation as a major tea-growing area.

2. Horticulture: The Nilgiris has favorable conditions for horticultural crops such as fruits, vegetables, and flowers. Cultivation of crops like carrots, cabbage, cauliflower, potatoes, tomatoes, beans, strawberries, and roses is prevalent. These crops cater to both the local market and external markets, contributing to the region’s agricultural economy.

3. Spices: The Nilgiris is also known for its spice cultivation. Farmers in the region grow various spices such as pepper, cardamom, clove, cinnamon, and nutmeg. These spices are in demand both domestically and internationally, and their cultivation adds to the agricultural diversity of the district.

4. Poultry and Livestock: Livestock rearing and poultry farming are significant agricultural activities in the Nilgiris. Dairy farming, goat rearing, and poultry production contribute to the local economy, providing a source of income and employment for many farmers.

5. Floriculture: The pleasant climate of the Nilgiris supports the cultivation of a wide variety of flowers. Floriculture is an important sector, with roses, carnations, orchids, and other flowers being grown for local and export markets. The region’s flowers are highly sought after for their quality and variety.

6. Organic Farming: The Nilgiris has witnessed a growing interest in organic farming practices. Many farmers have adopted organic methods, eschewing the use of synthetic chemicals and pesticides. Organic farming in the region encompasses a range of crops, including fruits, vegetables, spices, and tea, catering to the increasing demand for organic produce.

7. Government Initiatives: The government has taken several initiatives to promote agricultural development in the Nilgiris. These include providing subsidies, loans, and technical support to farmers, promoting sustainable practices, and improving infrastructure for better transportation and storage facilities.

Despite the agricultural potential of the Nilgiris, there are challenges that farmers face. These challenges include limited land availability, fragmented land holdings, labor shortages, climate change impacts, and market fluctuations. The government and agricultural organizations are working to address these challenges and promote sustainable agriculture in the region.

Agriculture in the Nilgiris is a dynamic and integral part of the district’s economy. The cultivation of tea, horticultural crops, spices, livestock, and flowers contributes to the livelihoods of numerous farmers and the overall agricultural diversity of the region.