Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed deep sorrow over the passing of Padma Shri Awardee Pappammal, a highly regarded organic farmer. In a post on X, formerly known as Twitter, the Prime Minister praised her contributions to agriculture, especially in organic farming. He highlighted her humility and kind nature, qualities that endeared her to many.
In his message, PM Modi stated, "Deeply pained by the passing away of Pappammal Ji. She made a mark in agriculture, especially organic farming. People admired her for her humility and kind nature. My thoughts are with her family and well-wishers. Om Shanti."
Deeply pained by the passing away of Pappammal Ji. She made a mark in agriculture, especially organic farming. People admired her for her humility and kind nature. My thoughts are with her family and well wishers. Om Shanti. pic.twitter.com/3JR9LqlMmB
— Narendra Modi (@narendramodi) September 27, 2024
Pappammal, born in 1914, passed away at the age of 109 after a period of ill health. Despite not receiving formal education beyond Class II, she became an advocate for organic farming and attended classes for farmers at Tamil Nadu Agricultural University (TNAU). Her involvement in agriculture spanned decades, earning her national recognition.
Pappammal’s early life was marked by tragedy when she lost her parents at a young age. After her marriage to Rangammal, the couple cultivated 10 acres of land organically in Thekambatti, near Mettupalayam. Despite the loss of her husband years ago and having no biological children, she raised her sister’s daughters and continued her agricultural and social work.
Her legacy extends beyond agriculture. In 1959, Pappammal became a ward member of Thekambatti Panchayat and, in 1964, served as a panchayat union councillor for Karamadai. She also played a leadership role in the Mathar Sangam, a local women’s association.
Pappammal’s extraordinary life and contributions to sustainable agriculture earned her the Padma Shri in 2021. Her pioneering efforts in organic farming have left an indelible mark on Indian agriculture and continue to inspire farmers across the country.
