MRK Panneerselvam

M. R. K. Panneerselvam was born on 25 August 1957 in Muttam, Kattumannarkoil Taluk, Cuddalore District, Tamil Nadu. He holds a bachelor’s degree in law from The Tamil Nadu Dr. Ambedkar Law University and began his public life in state-level politics with the DMK. His early involvement set the stage for decades-long electoral success and ministerial responsibilities.

He was first elected to the Tamil Nadu Legislative Assembly from the Kurinjipadi constituency in 1996, marking the beginning of his legislative career. He went on to win from the same constituency in 2001, 2006, 2016, and 2021, demonstrating strong local support and political resilience.

Panneerselvam has held several ministerial posts in the Tamil Nadu government. He served as Minister for Backward Classes (1996–2001) and as Minister for Health and Family Welfare (2006–2011) under successive DMK administrations, contributing to social welfare and public health policy in the state.

In the DMK government formed in 2021, he was appointed Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare, where he has been involved in shaping agricultural policy, farmers’ support initiatives, and related rural development programmes.

As of 2026, he continues to lead these efforts, emphasising sustainable farming and welfare schemes for rural communities.