Which manufacturing industries are especially important in Tamil Nadu?

Tamil Nadu is one of India’s most industrialized states, with the manufacturing sector contributing more than one-third of its gross product. The state’s industrial landscape is diverse, featuring several key sectors:1

• Heavy Vehicles: The production of automobiles, agricultural equipment, military vehicles, and railway cars is a major industry. Notably, the railway-coach factory at Perambur is among the largest in Asia.1
• Industrial Processing: Chennai hosts significant oil refining and petrochemical operations.1
• General Manufacturing: Other prominent activities include textile milling, food processing, and the production of pharmaceuticals, chemicals, and electronic parts and equipment.1
• Handicrafts: The state is also renowned for traditional craftsmanship, including leather work, handloomed silk, kalamkari (hand-painted fabric), and items made from brass, bronze, copper, carved wood, palm leaf, and cane.1

While manufacturing remains a cornerstone of the economy, it is worth noting that the services sector—driven by information technology and tourism—has become the largest contributor to the state's economy since the early 21st century.2