Current MLA
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District
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Latest Election
Constituency Overview
Pennagaram Assembly Constituency is located in **Dharmapuri district** of Tamil Nadu and forms part of the Dharmapuri Lok Sabha constituency. Situated in the western part of the district, the constituency is predominantly rural and is known for its rich natural landscapes, forest resources and agricultural economy. Centred around the town of Pennagaram, it comprises numerous villages bordering the **Cauvery River** and the forests of the **Eastern Ghats**, making it one of the most ecologically significant constituencies in northern Tamil Nadu.
The constituency includes parts of the **Cauvery North Wildlife Sanctuary** and lies close to the famous **Hogenakkal Falls**, one of Tamil Nadu's most popular tourist destinations. Agriculture remains the principal occupation, supported by irrigation from the Cauvery and local tanks. Paddy, ragi, groundnut, millets, sugarcane and horticultural crops are widely cultivated. Forestry, tourism, livestock rearing, inland fisheries, agro-processing and rural trade also contribute significantly to employment and income. The scenic landscape and eco-tourism potential make Pennagaram an important destination within Dharmapuri district.
Location
Approximate location of Pennagaram Assembly Constituency, Dharmapuri district.
2026 Election Result
Gajendran. S.
Votes: 81,240
Selvam. V.
Votes: 78,075
Victory margin: 3,165 votes
Political History
Pennagaram has traditionally been one of the politically significant rural constituencies in Dharmapuri district. The constituency has witnessed electoral contests primarily between the Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (DMK), All India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (AIADMK), Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK), Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), Indian National Congress (INC) and other regional political parties.
Agriculture, irrigation, forest conservation, tribal welfare, tourism development, rural infrastructure and employment generation have consistently shaped electoral outcomes. The constituency's proximity to the Karnataka border and the Cauvery basin also influences regional development priorities.
Demographics
Population
Literacy Rate
SC Population
ST Population
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Female
Economy & Key Occupations
Urban / Rural
Major Sectors
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Major Crops
Key Development Issues
Water resource management and agricultural development remain the foremost priorities in Pennagaram. Farmers seek improved irrigation facilities, groundwater recharge, watershed development and better market access for agricultural and horticultural produce.
Residents also seek improved road connectivity, healthcare facilities, educational institutions and public transportation, particularly in remote forest and hill villages. Promotion of eco-tourism around Hogenakkal Falls, conservation of forests and wildlife, and mitigation of human–wildlife conflict remain important concerns. Expansion of employment opportunities through tourism and agro-based industries is another key development objective.
Constituency Insights
Pennagaram combines agricultural livelihoods, forest ecosystems and tourism potential. The electorate includes farmers, tribal communities, agricultural labourers, tourism operators, fishermen, traders, government employees, teachers and small business owners.
Agriculture remains the dominant economic activity, while tourism, forestry and fisheries provide supplementary livelihoods. The constituency's location along the Cauvery River and near Hogenakkal Falls gives it unique environmental and economic importance. Voters generally prioritise irrigation, infrastructure development, employment opportunities, tribal welfare, healthcare, education and environmental conservation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Where is Pennagaram Assembly Constituency located?
A: Pennagaram Assembly Constituency is located in Dharmapuri district of Tamil Nadu and forms part of the Dharmapuri Lok Sabha constituency.
Q: Who is the current MLA of Pennagaram?
A: G. K. Mani of the Pattali Makkal Katchi (PMK) is the current MLA of Pennagaram, having won the 2021 Tamil Nadu Assembly election.
Q: Why is Pennagaram Assembly Constituency important?
A: Pennagaram is known for its agricultural economy, proximity to the Cauvery River and Hogenakkal Falls, and its rich forest and wildlife resources.
Q: What are the major economic activities in Pennagaram?
A: Agriculture, tourism, forestry, inland fisheries, livestock rearing, agro-processing and rural trade are the major economic activities in the constituency.
Q: What are the major crops grown in Pennagaram?
A: Paddy, ragi, groundnut, sugarcane, mango, millets and vegetables are among the major crops cultivated in the constituency.
Q: Is Pennagaram an urban or rural constituency?
A: Pennagaram is a predominantly rural constituency comprising Pennagaram town and numerous agricultural, forest and hill villages.
Q: Which Lok Sabha constituency does Pennagaram belong to?
A: Pennagaram Assembly Constituency is part of the Dharmapuri Lok Sabha constituency.
Q: What are the key development issues in Pennagaram?
A: Irrigation, agricultural development, eco-tourism, tribal welfare, road connectivity, healthcare, education, drinking water supply and forest conservation are among the major concerns.
Q: Why is Hogenakkal important to Pennagaram?
A: Hogenakkal Falls, located on the Cauvery River, is one of Tamil Nadu's most famous tourist attractions. It supports the local economy through tourism and is an important natural and ecological landmark.
Q: What factors influence elections in Pennagaram?
A: Agricultural development, irrigation, tourism promotion, tribal welfare, environmental conservation, healthcare, education, welfare schemes and local leadership are among the most important factors influencing elections in the constituency.