The Tamil Nadu Cauvery Farmers Protection Association has urged the state government to announce a special package of ₹8,000 per acre for samba and thaladi crops, citing soaring input costs and water‑release delays.

  • Demand for ₹8,000 per acre cash incentive for samba and thaladi
  • Mettur Dam water level above 86 ft, expected to hit 90 ft soon
  • Urgent call to declare delta districts drought‑hit

Core Demand for a Special Package

The Tamil Nadu Cauvery Farmers Protection Association has appealed to the state government to declare a “special package for samba and thaladi” this season, requesting a cash incentive of ₹8,000 per acre. The association highlighted that input costs and equipment hire charges have risen sharply in recent years.

Comparison with Existing Schemes

Under the current Kuruvai special package, the government provides ₹4,000 per acre. The association argues that this amount is insufficient for samba and thaladi farmers and urges the government to double the assistance.

Why This Matters

BozokMedia analysis shows that the financial strain on small‑holder farmers in Tamil Nadu’s delta districts could trigger a larger agrarian distress if timely relief is not provided, potentially affecting rice output and regional food security.

"Without adequate financial support for low‑margin crops like samba and thaladi, farmer incomes could plunge dramatically," says agricultural economist Dr. Ajay Rao.

Water Release Concerns

G. Srinivasan of Ganapathi Agraharam, Papanasam taluk, pointed out that the water level in Mettur Dam has crossed 86 feet and is likely to reach 90 feet within days. He warned that delayed water release would postpone preparatory work for samba/thaladi cultivation, exposing the crop to monsoon damage.

Did You Know?: Mettur Dam is Tamil Nadu’s largest reservoir, with a capacity of 93 cubic kilometres.

Frequently Asked Questions

When will the special package for samba and thaladi be announced? The association has asked for the package to be declared under Rule 110 during the current Assembly session.

What benefits would declaring the delta districts drought‑hit bring? It would unlock additional funds from the National Disaster Relief Fund, providing immediate assistance to affected farmers.