Dindigul farmers demand drought-hit status, loan waivers at grievance meeting

Farmers in Dindigul district have urged the administration to declare the district as drought-hit, citing dried-up waterbodies and severely affected agricultural activities. The demand was raised during a farmers' grievance redressal meeting held at the Collectorate on Thursday, presided over by Collector Durgamoorthi.

Representing the farming community, the farmers told the Collector that the prolonged dry spell had left waterbodies across the district parched. With no water available for irrigation, agricultural operations have been crippled, causing significant losses to crop yields. The declaration of the district as drought-hit would enable the government to provide necessary relief measures, they argued.

The farmers also pressed for the waiver of crop loans, noting that their financial losses due to the drought made repayment impossible. They further highlighted the acute drinking water crisis in the region. Responding to these concerns, the Collector assured that drinking water supply would be given top priority, and new borewells would be sunk to address the needs of the affected population.

In addition to these demands, the farmers drew attention to encroachments on irrigation canals, which they said obstructed the flow of water. They called for the removal of these encroachments and the desilting of waterbodies to improve water storage. The Collector said an inspection would be conducted and appropriate action would be taken on these matters.

The issue of wild animals damaging crops, particularly in the Sirumalai region, was also raised. Officials assured the farmers that the matter would be looked into and necessary measures would be adopted to mitigate the problem.

Regarding the supply of fertilisers, the farmers urged the authorities to prevent hoarding and ensure fair distribution. The authorities responded by stating that a committee would be formed to look into the matter and take suitable action. Complaints about stone quarrying operations in the area were also brought up, with farmers seeking action against the activities.

The meeting concluded with a section of farmers staging a walkout, expressing dissatisfaction that their grievances had not been adequately addressed over time. The authorities, however, assured them of prompt action on the issues raised.

Dindigul, an agrarian district in Tamil Nadu, has been facing water scarcity in recent years due to erratic monsoons. The demand for a drought declaration reflects the growing distress among farmers, who are seeking government support to cope with the adverse conditions.