Farmers in Theni raise concern over decrease in sugarcane yield

Farmers in Theni raise concern over decrease in sugarcane yield

Removal of encroachments from waterbodies, the need to prevent wild animals from damaging crops and need for an adequate number of direct purchase centres were some of the issues highlighted at the farmers grievance redress meeting held in Theni on Friday.

At the meeting presided over by the District Revenue Officer P. Rajakumar, the farmers urged the authorities to remove the encroachments from waterbodies, particularly in regions such as Kombai and Bodi.

The farmers demanded that the authorities take necessary action and prevent wild animals from damaging the crops. They also urged the authorities to repair roads and provide basic amenities in places such as Chinna Suruli.

A section of farmers urged the authorities to waive crop loans. They said they had suffered a loss. They also demanded release of adequate water for irrigation purposes. The authorities should test the soil and preserve soil fertility, they said.

They also raised concern over decrease in sugarcane yield in Theni district. They urged the authorities to look into the issue and take necessary steps to ensure that the sugarcane yield increased.

The farmers called for mapping of agricultural areas in the district and to set up an adequate number of direct purchase centres.