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Key Points

Tamil Nadu farmers staged a protest in Chennai demanding immediate relief for rain-damaged crops. They urged the MK Stalin government to implement promised agricultural budget schemes and halt smart meter installations. Protesters also called for loan waivers and a guaranteed minimum support price for crops. The farmers' association warned of escalating protests if their demands remain unmet.

Key Points: Tamil Nadu Farmers Protest Rain Crop Damage and Smart Meter Plans

  • Farmers protest crop damage from heavy rains
  • Demand implementation of agricultural budget schemes
  • Oppose smart meters fearing loss of free electricity
  • Seek MSP guarantee and loan waivers
2 min read

Farmers stage protest in Chennai, demand relief for rain-hit crops, policy changes

Farmers in Chennai demand relief for rain-hit crops, oppose smart meters, and push for agricultural budget implementation from MK Stalin government.

"Today, we are holding this half-nude protest to highlight our demands. The Tamil Nadu government announced an agricultural budget but has not released funds. – Vishwanathan, Farmers Association President"

Chennai, May 22

Members of the Tamil Nadu River and Tank Irrigation Farmers Association staged a protest near Rajarathinam Stadium in Egmore, Chennai on Thursday, demanding immediate government action on crop damage compensation, agricultural budget implementation, and policy reforms.

The protesters, including farmers and their family members, raised slogans, urging Chief Minister MK Stalin to provide relief for crops such as maize, banana and small onions that were severely damaged due to recent heavy rains.

They also pressed for the implementation of schemes announced in the agricultural budget, loan waivers for distressed farmers, and a rollback of the proposed installation of digital electricity meters.

Vishwanathan, President of the Tamil Nadu River and Tank Irrigation Farmers Association, expressed the protesters' grievances, stating, "Today, we are holding this half-nude protest to highlight our demands. The Tamil Nadu government announced an agricultural budget but has not released funds for the schemes. We demand that the government ensure the budget is implemented and funds are released by June end."

The farmers also opposed the state's plan to install smart meters, fearing it would threaten the free electricity scheme for agriculture. "The union government's new electricity law should not be implemented in Tamil Nadu. The state must drop the idea of fixing smart meters," Vishwanathan added.

Another major demand was compensation for crops damaged in the recent rains. "Corn, banana, and small onion cultivations have been severely affected. We demand the government intervene with insurance companies to ensure farmers receive fair compensation," he said.

The protestors also highlighted their long-pending demand for a minimum support price (MSP) guarantee.

"We have been protesting continuously to fix the minimum wages for crops, but it has not been implemented yet. The union government must announce this soon," Vishwanathan stressed.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

R
Rajesh K.
Farmers are the backbone of our nation! The government must act quickly on their demands. When crops fail due to natural causes, immediate compensation should be automatic. Why make them protest for basic rights? #StandWithFarmers
P
Priya M.
As someone from Chennai, I saw the protest today. The farmers' plight is real - small onion prices have skyrocketed due to crop damage. Government should focus on implementing existing schemes before announcing new ones. Action speaks louder than budgets!
S
Suresh V.
While I support farmers, the smart meter issue needs balanced view. Free electricity leads to overuse and groundwater depletion. Maybe phased implementation with subsidies would work better? We must think long-term about resources.
A
Ananya R.
MSP guarantee is crucial for farmer welfare! Our neighboring states have better support systems. Tamil Nadu farmers deserve same security. Also, insurance companies must stop delaying claims - they're quick to take premiums but slow to pay 😤
K
Karthik B.
The agricultural budget was announced with much fanfare but where's the implementation? This is becoming pattern - big announcements, zero follow-through. Farmers shouldn't have to resort to 'half-nude' protests to be heard. Shameful!
M
Meena S.
Banana and small onions are staple crops in Tamil Nadu. When these fail, it affects entire supply chain from farmers to local vendors. Government must act fast before situation worsens. Maybe special task force for rain-affected districts?

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