Should PM Modi Extend Price Deficiency Scheme to Tamil Nadu Mango Farmers?
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Synopsis
In a compelling plea, AIADMK leader Edappadi K. Palaniswami has urged PM Modi to extend the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme to Tamil Nadu's mango farmers, mirroring the recent support offered to Karnataka's cultivators. This article dives into the pressing issues facing farmers and the urgent need for government intervention.
Key Takeaways
- AIADMK's call for support for Tamil Nadu mango farmers.
- Request for fixed procurement prices and compensation for losses.
- GST reduction on mango pulp is crucial for producers.
- Highlighting agricultural distress as a key issue ahead of elections.
- Need for government intervention to stabilize the farming sector.
Chennai, June 24 (NationPress) The AIADMK General Secretary and Tamil Nadu's Leader of the Opposition, Edappadi K. Palaniswami, has called on Prime Minister Narendra Modi to expand the Union government's Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) to support mango farmers in the state, particularly after the recent provision of financial aid to mango growers in Karnataka.
This central initiative is projected to aid farmers producing over 2.5 lakh tonnes of Totapuri mangoes in Karnataka, assisting them in mitigating substantial losses caused by falling prices and market saturation.
Palaniswami expressed in a social media update that mango producers in Tamil Nadu are facing similar hardships, with prices dipping from Rs 20 per kg last year to below Rs 4 per kg this season.
He emphasized the severe plight of farmers in significant mango-producing districts, including Krishnagiri, Dindigul, Madurai, Salem, Dharmapuri, Theni, and Vellore, noting that entire orchards have been left unharvested due to unsold inventories, while pulp processing facilities are declining to purchase, citing inferior quality and diminished demand.
Demanding swift action, the former Chief Minister urged both the central government and the DMK-led administration to provide relief. He insisted on a guaranteed procurement price of Rs 13 per kg for mangoes and compensation of Rs 30,000 per acre for the impacted farmers.
Furthermore, he advocated for a reduction in the Goods and Services Tax (GST) on mango pulp from 12% to 5% to alleviate the financial strain on both producers and processors.
Referring to a recent hunger strike led by the AIADMK in Krishnagiri, aimed at supporting mango growers, Palaniswami reaffirmed his party's dedication to the welfare of the agricultural community.
“The AIADMK will always support farmers and advocate for their rights,” he stated, while critiquing the DMK government for its apparent negligence in tackling the crisis.
Palaniswami also raised issues regarding perceived delays and inequities in the promotion of police personnel, requesting the state government to honor its election commitment to promote constables to the rank of Special Sub-Inspector (SSI) after 20 years of service, rather than the current 25-year requirement.
The dual appeals from the AIADMK leader indicate the party's heightened focus on agricultural distress and governmental accountability as the 2026 Assembly elections approach.
Point of View
The plea from Edappadi K. Palaniswami highlights the pressing concerns of farmers in Tamil Nadu. The request for the extension of the PDPS underscores the need for timely government intervention in agricultural distress, ensuring that farmers receive adequate support and fair pricing. Such actions are crucial for stabilizing the agricultural economy, especially as elections approach.
NationPress
24/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Price Deficiency Payment Scheme?
The Price Deficiency Payment Scheme (PDPS) is a government initiative aimed at providing financial assistance to farmers when the market price of their produce falls below a predetermined minimum support price.
Why are Tamil Nadu mango farmers in distress?
Tamil Nadu mango farmers are facing significant distress due to a drastic drop in prices from Rs 20 per kg to under Rs 4 per kg, leading to unsold produce and abandoned orchards.
What support is being requested for Tamil Nadu farmers?
Edappadi K. Palaniswami is urging the government to implement a fixed procurement price of Rs 13 per kg for mangoes and offer compensation of Rs 30,000 per acre to affected farmers.
How does GST affect mango pulp producers?
The current Goods and Services Tax (GST) on mango pulp is set at 12%, which increases the financial burden on producers. A reduction to 5% is being requested to alleviate this pressure.
What impact could this have on future elections?
The AIADMK's focus on agricultural distress and farmer welfare may shape voter sentiments as the 2026 Assembly elections approach, potentially influencing political dynamics in Tamil Nadu.
