Will Tamil Nadu Achieve Its Ambitious Kuruvai Cultivation Target?
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Synopsis
The Tamil Nadu government aims for a bold Kuruvai cultivation target of over five lakh acres this season, driven by favorable water levels and a promising monsoon outlook. With a commitment to timely irrigation release and support for farmers, this initiative marks a significant step towards enhancing agricultural productivity in the Cauvery delta.
Key Takeaways
- Tamil Nadu aims for over five lakh acres of Kuruvai cultivation this year.
- Water levels in the Mettur reservoir are favorable.
- Timely release of irrigation water is critical.
- The state government continues to support farmers with financial packages.
- Average Kuruvai coverage has increased significantly over the years.
Chennai, June 8 (NationPress) With favorable water storage levels in the Mettur reservoir and an optimistic monsoon forecast, the Tamil Nadu government has set an ambitious Kuruvai cultivation target of over five lakh acres in the Cauvery delta region for the current agricultural season.
This represents a notable rise from last year's achievement of 3.88 lakh acres, which fell short by nearly 1.7 lakh acres compared to the 2023–24 season.
The previous year's shortfall was largely due to the delayed release of irrigation water from the Mettur dam. Although the water release was scheduled for June 12, the actual release was postponed until July 28, hampering timely paddy transplantation over extensive regions.
Given the current favorable conditions, the government has declared that the dam will be opened for irrigation on the anticipated date of June 12 this year. Officials and experts are optimistic that this timely release could enhance Kuruvai cultivation coverage to as much as 5.6 lakh acres.
The government’s renewed optimism is bolstered by the ample water storage in Mettur and the India Meteorological Department’s (IMD) forecast of a favorable Southwest Monsoon across the Cauvery catchment regions of Karnataka and Kerala.
This news coincides with the upcoming meeting of the Cauvery Water Regulation Committee (CWRC), scheduled for June 10.
Tamil Nadu's primary demand remains steadfast: that Karnataka adhere strictly to the monthly water release schedule as per the Supreme Court’s pivotal ruling from February 2018 and the subsequent directives of the Cauvery Water Management Authority (CWMA).
Since the apex court's decision allocated Tamil Nadu's annual share at 177.25 tmcft at Biligundulu, the state has experienced a water realization shortfall only once -- during the 2023-24 water year. To encourage paddy cultivation, the state government will continue its special Kuruvai package for delta farmers, with an allocation of Rs 58 crore. This scheme provides subsidies for mechanized paddy transplantation, certified quality seeds, bio-fertilizers, and micronutrient mixtures, aiming to enhance productivity and lower input costs for farmers.
Experts indicate that the average Kuruvai coverage over the last five years (2020-21 to 2024-25) has stabilized around 4.77 lakh acres, marking a new normal compared to the traditional figure of 3.24 lakh acres.
Point of View
It is crucial to recognize Tamil Nadu's proactive stance in enhancing its agricultural output amidst challenges. The government's commitment to timely irrigation and support for farmers reflects an authoritative approach to ensuring food security while adhering to legal frameworks established by the Supreme Court.
NationPress
08/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Kuruvai cultivation target for Tamil Nadu this year?
The Tamil Nadu government has set a Kuruvai cultivation target of over five lakh acres for the current agricultural season.
What factors contributed to last year's shortfall in Kuruvai cultivation?
The shortfall was primarily due to the delayed release of irrigation water from the Mettur dam.
When is the irrigation water set to be released this year?
The irrigation water from the Mettur dam is scheduled to be released on June 12 this year.
What support is the Tamil Nadu government providing to farmers?
The government is offering a special Kuruvai package, including subsidies for mechanized transplantation, quality seeds, bio-fertilizers, and micronutrients.
How does the average Kuruvai coverage compare over the past five years?
The average Kuruvai coverage over the last five years has been around 4.77 lakh acres, compared to the traditional figure of 3.24 lakh acres.
