MP Durai Vaiko Calls for Urgent Maize Price Support in Tamil Nadu
Durai Vaiko, a Member of Parliament, has made a pressing appeal to Tamil Nadu Chief Minister M K Stalin to address the severe crisis gripping maize farmers in the state. He has urged the introduction of a market intervention price for maize or the provision of targeted subsidies to help farmers overcome substantial financial losses caused by plummeting market prices.
Severe Disparity Between Production Costs and Market Rates
The current situation is dire for maize cultivators. Production costs for maize range from ₹2,000 to ₹2,200 per quintal, while market rates have fallen to as low as ₹1,700 to ₹1,800 per quintal, or even lower in some cases. This significant disparity is not just a minor setback; it is causing substantial losses that render farmers' hard work futile and threaten their very livelihoods, as highlighted by Durai Vaiko.
Proposed Minimum Subsidy and State Burden-Sharing
To mitigate this crisis, Durai Vaiko has proposed a minimum subsidy of ₹250 per quintal. This measure would allow the state government to share the financial burden with farmers, thereby sustaining maize cultivation and preventing further economic distress in the agricultural sector. The MP emphasized that such support is crucial to ensure the viability of farming operations and protect rural economies.
Examples from Neighboring States
Durai Vaiko cited successful models from other states to bolster his argument. He pointed to Karnataka's market intervention scheme (MIS), which guarantees up to ₹2,150 per quintal for maize. Under this scheme, when market prices fall below ₹1,900, farmers receive compensation of up to ₹250 per quintal. Additionally, he noted that states like Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Kerala actively support maize farmers through similar measures, demonstrating that effective interventions are feasible and beneficial.
Key Maize Cultivation Regions in Tamil Nadu
In Tamil Nadu, maize cultivation is widespread and significant, particularly in districts such as Tirunelveli, Tenkasi, Virudhunagar, Thoothukudi, Ariyalur, Perambalur, and Kallakurichi. These regions rely heavily on maize farming, making the current price crisis a critical issue for local communities and the state's agricultural output. The MP's call to action underscores the need for immediate policy measures to safeguard these vital farming areas.
The appeal from Durai Vaiko highlights a growing urgency for state intervention to stabilize maize prices and support farmers. As market fluctuations continue to pose challenges, targeted subsidies or market intervention could provide much-needed relief, ensuring the sustainability of maize cultivation in Tamil Nadu and protecting the livelihoods of countless farmers.
