Tamil Nadu Minister Highlights Stark Contrast in Farmer Welfare Between DMK and AIADMK Regimes
In a heated debate on the interim agriculture budget in Chennai, State Agriculture Minister M R K Panneerselvam launched a scathing attack on the previous AIADMK government, accusing it of neglecting farmer welfare and citing alarming statistics on farmer suicides.
Allegations of 102 Farmer Suicides Under AIADMK Rule
Panneerselvam asserted that during the tenure of the opposition AIADMK party, a distressing total of 102 farmer suicides were recorded in Tamil Nadu. He attributed this tragic figure to what he described as a lack of effective support and outreach to the agricultural community under their administration.
DMK Government's Claim of Zero Farmer Deaths
In stark contrast, the minister proudly declared that under the current DMK government led by Chief Minister M K Stalin, there have been no farmer suicides in the past five years. He credited this achievement to the government's proactive welfare measures and targeted initiatives aimed at addressing farmers' grievances promptly.
Key welfare efforts highlighted by Panneerselvam include:
- Implementation of several farmer-centric schemes designed with direct input from the agricultural community.
- Distribution of over Rs 2,000 crore as relief funds for farmers affected by crop damage due to natural calamities.
- Ensuring the timely release of water from the Mettur dam every year on the customary date of June 12, a critical practice for irrigation.
Personal Engagement and Leadership Under CM Stalin
Panneerselvam emphasized Chief Minister Stalin's hands-on approach to farmer issues, recounting instances where Stalin personally visited cyclone-affected areas. Notably, he mentioned Stalin traveling on a tractor in Cuddalore district to assess crop damage firsthand, demonstrating a deep respect and commitment to the farming sector.
Rebuttal to AIADMK's Narrative on Agricultural Growth
The minister also countered claims from the AIADMK, led by general secretary Edappadi K Palaniswami, that the agriculture sector was not progressing under DMK rule. Panneerselvam argued that, in reality, the sector is growing, with no significant protests from farmers—a situation he contrasted with the frequent unrest during the AIADMK regime. He attributed this stability to regular interactions with farmers and policy designs based on their feedback.
Panneerselvam concluded by questioning the AIADMK's record, specifically asking whether Palaniswami had ensured the timely release of Mettur dam water during his tenure, further underscoring the DMK's commitment to agricultural welfare.
