Farmers in the regions of Settikurichi, Muchundapatti, and Puzuthipatti have cultivated a variety of crops such as rice, groundnuts, and chilies, along with black gram (ulundu) across over 200 acres of land. However, recent weather conditions have caused severe damage to their crops. Despite having planted crops during the auspicious Karthikai month, the unexpected rainfall that occurred a few days ago led to the falling off of flowers from the crops. Now, many plants are in a vulnerable state, with some nearing the point of withering.
Palani Kumar, a farmer from Settikurichi, shared his concerns about the situation. He explained that although heavy rains had fallen in many areas of Tamil Nadu, his region, particularly S. Pudur Union, did not receive adequate rainfall this year. He had planted black gram (Vamban 11 variety) on 10 acres as a standalone crop. However, the recent rain has caused significant damage by causing the flowers to fall and weakening the plants. This follows a disappointing year in which farmers in the region suffered losses due to poor yields from rice, groundnuts, and chilies.
While other areas have received more rainfall, Settikurichi and surrounding regions have faced both the problem of insufficient rain and the damaging effects of the rain that did fall. In some places, farming activities have been entirely disrupted. Farmers are now requesting that a thorough investigation be conducted into the issue, and that compensation be provided to those affected by these unpredictable weather patterns and crop losses. They hope the government will take necessary steps to address these challenges and mitigate their financial losses.
