Daijiworld Media Network- Chennai
Chennai, May 15: With the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicting an early onset of the southwest monsoon, farmers across Tamil Nadu have begun groundwork for the Kuruvai paddy cultivation season with renewed optimism and vigor.
The encouraging water storage levels at the Mettur Dam, coupled with summer showers in key catchment areas, have breathed new life into the Delta districts—often referred to as the rice bowl of Tamil Nadu. The Tamil Nadu Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare Department has already initiated pre-season measures, ensuring the timely distribution of quality seeds and fertilizers.
Agricultural officials have commenced the stocking of short-duration paddy seed varieties such as CO 51, CO 55, ASD 16, ASD 21, TPS 5, and ADT 36—popular among cultivators for their yield potential and adaptability. Though traditional varieties like ADT 36 and ASD 16 do not fall under the subsidy scheme, their agronomic strengths continue to attract farmers year after year.
Reflecting on last year’s record feat, Tamil Nadu had witnessed a historic high in Kuruvai cultivation, covering approximately 5.599 lakh acres (2.27 lakh hectares)—a first in nearly five decades. This was made possible due to the timely release of Cauvery water from the Mettur Dam on June 12, and the early arrival of the southwest monsoon.
The Delta belt—comprising Thanjavur (1.30 lakh acres), Tiruvarur (92,500 acres), Mayiladuthurai (90,000 acres), Tiruchy (16,105 acres), and Nagapattinam (3,750 acres)—had played a major role in achieving the milestone. In areas facing Cauvery water delays, farmers resorted to groundwater irrigation to bridge the gap.
As per reports, the water level at the Mettur Dam as of May 11, 2025, stood at 108.30 feet—significantly higher compared to the same period last year. With a promising monsoon in sight, agriculture department officials are hopeful that the upcoming season may witness even greater cultivation than 2024.
In anticipation of the sowing surge, arrangements are also being made to provide region-specific fertilisers and inputs. Farmers are expected to receive seeds tailored to local conditions, ensuring maximum productivity.
Meanwhile, sources in the agriculture department hinted at the imminent rollout of a government-backed Kuruvai cultivation package aimed at boosting yields and reducing input costs.
With nature offering a favorable hand and the administration prepared to support on every front, Tamil Nadu’s farmers are all set to turn the 2025 Kuruvai season into another chapter of agricultural success.