Thu Dec 12 12:46:54 UTC 2024: ## Tamil Nadu Farmers Protest Industrialization of Agricultural Zones
**Thanjavur, Tamil Nadu – December 12, 2024** – Farmers in Thanjavur district, Tamil Nadu, have voiced strong opposition to the establishment of industrial estates within the state’s protected agricultural zones. At a grievance redress meeting held on Thursday, farmers expressed concerns that non-agricultural industries would damage the environment crucial for sustaining traditional farming practices in the delta regions.
Their concerns stem from recent initiatives by the State Industries Promotion Corporation of Tamil Nadu (SIPCOT) to develop industrial areas in zones designated for agriculture under the Tamil Nadu Protected Agricultural Zone Development Act, 2020. While acknowledging the potential for agricultural-related industries like bio-manure production, farmers argue that non-agricultural activities would undermine the Act’s purpose and harm the delicate ecosystem.
The farmers urged the government to rectify any flaws in the 2020 Act to ensure its effective implementation. They also highlighted issues such as the non-issuance of receipts for crop insurance premiums and demanded a revision of the paddy incentive, proposing ₹750 per quintal to reflect increased cultivation costs. Collector B. Priyanka Pankajam presided over the meeting.
First Piper 