Fri Feb 21 17:08:54 UTC 2025: ## Madurai Farmers Protest DPC Irregularities, Support SIPCOT Project
**Madurai, February 21, 2025** – Farmers in Madurai district voiced concerns about corruption and irregularities within the district’s Direct Purchase Centres (DPCs) during a grievance meeting held on Friday at the Madurai Collectorate. Key complaints included exorbitant handling charges and the acceptance of paddy from outside the district, impacting farmers already struggling with low yields due to adverse climate conditions. Farmers argued this prevented them from receiving rightful compensation for crop losses.
The affected farmers demanded the formation of a committee to investigate these irregularities and take appropriate action. Collector M.S. Sangeetha assured that the issues would be thoroughly investigated.
In a contrasting development, while some Melur farmers previously opposed the SIPCOT project, a group at the meeting expressed their support, believing it would bring development to the region. Farmers also requested the provision of traditional mochai seeds for cultural events, a request the authorities pledged to address. Additional concerns raised included encroachment on agricultural lands, with instructions given to authorities to investigate and take action.
First Piper 