Tue Jun 17 16:36:10 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the provided text, followed by a news article rewrite:

**Summary:**

Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin visited the Sivaganga district to review development projects. Key highlights included inspecting an anicut project aimed at improving irrigation, addressing farmer concerns about water scarcity and invasive tree species (Prosopis juliflora) in the Vaigai river, visiting a sports hostel, and presiding over a meeting to review completed and ongoing projects. He also distributed welfare assistance to beneficiaries.

**News Article:**

**Tamil Nadu Deputy CM Stalin Addresses Irrigation, Farmer Concerns in Sivaganga Visit**

**SIVAGANGA, June 17, 2025** – Deputy Chief Minister Udhayanidhi Stalin visited the Sivaganga district today to assess ongoing development projects and address local concerns. A central focus of the visit was the inspection of the Tirupuvanam Pudur anicut project, a ₹40.27 crore initiative designed to improve irrigation for tail-end areas.

Farmers appealed to the Deputy CM to expedite the removal of seemai karuvelam trees (Prosopis juliflora) from the Vaigai river, which they say hinder water flow and damage the ecosystem. Stalin acknowledged the issue and pledged to address it, emphasizing the importance of the project in ensuring water access to approximately 7,000 acres of cultivable land.

“The anicut will provide vital irrigation to the region, feeding the Tirupuvanam to Kanur canal and Pazhayanoor canal, which support numerous tanks,” officials stated.

Stalin also visited the District Sports Stadium hostel, where he interacted with young athletes, shared a meal, and listened to their concerns. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting sports and youth development.

During a review meeting, District Collector Asha Ajith briefed the Deputy CM on the progress of various district projects. Stalin expressed satisfaction with the work completed over the past four years but acknowledged that expectations remain. He urged officials to work closely with elected representatives to address outstanding public needs.

The Deputy CM concluded his visit by distributing ₹24.24 crore in welfare assistance to 1,512 beneficiaries, highlighting the government’s commitment to social welfare programs.

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