Tue Aug 05 13:23:06 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary and a news article based on the provided text:
**Summary:**
The Tamil Nadu state government has announced the “Tribal Farmers Development Scheme” to improve the income and livelihoods of tribal farmers cultivating millets. The scheme, implemented in Anthiyur, Sathyamangalam, and Thalavadi blocks, aims to increase the area under millet cultivation and boost production of nutrient-rich millets like ragi, kodo millet, foxtail millet, barnyard millet, and little millet. Eligible farmers receive a subsidy of ₹1,600 per acre for inter-cultivation activities and free millet seed kits. Farmers can register through agricultural extension centers or the Uzhavan mobile app.
**News Article:**
**Tamil Nadu Launches Scheme to Boost Tribal Farmers’ Millet Production**
*ERODE, August 5, 2025* – The Tamil Nadu government has unveiled a new initiative aimed at bolstering the livelihoods of tribal farmers involved in millet cultivation. The “Tribal Farmers Development Scheme,” announced today, focuses on increasing the production and productivity of nutrient-rich millets in the Anthiyur, Sathyamangalam, and Thalavadi blocks.
According to a release from M. Tamilselvi, Joint Director of Agriculture, the scheme seeks to expand the area under cultivation for millets such as ragi (finger millet), kodo millet, foxtail millet, barnyard millet, and little millet, all of which are staples in the tribal diet and possess significant nutritional value.
Eligible tribal farmers traditionally engaged in millet farming will receive a subsidy of ₹1,600 per acre to support essential inter-cultivation activities like ploughing, weeding, spraying, and bird-scaring. In addition, the government will provide free millet seed kits, each weighing four kg and valued at ₹300, representing a 100% subsidy.
“This scheme is a crucial step towards empowering our tribal communities and ensuring sustainable income generation through the cultivation of these vital crops,” stated Tamilselvi. “By providing financial assistance and quality seeds, we aim to significantly improve their yields and overall economic well-being.”
Farmers interested in participating in the Tribal Farmers Development Scheme are encouraged to register at the agricultural extension centers located in Anthiyur, Sathyamangalam, and Thalavadi blocks. Alternatively, they can register conveniently through the Uzhavan mobile application. The scheme is expected to have a significant impact on the agricultural landscape of these regions, promoting both economic growth and nutritional security.
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