Fri Dec 19 16:01:28 UTC 2025: Okay, here’s a news article summarizing the text:

Virudhunagar Farmers Allege Fertilizer Price Gouging and Forced Sales; Irrigation Canal Blocked

Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu – December 19, 2025 – The Tamil Nadu Farmers’ Association today voiced strong concerns over fertilizer pricing and availability during the monthly farmers’ grievances redress meeting held in Virudhunagar district. V. Murugan, the association’s district secretary, alleged that private shops are charging farmers prices exceeding the maximum retail price for fertilizers and forcing them to purchase unwanted goods in addition. He further stated that proper bills are not being issued and some areas are experiencing fertilizer shortages due to inadequate planning by officials.

District Collector N. O. Sukhaputra, who chaired the meeting, pledged to form a special team to monitor fertilizer availability and sales.

N. A. Ramachandra Raja, district president of the Tamilaga Vivasayigal Sangam, welcomed the new coconut crop insurance scheme and urged its swift implementation in the district.

Adding to the farmers’ grievances, Alagarsamy, another attendee, reported that an irrigation canal has been blocked due to ongoing Ring Road construction for Sivakasi, despite repeated appeals to the Highways Department. The Collector assured him that he would investigate the matter.

Farmers also requested the establishment of direct paddy procurement centers in Watrap taluk, coinciding with the start of the harvest season. The grievances were heard at the monthly farmers grievances redress meeting and the promise of actions to be taken was addressed.

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