Chennai, May 20: The Tamil Nadu government has made a significant decision to provide relief to farmers and potters. In a review meeting chaired by Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay at the secretariat, crucial discussions were held regarding the removal of silt from reservoirs.
The government has decided to allow farmers, potters, and residents to extract silt from ponds and lakes free of charge ahead of the upcoming Northeast monsoon.
It was reported in the meeting that Tamil Nadu has approximately 40,000 lakes and ponds managed by the Water Resources Department and the Rural Development and Panchayat Raj Department. Removing the accumulated silt will not only benefit farmers but also enhance the water storage capacity of these reservoirs.
The government clarified that farmers and potters can collect silt without any royalty fees. This entire process will be monitored by officials from the relevant departments to prevent any irregularities.
Additionally, the government has simplified the application process. Farmers, potters, and individuals interested in collecting silt for domestic use can apply online through the Tamil Nadu E-Sevai portal. After receiving applications, the concerned tehsildar will issue permits for the specified quantity of silt within ten days.
To ensure effective implementation of the scheme, district collectors have also been instructed accordingly. A list of identified lakes and ponds for the year 2026-27 will be published in district gazettes. The district administration has been asked to monitor the scheme in accordance with existing rules and guidelines.
This important meeting was attended by Rural Development and Water Resources Minister N. Anand, Finance Minister K.A. Sengottaiyan, Chief Secretary Dr. M. Saikumar, along with several senior IAS officers and departmental secretaries.
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