Udhayanidhi Stalin Demands Full-Time Agriculture Secretary to Address Farmers Concerns in Tamil Nadu

Chennai, October 6 (Daily Kiran) : Opposition leader Udhayanidhi Stalin has called on the Tamil Nadu government to appoint a full-time agriculture secretary without delay. Speaking on Tuesday in Chennai, he emphasized that the lack of dedicated administrative leadership is exacerbating farmers’ concerns as the rainy season approaches.

Stalin pointed out that it has been a month since IAS officer Shankar, who previously served as secretary for the agriculture and farmer welfare department, was transferred to the post of archaeological commissioner. Despite this, the government has yet to fill the vacancy with a full-time official.

He questioned how the government could leave such a crucial department without a dedicated secretary, especially when there is a separate budget for agriculture. The absence of this position raises serious doubts about the administration’s commitment to farmers’ welfare, he stated.

With the monsoon season imminent, Stalin argued that the agricultural sector requires stable leadership and swift coordination. He stressed the importance of having a full-time secretary to ensure timely decisions affecting farmers and to maintain constant oversight of agricultural activities at the district level. He criticized the agriculture minister and the chief minister for being preoccupied with other matters instead of addressing these pressing issues.

Stalin also criticized the ruling DMK government for failing to fulfill its promise of crop loan waivers since coming to power. He accused the administration of implementing poorly planned measures, which have only intensified the challenges faced by farmers cultivating samba rice amid natural disasters.

He highlighted the ongoing struggles of Tamil Nadu’s farmers, referencing protests over irrigation shortages and demands for loan relief. On Monday, farmers blocked roads in Muthupettai, expressing frustration that irrigation water has not reached areas at the end of canals. They also entered Veeranam Lake in protest, demanding the release of water for agriculture.

The Tamil Nadu Farmers’ Association announced plans to stage a protest at the secretariat in Chennai on October 14, demanding full crop loan waivers as promised in the election manifesto.

Stalin reiterated the need for an experienced senior IAS officer to lead the agriculture department and address farmers’ difficulties. He criticized the current situation, where the department is struggling under an inactive minister and an absent secretary, reflecting the government’s indifference toward the farming community.

He urged the government to act swiftly, appoint a full-time agriculture secretary, and resolve farmers’ complaints through timely decisions and coordinated actions.