Farmers’ associations seek lifting of toddy ban in Tamil Nadu

Farmers' associations in Tamil Nadu have been advocating for the removal of the ban on toddy tapping, arguing that it is a healthful beverage. "Our goal is to convince Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay and his administration to lift the ban," stated C. Nallasamy, the coordinator of the Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement. The association emphasizes that toddy can not only generate employment opportunities but also be exported.

Nallasamy mentions that toddy tapping is prevalent in regions like Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Ramanathapuram, and Kanniyakumari, where it aids in groundwater conservation by being planted near ponds and farmlands. Unfortunately, despite regular petitions and appeals to governments and Chief Ministers, the ban remains in place. Nallasamy recalls a past promise from a former Chief Minister to lift the ban but notes that no action was taken.

E. Devarajulu, the Chennai zone coordinator of Tamizhaga Vivasayigal Paadhugappu Sangam, suggests that if the government runs Tasmac shops to sell Indian Made Foreign Liquor, it could also benefit from toddy shops due to the natural drink's low alcohol content and high vitamin levels. The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has also requested information on devising a framework for toddy tapping, production, and sale within the state.