Tamil Nadu farmers renew demand to lift ban on toddy tapping

Farmers' associations in Tamil Nadu have renewed their demand for the state government to lift the prohibition on toddy tapping, arguing that the traditional drink offers both health benefits and economic opportunities.

C. Nallasamy, coordinator of the Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement, said the ban has deprived thousands of tappers of their livelihood. He pointed out that palmyrah trees, which are abundant in districts such as Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Ramanathapuram, and Kanniyakumari, also help anchor groundwater and are commonly planted along ponds and farmlands. He noted that no other state in India has imposed a similar ban.

The movement has been petitioning successive governments for over 35 years. Nallasamy recalled an instance where a former Chief Minister had promised to lift the ban and even invited representatives to a conference, but no announcement was made, leaving them disappointed.

E. Devarajulu, Chennai zone coordinator of the Tamizhaga Vivasayigal Paadhugappu Sangam, suggested that if the state can operate Tasmac outlets selling Indian Made Foreign Liquor, it could similarly run shops for toddy and earn revenue. He described toddy as a natural drink with low alcohol content and rich in vitamins.

Devarajulu also noted that courts have taken an interest in the matter. The Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court recently asked whether a framework for tapping, production, and sale of toddy could be devised in the state.

The associations have urged Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to consider lifting the ban, which they believe would create jobs and open up export possibilities for the product.