Farmers’ associations seek lifting of toddy ban in Tamil Nadu

Farmers’ associations in Tamil Nadu are urging the state government to lift the long-standing ban on toddy tapping, arguing that the practice supports livelihoods and could generate employment opportunities. The demand, led by groups like the Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement, comes as tappers in districts such as Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli, Ramanathapuram, and Kanniyakumari face economic hardship due to the prohibition.

C.Nallasamy, coordinator of the Tamil Nadu Toddy Movement, emphasized that lifting the ban would not only restore jobs but also enable the export of toddy as a health drink. “We have been seeking Chief Minister M.K. Stalin’s intervention to lift the ban, which has been in place for decades,” he said. Nallasamy also highlighted the environmental role of palmyrah trees, which help stabilize groundwater and are commonly planted near ponds and farmlands. He pointed out that no other Indian state has imposed such a restriction on toddy tapping.

The movement has repeatedly petitioned successive governments, including during a past meeting with a former Chief Minister, but no concrete action has been taken. “We have been pursuing this for over 35 years with no result. We remain hopeful that this government will address our long-standing demand,” Nallasamy stated.

E.Devarajulu, Chennai zone coordinator of the Tamizhaga Vivasayigal Paadhugappu Sangam, suggested that the state could generate additional revenue by regulating toddy sales through government-run outlets, similar to the Tamil Nadu State Marketing Corporation (TASMAC). “Toddy is a natural beverage with low alcohol content and high nutritional value. Even the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court has questioned why the government hasn’t framed rules for its tapping, production, and sale,” he noted.

The judiciary has previously questioned the state’s stance on toddy prohibition. In recent hearings, the Madurai Bench of the Madras High Court sought clarity on whether the government could establish a legal framework for the sale of toddy. The court’s inquiry has renewed public debate over the economic and social implications of maintaining the ban.

Toddy tappers, many of whom belong to marginalized communities, rely entirely on this seasonal occupation. With no alternative livelihoods readily available, advocates argue that lifting the ban could bring much-needed financial stability to thousands of households across southern Tamil Nadu.

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