Farmers seek compensation for red chillies

Round red chillies are planted in dry land vegetation and are rabi crops, sown in winter. In southern districts, the round red chillies are planted in the northern parts of Thoothukudi and southern part of Ramanathapuram district, a semi-arid region. 

Speaking to DT Next, Varatharajan, MDMK state vice president (Farmers Wing), said for round red chillies dampness in soil is a prerequisite for them. However, due to absence of rainfall, the quality of chillies had taken a beating. In the past, the yield per acre was four quintals. But now because of dryness, the yield has come down to one quintal. 

Read more: Shortage forces Ramnad farmers to buy water

Also earlier, when the quality of chillies was good, a quintal yielded up to Rs 27,000 but now due to inferior quantity it gets only Rs 12,000.