Samba Paddy Coverage in Cauvery Delta

Samba Cultivation Decline

Samba Paddy Coverage in Cauvery Delta: Samba paddy coverage in the Cauvery delta has reduced significantly this year. Only 1 lakh acres have been sown under Samba compared to 3.2 lakh acres during the same period last year. The decline is primarily due to delayed sowing in the Kuruvai season, triggered by unseasonal rains between February and April.

Static GK fact: The Cauvery delta is often referred to as the “Rice Bowl of Tamil Nadu” due to its high paddy productivity.

Kuruvai Season Performance

In contrast, Kuruvai paddy coverage has shown an increase. This year, over 6 lakh acres were cultivated, surpassing the usual 4.4 lakh acres and last year’s 3.9 lakh acres. Timely sowing in the Kuruvai season ensured higher crop density, but its late harvest has impacted subsequent Samba planting.

Harvest Delays and Impact

The delayed Kuruvai harvest is a key factor in the Samba shortfall. In Mayiladuthurai district, around 25% of fields remained unharvested by the end of September. This harvest delay prevents farmers from sowing Samba paddy on time, affecting the overall cropping cycle.

Static GK Tip: Tamil Nadu contributes significantly to India’s rice output, with the Cauvery delta alone accounting for 38% of the state’s paddy production.

Overall Paddy Production

Tamil Nadu’s total paddy output in 2023–24 was 70.5 lakh tonnes, with the Cauvery delta contributing 26.9 lakh tonnes. This region remains critical for the state’s food security and agricultural economy. Timely sowing and effective water management are essential for sustaining productivity in the delta.

Government Measures

The state government is monitoring paddy coverage closely. Efforts include advising farmers on alternative sowing schedules and irrigation support to mitigate the effects of unseasonal rains. These measures aim to stabilize Samba cultivation and prevent a significant drop in overall paddy output.

Static GK fact: The Cauvery delta spans districts like Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, and Nagapattinam, making it one of the most fertile regions in India.

Challenges Ahead

Samba paddy coverage faces ongoing challenges such as climatic variability, delayed harvesting of preceding crops, and water availability issues. Addressing these challenges is crucial for maintaining the delta’s role in Tamil Nadu’s agriculture.

Static GK Tip: Samba paddy is typically sown in August–September and harvested in January–February, making it highly sensitive to prior crop delays.

Static Usthadian Current Affairs Table

Samba Paddy Coverage in Cauvery Delta: