An initiative to establish Tamil Nadu Palmyra Development Corporation with an allocation of ₹16 crore in the Tamil Nadu State Budget presented by Finance Minister N. Marie Wilson on Wednesday (August 5, 2026) has received a mixed response, with associations welcoming the move while stakeholders associated with the sector calling for its effective implementation to ensure tangible benefits for palm climbers and others dependent on palmyra-based livelihood.

Thoothukudi district has a sizable population that is dependent on palm-based livelihood, particularly in the regions including Udangudi, Anthoniyarpuram, Vilathikulam, Ettayapuram and Vembar.

Arasakumar, whose family has a background in palm climbing and who hails from Vembar welcomed the initiative, but stressed that the corporation should be implemented in a manner that directly benefits palm climbers and traders. He said that although some societies exist for the palm farmers, many of them are inactive and a large number of palm climbers are unaware of them.

“The government should create awareness about the corporation among palm climbers and other stakeholders, identify those dependent on palmyra based livelihoods, and enrol them in societies and make them active. This will enable corporation to effectively serve the people it is intended to benefit,” Mr. Arasakumar added.

He noted that many palm climbers and traders have limited access to education and information, making awareness programmes essential to help them improve their livelihoods.

S.J. Kennedy, president of Tamil Nadu Panai Padhukappu Matrum Thozhilalar Membattu Iyakkam (Tamil Nadu Palm Protection and Workers’ Development Movement,) has expressed his appreciation for the state government’s announcement to establish the Tamil Nadu Palmyra Development Corporation.

He added that the Corporation aims to promote the production of palm based products such palm jaggery and the export of value of added palm products, thereby ensuring the livelihood, welfare, safety and income of the palm farmers.

Published - August 05, 2026 09:12 pm IST