The Hindu : Tamil Nadu News : Second phase of land distribution today

Online edition of India's National Newspaper
Sunday, Dec 17, 2006
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Tamil Nadu

Tamil Nadu

Second phase of land distribution today

S. Vydhianathan

Cluster approach has paid rich dividends, says official

CHENNAI: As the second phase of distribution of land for landless agricultural labourers begins on Sunday, the Government has so far spent Rs. 442.53 lakh to develop 15,954 acres of wasteland in the State.

In the first phase launched by Chief Minister M. Karunanidhi in September, the Government planned to distribute 24,271.14 acres. It has so far distributed 14,900. Distribution of the balance land will be completed soon. In the second phase, 27,880 acres is to be distributed throughout the State.

Cluster approach

The Agriculture Department has been entrusted with the task of developing the land before distribution. It is adopting a cluster approach where wasteland in blocks of 10 acres and more is available, and beneficiaries are willing to form a lift irrigation society for joint development and management.

Throughout the State, about 3,200 clusters of wasteland have been identified. Detailed project report (DPR) will be prepared for each cluster. Based on it, steps will be taken for development, for which the Agriculture department had issued guidelines. Funds available with Agriculture, Rural and Energy departments will be utilised.

In Villupuram district, where the second phase is to be launched by Mr. Karunanidhi, the department has identified 309 clusters. In phase two of the programme, 25 clusters were taken for DPR. The report is ready for three clusters, where the development work is on.

According to a department official, the cluster approach seems to have paid rich dividends.

Sustainable income

Beneficiaries who were given land have already planted saplings. As it will take at least three to four years for the trees to yield, they have planed intercrop for sustainable income till they got revenue from the main crop. In Tiruvallur district the beneficiaries have gone in for mango saplings. In Theni district they have planted tomatoes.

Department officials are monitoring the progress of the programme. But the major problem for the beneficiaries, according to officials, is cattle-grazing. As the cost of wire fencing is prohibitive, they have been asked to opt for live fencing, which will give them additional income.

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