Tamil Nadu farmers rejoice over sunflower bumper crop

Dharampuri (Tamil Nadu), Aug 9 (ANI): Farmers of Tamil Nadu's Dharampuri district rejoicing after good rains and favourable climatic conditions have helped deliver a bumper sunflower crop.

Farmers said this year's yield was much better, compared to last year.

"In comparison with last year's yield, the growth is good, no soil cost, no water cost and no cost of any others with good yield. Last year the sales were between Rs.32 to Rs.35 and this year it is being sold at Rs.35 to Rs.40 and at least a four tonnes of crop from four acres of good growth is expected this year," said Kannu, a farmer.

Officials said the procurement rates were hiked this year, which greatly benefited the farmers.

"The yield ranges from 500 to 700 kg. The price of sunflower procured by law committees is from Rs. 20-23 under the centrally sponsored scheme being implemented in the whole district. Inputs at the subsidized rates are being distributed to the farmers to increase the sunflower yield," said Manogaran, joint director of agriculture, Dharmapuri district.

Sunflower contributes in a big way to oil seed production and it is also the largest selling oil in branded oil segment. By Jaikumar (ANI)