The need for the Government of India to send a team to the Nilgiris to gain first hand knowledge of various problems confronting floriculturists here has been emphasized by the Rural Development Organisation (RDO), an Aruvankadu-based non-governmental organization.
In a letter sent to the Union Ministry of Agriculture on Monday, the Director, RDO N.K.Perumal pointed out that out of about 1,200 small farmers engaged in hi-tech floriculture in Tamil Nadu, more than 350 including self-help groups are growing lillium, carnation and gerbera in the Nilgiris.
While they have to procure planting materials and also spend on various other inputs, the prices are fixed by a few traders in Bangalore.
Crores of rupees have been advanced by various banks. Many of the units have become sick.
Loan waiver soucht
Since banks have informed the farmers that the immovable properties given as collateral would be auctioned to recover the dues, a loan waiver scheme should be implemented.
