Need for establishment of Central Agricultural University, Indian Veterinary Research Institute and Central Institute of Fisheries Education in Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu- Laid

Need for establishment of Central Agricultural University, Indian Veterinary Research Institute and Central Institute of Fisheries Education in Mayiladuthurai district, Tamil Nadu- Laid KUMARI SUDHA R. (MAYILADUTHURAI): Mayiladuthurai district is part of the iconic Cauvery Delta Zone and spans a vital agricultural landscape covering approximately lakhs of hectares. Agriculture remains the backbone of our economy. However, our farmers face recurring vulnerabilities, as seen in the recent Cyclone Ditwah, which submerged 22,151 hectares of paddy fields in Mayiladuthurai alone, causing widespread crop damage. Alongside agriculture, livestock farming also thrives. Our region also has a significant long coastal stretch. The fishermen community, spread across various coastal villages in Mayiladuthurai, Nagapattinam, and Karaikal, forms a vital economic pillar, yet they face severe hardships. Frequent arrests by the Sri Lankan and other foreign navy have caused immense distress, disrupting livelihoods and instilling fear among families. Additionally, issues like rough sea conditions due to cyclones, and corporate players in sea underscore the need for research-driven solutions. The absence of specialized central institutions in this agrarian and coastal hub is a missed opportunity. Therefore, I urge the Government to set up a Central Agricultural University, ICAR-Indian Veterinary Research Institute and an ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Education which would provide cutting-edge education and research in the respective fields, addressing their issues.