Blight years: Fungus attack takes toll on Authoor betel leaves, farmers worried

The renowned 'Authoor Vetrilai' (betel leaves), cultivated along the banks of the Thamirabarani river in Thoothukudi district, is facing a major setback as a persistent fungal disease continues to damage the crops, causing a steep drop in the yield.

- S GODSON WISELY DASS @ Thoothukudi

Despite the application of recommended fungicides, the infection has spread unabated, prompting farmers to demand soil testing and expert intervention from the district administration. They fear that without immediate scientific remedies, the reputation and value of the Geographical Indication (GI)-tagged Authoor betel leaves could suffer irreparable damage.