Mettur Dam Water Released for Delta Irrigation : Kuruvai, Samba, and Thaladi Paddy Cultivation in Tamil Nadu

(UPSC Prelims – Cropping Seasons; Mains GS-III – Agriculture, Water Resources)

1. Kuruvai (Early Crop)

• Season: June–July (Summer crop)

• Duration: Short-term

• Water Source: Dependent on Mettur Dam release

• Area (2022–23): 5.36 lakh acres

• Challenges: Vulnerable to delays in Cauvery water release and water scarcity

2. Samba (Main Crop)

• Season: September–January (Monsoon crop)

• Duration: Long-term

• Water Source: Northeast monsoon + Mettur Dam

• Area (2022–23): 13.53 lakh acres

• Challenges: Faces rainfall variability and irrigation dependence

3. Thaladi (Late Samba)

• Season: September–October

• Also Known As: Late Samba

• Cultivation: Often follows Kuruvai if water is sufficient

• Dependent On: Residual water availability

Essence:

• Kuruvai: Early, short-duration crop

• Samba: Main, long-duration crop

• Thaladi: Late or follow-up crop post-Kuruvai, subject to water availability

📘 UPSC Relevance:

• Prelims: Know cropping patterns & seasonal classification

• Mains (GS-III): Link between irrigation infrastructure, monsoons, and agricultural planning in water-stressed regions like the Cauvery delta.