Posted on 09/10/2001 5:30:00 PM PDT by dighton
MYSORE: The youth are now basking in the warmth of coconut groves and the pubs seem to be gradually losing their sheen.
The neera (toddy) agitation launched by the farmers in Karnataka has come as a blessing in disguise for many youths who now choose to spend their weekends amid coconut groves sipping the latest `country drink' at cheaper prices.
The students love to zip up 4-5 km on their bikes to farms and spend the whole day at makeshift pubs with farmers where they are provided with neera extracted from the coconut trees.
``The business is flourishing so well that many farmers in the district have dropped their cultivation plans this season. The prevailing drought has also forced many to change their profession," says Rawat, a student.
Hoteliers too agree. ``The business in many liquor shops of Mysore city is not all that fine like last year," says Deepak, owner of a bar and restaurant.
In an effort to make a fast buck, he said, some farmers have resorted to selling toddy at throwaway prices.
The trade is a boon, espcially as the farmers have found regular coconut trade difficult thanks to the mite menace.
Manjunath, student of a city college, said the sellers usually deploy tender coconut vendors on roadsides, especially on highways. The vendors guide the passers-by or those who come in search of fresh toddy to their owners' farms.
In fact, he said, one person posing as tender coconut vendor offered a bottle of toddy which he had hidden in a bush when Manjunath's friends sought information on toddy sale.
Manjunath regretted that the quality of the country drink was depleting as many have started mixing the drink with spirits and other ingredients to make it stronger, besides increasing the quantity.
This has slightly hit the toddy market of late, he said, adding: "As an alternative, regular customers are giving advance orders for quality toddy."
Excise department officials ruled out such possibilities. ``We are keeping constant vigil on all the coconut farms in the outskirts of Mysore, besides conducting raids."
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"Do not be sampling of the merchandises,Mr.Tet."
That will be Rs. 20 in advance, sir.
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