Modakkurichi struggles to bridge gap between agrarian strength and development

The largely agrarian Modakkurichi constituency continues to suffer from infrastructure gaps and environmental issues.

Known for cultivation of turmeric, coconut, sugarcane and paddy, the region also holds significant tourism potential along the Cauvery. However, residents say development has not kept pace with its economic potential, leaving several long-pending demands unaddressed.

Modakkurichi entered the national spotlight during the 1996 Assembly election, when 1,016 farmers contested as independents to press for their demands. This highlighted deep agrarian distress and contributed to electoral reforms. Many of the issues raised then, particularly those related to farm incomes, irrigation and infrastructure, persist.

Agriculture is supported by the Kalingarayan Canal and the Lower Bhavani Project Canal. In recent years, cultivators have flagged pollution in these channels with release of untreated effluents from textile and dyeing units. The contamination has affected water quality and soil health and farmers are reporting declining yields, labour shortage and rising input costs.

Turmeric, the region’s principal crop, has not ensured stable returns, and the farmers seek a fair and predictable pricing mechanism. Long-pending proposals for cold storage units, food processing industries and other value-addition facilities remain unmet, limiting income prospects. The absence of basic agricultural infrastructure, including soil and water testing laboratories, has compounded these challenges.

The constituency has a notable religious tourism footprint. The Arulmigu Magudeswarar Temple at Kodumudi attracts devotees from across the State and neighbouring regions. The Arulmigu Nattatreeswarar Temple at Kangayampalayam is another unique attraction. Tourism infrastructure, including amenities and accommodation, remain underdeveloped, limiting the region’s ability to fully leverage its potential. While powerlooms, rice mills and small industries provide employment, skilled and educated youth say opportunities remain limited.

Residents have long demanded the construction of a check dam at Karanampalayam across the Cauvery, along with a bridge linking Kodumudi with Namakkal district to ease connectivity. Although Kodumudi and Modakkurichi were carved out of Erode taluk in 2016 with expectations of better administrative focus, locals say the move has not translated into visible improvements.

Residents are also urging the government to upgrade the primary health centre at Modakkurichi into a full-fledged government hospital and to establish a government arts and science college at Kodumudi. “People have to depend on the government hospital in Erode, hence, upgrading local facilities is essential,” said D. Madhan of Pudur.

The Erode–Karur road, a key arterial route, has witnessed a rise in vehicular movement, but the long-pending four-lane project is yet to be fully implemented.

The AIADMK has won the Modakurichi seat six times, while the DMK has secured three victories and the Congress and the BJP winning once each. The BJP’s victory in 2021, widely seen as an upset for the DMK, has added a new dimension to the constituency’s political landscape ahead of the 2026 Assembly elections. The seat has been allotted to the BJP in the ensuing election.

Socially, the constituency is dominated by the Kongu Vellalar Gounder community, alongside other groups, shaping its political dynamics and electoral outcomes.