THAJAVUR, July 25: Tobacco is the second largest industry after salt in TN's Vedaranyam area, but those involved in the industry are pessimistic about the future, due to the 50% ad valorem levied on chewing tobacco by the Centre, and Pan Parag eating into the market. Representatives of the industry want the ad valorem cut to 20% and steps to protect the market. About 25,000 people are dependent on the industry and 1 lakh agriculturists are growing the crop.

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