This paper attempts to throw the light on the conditions of palmyrah work and palmyrah workers of Tamil Nadu especially in Tirunelveli District in the twentieth century. Also in this article, early evidences about the palmyrah work and its social status are described. It also connects the palmyrah work with kings. The various governmental efforts to encourage the work during the mid twentieth century are also narrated. The efforts of the then chief minister K. Kamaraj in this regard was well utilized by the workers. The increase in the level of white sugar led to the decrease in the demand of palm jaggery and it creates unemployment to the palmyrah workers. The late 20th century experienced the worst history in the chapter of palmyrah workers, because many workers were expelled from their work in this time. The prohibition of toddy was important in making social stigma to palmyrah workers. The views of Gandhi about the palmyrah work are elaborated. The social changes takes place in the end of twentieth century emerged as a major problem to the palmyrah workers in society. They are exposed to various ill-treatments among society. The associations created for the welfare of them is one of the important steps to redress their needs. The some of the demands were highlighted in this article.

Palmyrah, White Sugar, Toddy, Degradation, Demands.