Chhattisgarh Bolsters Its ‘Rice Bowl’ to Safeguard Farmers’ Future
Chhattisgarh Strengthens the ‘Rice Bowl’ with Bold Farmer Centric Policies
India, Feb 13: Amid nationwide discussions on agrarian distress, Chhattisgarh has taken decisive steps to secure farmers’ livelihoods. Under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, the state is combining assured procurement, direct financial transfers, and structural reforms to create a robust and sustainable agricultural framework.
Krishak Unnati Yojana: Direct Support for Farmers
The state has announced nearly Rs 10,000 crore in direct transfers to around 2.5 million farmers under the Krishak Unnati Yojana. Paddy farmers are guaranteed Rs 3,100 per quintal the highest effective procurement rate in the country offering small and marginal farmers income stability in a volatile market. In the latest procurement season, over 14 million metric tonnes of paddy were purchased, with payments exceeding Rs 33,000 crore.
Beyond Procurement: Loans, Bonuses, and Credit
Chhattisgarh’s support extends beyond procurement rates. The government has cleared pending bonus arrears worth over Rs 3,700 crore, provided zero-interest short-term agricultural loans up to Rs 5 lakh, and distributed nearly Rs 7,000 crore in interest-free credit during the 2024 kharif season. These measures reduce dependence on informal lenders and encourage investment in modern inputs and farming practices.
Market Reforms: Expanding Access and Price Discovery
The state is reforming the Agricultural Produce Market Act to facilitate broader participation of traders through the national e-NAM platform. By combining assured income with competitive market access, Chhattisgarh is ensuring that farmers benefit from both stability and efficient price discovery.
The Bigger Picture: Stability, Growth, and Dignity
Chhattisgarh remains a leading contributor of rice to the Central Pool, reinforcing its status as the ‘Rice Bowl of Central India’. While challenges such as irrigation expansion and crop diversification remain, financial security empowers farmers to adopt new technologies and diversify production. The state’s model demonstrates that farmer welfare and economic growth are not mutually exclusive but mutually reinforcing.
By prioritising remunerative prices, timely payments, affordable credit, and market reforms, Chhattisgarh is setting a benchmark for agrarian policy in India—showing that decisive government support for farmers strengthens the entire rural economy.
