Union Minister for Agriculture and Farmers’ Welfare and Rural Development Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted the potential for a significant increase in farmers’ income in Chhattisgarh through the adoption of modern agricultural technology and integrated farming systems. He commended the state’s progress in agriculture and rural development under Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership.
Chouhan announced the formation of a joint team comprising scientists, farmers, and officials from both Central and State governments to devise strategies for crop diversification and enhancing productivity based on local climate conditions. The focus will be on promoting integrated farming systems to create diverse income sources for small and marginal farmers.
During his visit to Khapri village, Chouhan interacted with farmers and assessed the implementation of modern farming practices. He witnessed advancements in fruit and vegetable cultivation, grafting nurseries, Bhata method farming of tomato and capsicum, as well as the cultivation of crops like dragon fruit, dates, blueberries, and bananas.
The Minister noted that while traditional crops typically yield Rs 35,000 to Rs 40,000 per acre, modern horticulture and high-tech farming methods have the potential to increase this income to Rs 1 lakh to Rs 2 lakh per acre. He also mentioned the government’s efforts to educate farmers on the scientific use of pesticides, disease management, and high-yield crop varieties.
Chouhan emphasized the promotion of pulse cultivation on fallow lands and assured the procurement of lentil, urad, moong, and arhar at Minimum Support Price. Additionally, the cultivation of oilseed crops like groundnut, mustard, and palm oil will be encouraged to diversify agricultural practices. Integrated farming systems encompassing animal husbandry, fisheries, horticulture, organic farming, and industrial crops are being promoted to provide farmers with stable and varied income sources.
Highlighting achievements in rural development, Chouhan mentioned that over 18 lakh houses have been sanctioned and delivered in Chhattisgarh under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana in the past 18 months. Furthermore, more than 10,000 roads covering nearly 48,000 kilometers and 123 major bridges have been constructed under the Pradhan Mantri Gram Sadak Yojana.
