Dhamtari Farmers Shift Towards Alternative Crops Alongside Paddy, Increased Participation in Ragi Cultivation

Dhamtari, February 2026 Clear signs of positive change are emerging in the agricultural sector of Dhamtari district. Along with the traditional paddy crop, farmers are increasingly adopting crop diversification and moving towards the cultivation of pulses, oilseeds, and coarse grains. Along with mustard, gram, and maize, the area under ragi (mandua) cultivation has also been steadily increasing in the district. This shift is not only helping enhance farmers’ income but is also proving beneficial for maintaining soil fertility and conserving water resources.

During the current rabi season, pulse crops such as gram, pigeon pea (arhar), and lentil are being cultivated across the district. According to available data, pulses have been sown over approximately 18,450 hectares, with gram covering about 14,200 hectares, arhar around 2,150 hectares, and lentil nearly 2,100 hectares. Among oilseed crops, mustard has emerged as the most preferred choice for farmers. Oilseeds are being grown over nearly 9,600 hectares, of which mustard accounts for about 8,300 hectares, while other oilseed crops cover around 1,300 hectares.

In the same effort to promote coarse cereals, ragi cultivation is being actively encouraged in the district. Ragi is a highly nutritious crop that requires relatively low investment and minimal water, making it particularly beneficial for small and marginal farmers. At present, ragi is being cultivated over nearly 1,250 hectares in Dhamtari district, with around 1,180 farmers engaged in its production.

In villages such as Pandripani (M), Bhatgaon, and Sirkatta in the Magarlod development block, ragi transplanting work is currently underway. Notably, women farmers are playing an active role in this process. Women associated with self-help groups are participating in ragi transplanting in the fields, setting an example of self-reliance. This involvement is creating employment opportunities for rural women and contributing to improvements in their economic condition.

Speaking on the initiative, Collector Abinash Mishra said that promoting crop diversification in Dhamtari district is a key priority for the administration. He noted that pulses, oilseeds, and crops like ragi would not only increase farmers’ income but also strengthen nutritional security and help conserve natural resources. He added that adopting nutritious crops such as ragi would enable farmers to better cope with the challenges posed by climate change, and described the participation of women farmers as highly commendable.

The district administration and the agriculture department are encouraging farmers to adopt alternative crops by providing technical guidance, quality seeds, and access to government schemes. Continuous efforts will be made in the coming years to develop Dhamtari district into a strong hub for the production of pulses, oilseeds, and coarse grains.