Our Government is Fulfilling Every Promise Made to Farmers: Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai

Raipur, March 2026: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said that his government is fulfilling every promise made to farmers while inaugurating a two-day state-level oilseed farmers’ fair at Ambikapur in Surguja district.

The event was held at the Rajmohini Devi College of Agriculture and Research Centre, where the Chief Minister visited various departmental stalls and appreciated efforts to promote modern agricultural techniques and enhance oilseed production. On the occasion of World Forestry Day, he also planted a Sal sapling under the “Ek Ped Maa Ke Naam” campaign and urged people to contribute to environmental conservation through tree plantation.

Addressing the gathering, Sai highlighted that India is an agrarian country and Chhattisgarh is known as the “rice bowl,” with nearly 80 percent of its population dependent on agriculture. He stated that the state government is procuring paddy at the rate of ₹3,100 per quintal, up to 21 quintals per acre, and is also providing the differential amount to farmers in a lump sum. He reiterated that over the past two years, the government has honoured all commitments made to the farming community.

The Chief Minister noted that while India has achieved self-sufficiency in food grain production, there remains a significant gap in oilseed production. Currently, the country meets only about 57 percent of its domestic oilseed demand, with the remaining 43 percent being imported. To address this, various oilseed development initiatives are being implemented. He encouraged farmers to adopt scientific methods and expert advice to increase productivity.

Sai also announced an incentive of ₹11,000 per acre for oilseed cultivation, similar to the Krishak Unnati Yojana. He urged farmers to diversify their income sources by taking up allied activities such as animal husbandry, dairy farming, and fisheries. He added that recent GST reforms have reduced the cost of agricultural equipment, benefiting farmers.

Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam stressed the need to make India self-reliant in edible oil production, echoing the vision of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Vice Chancellor of Indira Gandhi Krishi Vishwavidyalaya, Dr. Girish Chandel, informed that improved seeds are being distributed to farmers and around 50,000 farmers are trained annually through agricultural colleges and Krishi Vigyan Kendras across the state.

Several ministers, legislators, and officials were present at the event.