Modern Horticulture and Vegetable Farming Changing the Fortunes of Tribal Farmers

Raipur, Aug 2025 –The village of Golaghat in Baikunthpur development block of Korea district, surrounded by hills and dense forests, is now emerging as a shining example of modern horticulture and vegetable production. Once dependent solely on traditional farming, tribal farmers here are now cultivating litchi, mango, and a variety of vegetables on 18 acres of land, leading to a remarkable rise in their income and confidence.

From Idea to Reality
With the vision of Chief Minister Shri Vishnudev Sai and the initiative of Collector Smt. Chandan Tripathi, the Horticulture Department developed a concrete plan to strengthen the economic condition of farmers holding forest rights leases. Seven farmers from the village – Paverus Minj, Jayprakash, Birbal, Santosh, Vijay, Vishwas, and Manohar – adopted horticulture under this scheme and stepped onto the path of transformation.

Litchi-Mango Orchards and the Fragrance of Fresh Vegetables
According to Shri Vinay Tripathi, Assistant Director of the District Horticulture Department, over 1,600 saplings of the West Bengal ‘Sahi’ variety of litchi have been planted at intervals of 7×7 meters. Between these trees, farmers are growing vegetables such as beans, bottle gourd, tomato, bitter gourd, cucumber, and ridge gourd. Within the farm boundaries, more than 300 mango trees of Chausa, Dasheri, and Langra varieties have also been planted. The horticulture area is equipped with modern facilities such as drip irrigation, mulching, borewells, and fencing.

Abundant Yields in Three Years
Officials say that litchi production will begin within three years, while mangoes and vegetables are already providing farmers with immediate income. The high-yield litchi variety produces for an extended period, ensuring farmers sustained benefits.

A Changing Life for Farmers
Paverus Minj says that these crops will bring higher profits compared to paddy. Farmers believe this initiative is freeing them from complete dependence on rice cultivation and opening up new avenues for income.