A New Dimension of New Thinking

Anil Korram Creates a New Identity Through Palm Oil Cultivation

Raipur, Nov 2025 ; Young farmer Anil Korram, a resident of the peaceful rural region of South Bastar, has today become an inspiring example of progressive farming. Living in village Shyamgiri under Kuakonda development block, Anil engaged in paddy and traditional crop cultivation like his family after completing his education up to class 12. However, over time he realised that the limited income from traditional farming could not secure a better future for his family. Seeing Anil’s success in palm oil cultivation, nearby farmers such as Mantaru Hunga, Budhru, and Suko have also started palm oil farming on 5 acres each. This has generated enthusiasm for new crops in the region.

During a Gram Panchayat meeting, Anil learned about the modern and profitable cultivation of palm oil. Although this crop was completely new to him, he decided to adopt it as a new livelihood opportunity after learning about its benefits. Through the internet and YouTube, he also studied successful examples of palm oil cultivation in other states, which strengthened his confidence.

Anil Plants 858 Palm Oil Saplings on 15 Acres

Anil approached the Horticulture Department directly and held detailed discussions with experts. Based on the department’s guidance and support, he planted 858 palm oil saplings across his 15-acre farmland in August 2025. He contributed ₹62,000 from his own funds for the project. The Horticulture Department also approved fencing and a borewell facility for his field, boosting his confidence further. Today, the palm oil plants in his field are growing rapidly, and he continues to cultivate paddy alongside.

Palm Oil Provides Production for 25 to 30 Years

Anil shared that departmental officials informed him that palm oil plants begin bearing fruit in the third or fourth year. The fruit resembles a cluster of dates, and its market price ranges from ₹18 to ₹20 per kg. The crop continues to produce for 25 to 30 years. With an estimated yield of 20 tonnes per hectare, farmers can expect an annual income of ₹2.5 to 3 lakh per hectare. This information gave Anil new hope, and he realised that this decision could transform his family’s future.

97 Farmers Plant Palm Oil Over 224.39 Hectares

According to the Assistant Director of Horticulture, large-scale efforts are being made to promote palm oil farming in Dantewada district. Under the National Mission on Edible Oils–Oil Palm, the district has been allotted a target of 400 hectares. Against this, 536 hectares covering 256 farmers have already been selected. So far, 97 farmers have completed plantation over 224.39 hectares. The plantation progress by development block is as follows:

• Dantewada: 36.52 ha (21 farmers)
• Geedam: 13.24 ha (08 farmers)
• Kuakonda: 108.44 ha (45 farmers)
• Katekalyan: 66.19 ha (23 farmers)

Subsidies Provided by the Central Government

Under the scheme, the Central Government is providing subsidies such as:

• ₹29,000 per hectare for saplings
• ₹77,000 for tube wells
• ₹31,399 for drip irrigation
• ₹5,250 for intercropping
• ₹5,250 for maintenance

Additionally, under the DMF fund, the district administration is providing:

• ₹49,037 for fencing
• ₹82,350 for tubewells
• ₹7,771 per hectare for drip irrigation

Anil Shows the Path of Success to Enthusiastic Farmers

The government has signed an agreement with Pre Unique Asia Limited for the purchase of palm oil produce, ensuring farmers receive fair prices and regular income. Estimates indicate that this crop can generate an income of ₹2.5 to 3 lakh per hectare annually. It is true that in today’s time, progressive thinking and willingness to adopt new crops lead farmers toward success. Anil Korram has emerged as a strong example of this new thinking—transforming not just his own family’s future, but also guiding the farmers of the entire region toward a new direction.