Farmer Deva Mandvi Becomes Inspiration for Successful “Bada Kosra” Cultivation

Raipur, Nov 2025 : Farmer Deva Mandvi from Potali village, Patelpara, Kunkonda block in Dantewada district has emerged as an inspirational figure for successfully cultivating “Bada Kosra” (a variety of millet) using modern, scientific techniques. Alongside traditional paddy cultivation, farmers in the region are increasingly adopting innovative and science-based methods for millets like ragi, kulthi, kodo, mandia, and kosra.

Improved Crop Quality Through Organic Treatments

Mandvi implemented the SMI (System of Millet Intensification) technique to establish a successful model of Bada Kosra cultivation. With technical guidance and training from the Construction Organization Dantewada and the Agriculture Department, he prepared a 15–21 day nursery and transplanted single seedlings at 30×30 cm spacing. Regular interventions like cycle weeding, and organic treatments such as Jeevamrit and Handi medicine enhanced crop quality. Planted in August, the crop now stands healthy, with each plant producing 30–40 panicles.

Bada Kosra Cultivation Proves Highly Profitable

Training sessions and field visits to Araku, Andhra Pradesh last year gave Mandvi fresh insights into modern farming techniques, which he successfully applied in his own fields. Today, his farm is recognized as a “Model Farm.” He credits the technical support from the construction organization, agriculture department, and district administration for his success. Mandvi says, “Adopting the SMI technique for Bada Kosra cultivation has been highly beneficial for me. This technical guidance has provided new direction, and I hope other farmers in our region adopt this method to strengthen and make their farming more profitable.”

Successful Kosra Planting Increasing Farmers’ Income

The SMI method for kosra cultivation is now spreading to other areas of Dantewada district, including Chhindnar, Budhapadar, Palnar, Bhatpal, Gutoli, Gumlanar, Bade Gudra, Mokhpal, Bade Tumnar, Chhote Tumnar, Burgum, Acheli, Balud, Ganjenar, and Pahurnar villages. The Bumgadi Committee is providing kosra seedlings to farmers, while field officer Suresh Kumar Nag and local resource persons continuously guide farmers in technical practices.

This combined effort of technology, training, and government support is enabling rural farmers to expand this crop, increase productivity, and improve their incomes. Mandvi’s success highlights how modern techniques and institutional support are paving the way for agricultural advancement and stronger rural livelihoods in the region.