Raipur: In a landmark move ahead of Holi, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai digitally transferred over ₹10,324 crore to the accounts of 25.28 lakh farmers across Chhattisgarh under the Krishak Unnati Yojana, reinforcing the state government’s commitment to farmer welfare and economic empowerment.
The distribution ceremony and a large-scale farmer conference were held in Rahangi, Bilha development block, with Bilaspur district accounting for 1.25 lakh farmers receiving ₹494.38 crore. CM Sai inaugurated seven completed development projects worth ₹15.99 crore and laid the foundation for 82 projects totaling ₹247.18 crore during the event.
Major Financial Support for Farmers
CM Sai highlighted that the timely transfer of funds ensures farmers receive adequate support before Holi, allowing them to celebrate the festival without financial concerns. He emphasized that this initiative reflects the government’s farmer-friendly policies, including zero-interest loans and effective Minimum Support Price (MSP) arrangements for paddy, unique to Chhattisgarh.
“Through Krishak Unnati Yojana, farmers are empowered to strengthen their livelihoods. This year, over 25 lakh farmers have directly benefited with more than ₹10,000 crore credited to their accounts,” the CM said.
Infrastructure and Community Development Announcements
In addition to financial assistance, CM Sai unveiled several key infrastructure initiatives:
- Upgrade of Chakarbhata Primary Health Center to a Community Health Center
- Upgrade of Mangla Secondary School to a high school
- Construction of a boundary wall and stage at Rahangi playground
- ₹50 lakh each for Satanami community hall and tribal community hall in Pattharkhan
CM Sai also reiterated the government’s focus on strengthening irrigation facilities, promoting crop diversification, and boosting dairy and fisheries production through NDDB collaborations.
Farmers’ Voices and Virtual Interaction
Farmers expressed gratitude for the timely assistance. Basanti Kashyap from Jagdalpur mentioned receiving ₹36,000, while Sukhan Sai from Korba reported ₹53,000 credited for 73 quintals of paddy. Samarth Singh from Janjgir received ₹1.41 lakh and thanked CM Sai for the support.
CM Sai also inspected stalls set up by various departments, engaging directly with farmers and local representatives, including MLAs, municipal leaders, and agriculture officials.
Focus on Inclusive Development and Rural Prosperity
CM Sai highlighted the government’s holistic approach: promoting welfare schemes, supporting the landless agricultural workers, and ensuring timely payments under initiatives like Mahatari Vandan Yojana, which has benefitted over 69 lakh women in the state.
He noted that the government has fulfilled Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s commitments in Chhattisgarh, including the approval of 18 lakh PM Awas houses, transparent recruitment processes, and digital governance initiatives for greater accountability.
Promoting Crop Diversification and Progressive Agriculture
Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam emphasized that the Krishak Unnati Yojana encourages farmers to adopt diversified crops such as pulses and oilseeds, in addition to paddy. He highlighted government efforts to boost dairy, fisheries, and organic farming, ensuring sustainable income for rural communities.
Transforming Rural Chhattisgarh
CM Sai stressed that the end of Naxalism in Bastar and other backward areas is enabling rapid development, bringing infrastructure, financial inclusion, and social welfare directly to remote communities. He reaffirmed the government’s mission of a prosperous, inclusive, and digitally empowered Chhattisgarh.
