Raipur: Under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, Chhattisgarh is making continuous efforts to increase agricultural production and cultivated area across the state. Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam has played a pivotal role in implementing the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana (PMKSY), which has so far benefited 19,306 farmers, providing irrigation facilities to 16,154 hectares of farmland through modern sprinkler and drip irrigation systems.
The scheme encourages farmers to adopt these modern irrigation techniques by providing subsidies of up to 55% for small and marginal farmers and 45% for large farmers, enabling them to access advanced technologies at lower costs.
Efficient Water Use and Increased Productivity
Officials from the Chhattisgarh State Seed and Agriculture Development Corporation noted that the use of sprinkler and drip irrigation systems ensures uniform and timely water supply to crops. These systems help save 30 to 40 percent of water, effectively controlling wastage in the fields. Better utilization of limited water resources is making farming more productive and profitable for farmers.
The drip irrigation system has proven particularly beneficial for vegetables, fruits, horticultural crops, and cash crops, while sprinkler systems have led to increased productivity in pulses, oilseeds, and cereal crops. Farmers reported a 20 to 30 percent increase in crop yield, along with reductions in fertilizer use and labor costs, thanks to these modern systems.
Read also: Chhattisgarh Launches Major Development Plan to Make Bilaspur the State’s Next Urban Growth Hub
Technical Support and Training for Farmers
The scheme not only provides irrigation infrastructure but also offers technical guidance, training, design approvals, and installation support. This has raised awareness among farmers about modern agricultural practices and encouraged them to adopt scientific methods of cultivation.
The PMKSY irrigation program has been particularly beneficial in drought-prone and low-rainfall areas, helping farmers achieve higher yields with lower water usage. This has strengthened the economic stability of farming households and contributed to a sustainable increase in farmers’ income.
Implementation Progress
During the fiscal year 2025-26, the program has made significant strides:
- Sprinkler systems have been installed in the fields of 15,757 farmers, covering 12,212 hectares.
- Drip irrigation systems have been set up in the fields of 3,549 farmers, covering 3,942 hectares.
The initiative demonstrates the state government’s commitment to modernizing agriculture, conserving water, and increasing farmers’ income through innovative and sustainable practices.
This initiative reflects Chhattisgarh’s vision of transforming agriculture by integrating technology, sustainability, and efficiency, ensuring long-term benefits for farmers across the state.
Read also: Chhattisgarh to Map Abujhmad Region for First Time Since Independence, Ties Up with IIT Roorkee
