Raipur: In a momentous occasion for India’s agricultural community, Prime Minister Narendra Modi disbursed the 20th installment of the PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi, transferring ₹20,500 crore directly to the bank accounts of over 9.7 crore farmers across the country. From Varanasi, the Prime Minister addressed farmers virtually, reaffirming the government’s unwavering commitment to the agricultural sector.
Joining the national program from Raipur, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai participated in the virtual event at the auditorium of the Horticulture and Forestry University, where he interacted with farmers and highlighted Chhattisgarh’s achievements in the agricultural sector.
₹553.34 Cr Transferred to Over 25.47 Lakh Chhattisgarh Farmers
CM Sai shared that over 25.47 lakh farmers in Chhattisgarh received a total of ₹553.34 crore under this installment of PM-Kisan. He also emphasized that ₹9,700 crore has been disbursed to Chhattisgarh farmers under the scheme since its inception.
Notably, 2.34 lakh forest land leaseholders and 32,500 farmers from Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs) in the state are also receiving benefits under the PM-Kisan scheme.
PM Modi Reaffirms Focus on Farmers and Rural Development
Addressing the nation, PM Modi reiterated that ₹3.75 lakh crore has been transferred directly to farmers since 2019. He also announced the Pradhan Mantri Dhan-Dhaanya Yojana for agriculture development in backward districts, with a substantial ₹24,000 crore allocation.
He highlighted achievements in irrigation, crop insurance through PMFBY, women-led self-help groups, and infrastructure growth, noting that over 1.5 crore women have become ‘Lakhpati Didis’, with a target of reaching 3 crore.
Chhattisgarh’s Vision: Prosperous, Resilient Farming
Extending Sawan greetings to the people of Chhattisgarh, CM Sai offered prayers to Lord Mahadev and thanked PM Modi for his continued support to farmers. He underscored the state government’s fulfillment of promises, citing the procurement of paddy at ₹3,100 per quintal and disbursement of ₹3,716 crore in pending bonuses within just 10 days of forming the government.
CM Sai paid tribute to former PM Atal Bihari Vajpayee for launching the Kisan Credit Card (KCC), which has empowered farmers with zero-interest loans and easier access to capital.
Key Projects and Allied Sector Growth
Highlighting the shift in Bastar, CM Sai declared it free from Naxalism, and outlined plans to transform the region through the Bodhghat Project and the Mahanadi-Indravati river linking initiative, turning it into an irrigated and agriculturally rich zone.
The state is providing ₹10,000 assistance to promote pulses and oilseed cultivation and has launched the Dudharu Pashu Vitaran Yojana (Milch Animal Distribution Scheme) in six districts with NDDB collaboration to boost dairy income. Focus is also being placed on nutri-cereals like Kodo, Kutki, and Ragi.
Empowering Farmers Through Technology and Education
Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam reported that over 1 lakh farmers have been educated on modern techniques under the Viksit Krishi Sankalp Abhiyan, supported by scientists, officials, and field teams. He reiterated the government’s commitment to the vision of “Jai Jawan, Jai Kisan, Jai Vigyan, Jai Anusandhan.”
Union Minister of State Tokhan Sahu praised the regular flow of financial aid under PM-Kisan and commended infrastructure progress and KCC-backed loans.
On this occasion, farmers were also handed grant cheques for agricultural equipment and other welfare benefits.
Prominent Attendees
The event witnessed participation from several dignitaries, including:
- MLAs: Sunil Soni, Purandar Mishra, Guru Khushwant Saheb, Indra Kumar Sahu
- Officials: Raipur Division Commissioner Mahadev Kavre, MD of Chhattisgarh Seeds Corporation Ajay Agrawal
- Academics: Prof. Girish Chandel (VC, IGKV), Dr. R.R. Saxena (VC, Horticulture & Forestry University)
The large turnout of farmers and institutional leaders reflected widespread support for the agricultural policies being implemented in the state.
