Chhattisgarh CM Vishnu Deo Sai reaffirms commitment to farmers' prosperity; stresses role of soil health cards at Agri-Horti Expo
RAIPUR: Chhattisgarh chief minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Saturday reaffirmed his government's unwavering commitment to the prosperity of farmers, emphasising the critical role of technology, market access, and scientific tools like Soil Health Cards in boosting agricultural productivity and income.
He was virtually inaugurating the Agri-Horti Expo and Buyers-Sellers Meet, organised under the Krishi Kranti Abhiyan, from his camp office in Bagia, Jashpur district.
Describing the event as a "milestone" in Jashpur's agricultural development, chief minister Sai hailed the district administration's innovative efforts and launched the Krishi Kranti campaign, which aims to connect farmers directly with national agri-businesses.
Leading companies are participating in the two-day event at the Zila Panchayat complex.
Through Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs), farmers will be able to sign crop sale agreements with these companies, bypassing middlemen and ensuring fair prices for their produce.
Highlighting the importance of sustainable agricultural practices, the chief minister underscored the value of Soil Health Cards, calling them an essential scientific tool for increasing yield and reducing input costs.
'These cards help determine what crops are best suited for specific soil types and indicate the exact quantity of fertilisers required, enabling farmers to make informed decisions,' he said. He also noted that agricultural scientists are travelling across Chhattisgarh to raise awareness about soil health and best farming practices.
Sai noted that under Prime Minister Narendra Modi's leadership, central schemes like PM Fasal Bima Yojana and PM-Kisan Samman Nidhi are bolstering farmer incomes.
The state government, he added, is supplementing these efforts by procuring paddy at Rs 3,100 per quintal (for up to 21 quintals per acre), collecting forest produce at MSP, and promoting processing and export-oriented schemes.
The chief minister also highlighted Jashpur's rich horticultural potential, citing its abundant production of jackfruit, mango, litchi, pear, and the recent introduction of apple cultivation.
The district, he said, is well-positioned to become an agri-horti powerhouse in the region.
In addition to agriculture, Sai pointed out the state's focus on animal husbandry, fisheries, and dairy development, noting that Jashpur is one of six districts selected for a pilot project under the Dairy Development Scheme.
Expo to showcase innovation and reward excellence
Farmers and FPOs are displaying high-quality organic produce, including varieties of paddy, kutki, ragi, ramtil, and chilli. Competitions for best mango and pear, as well as innovative farming techniques, are being held with prize money awarded to winning farmers to promote innovation.
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