Raipur: The farmers of Raipur have been given a huge surprise on International Millet Day 2023. Millet production has increased from just one or two acres to 1,067 in the district. With an MSP of Rs 3,578 per quintal and a grant of Rs 6,000, farmers are flocking to this nutritious crop.
Ragi is the show’s star in Raipur district, but Kodo and Kutki crops will also be sown in Kharif. The harvest season for ragi is almost here, with over 5,000 quintals ready to be sold in the market from the last week of May to the beginning of June. However, the challenge remains in making the market accessible to these hard-working farmers. The Government is doing its best on its journey towards a sustainable future.
The government is encouraging millet production through two exciting schemes. Ragi has been planted on a whopping 988 acres under the Raftaar scheme, while the Agriculture Technology Management Agency (ATMA) has planted ragi on 79 acres. The best part? The Seed Corporation will purchase 948 quintals of crops grown by ATMA at 5,700 per quintal and make seeds available to increase production across the state.
The government also offers a grant of Rs 6,000 to farmers for production. This money can be used to buy essential materials like pesticides, seeds, and culture. If these supplies aren’t available, farmers can purchase them at their own expense and will be reimbursed by the administration upon raising the bill.