Raipur/Bilaspur, February 28 (NationPress) - On Saturday, the government of Chhattisgarh made a significant financial transfer of over Rs 10,324 crore to farmers in anticipation of the Holi festival, directly crediting the funds into their bank accounts through the Krishak Unnati Yojana.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai officiated the distribution of these funds, which account for the difference between the Minimum Support Price (MSP) and payments from the Rajiv Gandhi Kisan Nyay Yojana, benefiting paddy-selling farmers statewide.

The disbursement took place during a state-level event in Bilha, located in Bilaspur district. At the “Aadan Sahayata Vitran Yojana” (Input Assistance Distribution Ceremony) in Rahangi village, the Chief Minister allocated the amount to 25.28 lakh farmers.

In Bilaspur district alone, Rs 494.38 crore was awarded to 1,25,352 farmers during a public ceremony held on that day.

As part of efforts to enhance district infrastructure, the Chief Minister inaugurated seven development initiatives totaling Rs 15.99 crore and laid the groundwork for 82 projects worth Rs 247.18 crore.

Farmers at the gathering honored the Chief Minister and other attendees with traditional farming tools such as khumri and nangar.

Chief Minister Sai characterized the event as a tribute to farmers, noting that over 25.28 lakh farmers had sold paddy this season, with more than Rs 10,000 crore disbursed via the scheme.

He remarked that these funds would allow farmers to celebrate Holi with improved financial stability. Emphasizing the government's supportive measures for farmers, he pointed to the availability of gunny bags, prompt procurement payments, zero-interest agricultural loans, and broader access under the Kisan Credit Card scheme.

The Chief Minister also highlighted competitive paddy pricing and initiatives including fertilizer subsidies, expansion of irrigation systems, and the strengthening of cooperative institutions aimed at boosting farmers' welfare.

He expressed optimism about the decline of Left Wing Extremism in the Bastar region, asserting that goals set for March 2026 would be met.

Discussing Chhattisgarh's mineral resources, he indicated they are essential for the state's progress. He also mentioned tourism potential and a partnership with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB) to enhance animal husbandry and milk production.

The Chief Minister claimed that most of the commitments made by Prime Minister Narendra Modi had been accomplished within two years, including housing assistance for 18 lakh beneficiaries under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana.

He noted that the Good Governance and Convergence Department and the e-office system are fostering transparency in governance and reiterated the administration's dedication to inclusive growth.

During the event, he announced the upgrade of the Primary Health Centre in Chakarbhata to a Community Health Centre, the elevation of the Secondary School in Mangala to a High School, and the construction of a boundary wall and stage at the Rahangi playground.

Additionally, he declared grants of Rs 50 lakh each for the construction of community halls for the Satnami and Adivasi communities in Pattharkhan.

Agriculture Minister Ram Vichar Netam described the financial transfer as historic, emphasizing that over Rs 10,300 crore had been directly credited to farmers' accounts.