Raipur, Feb 11 (NationPress) In a significant initiative for farmers in light of the upcoming festive season, the Chhattisgarh government, under the leadership of Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai, has sanctioned an impressive Rs 10,000 crore one-time payment to paddy farmers, addressing the price differential as part of the Krishak Unnati Yojana.

According to the Krishak Unnati Yojana, Chhattisgarh procures paddy at a competitive rate of Rs 3,100 per quintal (limited to 21 quintals per acre), which is recognized as the highest support price nationwide.

For the Kharif Marketing Year 2025-26, the state has successfully procured a remarkable 141.04 lakh metric tonnes of paddy from over 25.24 lakh farmers.

This Rs 10,000 crore disbursement covers the amount exceeding the Central Minimum Support Price (MSP), ensuring farmers receive the enhanced rates promised by the state administration.

This financial assistance will be deposited directly into farmers’ bank accounts as a single installment before the Holi festival, providing timely support to thousands of beneficiaries as the state prepares for the upcoming Assembly session and Budget presentation.

The decision was made during a crucial Cabinet meeting held in Raipur, chaired by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai.

The BJP-led government reiterated its commitment to recognizing farmers’ efforts, with the Chief Minister stating on social media that the government’s focus extends beyond mere paddy procurement; it aims to honor and support the hard work of the state's agricultural backbone.

This year’s financial aid will increase the total support provided to farmers through this scheme over the last few years to approximately Rs 35,000 crore, highlighting the Sai government’s continued dedication to agrarian welfare since taking office.

The Cabinet also addressed key legislative preparations for the upcoming Budget session, approving the draft of the Governor’s address for the eighth session of the Sixth Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly, set to begin on February 23, 2026.

Furthermore, the ‘Chhattisgarh Appropriation Bill, 2026’ was approved for presentation, paving the way for the tabling of the 2026–27 state Budget estimates.

This will be the third Budget presented by the Vishnu Deo Sai administration, though the specific presentation date and theme are yet to be revealed, likely by late February.

Farmers across Chhattisgarh, often referred to as India's rice bowl, are poised to gain significantly from this pre-Holi initiative, potentially enhancing rural consumption and economic sentiment in this predominantly agrarian state.