United Nations Commits Rs 31.404 Crore Aid for Special Agricultural Program in Chhattisgarh
Raipur: In an effort to boost the productivity of rice and wheat in Chhattisgarh’s Balrampur and Dantewada districts, a landmark initiative has been set in motion. The United Nations has pledged financial aid amounting to Rs 31.404 crore for this special program, which aims to transform agricultural practices in the region. This program, which will span a duration of 5 years, will not only focus on enhancing rice and wheat production but also promote the adoption of digital agriculture techniques.
Today, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was inked between the Agriculture Department of the Chhattisgarh State Government and the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations. The signing ceremony took place at Mantralaya (Mahanadi Bhawan) in Nava Raipur and was presided over by Agriculture Production Commissioner Dr. Kamalpreet Singh.
Chandan Sanjay Tripathi, representing the state government, and Takayuki Hajiwara, the United Nations representative, officially sealed the agreement. The event witnessed the presence of several key figures, including Project Director of the Food and Agriculture Organization, Prashant Kumar Swain, Joint Secretary Agriculture K.C. Paikra, and Additional Director Agriculture C.B. Lodhekar, among others.
During the signing ceremony, Agriculture Production Commissioner Dr. Kamalpreet Singh highlighted the significant potential for non-basmati paddy exports from the state. He also discussed the possibilities of coffee and tea production, zero percent interest crop loans available to farmers, and additional input grants for aromatic paddy cultivation.
Furthermore, Dr. Singh provided insights into the state government’s efforts to promote organic farming through the distribution of vermi compost under the Godhan NYAY Yojana and the expansion of millet crops such as Kodo-Kutki and Ragi through the Millet Mission. He emphasized the state’s commitment to strengthening the rural economy, citing initiatives like the Mahatma Gandhi Rural Industrial Park (RIPA) to promote small-scale industries.
The Food and Agriculture Organization’s projects were hailed as catalysts for Chhattisgarh’s efforts and initiatives to advance agriculture and rural development. This collaborative endeavor between the state government and the United Nations marks a significant milestone in sustainable agricultural development in the region.
