‘Farming is our identity’

Chhattisgarh’s Agriculture, Farmer Welfare and Tribal Welfare Minister Ramvichar Netam is spearheading a transformative shift aimed at improving the lives of farmers, tribal communities, and rural youth. Known for his grassroots connect and long political journey, Netam is focused on promoting sustainable farming, modern technology, and self-reliant villages.

In a conversation with Shishir Roy of The Statesman, he shares his plans to reshape Chhattisgarh’s agriculture and strengthen the rural economy over the next few years.

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Q. What are your achievements in the agricultural sector of Chhattisgarh?

A. Agriculture is not just an occupation in Chhattisgarh – it is our identity. People here have been connected with farming for generations, and our entire rural economy is based on it. The first priority of our government was to ensure that farmers get the right price for their produce. Earlier, they had to struggle to sell their crops. After our government came to power, we focused on fair pricing and timely procurement. Under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, we have reduced input costs through substantial subsidies on machinery and equipment, around 40 to 50 per cent, and provided quality seeds to make Chhattisgarh self-reliant in agriculture. We were earlier dependent on other states for seed supply, but that is no longer the case. Through the e-NAM portal, farmers are now able to sell their produce directly across India. Our vision is simple, ‘when farmers prosper, Chhattisgarh develops’.

Q. What special plans are being implemented to help farmers in different regions of Chhattisgarh?

A. The strength of Chhattisgarh lies in its diversity. Every region here has a different climate and potential. In hilly and forest areas, we are promoting millet cultivation and helping farmers through special projects. In the plains, we are working on improving paddy and maize production with better seeds and mini kits. In Bastar and Dantewada, we are encouraging organic and natural farming. In fact, Dantewada has been declared a Javik Zila (organic district). Farmers there are producing completely organic crops, and we are helping them access better markets. Our goal is to ensure that the farmers’ produce, whether it is paddy, millets, or vegetables, gets the best possible value.

Q. You also handle the Animal Husbandry department. What initiatives are being taken to strengthen this sector?

A. The dairy and livestock sectors are an important part of rural life. But for years, farmers faced challenges like lack of fodder and poor milk production. We have now revived the cooperative model in partnership with the National Dairy Development Board (NDDB). I visited Anand in Gujarat to study their system. We are improving cattle breeds, setting up milk chilling plants, and providing better market access for milk producers. The focus is not just on milk but also on value-added products such as paneer, ghee, and curd. These small changes will have a big impact on rural income. Within a year, people will start seeing the results.

Q. Chhattisgarh is also taking new steps in palm oil cultivation. Could you tell us more?

A. Palm oil is an area where India has been heavily dependent on imports. The central government has given us a big responsibility to expand palm c ultivation in Chhattisgarh. We have identified large tracts of land suitable for this and are working closely with agricultural universities and Krishi Vigyan Kendras (KVKs). Under this plan, the central government aims to develop 1.2 lakh hectares of land across the country for palm cultivation – and Chhattisgarh is contributing a major share. Farmers are being encouraged through subsidies and intercropping options like chilies and spices so that they can earn even before the palm plantations mature. The response has been very encouraging.

Q. Chhattisgarh is known as the “Rice Bowl of India”. How are you ensuring a better paddy procurement system for farmers?

A: Chhattisgarh’s farmers grow rice in abundance, and it’s our pride. When our government came to power, we had promised to purchase paddy at Rs 3,100 per quintal – and we kept that promise. We have modernized mandis, expanded storage facilities, and made the procurement system more transparent. This year, around 1.5 lakh new farmers have joined the procurement network. Payments are being made faster, and the system is becoming simpler. Our aim is that no farmer should have to worry about selling their produce or getting paid on time.

Q. Chemical fertilizer supply has often faced disruptions. What steps have you taken to address this issue?

A . Global issues like the Russia-Ukraine conflict affected fertilizer imports everywhere, but with the direct intervention of Prime Minister Mo di and constant coordination with our leadership, we ensured that Chhattisgarh’s farmers did not suffer. At the same time, we are focusing on reducing dependence on chemical fertilizers by promoting organic farming. Farmers are being encouraged to prepare compost using cow dung and natural materials. This improves soil health, protects the environment, and reduces cost. The more we move towards organic methods, the stronger our farming will become.

Q. How is the government implementing the PM Janman Yojana in Chhattisgarh?

A. The PM Janman Yojana is one of the most significant programmes for the Particularly Vulnerable Tribal Groups (PVTGs). Chhattisgarh is among the best-performing states in its implementation. Every PVTG family is being provided with housing, solar power, clean drinking water, education and healthcare. I have visited many of these villages. Electricity is being supplied through solar panels, new schools are opening, and roads are being built in areas that were earlier cut off. We have also started coaching centres for tribal students in 16 districts and expanded hostel facilities in Delhi to support higher education. The goal is to bring tribal communities into the mainstream of development while preserving their culture.

Q. What is your message for the youth and young farmers of Chhattisgarh?

A. The youth of Chhattisgarh are full of energy and talent. Agriculture today is not what it was 20 years ago – it’s now an opportunity-filled profession. With modern technology, precision farming, and startups, it’s possible to make a good income from the land. I have seen engineers, doctors, and entrepreneurs returning to farming because they see the potential. My message to them is simple: Chhattisgarh has fertile land, abundant water, and a strong agricultural base. Use technology wisely, adopt drip irrigation, and focus on the principle of “More Crop per Drop.” This will increase productivity, conserve water, and secure a better future for everyone.