‘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.

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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.

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?