Income Increased from Millets, Happiness Came into Farmers' Lives

Raipur, June 05, 2026/ The cultivation of millets is proving to be a boon for farmers in Chhattisgarh and across India. Due to low cost, less water, and excellent yield even in barren land, millets are increasing farmers' income and bringing prosperity to their lives. Millets like ragi (marua), kodo, and kutki, which were once part of traditional food, have now gained recognition worldwide as 'superfoods'. These nutritious grains are now preferred not only in homes but also in hotels and restaurants. Increased demand and better market prices have made millet (Shri Anna) cultivation profitable for farmers. Importance of Shri Anna Increased by Government Initiatives Continuous efforts are being made by the central and state governments to promote millet crops. Assistance is being provided to farmers through various schemes to encourage them. Due to the increase in support price and market availability, more farmers are now attracted towards cultivating Shri Anna. New Direction Given by Krishi Unnati Yojana Two young farmers from the villages of Potalia and Nahadi in the district have achieved remarkable success in millet production by taking advantage of the Krishi Unnati Yojana. Their hard work and the support received from the scheme have brought a significant change in their income. Dilip Markam Earned One and a Half Lakh Rupees from Kodo-Kutki This year, farmer Dilip Markam from Dhurwa Para village, Potalia, earned a profit of approximately Rs 1,50,000 by cultivating kodo-kutki in his field. He cultivates kodo-kutki along with paddy and vegetables in his 17-hectare agricultural area. Dilip stated that he earned approximately Rs 2,72,000 this year by selling 88 quintals of paddy. He also has agricultural machinery like a power tiller to modernize his farming. He intends to invest a portion of his income in the development of his farm and adopting new technologies. Halder Hemla's Hard Work Also Paid Off Farmer Halder Hemla from Nahadi village also achieved notable success through kodo-kutki cultivation. He earned a profit of about Rs 1,20,000 from this crop. He says that millet cultivation is proving to be a better income-generating crop with low investment. Scheme Proving Beneficial for Farmers Dilip Markam and Halder Hemla believe that the Krishi Unnati Yojana is extremely beneficial for farmers cultivating coarse grains. Due to the incentives provided to farmers through the scheme, the area under Shri Anna cultivation is increasing, and the economic condition of rural families is strengthening. Shri Anna is a Confluence of Health and Prosperity Coarse grains like kodo, kutki, and ragi are rich in calcium, iron, and fiber. Being gluten-free, they are easily digestible and also beneficial for health. This is why their demand is constantly increasing, and farmers are getting better prices. Lesson from Success Farmers can increase their income by connecting traditional crops with the modern market. The success of Dilip Markam and Halder Hemla proves that with government schemes and hard work, the cultivation of Shri Anna can become a strong foundation for rural prosperity.