TFP Bureau, Raipur, March 10, 2025: The Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly today passed grant demands of Rs 9,362 crore for the departments of Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection, led by Minister Dayal Das Baghel. During the discussion, Minister Baghel emphasized the government’s commitment to the welfare of farmers, the poor, and laborers in the state.
Minister Baghel highlighted the government’s fulfillment of Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s promise to purchase 21 quintals of paddy per acre from registered farmers. This year, a record 149.25 lakh metric tonnes of paddy were purchased from over 25 lakh farmers, marking the highest purchase since the state’s formation. These farmers have already received Rs 34,348 crore as part of the support price payment.
The minister also spoke about efforts to combat malnutrition in the state. The government has begun distributing fortified rice, enriched with essential nutrients such as iron, folic acid, and vitamin B-12, to improve public health and address nutritional deficiencies. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to provide more nutritious food to beneficiaries under various schemes, including the Public Distribution System, Mid-Day Meal Scheme, and Supplementary Nutrition Diet Scheme.
Minister Baghel further informed the Assembly that 72.29 lakh priority ration cardholders will receive free rice until December 2028, continuing the successful Pradhan Mantri Garib Kalyan Yojana launched during the COVID-19 pandemic. The initiative is expected to benefit millions of poor families in the state, ensuring they have access to affordable food.
In response to the ongoing issue of malnutrition, the government has also distributed 5.8 lakh metric tonnes of gram per month to over 25 lakh families in Bastar and Surguja regions. To support this initiative, a provision of Rs 400 crore has been made in the state budget. Additionally, iodized salt is being distributed to Antyodaya, destitute, and BPL ration cardholders under the Amrit Mission Scheme.
Minister Baghel outlined other key achievements, including the issuance of 4.73 lakh new ration cards and the addition of 6.13 lakh new members to existing ration cards in the past financial year. He also highlighted the ongoing expansion of food storage infrastructure in the state, with plans for new warehouses to accommodate the increased food grain production.
In a push for greater transparency, the government has introduced online verification services for weights and measures, ensuring fair distribution. Last year, over 88,000 traders had their measurements verified, generating significant revenue for the state.
Minister Baghel concluded by reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving the lives of farmers, the poor, and laborers in Chhattisgarh, while continuing to focus on infrastructure development, nutrition, and welfare initiatives.
