Transparent MSP system boosts confidence, income and self-reliance among rural women cultivators
TFP Bureau, Raipur, January 27, 2026: The paddy procurement process for the Kharif marketing year 2025–26 has brought more than just assured crop sales to the villages of Chhattisgarh—it has delivered a renewed sense of trust, dignity and self-confidence among farmers. A striking example of this transformation is the story of Mrs. Chauti Bai Sahu, a woman farmer from Sambalpur village in Dhamtari district, whose experience reflects the impact of the state government’s farmer-friendly policies at the grassroots level.
For years, the responsibility of selling paddy from the family’s fields rested with her husband. This season, however, due to his ill health, Chauti Bai stepped forward to take charge herself. What began as a necessity soon turned into a journey of empowerment and self-reliance. Armed with a pre-issued token, she arrived at the local procurement centre with 57 quintals of paddy—an unfamiliar task, yet one she handled with remarkable confidence.
Observers at the procurement centre noted that despite it being her first time managing the process independently, there was no sign of hesitation. Instead, Chauti Bai appeared calm and assured, attributing her confidence to the transparent, orderly and farmer-centric arrangements at the centre. She said the entire process—from entry to weighing and documentation—was smooth and respectful, allowing her to complete the sale without stress or confusion.
The procurement centre was equipped with all essential facilities, including gunny bags, sufficient labour support, digital weighing machines operated by trained staff, and basic amenities such as drinking water, electricity and clean toilets. These arrangements ensured that farmers, especially women, could carry out transactions with ease and dignity.
The timely payment received from the sale of paddy has brought immediate relief to Chauti Bai’s family. She plans to use the income to ensure better medical treatment for her husband, a priority that had earlier caused financial anxiety. Expressing gratitude to the state government, she said the decision to procure paddy at a minimum support price of Rs. 3,100 per quintal, along with the provision to purchase up to 21 quintals per acre, has significantly strengthened the economic position of farming households.
Chauti Bai believes that the enhanced support price has brought stability to her family’s life. Concerns related to daily household expenses, healthcare and future needs have eased considerably. She also praised the cooperative and respectful behaviour of procurement centre staff, labourers and officials, noting that their sensitivity played a crucial role in making the experience positive and empowering.
Her story stands as more than an individual success—it highlights how effective implementation of government policies can transform lives at the village level. Chauti Bai of Sambalpur has emerged not only as a paddy seller but as a symbol of confidence, resilience and the growing role of women in agriculture. Her smile, she says, reflects renewed faith in the system and hope for a more secure and prosperous future.
