The Chhattisgarh Government’s push for crop diversification is beginning to bear fruit, literally and economically. A quiet agricultural shift is underway in parts of Sakti district, where small-scale farmers like Somprasad Patel of Darri village are rewriting their economic story through horticulture. Caught in the cycle of erratic paddy yields and diminishing returns, Patel’s fortunes took a decisive turn after he opted into the Vegetable Area Expansion programme under the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana. With departmental support, including a Rs 10,000 subsidy, he transitioned to tomato cultivation on half a hectare. The outcome: 18,000 kg of produce and a net income of Rs 2.70 lakh, more than triple his previous earnings. Patel’s story is not just an individual success; it is emblematic of a larger shift encouraged by the Vishnu Deo Sai-led government’s renewed focus on horticulture.

 

Officials believe the sector holds key answers to the economic vulnerability of small and marginal farmers in non-irrigated or low-yield zones. Armed with basic infrastructure and guided by technical support, Patel adopted water-efficient methods like drip irrigation and mulching, which not only conserved resources but also stabilised output. “From uncertainty to assured returns, horticulture has made agriculture viable for me,” said Patel, reflecting on the turnaround. Local officials say a ripple effect is already visible. Inspired by Patel’s success, other farmers in the block have begun to explore alternatives to traditional paddy. With support structures now more accessible and examples on the ground, horticulture is gaining new ground as a sustainable livelihood option.