Sharp questions were raised regarding linseed production and the rejection of farmers’ produce on the 10th day of the Budget session in the Chhattisgarh Legislative Assembly. During the Question Hour, MLA Umesh Patel and Leader of the Opposition Charan Das Mahant demanded an inquiry against the Managing Director concerned. Responding to the issue, Agriculture Minister Ramvichar Netam assured the House that the matter would be investigated by a competent authority. Raising the issue, Umesh Patel referred to the minister’s earlier reply and stated that in Raigarh district, 158.49 units of linseed seeds distributed to farmers were rejected.

 

As a result, the produce from nearly 85 percent of the farmers’ cultivated land was also rejected. The MLA asked the minister to explain the reason behind such a large-scale rejection. In response, Ramvichar Netam said the rejection occurred because the actual yield fell short of the expected production levels. He added that although seeds had been distributed to farmers, adequate training had not been provided, which led to lower-than-expected output. Umesh Patel then questioned which department was responsible for failing to provide the necessary training to farmers.

 

The minister replied that if any deficiency or negligence is found during verification, action would be taken against the responsible officials. The MLA further pointed out that several farmers’ produce had reportedly been rejected due to weed contamination. He asked when seed grading had been conducted in the process. The minister responded that he would verify the records to determine who carried out the grading and on which dates, after which appropriate action would be taken. Patel also asked whether a specialized sieve required for linseed grading had been used, stating that the proper sieve was reportedly unavailable. Despite this, farmers’ harvest amounting to 186 quintals was rejected.

 

The minister acknowledged the concern and reiterated that all aspects of the issue would be examined thoroughly. Intervening in the debate, Charan Das Mahant said that in his constituency, fabric is produced from linseed stalks, indicating that linseed cultivation can become an important source of income for farmers. He noted that garments made from flax had even been presented to the Prime Minister, emphasizing the need to ensure that farmers receive high-quality seeds. Former Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel also raised the issue, asking whether action would be taken against the Managing Director and who would be appointed to conduct the investigation. The minister responded that the probe would be carried out by a competent officer.