Kumar Bahukhandi
Millet Production on 35 Acres Transforms the Agricultural Landscape
Raipur: A new chapter has been added to the history of agriculture in the forested and tribal-dominated high-altitude region of Dhamtari district. In the villages of Dangimancha and Khirkitola, located in the upper reaches of the Gangrel Dam, organised cultivation has been initiated during the Rabi season after a long gap of approximately 50 years.
Under the Agricultural Technology Management Agency (ATMA) scheme, an agricultural reform and extension program run by the Department of Agriculture, millet (ragi) is being cultivated on a total of 35 acres in these two villages.
This initiative to cultivate millet in this high-altitude region with its unique geographical conditions is considered a historic achievement. In line with the government’s priorities, nutritious millets are being promoted in forest and tribal areas.
Through the ATMA scheme, efforts are being made to increase farmers’ income and ensure nutritional security by providing them with information on modern techniques, the SMI (Systematic Millets Intensification) method, and seed production. In the future, there are plans to expand millet-based farming and provide all necessary support to connect farmers with the market.
Following the Millet Festival held in the district last week, a farmer’s workshop was organised at the village level on Monday January 12, 2026 under the joint auspices of ATMA and the Department of Agriculture.
The Sarpanch of Gram Panchayat Tumrabahar, Deepak Ram Dhruv, concerned departmental officers, 40 women farmers, and 32 male farmers were present on this occasion.
The farmer’s workshop provided practical information on advanced millet cultivation using the SMI method, seed production, crop and nutrient management, pest and disease control, and reducing production costs to earn higher profits. Detailed discussions were also held on the nutritional and health benefits of millet and its market potential.
During the program, farmers were encouraged to strengthen their livelihoods through millet-based farming, adopt climate-resilient agriculture, and move towards economic empowerment by availing the benefits of various government schemes. The farmers present agreed to further expand the successful cultivation of finger millet in the region in the future.
