₹495.96 Crore DBT to Landless Workers in Chhattisgarh
Chhattisgarh government transfers ₹495.96 crore to 4.95 lakh landless labourers via DBT; annual ₹10,000 assistance aims to strengthen rural livelihoods.
₹495.96 Crore Direct Benefit Transfer to Landless Agricultural Workers in Chhattisgarh
Rajnandgaon, March 26, 2026: The Chhattisgarh government led by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai transferred ₹495.96 crore directly into the bank accounts of more than 4.95 lakh landless agricultural labourers under a welfare initiative aimed at strengthening rural livelihoods. The Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) was carried out during a large public program held at Pandit Chakrapani Shukla Higher Secondary School Ground in Balodabazar-Bhatapara district, reinforcing the state’s focus on supporting economically vulnerable rural communities.
Annual Financial Assistance of ₹10,000
Under the scheme, eligible landless agricultural workers will receive ₹10,000 annually as financial assistance.
Key highlights of the scheme:
- Beneficiaries: 4.95 lakh landless labourers
- Amount transferred: ₹495.96 crore
- Assistance mode: Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT)
- Budget allocation (2026–27): ₹600 crore
Officials stated that the initiative aims to ensure financial security, social dignity, and economic stability for rural labourers who do not own agricultural land.
Continuity of Welfare Support
The government highlighted that similar assistance was provided earlier as well.
- In 2025, approximately 5.62 lakh beneficiaries received ₹562.11 crore directly into their accounts.
- The continuation of payments reflects the state’s effort to create a sustainable support system for rural workers.
Inclusion of Baiga-Gunia Families
A notable feature of the scheme is its inclusive approach.
Along with agricultural labourers, 22,028 Baiga-Gunia families, recognized for preserving traditional cultural practices, are also receiving financial assistance under the program. The move aims to combine economic welfare with cultural preservation.
Political Response and Local Reaction
The BJP Kisan Morcha in Rajnandgaon district welcomed the initiative, describing it as a step toward fulfilling welfare commitments under the “double-engine government” model.
District Kisan Morcha President Daduram Sonkar stated that farmers and labourers are witnessing tangible benefits through coordinated policies at the central and state levels, adding that thousands of beneficiaries in Rajnandgaon district have also received support through the scheme.
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Impact on Rural Economy
Experts believe such DBT-based schemes can contribute to:
- Increased rural purchasing power
- Reduced dependence on informal credit
- Improved livelihood security for landless workers
- Strengthening of inclusive agricultural economy
Direct transfers also minimize leakages and ensure transparent delivery of benefits.
Conclusion
The transfer of ₹495.96 crore marks a significant welfare intervention aimed at uplifting landless agricultural labourers in Chhattisgarh. With sustained budget allocation and expansion of beneficiary coverage, the scheme is expected to play a key role in improving rural incomes and social protection mechanisms across the state.
