CM Vishnu Deo Sai announces major relief at India International Rice Summit; APEDA regional office inaugurated in Raipur
Published on: January 11, 2025
By: BTNI
Location: Raipur, India
In a significant boost to rice exporters and farmers, Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai on Friday announced the extension of mandi fee exemption for rice exporters by another year. The announcement was made during the India International Rice Summit held at a private resort in Raipur, marking a major policy relief aimed at strengthening rice exports from the state.
Addressing the summit, Chief Minister Sai said the decision would directly benefit rice exporters as well as farmers, who have long been demanding an extension of the mandi fee waiver. The earlier exemption, granted by the state government last year, was set to expire in December 2025. With the extension, rice exports from Chhattisgarh are expected to gain further momentum.
The Chief Minister also inaugurated the regional office of the Agricultural and Processed Food Products Export Development Authority (APEDA) in Raipur, describing it as a crucial step toward enhancing agri-export infrastructure in the state. He emphasized that global demand for organic products is rising rapidly and highlighted that organic rice cultivation is already underway in Dantewada district, which needs further encouragement and support.
Speaking on the occasion, CM Sai said the second edition of the India International Rice Summit was of immense importance for Chhattisgarh. He noted that the participation of buyers from 12 countries and embassy representatives from six countries would help the state gain stronger international recognition. He warmly welcomed foreign delegates to the “pious land of Chhattisgarh.”
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Recalling the state’s agricultural heritage, the Chief Minister said Chhattisgarh has rightly earned the title of the “Rice Bowl of India.” Rice has been an integral part of the state’s food culture, with thousands of varieties of paddy cultivated across different regions. He specifically mentioned the aromatic rice varieties like Jeeraphool and Dubraj from the Surguja region, known for their distinctive fragrance and quality.
Highlighting export figures, CM Sai said that nearly one lakh tonnes of rice from Chhattisgarh are currently being exported to around 90 countries. Under the state’s new industrial policy, special emphasis is being laid on promoting small industries, which will further strengthen rice processing and exports. He reiterated that the state government remains fully committed to supporting exporters.
The Chief Minister also shared key information on farmer welfare measures, stating that paddy is being procured at the rate of ₹3,100 per quintal, with procurement of up to 21 quintals per acre. Last year, the state procured 149 lakh metric tonnes of paddy, and procurement is expected to increase further this year.
During the summit, CM Sai visited the rice-centric exhibition, where he reviewed various rice varieties, region-specific produce, innovations in rice cultivation, and modern technologies aimed at increasing productivity. He also inspected government stalls and appreciated efforts related to rice production and marketing, stating that such innovations would directly benefit farmers and strengthen the state’s economy.
The event was attended by Health Minister Shyam Bihari Jaiswal, Principal Secretary to the Chief Minister Subodh Kumar Singh, APEDA Chairman Abhishek Dev, Chhattisgarh Rice Millers Association President Kantilal, Ram Garg, along with millers, rice traders, and stakeholders from across the country.
