Low-water crop expected to generate higher income; farmer shifts part of paddy land to marigold cultivation with guidance from Agriculture Department
Published on: July 06, 2026
By: BTNI
Location: Rajnandgaon, India
In a significant step toward sustainable agriculture and crop diversification, progressive farmer Virendra Kumar Sahu of Jangleshwar village in Rajnandgaon district has decided to replace paddy cultivation on a portion of his farmland with marigold flowers, a crop that requires less water and offers promising market returns.
The initiative reflects a growing shift among farmers toward climate-resilient farming practices amid changing weather patterns and recurring water scarcity. Mr. Sahu believes that cultivating low-water crops can provide farmers with a more stable and profitable source of income while helping conserve valuable water resources.
Shift from traditional paddy to marigold cultivation
Owning nearly 20 acres of agricultural land, Mr. Sahu has traditionally cultivated paddy during the Kharif season. However, this year he has decided to dedicate a part of his farmland to marigold cultivation instead of paddy.
He explained that erratic rainfall and unseasonal rains during the previous Kharif season adversely affected paddy production, resulting in financial losses. Learning from that experience, he opted for a crop that requires comparatively less water and offers better economic prospects.
Agriculture Department’s guidance boosts confidence
Mr. Sahu said his decision was taken after receiving technical guidance from officials of the Agriculture Department. He also conducted soil testing before sowing and continues to receive scientific advice from agricultural experts to ensure successful cultivation.
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He drew inspiration from farmers in Mohad village, where marigold cultivation yielded encouraging results last year and generated attractive incomes for growers.
Strong market demand promises better profitability
According to Mr. Sahu, marigold flowers enjoy consistent demand throughout the year for religious ceremonies, festivals, weddings, and cultural events. He noted that the nearby Durg district provides a strong and accessible market, increasing the likelihood of obtaining remunerative prices for the produce.
He expressed confidence that marigold cultivation would offer lower production costs, reduced water consumption, and higher profits compared to conventional paddy farming.
Encourages farmers to adopt alternative crops
Mr. Sahu urged fellow farmers to consider diversifying their cropping patterns by incorporating low-water crops alongside paddy, especially in view of increasing water stress.
He said crop diversification not only helps enhance farm income but also contributes significantly to water conservation and sustainable agriculture.
Government incentive strengthens farmers’ confidence
Mr. Sahu appreciated the Chhattisgarh Government’s initiative to promote crop diversification. He said the ₹15,000 per acre input assistance announced by Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai under the state’s crop diversification programme is highly beneficial and motivating for farmers.
He expressed confidence that the financial support would encourage more farmers to diversify their crops, strengthen their economic condition, and reduce dependence on water-intensive farming. He also conveyed his gratitude to the Chief Minister for introducing the incentive.
