In a significant and farmer-friendly move, the Chhattisgarh government has announced the extension of the mandi fee rebate on rice exports for another year. The decision aims to boost rice exports from the state while strengthening farmers’ incomes and the overall agricultural economy.
Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai made the announcement on Saturday while addressing the second edition of the India International Rice Summit. He stated that extending the mandi fee exemption would prove beneficial for both farmers and exporters and would further strengthen Chhattisgarh’s position in the global rice market.
The Chief Minister noted that the Rice Summit was particularly significant as it brought together international buyers from 12 countries along with embassy delegations from six nations. This strong participation reflects the growing global interest in Chhattisgarh’s rice sector. He emphasized that the presence of international stakeholders would help the state gain wider recognition in the global rice trade.
Rice Defines Chhattisgarh’s Identity
Highlighting the state’s agricultural heritage, the Chief Minister said that Chhattisgarh is rightly known as India’s “Rice Bowl.” This identity remains strong even today, with rice forming an integral part of the state’s food culture. He also spoke about the diversity of paddy varieties grown in the state, particularly praising the aromatic Jeeraphool and Dubraj rice from the Surguja region, which are renowned for their distinctive fragrance and superior quality.
Mandi Fee Rebate to Accelerate Exports
The Chief Minister explained that exporters had been demanding the mandi fee rebate for several years. The exemption was introduced last year and was scheduled to expire in December 2025. With the decision to extend it by another year, rice exports from the state are expected to gain further momentum. He added that the state’s new industrial policy focuses on promoting small and medium enterprises, which will enhance rice processing capacity and export potential.
Better Prices for Paddy Farmers
Currently, Chhattisgarh exports nearly 100,000 tonnes of rice to around 90 countries. The Chief Minister assured exporters of the government’s full support. He also stated that farmers are being paid ₹3,100 per quintal for paddy, with a procurement limit of 21 quintals per acre. Last year, the state procured approximately 14.9 million tonnes of paddy, and procurement is expected to increase further in the current season.
