Raipur, Three districts of Chhattisgarh—Dhamtari, Mungeli, and Gaurela-Pendra-Marwahi (GPM)—have been conferred the prestigious ‘Millionaire Farmer of India – 2025’ awards for exemplary work in the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants. The recognition was awarded for innovation-driven agricultural development under the guidance of the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Traditions and Medicinal Plants Board.

Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai congratulated the three districts and stakeholders, stating that the achievement reflects the state’s growing strength in diversified and sustainable agriculture. He noted that such innovation-based efforts are strengthening farmers’ incomes and opening new avenues for livelihood generation across Chhattisgarh.

The award ceremony was jointly organised by Krishi Jagran and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) from 7 to 9 December 2025 at the IARI Pusa Ground in New Delhi. Often referred to as the “Oscar of Indian Agriculture”, the award honours outstanding contributions in the agriculture and allied sectors.

Forest Minister Kedar Kashyap also lauded the districts, noting that the cultivation of medicinal and aromatic plants has created new employment opportunities, particularly in tribal areas. He described the achievement as a source of inspiration for farmers and women’s self-help groups (SHGs).

Chairman of the Chhattisgarh Tribal, Local Health Traditions and Medicinal Plants Board, Vikas Markam, said the board’s schemes are helping farmers become self-reliant. He added that the cultivation of medicinal crops would be further expanded in the coming years.

During the event, the board showcased its activities through a stall highlighting medicinal plant cultivation. Traditional healers from the state also provided consultations on indigenous treatment methods, making the stall a major attraction for visitors from India and abroad.

With the board’s support, farmers and SHGs in these districts have successfully undertaken the cultivation of lemongrass, vetiver, and other medicinal crops. For these initiatives, the districts were specifically honoured for “Administrative Excellence in Livelihood Development through Private Investors in the Agriculture Sector”.

Union Minister of State for Home Affairs Ajay Mishra presented the awards during the closing session on 9 December. The award for Mungeli district was received by Divisional Forest Officer Abhinav Kumar, while representatives of the respective District Collectors received the awards for Dhamtari and GPM.

The programme was inaugurated by Dr Vijay Kumar Saraswat, Member of NITI Aayog, and Dr ML Jat, Director General of ICAR. The event was attended by senior agricultural scientists, policymakers, and industry experts from across the globe.

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