Hemchand Sahu, a farmer from Kasekera village in the Chhura development block, who earned a limited income from traditional paddy cultivation, has set a new example of success by adopting modern horticultural techniques. With the support of the Horticulture Department under the National Horticulture Mission, he began cultivating marigold flowers on 0.48 hectares using drip irrigation and mulching techniques, significantly increasing his income.
With the guidance and technical support of Horticulture Department officials, Mr. Sahu learned scientific farming methods. Adopting modern techniques increased his production, controlled costs, and improved crop quality. He sold his marigold flowers in the local market as well as in Raipur, earning a net profit of approximately two lakh rupees. Mr. Sahu explains that previously, it was difficult to meet his family’s needs with paddy cultivation, but now floriculture has strengthened his financial situation. Seeing his success, nearby farmers are also being inspired to adopt commercial marigold cultivation.
Horticulture Department officials say that floriculture, which generates higher incomes from less land, is becoming a profitable option for farmers. The use of modern techniques like drip irrigation and mulching is conserving water, increasing both production and quality. Hemchand Sahu’s success is proof that leveraging government schemes, scientific farming, and timely technical guidance can play a vital role in increasing farmers’ incomes.
