As part of the Krishak Unnati Scheme, the Chhattisgarh government will pay about Rs 13,000 crore on March 12 as the difference amount in lieu of paddy procurement, an official statement said on Sunday. The government has procured a record 144.92 tonnes of paddy from 24.72 lakh farmers at Rs 3,100 per quintal. Presently, the support price of Rs 2,183 has been paid. The government is committed to uplifting farmers, the statement said. In order to prioritise farming, the Agriculture Departments budget has been hiked by 33 percent and many innovative initiatives are being taken. Agriculture is being commercialised and harvest management and implementing modern technologies are being emphasised. A provision of Rs 500 crore has been made to support landless labourers. Provisions have been made to provide interest-free loans as well as to establish solar-powered irrigation pumps.

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