Mirror Now Summit Chhattisgarh: Bhupesh Baghel Attacks Centre Over Millets & Farmers' Rights

New Delhi: Chhattisgarh Chief Minister Bhupesh Baghel touched upon various issues while speaking at the Mirror Now Summit today. From millets to MSP to upcoming Assembly elections, Baghel tore into the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government as he exuded confidence that his government will once again come to power in the state. Baghel blamed the "double engine government" for the issues being faced by the paddy farmers.

Baghel said farmers are being subjected to politics and are not getting adequate MSP (Minimum Support Prices). He further slammed the Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led Central government and said "why does PM lie on every platform".

"Centre reduced paddy procurement, had to auction in open market. Farmers should get the right value for their crops," the Chhattisgarh CM said.

"Our major focus has always been on #agriculture, since majority population depends on it. Labour must be respected": CM Bhupesh Baghel said.

The remarks come as paddy politics heats up in the state ahead of the upcoming Assembly elections. Two weeks back, the Congress government in Chhattisgarh claimed that farmers could receive up to Rs 3,600 per quintal for the paddy procured from them under the minimum support price (MSP), but only if the Congress retains power in the state.

Further, the CM said that Prime Minister Modi is copying Chhattisgarh in promoting millets as the biggest millets mill is in the state and his government was already working in this area.

"He is copying us," the CM said.

Speaking on naxal attacks in the state, the CM said, "Naxal attacks can happen anywhere." Further, he highlighted what all has changed in the last five years.

Themed ‘Path to Progress’, Mirror Now Summit brings together State leaders and visionaries to shape a holistic development agenda for the State. The Summit spotlights critical sectors pivotal for Chhattisgarh's progress and economic advancement. It aims to emphasize the State's efforts to foster a Sustainable Agricultural Revolution, advance farming practices, improve healthcare access with a focus on high-quality medical services and showcase the rich cultural and natural heritage of the state.

As the Chief Guest, the Honourable Chief Minister of Chhattisgarh, Bhupesh Baghel delivered the keynote address on "Nurturing Chhattisgarh's Path to Progress."

Distinguished personalities, including Dr. Kamalpreet Singh, Secretary, Agriculture Production Commissioner; Pradeep Sharma, Advisor to the Chief Minister (Agriculture); Nand Kumar Sai, Chairman, CSIDC; Dr. Alok Shukla, Principal Secretary, Chhattisgarh; and Atal Shrivastava, Chairman, Chhattisgarh Tourism Board, among others, were also participate.