Chhattisgarh Chief Miner Encourages Citizens to Engage in ‘Roka-Cheka’ for Crop Protection

Raipur: Chhattisgarh Chief Miner Bhupesh Baghel called upon the citizens to actively participate in the ‘Roka-Cheka’ initiative aimed at safeguarding crops. He made this appeal during a program held at his residence office, where funds were dributed under the Godhan Nyay Yojana. An amount of ₹18.47 crore was disbursed to beneficiaries of the scheme, according to an official statement.
In order to protect crops, Chief Miner Baghel urged farmers, Sarpanchs (village heads), gram patels (village-level officials), and Gauthan committees to make necessary arrangements for ‘Roka-Cheka’ in villages from July 6 to July 17. ‘Roka-Cheka’ is a traditional practice that helps in safeguarding crops from stray animals, which becomes particularly important during the monsoon season when sowing and planting activities are in full swing.
Baghel emphasized the need to inform people about ‘Roka-Cheka’ through village-wide announcements and ensure arrangements for fodder and water for animals in Gauthans (village-level cattle shelters).

मुख्यमंत्री श्री @bhupeshbaghel ने ग्राम पटेलों, किसानों एवं प्रदेशवासियों से 6 से 17 जुलाई तक गांवों में ‘रोका-छेका’ की तैयारी करने की अपील की है।– उन्होंने आवारा पशुओं से फसल को बचाने व गौठानों में पशुओं के लिए चारा-पानी की व्यवस्था किए जाने हेतु गांवों में मुनादी कराए जाने… pic.twitter.com/ALW10XwVwr— CMO Chhattisgarh (@ChhattisgarhCMO) July 5, 2023

Additionally, the Chief Miner extended wishes to the people for the upcoming Hareli festival, which will be observed on the 17th of this month. He encouraged farmers to not only increase the cultivation area for paddy but also for other Kharif crops. Baghel highlighted that all crops are currently fetching good prices in the state and assured that there will be an adequate supply of fertilizers and seeds. He also emphasized the availability of sufficient organic fertilizers in Gauthans and urged farmers to utilize more organic fertilizers and bio-pesticides during the Kharif season.
The Chief Miner noted the favourable rainfall being experienced in many areas of the state, resulting in the commencement of the sowing process. While expressing confidence in farmers’ seed selection capabilities, he encouraged them to seek guidance from the Department of Agriculture to achieve better results through a combination of experience and science. As of now, the sowing of Kharif crops has been completed on 3.33 lakh hectares, with a target area of 48.20 lakh hectares for this season.
Baghel’s call for active participation in ‘Roka-Cheka’ aims to protect the crops of Chhattisgarh and ensure a successful agricultural season for the state’s farmers.