Farmers’ Income Growth Benefits Automobile Industry and Economy: CM Sai
Raipur, January 16
Speaking at the inauguration of RADA Auto Expo 2025 held at Science College Ground, Raipur, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai shared his journey as a legislator in undivided Madhya Pradesh.
Recalling his early days, he mentioned, “I had the privilege of serving as an MLA twice and spent eight years commuting on a motorcycle. Meeting people, listening to their problems, and touring my constituency were all done on two wheels. A lot has changed since then. The increase in farmers’ income in Chhattisgarh has positively impacted the automobile industry and the entire economy. This progress is evident across all sectors, including the rapidly growing auto sector in the state. Today, with the rise in vehicles, it is imperative to follow traffic rules for road safety. We must all be aware of traffic regulations.”
Praising the organization of Auto Expo 2025, CM Sai highlighted that over 10,000 vehicles were sold during last year’s expo. This year, the state government has announced a 50% lifetime road tax exemption, which is expected to boost sales to 20,000 vehicles. He congratulated the organizers, emphasizing the convenience of having various categories of vehicles available in one place.
The Chief Minister further stated that farmers in Chhattisgarh are receiving the highest prices for paddy, which has positively impacted every sector. Last year, 24.72 lakh farmers sold 145 lakh metric tons of paddy, and this year, the figures are expected to break records, with around 27 lakh registered farmers projected to procure nearly 160 lakh metric tons of paddy.
Assembly Speaker Dr. Raman Singh remarked, “There was a time when Chhattisgarh was considered economically backward. Today, in its 25th year, the state has become self-reliant. The government is purchasing paddy from farmers at ₹3,100 per quintal. When farmers prosper, everyone progresses. Under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Union Transport Minister Nitin Gadkari, a robust road network is being developed in Chhattisgarh. However, with rapid development, road accidents have increased, making adherence to traffic rules and safety measures essential.”
MP Brijmohan Agrawal emphasized, “Automobiles are a vital means of connectivity. With farmers receiving direct financial transfers, the auto sector in Chhattisgarh is growing rapidly. The 50% road tax exemption under CM Vishnu Deo Sai’s leadership will significantly benefit middle-class families. Alongside vehicle sales, ensuring road safety is equally important. Only by raising awareness can we implement effective road safety measures.”
During the expo, CM Sai launched the Honda SP 125 and Audi Q7 vehicles and honored individuals making notable contributions to road safety. He also unveiled a road safety poster and handed over the first vehicle key to the expo’s inaugural customer. The Raipur Automobile Dealers Association (RADA) contributed ₹5 lakh under CSR for road safety initiatives.
Prominent attendees included MLAs Rajesh Munat and Motilal Sahu, former MLA Rajkamal Singhania, Transport Secretary S. Prakash, Additional Transport Commissioner D. Ravishankar, RADA President Ravindra Bhasin, Chhattisgarh Chamber of Commerce President Amar Parwani, Manish Raj Singhania, and other RADA members and citizens.