RAIPUR: In a significant move to bolster the rice industry in Chhattisgarh, the state government has announced a complete exemption from mandi fees and farmer welfare fees for rice exporters. The decision aims to promote the export of non-Basmati rice and strengthen the state’s position in national and international markets.

The exemption applies to exporters who ship non-Basmati rice prepared from paddy procured through rice millers and mandis in Chhattisgarh. The initiative is expected to enhance the profitability of farmers and rice millers while encouraging greater competitiveness for the state's rice industry.

A notification detailing the exemptions has been issued for publication in the official Gazette. The exemption will be valid for one year from the date of the notification’s publication. To avail of these benefits, rice exporters must ensure the following, the shipping bill must clearly state the origin of the rice cargo as Chhattisgarh.

Relevant documents, including the Chhattisgarh Goods and Services Tax Statement, Bill of Lading, and Bank Re-consolidation Statement, must be submitted to the concerned mandi.

Registered rice exporters and millers must provide a declaration affirming that the rice was prepared from paddy procured within the state.

Additionally, rice millers will be required to issue permits to exporters under the Mandi Act to facilitate the process. This policy is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the rice export sector, furthering economic growth and opportunities in Chhattisgarh.