Madhya Pradesh, with the largest area under organic farming in India, faces a corruption scandal. Millions of rupees meant to promote organic farming have been allegedly misused by local officials in Anuppur district.
The district administration’s investigation revealed that funds allocated from the District Mineral Fund in 2019-20 were misappropriated. The investigation found that while 5,000 farmers were supposed to receive materials like vermicomposting beds, organic manure, earthworms, nets, and training, many received incomplete kits or no training at all.
Farmers reported missing materials, unused equipment, and lack of training. Soil testing reports, crucial for understanding compost usage and crop selection, were also not provided.
The state government has promised to investigate the matter and take action against the guilty officials.