National Farmers Day (Kisan Diwas), celebrated every year on 23rd December, is a significant occasion in India dedicated to recognizing the invaluable contributions of farmers, the backbone of the nation’s economy. The National Farmers Day commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who was a staunch advocate for farmers’ rights and worked tirelessly to improve their conditions.
Each year, National Farmers Day marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, a visionary leader whose policies and reforms revolutionized Indian agriculture.
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| Born | 23rd December 1902 |
| Died | 29th May 1987Â |
| Post | 5th Prime Minister of India |
HISTORY
The origins of National Farmers Day can be traced back to the late 20th century when the government decided to honour Chaudhary Charan Singh for his unwavering commitment to farmers.
Chaudhary Charan Singh was born on 23rd December 1902, in a small village in Uttar Pradesh, He hailed from a farming background. His experiences shaped his understanding of the challenges faced by farmers, including lack of resources, fair pricing, and modern techniques. As a political leader, he prioritized rural development and implemented several agricultural policies to empower farmers.
During his tenure as Prime Minister (1979 -1 980), Chaudhary Charan Singh introduced landmark reforms such as debt relief for farmers, landholding limits, and measures to ensure fair distribution of resources among small and marginal farmers. His vision for self-sufficient villages and sustainable agricultural practices laid the foundation for the Green Revolution in India.
In recognition of his legacy, the government of India declared Chaudhary Charan Singh birth anniversary as National Farmers Day, a day to highlight the role of farmers in India’s development and to promote awareness of their struggles and achievements.
SIGNIFICANCE
National Farmers Day holds immense importance in a country where agriculture is a primary livelihood for over 50% of the population.
Farmers are the backbone of India, contributing significantly to food security and the economy. Their hard work ensures that the nation is self-reliant in food production. National Farmers Day celebrates their dedication and sacrifices.
Despite their critical role, many farmers face challenges such as unpredictable weather, lack of access to modern technology, fluctuating market prices, and rising debts. National Farmers Day sheds light on these issues, urging policymakers and citizens to work towards sustainable solutions.
The day emphasizes the need for environmentally friendly farming practices, efficient water usage, and reduced dependency on chemical fertilizers. It encourages innovation in agriculture to ensure long-term productivity and ecological balance.
With urbanization and industrialization, many young individuals are moving away from agriculture. National Farmers Day inspires the youth to explore agriculture as a viable and rewarding profession.
The day serves as a reminder for the government and stakeholders to evaluate and implement policies that address the socio-economic conditions of farmers, ensuring their well-being and prosperity.
CONCLUSION
National Farmers Day is not just a celebration on 23rd December every year, but a call to action. It reminds us of the essential role farmers play in nation-building and the need to address their challenges. As India continues to grow, the well-being of its farmers remains paramount for sustainable development.
Let us use National Farmers day (Kisan Diwas) to express gratitude, advocate for their rights, and work collectively towards creating a future where every farmer thrives.
