Every year, India pauses on December 23rd to mark National Farmers Day, or Kisan Diwas, a day dedicated to honoring the relentless toil and invaluable contributions of the nation’s farmers, affectionately referred to as the ‘Annadatas’ (food-givers). More than just a ceremonial observance, this date is fundamentally rooted in the legacy of a man who dedicated his entire life to the welfare of the peasantry: former Prime Minister Chaudhary Charan Singh.
The observance on December 23rd specifically commemorates the 123rd birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, who served as the fifth Prime Minister of India. Coming from a farming family himself, Singh’s brief but impactful tenure was singularly focused on agrarian reforms and ensuring that the true India—which he famously believed resided in its villages—was given its due. His birth anniversary has been officially designated as Kisan Diwas since 2001, underscoring the government’s commitment to recognizing his pioneering work in land reform and debt relief.
Remembering the Champion of Farmers’ Rights
Chaudhary Charan Singh’s reputation as the “Champion of India’s Farmers” was earned not just through rhetoric but through crucial legislative action that fundamentally changed the rural landscape, particularly in Uttar Pradesh. Long before he became the Prime Minister, his focus was on dismantling the oppressive feudal structures that shackled farmers to debt and exploitation.
Two of his most significant contributions, which remain cornerstones of post-independence agricultural policy, were the formulation and finalization of the Debt Redemption Bill (1939), aimed at relieving the peasantry from moneylenders’ clutches, and his leading role in the Zamindari Abolition Act (1950). Later, as Chief Minister of UP, he was instrumental in bringing about the Land Holding Act (1960), designed to ensure a more equitable distribution of land.
He was a pragmatist who consistently argued against an excessive urban-industrial bias in national planning, insisting that the country’s economic and social stability was inextricably linked to the prosperity of its agricultural sector. This foundational philosophy is what is celebrated and reaffirmed on Farmers Day every year.
Celebrations Across States: Kisan Samman Diwas
The spirit of Farmers Day is translated into tangible action across various states, often observed as ‘Kisan Samman Diwas.’ This year, the focus was heavy on acknowledging the farmers’ contribution to the national food basket and promoting modern agricultural techniques.
For instance, official state-level functions, such as the one attended by Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath in Lucknow, served as a platform not only for paying tributes to the former Prime Minister but also for implementing welfare measures. Reports confirm that as part of the celebrations, farmers were often felicitated for their achievements in crop yield and innovation. In a symbolic gesture of promoting mechanization, tractor keys were distributed to several beneficiaries under various government schemes, emphasizing the current policy shift toward technology and modern infrastructure.
The Policy Focus: Sustainable Future and FPOs
Beyond the historical tributes, Kisan Diwas serves as a critical annual platform to refocus national attention on current agrarian challenges. The central theme often revolves around sustainable agriculture, climate resilience, and income security. A significant talking point in recent observances has been the role of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs).
FPOs are viewed as a crucial vehicle for transforming Indian agriculture, enabling small and marginal farmers to achieve collective bargaining power, better access to modern technology, quality inputs, and competitive markets. By strengthening these value chains and promoting agri-exports, the focus of the day aligns directly with the national vision of creating a prosperous and globally competitive agricultural sector, ensuring that the ‘Annadatas’ are fully empowered for the future.
FAQs
Why is December 23rd celebrated as Farmers Day in India?
December 23rd is celebrated as National Farmers Day (Kisan Diwas) because it marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who was a lifelong advocate and champion of farmers’ rights and agrarian reforms.
What was Chaudhary Charan Singh’s most important contribution to farmers?
Chaudhary Charan Singh is most remembered for his legislative work, including the introduction of the Debt Redemption Bill (1939) to protect farmers from moneylenders, and his pivotal role in the abolition of the Zamindari system through the Zamindari Abolition Act (1950).
How is Farmers Day typically celebrated across the country?
Farmers Day is celebrated through official programs, often called ‘Kisan Samman Diwas,’ where successful farmers are felicitated, and seminars, workshops, and awareness campaigns are held to disseminate information on modern farming techniques and government welfare schemes.
Disclaimer: This article provides information based on publicly available news reports and official announcements related to the observance of National Farmers Day (Kisan Diwas). Specific details regarding government schemes and beneficiaries may vary by state and are subject to change without prior notice.
