CM extends wishes on National Farmers Day

National Farmers Day, or Kisan Diwas, observed annually on December 23rd, is a profound tribute to the relentless spirit and indispensable contribution of India's farming community. This day commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's 5th Prime Minister, a towering figure whose life was dedicated to championing the cause of farmers and rural development. Understanding Kisan Diwas goes beyond merely knowing a date; it delves into the economic, social, and political fabric of India.

**Background Context and Historical Significance:**

Chaudhary Charan Singh, born on December 23, 1902, in Hapur, Uttar Pradesh, was a leader who truly understood the pulse of rural India. Unlike many of his contemporaries who focused on rapid industrialization, Singh firmly believed that India's prosperity lay in its villages and the welfare of its farmers. His political career, spanning pre-independence activism and post-independence governance, was marked by a consistent advocacy for agrarian reforms. As Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh multiple times, he was instrumental in implementing significant land reforms, most notably the abolition of the zamindari system. This monumental step, taken shortly after independence, aimed to dismantle the exploitative landlord-tenant relationship and empower tillers of the soil. He also pushed for consolidation of land holdings, which helped in making farming more viable for small and marginal farmers. His tenure as Prime Minister from 1979 to 1980, though brief, further solidified his reputation as a 'Kisan Neta' (farmer leader), as he continued to advocate for policies that ensured fair prices for agricultural produce, debt relief, and better irrigation facilities. The Government of India officially declared December 23rd as National Farmers Day in 2001, recognizing his immense legacy and the foundational role of farmers.

**Key Stakeholders and Their Roles:**

At the heart of Kisan Diwas are the **farmers** themselves, who constitute the largest informal workforce in India, ensuring food security for over 1.4 billion people. Their resilience in the face of climatic uncertainties, market fluctuations, and economic pressures is truly commendable. The **Central and State Governments** are crucial stakeholders, responsible for formulating and implementing agricultural policies, providing subsidies, credit, irrigation facilities, and market linkages. Institutions like the **Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)** and various **Agricultural Universities** play a vital role in research, development, and dissemination of modern farming techniques. **Agricultural cooperatives** and **Farmer Producer Organizations (FPOs)** empower farmers by providing collective bargaining power, access to markets, and financial support. Finally, **civil society organizations and NGOs** often advocate for farmers' rights and provide support at the grassroots level.

**Significance for India:**

Agriculture remains the backbone of the Indian economy, contributing significantly to the GDP (though its share has declined over the years, it still accounts for around 15-18%) and employing nearly 42% of the workforce. Kisan Diwas is not just a ceremonial observance; it is a critical reminder of this sector's importance for national food security, rural livelihoods, and overall economic stability. It highlights the often-overlooked struggles of farmers, including issues like indebtedness, climate change impacts, price volatility, and lack of adequate infrastructure. Politically, the farming community holds significant sway, and their issues frequently dominate national discourse, influencing policy decisions and electoral outcomes. Socially, it fosters respect for manual labor and traditional agricultural practices, while also encouraging innovation in the sector.

**Constitutional Provisions and Policies:**

Agriculture is primarily a **State Subject** under Entry 14 of List II (State List) of the Seventh Schedule of the Indian Constitution, meaning state governments have the primary responsibility for agricultural development. However, the Central Government plays a crucial coordinating and policy-making role. The **Directive Principles of State Policy (DPSP)**, particularly Article 38 (promoting the welfare of the people), Article 39 (securing the right to an adequate means of livelihood), Article 47 (raising the level of nutrition and standard of living), and Article 48 (organization of agriculture and animal husbandry), underscore the state's obligation towards farmers. Post-independence, various **Land Reforms Acts** were enacted by states to abolish intermediaries and redistribute land. Contemporary policies like the **Minimum Support Price (MSP)** scheme aim to protect farmers from price crashes, while initiatives such as **Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN)** provide direct income support. The **Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY)** offers crop insurance, and the **e-NAM (National Agriculture Market)** platform seeks to integrate agricultural markets across the country.

**Future Implications:**

The future of Indian agriculture is marked by both immense potential and significant challenges. Climate change poses an existential threat, demanding a shift towards climate-resilient farming practices, water conservation, and sustainable agriculture. The fragmentation of land holdings, increasing input costs, and lack of robust post-harvest infrastructure continue to plague the sector. Future policies must focus on enhancing farmer income, not just through production increases but also through value addition, food processing, and better market linkages. Technology adoption, including precision farming, AI, and blockchain for supply chain management, will be critical. The government's vision of doubling farmer income by 2022 (though delayed) and promoting FPOs, along with addressing issues like farmer suicides and rural distress, remain paramount. Globally, India's agricultural policies, especially concerning subsidies and market access, are often debated in international forums like the WTO, highlighting the need for a balanced approach that supports domestic farmers while adhering to global trade norms. Kisan Diwas serves as an annual reminder to continuously re-evaluate and strengthen our commitment to the nation's food providers.