Kisan Diwas, observed annually on December 23, stands as a day of homage to the backbone of India’s economy—the farmers. This date commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India and a prominent advocate for farmers’ rights. His policies and vision for agrarian reform continue to influence India’s agricultural landscape. The day not only celebrates the contribution of farmers to the nation’s prosperity but also draws attention to their struggles, emphasizing the need for systemic support and reform.
The roots of Kisan Diwas lie in the acknowledgment of Chaudhary Charan Singh’s immense contributions to the agricultural sector. Born on December 23, 1902, in Uttar Pradesh, Singh was deeply connected to rural life and the farming community. He believed in the empowerment of farmers and consistently worked to address their challenges, advocating for policies that prioritized small and marginal farmers over large landowners.His tenure as Prime Minister (1979–1980) saw a focus on rural upliftment and agrarian reform, earning him the title of “Champion of Farmers.” Recognizing his contributions, the Indian government declared December 23 as Kisan Diwas in 2001 to honor his legacy and highlight the importance of agriculture in national development.
India, being predominantly agrarian, owes much of its economic strength to its farmers. The agricultural sector contributes nearly 15-20% of the GDP and employs over 50% of the population. Farmers play a crucial role in ensuring food security for the nation, supporting exports, and providing raw materials for industries. Kisan Diwas serves as a reminder of their relentless efforts and the indispensable role they play in national prosperity. Kisan Diwas aims to create awareness about the challenges faced by farmers, such as fluctuating market prices, inadequate access to technology, climate change, and mounting debts. By bringing these issues to the forefront, the day acts as a call for policymakers, citizens, and stakeholders to address these concerns and work towards sustainable solutions.
The observance of Kisan Diwas is also a platform to reflect on existing policies and introduce reforms that benefit the agricultural community. It underscores the need for investment in rural infrastructure, modernization of farming techniques, and provision of fair compensation for crops.Chaudhary Charan Singh was instrumental in advocating for land reforms aimed at reducing disparities in land ownership. His policies targeted zamindari (landlordism), ensuring that small and marginal farmers could gain access to land and resources. The Zamindari Abolition Act, which he championed, was a landmark reform in redistributing land to the tillers. Singh emphasized the development of rural areas, recognizing the link between rural prosperity and national progress. He advocated for investments in rural infrastructure, irrigation projects, and cooperative farming. His policies reflected a deep understanding of the challenges faced by farmers and sought to alleviate their struggles.
Singh believed that the true strength of India lay in its villages. His economic policies prioritized the upliftment of rural communities, ensuring that they had access to credit, technology, and markets. His vision laid the foundation for subsequent agrarian reforms in India. Kisan Diwas serves as a day of empowerment for farmers, providing them a platform to voice their grievances and share their experiences. Events organized on this day, such as workshops, seminars, and farmer fairs, help educate farmers about best practices, government schemes, and new technologies.Over the years, Kisan Diwas has inspired policymakers to introduce initiatives aimed at improving the lives of farmers. For instance, schemes like the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi (PM-KISAN) and the Kisan Credit Card reflect efforts to provide financial stability and access to credit for farmers.
The day also highlights the importance of innovation in agriculture. From organic farming to precision agriculture, Kisan Diwas encourages discussions on sustainable practices and the adoption of modern techniques that enhance productivity while preserving the environment.Kisan Diwas bridges the gap between urban and rural populations, fostering a greater understanding of the challenges faced by farmers. Urban citizens are reminded of the importance of supporting local farmers, sustainable farming practices, and fair trade. Despite their critical role, many farmers continue to struggle with financial insecurity, leading to a tragic increase in farmer suicides. Mounting debts, crop failures, and inadequate support systems contribute to this alarming trend. Kisan Diwas serves as a stark reminder of the urgent need for comprehensive solutions to address this crisis. Unpredictable weather patterns, droughts, floods, and declining soil fertility are taking a toll on agriculture. Farmers bear the brunt of climate change, with limited resources to adapt. Discussions on Kisan Diwas often center around the need for climate-resilient farming practices and policies.
Small and marginal farmers often struggle to access markets and secure fair prices for their produce. The role of middlemen, lack of storage facilities, and inadequate transportation infrastructure exacerbate their challenges. Kisan Diwas calls attention to the need for robust market linkages and support systems. While technology has revolutionized many sectors, its penetration in agriculture remains limited. High costs, lack of awareness, and inadequate training hinder farmers from adopting modern techniques. Kisan Diwas emphasizes the need for accessible and affordable agricultural technology.
To truly honor the spirit of Kisan Diwas, there is a need to strengthen policies that address farmers’ concerns. Ensuring fair compensation for crops, enhancing rural infrastructure, and providing social security to farmers can go a long way in improving their livelihoods.Sustainability must be at the heart of agricultural reforms. Encouraging organic farming, reducing dependence on chemical inputs, and adopting climate-resilient practices can ensure long-term benefits for farmers and the environment.Women play a significant role in agriculture, yet they remain largely invisible in policy discussions. Recognizing their contributions and providing them with equal opportunities, training, and access to resources can empower them and uplift the farming community as a whole. Public awareness campaigns that highlight the importance of farmers can foster greater respect and support for their work. Encouraging consumers to support local farmers and adopt sustainable consumption practices can also make a difference.
Kisan Diwas is more than just a day of celebration; it is a call to action. It reminds the nation of its responsibility to the farmers who feed it, urging stakeholders to work collectively toward their welfare. The legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh continues to inspire efforts to build a more equitable and sustainable agricultural system. As India moves forward, honoring its farmers and addressing their challenges must remain a priority—not just on Kisan Diwas, but every day.
