National Farmer's Day, or Kisan Diwas, is observed on December 23 in India to recognise farmers as the backbone of the country. The day commemorates the birth anniversary of India’s former prime minister Chaudhary Charan Singh.
The day aims to spread awareness about the contribution of farmers to the socio-economic development of the nation. In states like Uttar Pradesh, Punjab, Haryana, and Madhya Pradesh, where agriculture is a significant occupation, the day is actively observed.
On this day, several awareness campaigns and drives are organised to educate the people about the role and contribution of farmers to the Indian economy.
National Farmer's Day: History
Chaudhary Charan Singh was born in 1902 at Noorpur in Uttar Pradesh's Meerut in a peasant family. He served as the prime minister of India between 1979 and 1980.
Known for his pioneering work to promote the welfare of farmers in India and the agricultural sector, Charan Singh introduced several welfare schemes for them.
To recognise his contribution towards the agriculture sector and welfare of the farmers, the government in 2001 decided to mark his birth anniversary as Kisan Diwas, or National Farmer's Day.
Charan Singh also served as the chief minister of Uttar Pradesh twice. During his tenure, he played a key role in reshaping land reforms across the state.
In 1939, he proposed the Debt Redemption Bill, which freed farmers from the clutches of moneylenders. Besides that, he also wrote several books on zamindari abolition and land reforms.
Charan Singh established the Kisan Trust in 1978. The non-political and non-profit organisation aimed at educating the rural masses about injustice and inducing solidarity among them.
National Farmer's Day: Significance
Events organised on National Farmer's Day provide a platform for farmers to talk about their needs and goals. This is especially important as farmers frequently find themselves in cycles of crises, which at times drive them to take their lives.
