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Kisan Diwas: 23rd December
Kisan Diwas: 23rd December
Kisan Diwas marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister of India (1979–1980). Often referred to as the "Champion of India's Peasants," Singh was a visionary leader who rose from a humble farming family in Uttar Pradesh to the highest office in the country.
In 2001, the Government of India officially designated his birthday as National Farmers' Day to recognize his monumental contributions to agricultural reform and rural development.
The Legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh
Chaudhary Charan Singh’s life was dedicated to the upliftment of the rural population. His most impactful contributions include:
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Abolition of Zamindari: He played a decisive role in the 1950s in dismantling the feudal Zamindari system in Uttar Pradesh, transferring land ownership to the actual tillers.
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Pro-Farmer Legislation: He pioneered the Consolidation of Holdings Act (1953) and drafted the Debt Redemption Bill (1939), which protected farmers from predatory moneylenders.
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Economic Vision: He famously argued that "the path to the country’s prosperity passes through the villages," pushing for a shift from heavy industrialization toward rural, agriculture-led growth.
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Kisan Trust: On his birthday in 1978, he founded the Kisan Trust to educate rural youth and foster solidarity among farmers.
Theme for 2025: "Empowering Farmers through Innovation and Sustainability"
While the official theme for 2025 emphasizes Innovation and Sustainability, the core message remains "Empowering Annadatas for a Prosperous Nation." Today’s celebrations focus on:
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Digital Agriculture: Highlighting tools like the Digital Agriculture Mission and e-NAM (Electronic National Agriculture Market).
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Climate Resilience: Promoting farming techniques that can withstand unpredictable weather patterns.
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Financial Security: Spreading awareness about schemes like PM-KISAN (income support) and PM Fasal Bima Yojana (crop insurance).
How the Nation Celebrates
From the fields of Punjab to the plantations of Kerala, Kisan Diwas is observed through various activities:
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Homage at Kisan Ghat: National leaders pay tribute at Chaudhary Charan Singh’s memorial (Kisan Ghat) in New Delhi.
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Kisan Melas (Exhibitions): Agricultural scientists and government agencies organize fairs to showcase new seeds, machinery, and organic farming methods.
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Workshops & Seminars: Experts discuss Minimum Support Price (MSP) reforms, soil health, and ways to double farmers' income.
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Awards: State governments often felicitate "Model Farmers" who have achieved high yields through sustainable practices.
Why It Matters Today
India is one of the world's leading producers of milk, pulses, and spices, and the second-largest producer of rice and wheat. With nearly 50% of the population still dependent on agriculture for their livelihood, Kisan Diwas serves as a critical reminder to bridge the gap between urban growth and rural reality.
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