National Farmers' Day 2024 was celebrated across India on December 23, with various events highlighting the indispensable role farmers play in the nation's economy and the recognition they deserve. From government initiatives aimed at upliftment to cultural celebrations, this year's observance underscored the commitment to supporting the agricultural community.
Speaking at one such event, Javed Ahmad Dar, the Minister for Agriculture Production and Rural Development & Panchayati Raj Departments, conveyed appreciation to the farmers of Jammu and Kashmir. He remarked on their persistence and dedication, stating, “We celebrate the remarkable contributions of our farmers, who continue to uphold and sustain Jammu and Kashmir’s rich agricultural legacy.” The Minister acknowledged the region's globally recognized products, borrowing words fit for the occasion: “From the world-famous saffron of Pampore to the premium Basmati rice of Jammu, from organic walnuts to the finest apples of Kashmir Valley, our farmers make us proud on both national and international platforms.”
To celebrate farmers' contributions meaningfully, the Jammu and Kashmir government has introduced the Holistic Agricultural Development Program (HADP) with ₹5,013 crore allocated over five years. This program aims to nearly double agricultural output to ₹65,700 crore, generate 2.8 lakh jobs, establish 19,000 enterprises, and train 2.5 lakh individuals in modern farming techniques. The government is also pushing to set up 500 Kisan Khidmat Ghars (KKGs) as support centers for farmers, which they plan to expand to 1,500.
Across India, National Farmers' Day holds special significance as it celebrates the birthday of Choudhary Charan Singh, the fifth Prime Minister and labeled as the farmers' leader. Aarya Babbar, actor and advocate for farmers, emphasized this day as one for recognition and gratitude for farmers. He stated, “Farmers are of utmost importance in shaping the future of our nation, tirelessly working in difficult conditions to provide us with the nourishment we need.” Babbar reminded citizens to support farmers, understand their challenges, and strive for sustainable agriculture. His sentiments reflect the overarching narrative of the day, urging respect and acknowledgment of farmers’ relentless efforts.
The Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International School of Textiles and Management (SVPISTM) also celebrated the occasion by honoring ten farming families from Karamadai block, who cultivate various crops and engage in activities like silkworm rearing and poultry farming. Dr. P Alli Rani, the school's Director, underscored farmers' pivotal economic role, saying, “Recognizing and supporting farmers' contributions is important for sustaining our economy.” The event featured performances by students and allowed the farmers to shed light on their challenges, with S Mahalingam sharing his insights.
Moving to Maharashtra, Union Minister Shivraj Singh Chouhan highlighted various housing and agricultural initiatives during the National Farmers Day celebrations. He outlined significant progress under the Pradhan Mantri Awas Yojana Gramin Plus, approving 13.29 lakh houses for the upcoming fiscal year. This aligns with the commitment to housing for all. Further empowering women through initiatives like Lakhpati Didi demonstrates the government's recognition of women's roles within agriculture, targeting the creation of 3 crore women entrepreneurs across India.
Chouhan also pointed to the modernization of agriculture through the Natural Agriculture Mission aimed at reducing pesticide usage and promoting sustainable practices. “Sustainable practices like natural farming will add value to our production and protect the environment,” he asserted.
On the other hand, Prime Minister Narendra Modi paid homage to farmers amid tensions surrounding reforms. He reiterated the importance of farmers as the country's ‘annadata’ (food providers) during his address on National Farmers Day, wherein he recognized Charan Singh’s enduring impact on agricultural policies. With over 71,000 youth receiving appointment letters during the celebrations, Modi highlighted various government initiatives creating livelihoods and improving rural economies.
Events were held across various states, celebrating farmers' achievements and emphasizing the role of rural development. Among these efforts, four farmers recognized by the Indian Institute of Horticultural Research for their excellence contributed to cultivating new crop varieties and adopting improved agriculture technologies. This collaborative effort between institutions and farmers seeks to uplift agricultural standards.
National Farmers' Day 2024 served as not only a celebration of farmers but also as a call to action for both citizens and the government to recognize the challenges farmers face. From the strengthening of agricultural policies to cultural recognition and community support, this observance underscored the significance of farmers to the nation’s future.
