National Farmers Day 2025, also known as Kisan Diwas, is observed across India on 23 December to recognise the invaluable contribution of farmers to the nation’s economy, food security and rural livelihoods. The day marks the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister and a staunch advocate of farmers’ rights and agrarian reforms.
National Farmers Day serves as a reminder that India’s development is deeply rooted in the strength of its agricultural sector and the welfare of its farmers.
National Farmers Day 2025 Theme
The theme for National Farmers Day 2025 is:
“Vikasit Bharat 2047 – The Role of FPOs in Globalising Indian Agriculture.”
The theme highlights the growing importance of Farmer Producer Organisations (FPOs) in transforming Indian agriculture into a globally competitive and market-driven sector. FPOs empower small and marginal farmers through collective bargaining, improved access to modern technology, quality inputs, institutional credit and global markets.
By strengthening agricultural value chains, promoting agri-exports and encouraging sustainable farming practices, FPOs are seen as key enablers in achieving the vision of Vikasit Bharat by 2047.
History of National Farmers Day
- National Farmers Day, or Kisan Diwas, is observed annually on 23 December.
- The date commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh.
- The Government of India officially declared the day in 2001.
- Chaudhary Charan Singh is remembered for his unwavering commitment to farmers’ rights and rural development.
- He played a pivotal role in land reforms and the abolition of the zamindari system.
- The observance acknowledges farmers’ contribution to food security and economic stability.
- It also provides a platform to discuss agrarian challenges, policy reforms and farmer welfare.
- Seminars, awareness programmes and agricultural initiatives are organised nationwide on this day.
Who Was Chaudhary Charan Singh?
Chaudhary Charan Singh was a freedom fighter, statesman and agrarian reformer who served as India’s fifth Prime Minister (1979–1980). Born on 23 December 1902 into a farming family in Uttar Pradesh, he developed a deep understanding of rural and agrarian issues from an early age.
A consistent voice for peasants and small farmers, Charan Singh opposed urban-centric industrialisation at the cost of agriculture. He firmly believed that India’s progress depended on the prosperity of its villages. Owing to his lifelong dedication to farmer welfare, he is widely regarded as the “Champion of Farmers.”
Chaudhary Charan Singh’s Contribution to Farmers
- Played a key role in implementing zamindari abolition laws in Uttar Pradesh in the 1950s, transferring land ownership to millions of tenant farmers.
- Introduced land ceiling reforms as Revenue Minister and Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh to benefit small and marginal farmers.
- Authored “India’s Poverty and Its Solution” (1939), highlighting agricultural neglect as the root cause of rural poverty.
- Advocated remunerative crop prices, laying the ideological foundation for price-support mechanisms.
- Promoted cooperative institutions and institutional credit to reduce farmers’ dependence on moneylenders.
- Emphasised strengthening the village economy as the backbone of Indian democracy.
- As Prime Minister, prioritised rural development and farmer-centric governance.
Significance of National Farmers Day 2025
- Recognises farmers’ critical role in food security, rural employment and economic stability.
- Highlights agriculture’s importance as a livelihood source for nearly half of India’s population.
- Pays tribute to Chaudhary Charan Singh’s vision of agriculture-led national development.
- Raises awareness about challenges such as climate change, rising input costs and market volatility.
- Encourages discussion on farmer-centric reforms, including income support and crop insurance.
- Promotes sustainable and climate-resilient farming practices.
- Emphasises technology, innovation and digitisation in agriculture.
- Strengthens focus on FPOs for better market access and collective growth.
- Serves as a platform to review government schemes for farmers’ welfare.
- Reinforces the idea that rural prosperity is essential to achieving Vikasit Bharat 2047.