Kisan Diwas

The National Farmers’ Day, also called the Rashtriya Kisan Diwas is celebrated every year on 23 December 2023 to mark the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, a farmer leader and the fifth Prime Minister of India. It honours the vital role farmers play in the country's food security and prosperity. This year's theme, "Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience," highlights the urgent need for technological innovation and climate-resilient practices in agriculture. A national Women Farmer’s Day is also celebrated on the 15th of October to mark the United Nations 'International Rural Women Day’.

Chaudhary Charan Singh focused on reforming agricultural practices to secure welfare of small and marginal farmers as he famously said that ‘true India resides in its villages’. His contributions to agriculture and farmers is celebrated on Kisan Diwas. This day also brings focus to the farmer welfare which needs to be stepped up as farmers are the backbone of the Indian ecosystem providing food security and food surplus. This tradition of a designated day to celebrate framers is also observed in other countries like Ghana, Zambia, Pakistan.

The Theme for National Kisan Day 2023 is 'Delivering Smart Solutions for Sustainable Food Security and Resilience'. It focuses on the need to use e-technology and developing AI capabilities to revolutionise the farming sector for sustainable development. As climate change weakens food security and supply chains across the world, there is a need to bring resilient agricultural practices through smart solutions. The day is used to spread awareness and education among the farmers and at the same time focuses on their demands and needs.

He belonged to Uttar Pradesh and believed that farmers are the real heroes behind country’s growth. The farming profession gives not only give employment to almost half the country but many soldiers come from the farming community as well. And this is why Chaudhary Charan Singh fought for the interests of the farmers throughout his life. He believed that prosperous farmers and a strong agriculture system are the foundations for a bright India.

It is celebtrated on the 15th of October every year to mark the achievements of female farmers. Internationally, this day is celebrated as the International Rural Women Day by the United Nations. The key reasons for celebrating this day are discussed below:-

• Setting an Example: This brings out inspiring examples for all other female farmers in the country as well.
• Feminization of Agriculture:Role of women in farming is increasing due to feminization of agriculture as men move to cities in hunt for higher paying jobs.
• Gender Equality: Inclusive focus on their needs is key to ensure gender equality for rural women in a patriarchal society.
• Fight Against Poverty: Their contributions help fight poverty and their unpaid care work enables male farmers as well.
• Ethical & Practical Reasons: Empowering rural women is crucial for both ethical and practical reasons, contributing to poverty reduction, improved nutrition, and sustainable resource management.
• Need Assistance: Despite their contributions, rural women suffer greater multidimensional poverty than their male counterparts due to limited access to land, credit, markets, and decision-making power. Discriminatory practices and lack of infrastructure further disadvantage rural women, who face heavier workloads and lack access to essential services like education and healthcare.

• 2023 theme was 'Sustainable Agriculture through Gender Inclusion and Participation’
• 2022 theme was ‘Millets: Empowering Women and Providing Nutritional Security’

National Sample Survey Office (NSSO) data shows that 45% people in India are employed in agriculture and allied value added services. Further, there is increasing feminization of agriculture. So, while celebrating Kisan Diwas and Mahila Kisan Diwas reminds us of the vital role farmers play, especially women, the future demands more than just appreciation.

We must translate these acknowledgments into tangible action.Investing in robust e-technology and AI solutions tailored for Indian agriculture can empower farmers, boost food security, and build resilience against climate change. By addressing gender inequalities and ensuring access for all to credit, resources, and education, we can unlock a new era of sustainable food security. The Kisan Diwas and Mahila Kisan Diwas remind us that we must invest in a future where every farmer, regardless of gender, has the tools and opportunities to thrive.