KISAN DIWAS

 Farmers' Day, or Kisan Diwas, is celebrated on December 23 to honor the contributions of Indian farmers. Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth Prime Minister, was renowned for his significant contributions to agriculture and rural development, including the Debt Redemption Bill, Land Holding Act, and social justice.

Last Updated on 24th December, 2024
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Farmers' Day, also known as Kisan Diwas, is observed on December 23 to recognise the contributions of Indian farmers. The date honours the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth Prime Minister.

About Chaudhary Charan Singh

Chaudhary Charan Singh was a politician, freedom fighter, and fifth Prime Minister (1979–1980). He is recognised for his significant contributions to agriculture and rural development. 

He is known as the "Kisan Leader," and his birth anniversary on December 23rd is observed as National Farmers' Day (Kisan Diwas) to honour his contributions to farmer welfare.

He also served as India's Deputy Prime Minister in 1979 and Uttar Pradesh's Chief Minister twice. His leadership helped to shape much of the country's rural and agricultural policies.

Key contributions to Indian agriculture

Chaudhary Charan Singh was deeply committed to the welfare of the farmers. He drafted the Debt Redemption Bill of 1939, which gave peasants relief from moneylenders. 

He played an important role in the Land Holding Act of 1960, which reduced land ceilings and advocated for the Minimum Support Price (MSP). 

He introduced the Consolidation of Holdings Act (1953) and the UP Zamindari and Land Reforms Act (1952), which benefited the landless.

What was his vision for rural development and governance?

Chaudhary Charan Singh strongly believed in decentralisation and grassroots governance. 

He was essential in elevating the Rural Development Department to the status of full ministry and in the establishment of NABARD. 

His efforts were centred on empowering local economies and ensuring that rural areas received the attention they needed for long-term growth.

Contribution to Social Justice

Chaudhary Charan Singh advocated for social justice by opposing caste divisions and encouraging intercaste marriages. 

He supported quotas for agriculturists' dependents and shared Dr. B.R. Ambedkar's vision of comprehensive social and economic reforms. 

His work centred on uplifting the marginalised and establishing a more equitable society.

Notable works and writings

Chaudhary Charan Singh wrote several influential books about land reforms and rural development. 

Some of his notable works include Abolition of Zamindari, India's Poverty and its Solution, Peasant Proprietorship or Land to the Workers, and Preventing Division of Holdings Below a Certain Minimum.      

Chaudhary Charan Singh passed away on May 29, 1987.

In 2024, he was awarded the Bharat Ratna.

What is the relevance of Chaudhary Charan Singh’s ideas in today’s policies?

Chaudhary Charan Singh's ideas continue to inspire a number of government initiatives, including efforts to double farmer income, promote MSMEs, and strengthen the Panchayati Raj. 

His ideas on ethical administration and decentralisation are still relevant in shaping policies aimed at empowering rural India and promoting local economic autonomy.

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NATIONAL FARMERS DAY

Source: 

Indian Express

PRACTICE QUESTION

Q.Discuss Chaudhary Charan Singh's contributions to agriculture and rural development. How did his policies impact the welfare of farmers? (150 words)

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