The contribution of farmers in our everyday life and economy is huge. In order to honour the work that they put in to make sure that there is enough food for everyone in the country, December 23 is observed as the Kisan Diwas, or Farmers’ Day in India. Further, the day also commemorates the birth anniversary of the 5th Prime Minister of India, Chaudhary Charan Singh.
The government had in 2001 decided to mark Choudhary Charan Singh’s birth anniversary as Kisan Diwas. Choudhary Charan Singh, regarded as a farmer’s leader, was born in Noorpur of Uttar Pradesh’s Hapur. He served as the Prime Minister of India between July 28, 1979 and January 14, 1980. People refer to him as the ‘champion of India’s peasants. The farmer leader is remembered for his commitment to the millions of peasants of India. During his short time as prime minister, Chaudhary Charan Singh worked hard for Indian farmers, introducing several welfare schemes. He had come up with many farmer-friendly policies and had also worked a lot for the welfare of farmers. Every year, awareness campaigns and drives are organised across the country to educate people on the role of farmers and their contribution to the economy. Due to the coronavirus pandemic, this year’s celebrations most likely will take place in an online mode. This year, Kisan Diwas takes place against the backdrop of intensifying farmers’ protests on the borders of the national capital.
