Kisan Diwas, celebrated annually on December 23, is a day dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of farmers to India’s development. This day also commemorates the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister, who is remembered as a champion of farmers’ rights and rural development. As Kisan Diwas 2024 marks the 25th anniversary of this significant occasion, leaders across the nation have paid heartfelt tributes to Chaudhary Charan Singh and emphasized the importance of farmers in building a developed India.
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Vice President Dhankhar’s Tribute to Farmers and Chaudhary Charan Singh
Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar led the nation in paying homage to Chaudhary Charan Singh on his birth anniversary. At a ceremony held at Kisan Ghat, Dhankhar, accompanied by Union Minister Jayant Chaudhary, offered floral tributes to the former Prime Minister. Speaking on the occasion, the Vice President saluted the farmers of India and highlighted the significance of Kisan Diwas, which was officially established in 2001 to honor Chaudhary Charan Singh’s legacy.
Dhankhar emphasized the pivotal role of farmers in achieving India’s vision of becoming a developed nation. He remarked, “Developed India is no longer our dream but our goal, and if anyone will play the role of Krishna-Arjuna in achieving this goal, it will be the thinking of Chaudhary Charan Singh ji and the sweat of the village farmers.”
The Vice President also called for year-long celebrations to mark the 25th anniversary of Kisan Diwas in 2024. He urged institutions like the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) to organize seminars and events that prioritize farmers’ interests and involve them in discussions about agricultural advancements.
Kisan Diwas 2024: Prime Minister Modi’s Tribute to Chaudhary Charan Singh
Prime Minister Narendra Modi also paid tribute to Chaudhary Charan Singh, describing him as a true well-wisher of the poor and farmers. In a heartfelt post on Instagram, Modi acknowledged the former Prime Minister’s dedication to the nation and his unwavering commitment to improving the lives of farmers.
Modi wrote, “The dedication and spirit of service of Chaudhary Charan Singh ji will continue to inspire everyone. He was a true champion of the poor and farmers, and his vision for rural development remains relevant even today.”
The Legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh
Born in 1902 in a Jat family in western Uttar Pradesh, Chaudhary Charan Singh emerged as a prominent leader advocating for farmers’ rights and rural development. After leaving the Congress party, he became a pivotal figure in anti-Congress politics, particularly in North India. His policies and reforms focused on empowering farmers, improving rural infrastructure, and ensuring equitable land distribution.
Chaudhary Charan Singh also served as the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh before becoming India’s Prime Minister. His tenure was marked by his relentless efforts to uplift the agricultural sector and address the challenges faced by farmers.
In recognition of his contributions, the Modi government posthumously awarded him the Bharat Ratna, India’s highest civilian honor, in 2024. His grandson, Jayant Singh, continues to carry forward his legacy as a minister in the BJP-led NDA government.
The Importance of Kisan Diwas
Kisan Diwas is not just a day to remember Chaudhary Charan Singh but also an opportunity to reflect on the critical role of farmers in India’s economy and society. Agriculture remains the backbone of the country, providing livelihoods to millions and ensuring food security for the nation.
The day serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by farmers, including fluctuating market prices, climate change, and access to modern technology. It also highlights the need for continued efforts to support and empower the farming community through policies, innovations, and infrastructure development.
The Role of Farmers in a Developed India
As India aspires to become a developed nation, the contributions of farmers will be central to achieving this goal. Vice President Dhankhar’s comparison of farmers to the mythical duo Krishna and Arjuna underscores their importance in driving the nation’s progress.
Farmers not only provide the food that sustains the population but also contribute to the country’s economic growth through exports and agro-industries. By investing in agricultural research, modernizing farming practices, and ensuring fair prices for produce, India can unlock the full potential of its agricultural sector and pave the way for sustainable development.
Conclusion
Kisan Diwas 2024 is a momentous occasion, marking 25 years of celebrating the invaluable contributions of farmers and the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh. As leaders like Vice President Jagdeep Dhankhar and Prime Minister Narendra Modi pay tribute to the former Prime Minister, the nation is reminded of the critical role farmers play in shaping India’s future.
Chaudhary Charan Singh’s vision for rural development and his dedication to farmers’ welfare remain as relevant today as they were during his lifetime. As India strives to become a developed nation, the contributions of farmers will be central to achieving this goal. Kisan Diwas serves as a call to action for all stakeholders to prioritize the interests of farmers and work towards a more equitable and prosperous future.
By honoring the legacy of Chaudhary Charan Singh and supporting the farming community, India can ensure that its agricultural sector continues to thrive and contribute to the nation’s progress. Kisan Diwas is not just a celebration of the past but a commitment to building a brighter future for farmers and the country as a whole.
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FAQs
1. Why is Kisan Diwas celebrated, and what is its significance?
Kisan Diwas, observed on December 23, is celebrated to honor the contributions of farmers to India’s development and to commemorate the birth anniversary of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India’s fifth Prime Minister. Chaudhary Charan Singh was a staunch advocate for farmers’ rights and rural development. The day serves as a reminder of the critical role of agriculture in the nation’s economy and the need to support and empower the farming community.
2. What were Chaudhary Charan Singh’s contributions to Indian agriculture?
Chaudhary Charan Singh was instrumental in implementing policies that focused on land reforms, equitable distribution of resources, and improving rural infrastructure. As a leader, he championed the cause of farmers and worked tirelessly to address their challenges. His vision for rural development and agricultural empowerment continues to inspire policymakers and leaders today.
