Madhya Pradesh to Celebrate 2026 as ‘Agriculture Year’, Announces Governor Mangubhai Patel

Addressing the state-level ceremony on the occasion of the 77th Republic Day in Bhopal, Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel made a major announcement, declaring that 2026 will be celebrated as ‘Agriculture Year’ in the state. Through this announcement, the state government sent a clear message that agriculture and allied sectors, considered the backbone of the rural economy, will be further strengthened. The Governor said that the government’s goal is to make farmers prosperous, which in turn will lead to the prosperity of the entire state. With this vision, agriculture development has been given top priority.

Historic Increase in Agriculture Budget, New Development Model Implemented

In his address, the Governor highlighted the sharp rise in budgetary allocations for agriculture and allied sectors over the years. While the agriculture budget stood at just ₹600 crore in 2002–03, it has increased to over ₹27,000 crore in 2024–25. Under the vision of “Prosperous Farmer, Prosperous State”, Madhya Pradesh has adopted a ten-point agriculture development model. This model focuses on expanding farmers’ access to technology, increasing farm income, promoting natural farming, encouraging innovation, strengthening marketing and exports, and ensuring digital transparency. The model will be implemented across the state to make agriculture more modern and profitable.

Focus on Agricultural Market Reforms and Animal Husbandry

The Governor also spoke about reforms in agricultural marketing. He stated that the e-Mandi scheme has been implemented in 259 mandis across the state, with nearly 40 lakh farmers registered under it. This has helped ensure transparency and better prices for farmers. On animal husbandry, he said the government aims to make Madhya Pradesh the dairy capital of India. Special efforts are being made to transform animal husbandry into a profitable livelihood. Financial assistance for destitute cattle in gaushalas has been increased from ₹20 to ₹40 per animal, while the budget for this initiative has risen from ₹250 crore to ₹505 crore.

Expansion of the Dairy Sector and Strengthening Rural Infrastructure

Under the Dr. Bhimrao Ambedkar Kamdhenu Scheme, the state government has set an ambitious target of increasing Madhya Pradesh’s share in national milk production from 9% to 20%. To achieve this, more than 1,200 new dairy cooperative societies have been established.

Farmers have also received relief through higher milk procurement prices, which have increased from ₹2.50 per litre to ₹8.50 per litre. In addition, the Governor mentioned initiatives related to rural housing, road connectivity, and employment generation, aimed at transforming the rural landscape.

Progress in Education, Wildlife Conservation, and Industry

Alongside agriculture, the Governor highlighted progress in other key sectors. He stated that in 2024–25, the dropout rate in primary schools dropped to zero. The state government is also supporting the education of 8.5 lakh students studying in private schools.

Significant steps have also been taken in wildlife conservation. Madhav National Park has been declared the state’s ninth tiger reserve, while new wildlife sanctuaries and cheetah habitats are being developed.

On industrial development, the Governor said that simplification of laws, deregulation, and the Jan Vishwas Acts of 2024 and 2025 have made it easier to do business in the state, thereby boosting investment.

A Vision for Balanced and Inclusive Growth

Overall, the decision to declare 2026 as ‘Agriculture Year’ reflects the forward-looking vision of the Madhya Pradesh government. Rising agriculture budgets, technology-driven farming, a strong focus on animal husbandry and dairy, improved market systems, and robust rural infrastructure are major steps toward increasing farmers’ incomes and making villages self-reliant. At the same time, progress in education, environmental conservation, and industry indicates that Madhya Pradesh is moving steadily toward balanced and inclusive development.

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