National Farmers Day 2025: History, Significance and Farmers’ Struggles

Every year on December 23, India marks National Farmers Day or Kisan Diwas. This day is not only an important date in the calendar but also an acknowledgment of the hard work of Indian farmers who sustain the country through their efforts.

National Farmers Day will become even more important in the year 2025 as India marks its journey towards development. Let’s recall the reasons for celebrating National Farmers Day, the difficulties farmers encounter, and how it’s important to pay tribute to their efforts in today’s world.

Why Is National Farmers Day Celebrated?

National Farmers Day is maintained as an event that is meant to remember India's farmers and their role within the country's food security and economy. Additionally, this day is also remembered as the birthday of Chaudhary Charan Singh, India's fifth prime minister. Reasons for Observing the Day:

1. In recognition of farmers as the backbone of the country
2. To create awareness about the challenges faced in agriculture
3. For encouraging respect for farming as a profession
4. To promote policies that help the development of rural areas

In simple words, this day speaks about the fact that without farmers, there is no food, and without food, there is no life.

Theme: National Farmers Day 2025 

The theme of National Farmers Day 2025 is “Vikshit Bharat 2047 The Role of FPOs in Globalizing Indian Agriculture” This highlights the significance of FPOs in the following areas of:

• Increasing farmers collective bargaining power
• Enhance  the availability of global markets
• Enhancing income and cutting dependence on middlemen agents

As the future plan for becoming a developed country by the year 2047 for India emerges, it is important to enable farmers through contemporary technology and global exposure.

History: Role of Chaudhary Charan Singh

Chaudhary Charan Singh was a strong voice for farmers, especially small and marginal cultivators. He firmly believed that India’s development begins in its villages. His Contributions to Farmers are:

• Advocated land reforms for equitable distribution
• Focused on farmers’ rights and fair pricing
• Opposed policies that neglected rural India

Honoring him on National Farmers Day is a way of remembering his vision and continuing his mission.

Struggles Faced by Farmers 

Although farmers are responsible for feeding the country, their own lives remain uncertain. It is important to know what farmers go through in order to appreciate them. Some of the Major Challenges that Farmers are Currently Facing :

• Climate Changes and Unpredictable Weather
• Low crop prices and market instability
• Increase in costs of inputs (seeds, fertilizer, diesel
• Debt and Loan Pressures
• Absence of modern technology and storage spaces

Despite all these struggles, farmers wake up before sunrise every day and rely on the mercy of nature because if they didn’t, there definitely wouldn’t be food to sell or consume. Something that most work fields do not have to do.

Respect Farmers and Their Hard Work

The hard work of farmers usually goes unnoticed; it is we who see food on our plates, but seldom think about how much journey it has gone through from seed to soil, soil to harvest. Let us see why farmers deserve more respects from our nation:

• They work in extreme heat, cold, and rain.
• They ensure food security for over 140 crore Indians.
• They maintain rural economies and traditions.
• Their work adds value even outside the realm of agriculture.

Respecting farmers doesn't mean celebrating only one day, rather it means to respect the farmers showing  that we support the farmer policies, the prices they claim, and dignity in daily life.

National Farmers Day: More Than Celebration

There is more to National Farmers Day 2025 than just speeches and posts on social media. It's a time for introspection and accountability. Supporting farmers includes the following ways:

1. The encouragement of  the local farmers and the farmer markets.
2. Reduce food waste
3. Respect agricultural workers
4. Raise awareness of the problems which are faced by the farmers

When small actions are taken, then significant change will be led .

A Day to Reflect, Respect, and Act

In 2025, National Farmers Day serves as a reminder that farmers are both nation builders and producers of food. They help in feeding  millions of people each and  every day despite going through difficult living conditions. They have given a contribution that is priceless.  

Farmers are important for the growth and advancement leading to Viksit Bharat 2047. Let 23rd December be a day for a true  recognition of their challenges, valuing  their hard work, and wishing for a sustainable farming future. Today, remember where your food comes from, and be thankful to farmers, and show your support for them.

Read More: Agroforestry on Small Farms Can Fight Climate Change and Boost Incomes, ICAR Study Finds