ICAR-DWR organized Kishan Divas on 23 December, 2021 with the theme ‘Igniting young minds by innovative farmers.’ The day is celebrated to pay tribute to the former prime minister of India Choudhary Charan Singh who dedicated his life for the betterment of the Indian farmers. It is observed that the young generation of farming community is not showing any interest towards taking up farming as carrier option due to decreasing income level compared to other sectors of economy. The aim of this celebration was to motivate the farmers towards modern and innovative technologies so that their farm income is significantly increased and thereby they get involved in farming activities with full dedication. During the inaugural programme, a progressive farmer Shri Shyam Patel, Magarmuha village, Shahpura, Jabalpur district was honoured by the Directorate in recognition of his contribution in increasing the awareness of the farmers of Shahpura locality towards improved agricultural practices, about various government-schemes on agriculture and importance of Swachh Kheti (Clean agriculture). Shri Patel eloquently shared his success story with the audience. He proudly mentioned that he is following 400% cropping intensity (Maize-Green pea-Field pea-Green gram) in his farm and with the help of modern technologies he has already doubled his farm income, compared to what he earned during the recent past. He talked about the success of his grandfather who could increase his farm size from 6 to 60 acres by integrating allied activities like renting diesel operated irrigation pump, dairy farming, etc. along with agriculture. He also informed the audience with great satisfaction that his highly educated sons are showing great interest in their family farming activities besides their official jobs.

On this occasion, Dr. PK Singh, Dr. KK Barman, Dr. RP Dubey and Dr. VK Choudhary talked about the importance of this year’s Kisan Divas theme and urged the audience to learn from the successful farmers; so that they could motivate their young generation to take up farming as an honourable carrier option, instead of migrating to cities for doing petty jobs.

Following the inaugural programme, the farmers were taken to the Technology Park of the Directorate and research fields to show the performance of improved weed management technologies. About 150 farmers from adjoining localities along with the scientists and other staff participated in the programme.