The Madhya Pradesh government has announced that the year 2026 will be observed as “Krishak Kalyan Year” (Farmer Welfare Year) across the state. The Chief Minister formally launched the initiative at a grand farmers’ convention held at Jamboree Ground in Bhopal, stating that the year will symbolize new hope, opportunities, and holistic development for farmers.
Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav said that farmers are the nation’s food providers, and the prosperity of the state is directly linked to their well-being. The government’s sole objective is to make farmers self-reliant while continuously improving their income, productivity, and standard of living.
Dr. Yadav highlighted that Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in the country to dedicate an entire year exclusively to farmer welfare. Under the Krishak Kalyan Year, more than 16 departments will work in close coordination to implement farmer-centric schemes and activities on the ground. The government aims to transform agriculture into a profitable enterprise by ensuring access to modern technology, improved seeds, irrigation facilities, storage, processing, and efficient market systems.
The Chief Minister announced that solar pumps will be installed in the fields of 3 million farmers over the next three years, with 1 million farmers receiving solar pumps every year to promote energy self-reliance. After soybean, the Bhavantar Payment Scheme will now also be implemented for mustard crops. In addition, the zero-percent interest loan scheme for farmers will continue.
Irrigation coverage in the state is being rapidly expanded. Through major projects such as the Parvati–Kalisindh–Chambal (PKC) River Link, Ken–Betwa Link, and the Tapti Groundwater Recharge Mega Project, irrigation facilities will be extended to nearly 1.6 million hectares across 25 districts.
Dr. Yadav stated that seed testing laboratories will be upgraded and all agricultural markets (mandis) will be modernized. The scope of micro-irrigation will be expanded, and crop damage assessment will be conducted using advanced technology. A Madhya Pradesh State Shree Anna (Millets) Research Centre will be established in Dindori district. Additionally, mustard research centers in Gwalior and chickpea research centers in Ujjain are being set up to enhance crop quality and productivity.
Food parks and food processing units will be established in regions producing perishable crops. To increase farmers’ participation in agro-industries, subsidies and incentives will be provided. Solar conclaves will also be organized to promote renewable energy adoption in agriculture.
A Step Towards Digital Agriculture:
During the farmers’ convention, Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav launched the e-Vikas, Distribution and Fertilizer Supply Management System (Vikas Portal App). On this occasion, a short film highlighting the योजनाएं and future roadmap of Krishak Kalyan Year 2026 was also screened.
Farmer Prosperity as the Foundation of State Progress:
The Chief Minister noted that Madhya Pradesh is the only state in the country where the total cultivated area has increased by 250,000 hectares in recent years. He emphasized that the government delivers on its commitments to farmers. Through Krishak Kalyan Year 2026, the state aims to set new benchmarks in agriculture, technology, and innovation.
Strong Emphasis on Innovation and Employment:
Dr. Mohan Yadav stated that during Krishak Kalyan Year 2026, all necessary arrangements will be made to promote agriculture-based industries so that farmers receive fair and remunerative prices for their produce and hard work. This will not only boost farmers’ income but also generate new employment opportunities within villages.
Agricultural festivals and farmers’ fairs will be organized across the state to familiarize farmers with modern farming practices, new technologies, and innovations. Along with promoting natural and organic farming, innovation in agriculture will be actively encouraged. The Chief Minister said that farmers who toil in the fields represent the highest form of national service, and supporting their welfare and prosperity is the government’s moral responsibility.
Empowered Farmers through Agriculture, Energy, and Innovation:
The Chief Minister emphasized that farmers are the true identity and pride of Madhya Pradesh, deeply rooted in the soil of their fields. With the launch of Krishak Kalyan Year, the state will move towards building a prosperous future through self-reliant farmers, an advanced agricultural system, and a value-chain-based rural economy.
He added that farmers’ income will not only be increased but also made sustainable, while agriculture will be transformed into a profitable occupation. Through technology, innovation, and scientific approaches, farming practices will be further modernized.
During the Krishak Kalyan Year, special focus will be given to agro-based industries, food processing units, and rural entrepreneurship. Natural and organic farming will be promoted in mission mode. Farmers will be empowered as energy producers through the use of agricultural waste for biogas, ethanol, and green energy. Initiatives such as “Drop More Crop 2.0,” soil health management, and water conservation will be prioritized. Branding of agricultural products and a strong push for exports will be undertaken. Research, innovation, and technology-driven solutions will strengthen the agricultural sector, while youth engagement and agri-tourism will create new employment and identity opportunities in rural areas.
Q1. What is the main objective of Krishak Kalyan Year 2026?
A1. The objective is to promote farmer welfare, improve income, productivity, and make agriculture a profitable, sustainable occupation.
Q2. Which crops are covered under the Bhavantar Payment Scheme?
A2. Initially soybean; now mustard crops are also included under the scheme.
Q3. How will solar pumps benefit farmers?
A3. Solar pumps will provide energy self-reliance and reduce dependence on conventional electricity or diesel.
Q4. What major irrigation projects are underway in Madhya Pradesh?
A4. Projects like Parvati–Kalisindh–Chambal River Link and Ken–Betwa Link are extending irrigation facilities across the state.
