The Madhya Pradesh government has made a historic announcement to observe the year 2026 as “Farmer Welfare Year.” Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav formally launched the initiative at a massive farmers’ convention held at Jamboree Ground in Bhopal. Addressing thousands of farmers, the Chief Minister stated that the prosperity of farmers is the foundation of the state’s progress, and serving their interests remains the government’s foremost priority.
Dr. Yadav said that Madhya Pradesh has become the first state in India to dedicate an entire year exclusively to farmers’ welfare. Under the Farmer Welfare Year initiative, more than 16 government departments will work in close coordination to implement schemes and activities at the grassroots level, with the goal of restoring farmers’ dignity and prosperity.
Making Agriculture a Profitable Enterprise
The government aims to transform agriculture into a profitable and sustainable business through modern technology, improved seeds, enhanced irrigation facilities, storage infrastructure, food processing, and better market access. The Chief Minister emphasized that agriculture is the backbone of the state’s economy and assured that no effort will be spared to strengthen it.
Major Focus on Solar Pumps, Irrigation, and Price Support Schemes
The Chief Minister announced that solar pumps will be installed in the fields of 30 lakh farmers over the next three years, with 10 lakh farmers receiving solar pumps each year, making them energy self-reliant.
In addition to soybean, mustard crops will now be included under the Bhavantar Bhugtan Yojana (price difference payment scheme). The zero-interest loan scheme for farmers will also continue.
Irrigation Landscape to Transform Through Major River Projects
Irrigation facilities will receive a significant boost through three major projects—the Parvati–Kalisindh–Chambal (PKC) River Link, Ken–Betwa River Link, and the Tapi Groundwater Recharge Mega Project. These initiatives will irrigate over 1.6 million hectares of land across 25 districts of the state.
Strengthening Agricultural Infrastructure and Research
Seed testing laboratories will be upgraded, and all agricultural markets (mandis) will be modernized.
New research centers will be established, including:
• State Millet Research Centre in Dindori
• Mustard Research Centre in Gwalior
• Chickpea Research Centre in Ujjain
These institutions will help improve crop quality, productivity, and innovation.
Strengthening the Agricultural System
Vacant positions in the Agriculture Department and the State Agricultural Marketing Board will be filled promptly. The scope of micro-irrigation will be expanded, and crop loss assessments will be conducted using modern technology, ensuring timely compensation to farmers.
Food Parks, Processing Units, and Employment Generation
Food parks and food processing units will be set up in regions producing perishable crops. Subsidies will be provided to encourage farmer participation in agri-industries, creating new employment opportunities within rural areas.
Step Towards Digital Agriculture
Chief Minister Dr. Yadav also launched the e-Vikas, Distribution and Fertilizer Supply Solution System (Vikas Portal). A short film highlighting the vision and objectives of Farmer Welfare Year 2026 was screened during the event.
Farmers Are the Identity of the State
The Chief Minister said that farmers are the true pride of Madhya Pradesh. Their hard work and dedication form the real strength and identity of the state. Through Farmer Welfare Year, Madhya Pradesh aims to build self-reliant farmers, an advanced agricultural system, and a value-chain-based rural economy.
Government’s 10 Key Commitments
To increase farmers’ income, reduce cultivation costs, and promote sustainable agriculture, the government has outlined 10 major commitments, including:
• Promotion of natural and organic farming
• ‘Drop More Crop 2.0’ initiative
• Soil health management
• Biogas and green energy from agricultural waste
• Agri-branding and food processing
• Research and innovation
• Connecting youth with agriculture
Senior MLA Praises the Initiative
Senior MLA Hemant Khandelwal praised the government’s efforts, stating that 2026 will be a landmark year dedicated to farmers’ welfare. He highlighted that Madhya Pradesh ranks first in tomato production and second in wheat production in the country, reflecting the hard work and commitment of the state’s farmers.
