2026 to Be Observed as ‘Farmers’ Welfare Year’, Says CM Dr. Mohan Yadav
Bhopal: Madhya Pradesh Chief Minister Dr. Mohan Yadav on Sunday announced that the year 2026 will be celebrated as “Farmers’ Welfare Year”, declaring it a year of new hopes and opportunities for the state’s farming community. Addressing a massive farmers’ convention at Jamboree Maidan in Bhopal, the Chief Minister said the government is committed to the holistic welfare and prosperity of farmers, who he described as the backbone of the nation and the state’s economy.
Dr. Yadav emphasized that making farmers self-reliant and economically strong is the government’s primary objective. He said agriculture is not merely a means of livelihood, but the foundation of Madhya Pradesh’s economy, and no effort will be spared to strengthen it. During the event, the Chief Minister also inaugurated the e-Development, Distribution and Fertilizer Supply Solution System (Vikas Portal) and screened a short film highlighting initiatives planned under Farmers’ Welfare Year 2026.
Focus on Income Growth and Modern Agriculture
The Chief Minister said the government will take every necessary step to increase farmers’ income by promoting modern technology, improved seeds, irrigation, storage facilities, and better market access, making agriculture a profitable enterprise. He highlighted that Madhya Pradesh is the first state in the country to dedicate an entire year exclusively to farmers’ welfare.
He also noted that the state has witnessed a significant expansion in cultivated land in recent years and that major irrigation projects—such as the Parvati–Kalisindh–Chambal (PKC) river link, Ken–Betwa link national project, and the Tapi groundwater recharge mega project—will provide irrigation to over 16 lakh hectares across 25 districts.
Research, Solar Pumps, and Irrigation Expansion
Reaffirming the government’s commitment, Dr. Yadav said a State Shri Anna (millets) Research Centre will be established in Dindori to boost millet production and nutritional security. Mustard research centres in Gwalior and a gram (chickpea) research centre in Ujjain are also being set up to improve crop quality and productivity.
The Chief Minister announced that over 30 lakh farmers will be provided solar power pumps in the next three years, with 10 lakh pumps distributed every year, transforming farmers from food providers into energy providers. He added that the state’s irrigation coverage will be expanded from the current 65 lakh hectares to 1 crore hectares by 2028–29.
Comprehensive Farmer Support Measures
Dr. Yadav said that under Farmers’ Welfare Year 2026, more than 16 government departments will work in coordination throughout the year to ensure comprehensive farmer welfare. Mustard will be brought under the Bhavantar payment scheme, agricultural-based industries will be promoted with subsidies, seed testing laboratories will be strengthened, and all mandis will be modernized.
He also announced speedy recruitment to fill vacant posts in the Agriculture Department and State Agricultural Marketing Board, expansion of micro-irrigation systems, and the use of modern technology for crop loss assessment to ensure faster compensation. The zero-percent interest loan scheme for farmers will continue.
Better Prices, Agri-Industry and Rural Employment
The Chief Minister said the government will promote agriculture-based industries, food processing units, agri-startups, and mega food parks, ensuring farmers get better prices for their produce and new employment opportunities are created in rural areas. Special focus will be placed on natural and organic farming, innovation, research, branding of agricultural products, and exports.
He also highlighted initiatives such as “Per Drop More Crop 2.0,” soil health management, biogas and ethanol production from agricultural waste, and the promotion of agri-tourism to generate additional income for farmers.
— Dr Mohan Yadav (@DrMohanYadav51) January 11, 2026
‘Farmers Are the Pride of Madhya Pradesh’
Calling farmers the “tilak on the forehead of Madhya Pradesh”, Dr. Yadav said their hard work and dedication have earned the state the title of the nation’s food basket. He asserted that farmers’ happiness and prosperity form the foundation of the state’s growth.
A detailed calendar of Farmers’ Welfare Year 2026 was also released, outlining events such as bonus distribution for Kodo-Kutki crops, natural farming seminars, mango festivals, FPO conventions, food festivals, and sugarcane festivals throughout the year.
Exhibition and Participation
The Chief Minister inaugurated a large Agricultural Development Exhibition, performed cow worship, visited exhibition stalls, and interacted with farmers. Benefits under various agricultural schemes were also distributed. Several senior ministers, MLAs, public representatives, and a large number of farmers from Bhopal and Narmadapuram divisions attended the convention.
Dr. Yadav concluded by assuring farmers that the government will stand shoulder to shoulder with them at every step, stating, “The smile of the farmer is the true measure of Madhya Pradesh’s prosperity.”
