In a major policy signal aimed at rural transformation, Madhya Pradesh has declared 2026 as the ‘Year of Agriculture’. The announcement reflects the State government’s renewed focus on farming, animal husbandry, and allied sectors as the backbone of its rural economy and long-term development strategy.
Why in News?
Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangu Bhai Patel announced that 2026 will be observed as the Year of Agriculture while addressing the State-level Republic Day function in Bhopal.
Rising Agriculture Budget and Development Vision
- The Governor highlighted the sharp rise in the State’s agriculture and allied sector budget, which has increased from ₹600 crore in 2002–03 to over ₹27,000 crore in 2024–25.
- This reflects the government’s vision of “prosperous farmers, prosperous State”.
- Madhya Pradesh has adopted a multifaceted agricultural development model covering ten focus areas, including technology transfer, income enhancement, natural farming, innovation, digital transparency, marketing, and exports.
- These reforms aim to make agriculture more profitable, resilient, and market-oriented.
Market Reforms and e-Mandi Expansion
- A major highlight of the agriculture push is the reform of agricultural markets.
- The e-Mandi scheme has been implemented in 259 mandis, with nearly 40 lakh farmers registered on the platform.
- This digital integration helps farmers get transparent pricing, reduces middlemen, and improves access to wider markets.
- Such reforms are expected to enhance farmer incomes and strengthen price discovery across the State.
Animal Husbandry and Dairy Sector Push
- Animal husbandry has been identified as a key growth engine.
- The State aims to become the milk capital of India by transforming dairy into a profitable rural activity.
- Under the Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana, Madhya Pradesh is targeting an increase in its share of national milk production from 9% to 20%.
- More than 1,200 new milk cooperatives have been formed, and milk procurement prices have risen from ₹2.50 to ₹8.50 per litre, significantly benefiting dairy farmers.
Support for Cow Shelters and Rural Livelihoods
- The Governor announced enhanced support for cow shelters, with grants for destitute cattle doubled from ₹20 to ₹40 per animal. Correspondingly, budgetary allocation has increased from ₹250 crore to ₹505 crore.
- These measures aim to support animal welfare while also stabilising rural livelihoods linked to cattle rearing.
Rural Infrastructure and Employment Initiatives
- Alongside agriculture, the State is strengthening rural infrastructure. Initiatives in housing, road connectivity, and employment generation are being expanded to support agricultural growth.
- Improved infrastructure helps reduce post-harvest losses, enhances market access, and creates non-farm employment opportunities in rural areas.
Question
Q. Which State has declared 2026 as the ‘Year of Agriculture’?
A. Rajasthan
B. Uttar Pradesh
C. Madhya Pradesh
D. Chhattisgarh