Madhya Pradesh to Observe 2026 as ‘Year of Agriculture’ | 30 Jan 2026

Why in News? 

Madhya Pradesh Governor Mangubhai Patel announced that the state will observe 2026 as the ‘Year of Agriculture’ with the theme “Prosperous Farmers – Prosperous State”. 

Key Points 

• Agriculture budget increased substantially: The allocation for agriculture and allied sectors has risen from ₹600 crore in 2002–03 to over ₹27,000 crore in 2024–25, reflecting intensified policy support. 
  • Focus Areas: Emphasis will be laid on crop productivity, irrigation expansion, natural farming, technological adoption and diversification of allied sectors such as horticulture, animal husbandry, dairy and fisheries to enhance farmers’ income. 
• Development Model: A 10-point strategy includes technology transfer, income enhancement, natural farming, market reforms and exports, innovation, and digital transparency in agriculture. 
• e-Mandi: The e-Mandi marketplace has been implemented to improve price discovery and transparency through digital platforms. 
• Milk and Animal Husbandry Focus: Under the B.R. Ambedkar Kamdhenu Scheme. 
• MP aims to raise its share in national milk production from 9% to 20%. 
• Awareness: Mobile agricultural units (‘Agriculture Raths’) are deployed village-to-village to educate farmers about government schemes, modern practices, and natural farming. 
• Implementation Strategy: A year-long calendar of training programmes, agricultural fairs, outreach camps and farmer-centric events will be conducted.