Madhya Pradesh Declares 2026 as Year of Agriculture

Madhya Pradesh will observe 2026 as the ‘year of agriculture’, Governor Mangu Bhai Patel announced while addressing the State-level function marking the 77th Republic Day in Bhopal. The declaration underscores the State government’s focus on strengthening agriculture and allied sectors as the backbone of the rural economy.

Rising agricultural budget and development model

The Governor said the budget for agriculture and allied sectors has increased significantly, from ₹600 crore in 2002–03 to over ₹27,000 crore in 2024–25. He noted that under the vision of “prosperous farmers, prosperous State”, Madhya Pradesh has adopted a multifaceted agricultural development model covering ten focus areas. These include technology transfer, income enhancement, natural farming, innovation, marketing and exports, and digital transparency, which will be implemented across the State.

Market reforms and push for animal husbandry

Highlighting reforms in agricultural marketing, Patel said the e-Mandi scheme has been implemented in 259 markets, with nearly 40 lakh farmers registered. He added that the State aims to emerge as the milk capital of India by transforming animal husbandry into a profitable activity. Grants for destitute cattle in cow shelters have been doubled from ₹20 to ₹40 per animal, with budgetary support rising from ₹250 crore to ₹505 crore.

Dairy expansion and rural infrastructure initiatives

Under the Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana, the State is targeting an increase in its contribution to national milk production from 9% to 20%. Over 1,200 new milk cooperatives have been formed, and procurement prices have been raised from ₹2.50 to ₹8.50 per litre. The Governor also outlined major rural infrastructure initiatives, including housing, road connectivity and employment generation through enhanced schemes.

Important Facts for Exams

• 2026 declared as the ‘year of agriculture’ in Madhya Pradesh.
• Agriculture budget increased to over ₹27,000 crore in 2024–25.
• e-Mandi implemented in 259 markets with 40 lakh farmer registrations.
• Dr Bhimrao Ambedkar Kamdhenu Yojana focuses on dairy expansion.

Education, wildlife conservation and industrial reforms

The Governor said the elementary school dropout rate has declined to zero in 2024–25, with the State supporting education of 8.5 lakh students in private schools. He also highlighted wildlife conservation efforts, including declaration of Madhav National Park as the ninth tiger reserve and development of new sanctuaries and cheetah habitats. On industrial growth, Patel said simplified laws, deregulation and the Jan Vishwas Acts of 2024 and 2025 have improved ease of doing business and accelerated investment in the State.