August 15, India's Independence Day! A day which ignites the candle of patriotism in every individual. A day which would not ever come without the sacrifices of our freedom fighters. Do you know, there are many such unsung heroes in the field of agriculture who not only played crucial roles in liberating the nation from colonial rule but also laid the foundation for India's agricultural transformation. Let's explore some of these remarkable individuals and their contributions:
Raiya Bhai Madha Bhai Kanani
Born on October 18, 1925, in Samdhiyala village, Bhavnagar, Gujarat, Raiya Bhai Madha Bhai Kanani was more than just a farmer. From 1942, he actively participated in the Indian freedom struggle, enduring imprisonment in various locations across Saurashtra. His journey didn't stop at independence. Raiya Bhai continued to work for noble social causes such as freedom, untouchability eradication, community education, and agriculture. His dedication to modernizing farming practices in Saurashtra from 1965 to 1968 is a testament to his visionary approach. His establishment of Adarsh Kelavani Mandal, along with a residential secondary school, reflects his commitment to education and community development.
Narayanaswamy
Born in 1924 in Burma, Narayanaswamy was deeply influenced by Subhas Chandra Bose's call to action. His father, a farmer, contributed significantly to the INA army, a decision that led Narayanaswamy to join the cause. His journey from Burma to India, imprisonment, and later life as a community servant in Tiruchirappalli, Tamil Nadu, highlight his enduring spirit. Narayanaswamy's contributions to local development and his recognition as a freedom fighter serve as an inspiration for future generations.
N. G. Ranga
Acharya Gogineni Ranga Nayukulu, fondly known as N. G. Ranga, was a stalwart of the peasant movement in India. Born in Andhra Pradesh, Ranga's education at Oxford and subsequent teaching career laid a strong foundation for his activism. He led the ryot agitation in 1933, pushing for farmers' rights against zamindari oppression. His efforts culminated in the formation of the All India Kisan Sabha, with demands for the abolition of zamindari and the cancellation of rural debts. Ranga's political career, spanning over six decades, included the founding of the Swatantra Party and significant contributions to peasant welfare.
Smt. Bachan Kaur
Smt. Bachan Kaur's story is one of courage and resilience. Born in Bhangli Lahor (now in Pakistan), her father's life imprisonment deeply impacted her, inspiring her to join the Kissan Morcha at just 13 years old. Despite her young age, she endured over seven months of imprisonment, becoming one of the youngest freedom fighters in the movement. Her recognition by the Government of India in 1972 with the Tamar Patra award underscores her remarkable contributions.
The legacy of farmer freedom fighters, their courage and dedication continue to inspire as we strive for Aatmanirbharta in agriculture. By supporting and empowering farmers, we honor their sacrifices and ensure their contributions are never forgotten. As India progresses toward self-reliance, the government's efforts and investments aim to transform the agriculture sector, placing farmers at the heart of this transformation.
