History of national Farmers da

National Farmers Day is a commemoration day observed annually on September 24th in Indonesia to honor the vital role of farmers as the nation's backbone in maintaining food security and public welfare. This establishment coincided with the enactment of the Basic Agrarian Law (UUPA) Number 5 of 1960, which served as the basis for agrarian reform and land system reform in Indonesia.

National Farmers Day is celebrated annually on September 24th in Indonesia. This commemoration was established by the first President of the Republic of Indonesia, Ir. Soekarno, through Presidential Decree (Keppres) Number 169 of 1963

Background :

After Indonesia's independence in 1945, the nation's main problem was unequal land ownership. Many farmers did not own their own land and were merely farm laborers, while vast tracts of land were controlled by landlords or former Dutch colonialists. This led to poverty and sharp social disparities in rural areas.

To address this issue, the Indonesian government sought to create policies that favored the common people, especially farmers. One important milestone was the Basic Agrarian Law (UUPA) Number 5 of 1960, which was ratified on September 24, 1960.

The Basic Agrarian Law (UUPA) :

The UUPA serves as the legal basis for agrarian law in Indonesia. The main objectives of this law are:

1. To eliminate the landlord system and land monopolies.

2. To distribute land fairly to the people, especially small farmers.

3. To ensure that land is used optimally for the people's prosperity.

4. To provide legal certainty for landowners through land certificates.

With the UUPA, the government wants to create agrarian reform, namely equal distribution of land ownership so that farmers can live more prosperous lives.

Establishment of National Farmers Day :

To honor and commemorate the birth of the Basic Agrarian Law (UUPA), President Soekarno declared September 24th as National Farmers Day. This day is not only a symbol of farmers' struggle, but also a reminder to the Indonesian nation of the importance of land as a source of life and livelihood.

The Meaning of National Farmers Day :

1. Appreciation for farmers, who are the backbone of the nation's food supply.

2. A reminder of the history of the agrarian struggle, particularly the birth of the 1960 UUPA.

3. Awareness of the importance of food sovereignty, by emphasizing that the nation's resilience and independence depend heavily on the welfare of farmers.

4. Reflection on the state of agriculture will be a moment to reassess the condition of farmers.

5. The spirit of mutual cooperation and social justice as a reminder that the agricultural sector is one of the pillars of social justice, as mandated by the 1945 Constitution.

Therefore, National Farmers Day is not only a celebration, but also a momentum to appreciate the role of farmers, fight for agrarian justice, and build food sovereignty for the welfare of the nation.