Krishak Swahid Divas is observed every year on January 28 in Assam to honour the 140 peasant martyrs who lost their lives in the historic Patharughat Peasant Uprising of 1894. 

The day stands as a powerful reminder of agrarian resistance against colonial exploitation and is an important chapter in India’s freedom struggle.

Historical Background

• The uprising took place at Patharughat (present-day Patharighat).
• Farmers were protesting a 70–80 per cent hike in agricultural land tax imposed by the British administration.
• On January 28, 1894, J. R. Berington, officiating commandant of the military police, ordered firing on the peaceful gathering.
• 140 unarmed peasants were killed, earning Patharughat the name “Jallianwala Bagh of Assam” in popular memory.

Commemoration and Legacy

• A martyrs’ column was erected at Patharughat in 2001 by the Indian Army and unveiled by former Assam Governor S. K. Sinha.
• Last year, to mark the 131st anniversary, the Department of Post, Government of India, released a commemorative ₹5 postage stamp, highlighting national recognition of the sacrifice.
• The Assamese historical ballad Doli-Puran, composed by Narrottam Das, continues to keep alive the memory of the peasant resistance through oral tradition.

Present-day Observance

• On Krishak Swahid Divas, tributes are paid at the martyrs’ memorial by public representatives, including the State Agriculture Minister.
• Families of the martyrs are felicitated, souvenirs are released, and exhibitions showcase agricultural products, government schemes and local innovations through self-help groups.
• The occasion also highlights farmer-centric initiatives aimed at welfare, prosperity and economic empowerment.

Exam Hook – 

Consider the following statements:

1. Krishak Swahid Divas commemorates the Patharughat Peasant Uprising of 1894.
2. The uprising was triggered by a sharp increase in agricultural land tax under British rule.
3. The incident took place in present-day Barpeta district of Assam.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
Answer: 1 and 2 only

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