National Rice and Farmers Day designated in Recognition of His Majesty the King’s Contribution to Thai Rice

According to a report submitted by the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives to the Cabinet, His Majesty the King’s interest in rice farming and farmers’ way of life dates back to the period before he assumed his kingship. It was on June 5, 1946 that His Majesty, as Prince Bhumibol Adulyadej, accompanied his brother, King Amanda Mahidol, to make the first visit to farmers to view their cultivation in Bang Khen district, Bangkok. On that day, they had a chance to sow rice seeds in a field, and they observed activities carried out by Kasetsart University, the first agricultural university and the third-oldest university in Thailand. The university was established in 1943, with the primary aim of promoting subjects related to agricultural science.

His Majesty the King was very impressed with this experience and realized that farming is the foundation for building the nation. Since the majority of his subjects are farmers, he intends to sustain this occupation for the stability of the kingdom.

Aware of His Majesty’s interest in rice cultivation and farmers’ way of life, and in gratitude for his contribution, the National Rice Policy Committee decided to propose that June 5 be proclaimed National Rice and Farmers Day. This day will be observed by rice farmers, in particular, separate from the Royal Ploughing Ceremony day, which is also observed as Agriculturists Day. The Royal Ploughing Ceremony day, in May, is fixed by the royal astrologer and cannot be set permanently in the calendar. So it is not suitable for organizing special activities for rice farmers. Moreover, government agencies involved are usually busy preparing the royal ceremony on that day.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives had consulted with organizations involved, such as the Thai Rice Farmers Association and Thai Rice Millers Association, on the designation of National Rice and Farmers Day. It reported that the proclamation of National Rice and Farmers Day was carried out in line with Thai rice strategies, 2008-2011. The strategies were worked out by stakeholders, including the Ministry of Agriculture and Cooperatives and the Ministry of Commerce and were approved by the Cabinet on May 6.

The staple food of the Thai people, rice has always been the most important crop and is grown in every region of Thailand. Its importance is not only in terms of economic value. Farmers regard growing rice as their food security. Rice is also part of Thai culture, inherited from generation to generation, and rice policies and measures play an important part in Thai society as a whole. The designation of National Rice and Farmers Day will make Thai rice and Thai culture better known to the world at large.