Core Viewpoint - The urgent need to professionalize farmers is highlighted as a critical measure to address the question of "who will farm" and to seize the competitive edge in modern agricultural technology [1][2]. Group 1: Challenges in Rural Labor - Rural labor faces dual challenges of "generational disconnection" and "quality gap," with an aging agricultural workforce and younger generations lacking interest or skills in farming [2]. - The necessity to inject fresh talent into agriculture is emphasized, as advanced technologies will be ineffective without a skilled workforce [2]. Group 2: Institutional Reforms - The need for "institutional deregulation" to break down identity barriers is discussed, focusing on the deep ties between traditional "farmer" identities and household registration and land ownership [3]. - Reforms in household registration and land rights are essential to allow agricultural practitioners, regardless of their origin, to access equal public services and to facilitate land transfer for modern farmers [3]. Group 3: Enhancing Professional Appeal - The low comparative profitability of grain farming diminishes its attractiveness, with the statement that "1 pound of grain is worth less than 1 bottle of mineral water" [4]. - Policies to ensure profitability for farmers, such as price support and insurance, are necessary, alongside the promotion of high-quality grain industry development and diversification into new business models [4]. Group 4: Reshaping Farmer Identity - Modern professional farmers should be seen as knowledgeable and skilled individuals rather than traditional laborers, necessitating a shift towards professional training and certification [5]. - Incentives for urban talent to engage in agriculture, such as entrepreneurship funds and housing subsidies, are crucial for attracting skilled individuals to the farming sector [5]. - The importance of creating a societal respect for farmers and recognizing their role in national food security is emphasized, aiming to elevate their social status [5]. Group 5: Broader Implications - The professionalization of farmers is framed as a significant systemic project that impacts social equity, talent mobility, and long-term national food security [5]. - A sense of urgency is called for in accelerating the professionalization of farmers to strengthen the foundation of food security and the future of agricultural modernization in China [5].