As preparations gather pace for the Union Budget 2026–27, stakeholders across India’s agriculture sector are calling for stronger policy and financial support to address structural challenges and boost long-term farm sustainability. Key demands centre on higher budgetary allocations for rural infrastructure, climate-smart farming initiatives, and agricultural research and development.
Farmer organisations, agri-industry bodies, and policy experts have emphasised the urgent need to scale up investments in irrigation systems, post-harvest infrastructure, storage, and logistics. Improved infrastructure is seen as critical to reducing crop losses, stabilising farm incomes, and enhancing market access, particularly for small and marginal farmers.
Climate resilience has emerged as another major priority ahead of the budget. With increasing frequency of extreme weather events, stakeholders are urging expanded support for climate-smart farming practices, including water-efficient technologies, resilient crop varieties, and precision agriculture tools. Strengthening weather-based advisory systems and risk mitigation mechanisms is also being viewed as essential for protecting farmers from climate-related shocks.
A significant focus of budget expectations is reducing India’s dependence on imports, especially in commodities such as edible oils and pulses. Experts are advocating for targeted national missions to strengthen domestic production of oilseeds and pulses through region-specific strategies. Certified seed distribution, improved varietal development, and enhanced extension services are being highlighted as key enablers for boosting productivity and farmer confidence.
Increased funding for agricultural research and innovation is also being sought to accelerate the development of high-yielding, climate-resilient crop varieties and sustainable production technologies. Stakeholders believe that a balanced and forward-looking agriculture budget in 2026–27 could play a decisive role in improving food security, promoting self-reliance, and ensuring inclusive growth across the farm sector.
By
