CropLife India, the leading association representing 17 research and development–driven crop science companies, has welcomed the Union Budget 2026–27 and the government’s continued focus on improving farmer incomes through productivity enhancement, sustainability and technology-led solutions.
The association particularly welcomed the launch of ‘Bharat Vistaar’, a multilingual, AI-powered digital platform aimed at strengthening last-mile delivery of agricultural knowledge. CropLife India said the initiative has the potential to significantly enhance the reach and effectiveness of scientific advisories for farmers, especially when integrated with the Agri Stack’s digital farmer records and the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR)’s validated packages of practices. The Budget’s emphasis on promoting high-value crops was also noted as a positive step towards income diversification and greater resilience in the farm sector.
However, CropLife India emphasised that the real impact of digital platforms like Bharat Vistaar will depend on stronger on-ground extension systems and sustained investment in crop science research. The association highlighted that farmers are operating in an increasingly complex risk environment marked by climate variability, evolving pest pressures and growing resistance to older crop protection solutions.
Commenting on the Budget, Mr. Ankur Aggarwal, Chairman of CropLife India and Executive Chairman & Managing Director of Crystal Crop Protection Ltd., said that while digital advisory tools can transform knowledge delivery, their success depends on timely, locally relevant guidance and effective field-level support. He stressed that digital solutions must be complemented by well-equipped extension networks to ensure correct adoption and application at the farm level.
Mr. Aggarwal also underlined the growing challenges faced by farmers entering high-value and export-oriented crops, where stricter quality, food safety and international compliance standards apply. He noted that meeting requirements such as Good Agricultural Practices (GAPs) and Maximum Residue Limits (MRLs) will require faster access to innovative, low-dose crop protection technologies and a supportive policy environment.
CropLife India reiterated the need for a predictable and farmer-friendly policy framework. The association urged the government to consider measures such as a 200 percent weighted deduction on R&D expenditure, reduction of GST on agrochemicals from 18 percent to 5 percent, and a stable, uniform basic customs duty of 10 percent on both technical raw materials and formulations to improve affordability and access.
Reaffirming its commitment, CropLife India said it will continue working closely with policymakers, research institutions and extension agencies to advance science-based, farmer-centric solutions that enhance productivity, sustainability and long-term food security in India.
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