Union Budget 2026–27: New Agricultural Initiatives to Compete in Global Markets
By Shashikant Trivedi, Senior Journalist
03 February 2026, New Delhi: The Union Budget 2026–27 places agriculture at the heart of India’s growth and inclusion agenda. Recognising farming as critical to livelihoods, food security, and rural prosperity, Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman outlined a series of forward-looking initiatives aimed at strengthening the sector in the years ahead. The Budget underscores technology-driven innovation, targeted support for high-value crops, and the empowerment of farmers, women, and allied sectors.
To boost fisheries and water-based farming, the government has proposed the integrated development of 500 reservoirs and Amrit Sarovars. Alongside this, the coastal fisheries value chain will be strengthened through start-ups and women-led groups. Fisheries Farmer Producer Organisations will be encouraged to improve market access and ensure income stability for fishers.
Crop diversification is another major focus. In coastal regions, cultivation of coconut, sandalwood, cocoa, and cashew will be promoted, while hill regions will see renewed emphasis on almonds, walnuts, and pine nuts. Under the Coconut Rejuvenation Programme, old plantations will be replaced with improved varieties. Special programmes for cashew and cocoa aim to make India self-reliant and globally competitive in these crops by 2030.
Technology integration features prominently through the proposed “Bharat-Vistaar” platform—an artificial intelligence–driven system that will connect the AgriStack portal with Indian agricultural research institutions to provide farmers with real-time advisory services. This initiative is expected to enhance productivity and reduce risks associated with farming.
To increase women’s participation in the rural economy, the Budget announces the establishment of She Marts. These community-owned retail centres will offer women entrepreneurs access to markets, financial tools, and collective bargaining power.
The livestock sector also receives priority. Through entrepreneurship development programmes, credit-linked subsidies, and modernisation of livestock enterprises, the government plans to build integrated value chains for dairy and poultry. Expansion of veterinary education and infrastructure is intended to improve animal health and productivity.
Overall, the Budget’s approach to agriculture goes beyond production to encompass branding and global competitiveness. By promoting cashew and cocoa as premium export products and adopting AI-driven systems, India aims to transform agriculture into a value-added, globally recognised sector. The Budget seeks to blend traditional strengths with modern technology, empower farmers and women, and build resilience through diversification. While the immediate impact may not appear striking to farmers, technologies such as artificial intelligence are set to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of Indian agriculture.
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