Sowing the Seeds of Hope: Indian Farmers’ Wishlist for Budget 2025-26
As the Union Budget 2025-26 approaches, Indian farmers are eagerly anticipating announcements that will address their long-standing challenges and pave the way for sustainable agricultural growth. With agriculture being the backbone of India’s economy, contributing nearly 18% to the GDP and employing over 50% of the workforce, farmers are hopeful for reforms and allocations that prioritize their needs.
Farmers are expecting a higher allocation for agriculture and allied sectors, including irrigation, crop insurance, and research. They believe enhanced funding for initiatives like the Pradhan Mantri Krishi Sinchai Yojana will improve irrigation infrastructure and mitigate the risks posed by erratic monsoons. The demand for a higher Minimum Support Price (MSP) for crops remains a top priority. Farmers are urging the government to ensure MSP is based on the C2+50% formula, which includes comprehensive cost estimates and a 50% profit margin, as recommended by the Swaminathan Commission. Additionally, they hope for an expansion of MSP coverage to include more crops, especially pulses and oilseeds.
With labor shortages becoming a growing concern, farmers are advocating for subsidies on farm machinery and technology. Affordable access to modern equipment such as tractors, harvesters, and drip irrigation systems can significantly improve productivity and reduce costs. Farmers are seeking an increase in agricultural credit limits and easier access to low-interest loans. Enhanced funding under schemes like the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) and faster loan disbursal processes could help them manage input costs and invest in farm improvements.
Rural infrastructure development is a critical expectation, with farmers demanding better storage facilities, cold chains, and transportation networks. Enhanced investments in warehousing and food processing units under the PM Formalization of Micro Food Processing Enterprises (PM-FME) scheme can help reduce post-harvest losses and ensure better price realization for crops.
Climate change remains a significant threat to Indian agriculture. Farmers are hoping for policies promoting climate-resilient farming practices, including subsidies for solar pumps, rainwater harvesting systems, and drought-resistant seed varieties. Increased funding for programs addressing soil health and organic farming is also anticipated. Farmers expect improvements to the Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana (PMFBY) to make crop insurance more effective and inclusive. They are calling for faster claim settlements, reduced premiums, and the inclusion of more crops under the insurance umbrella.
The rising cost of fertilizers, seeds, and pesticides has put additional strain on farmers. Subsidies for these inputs, along with measures to control fuel and electricity prices, are high on their wish list. Farmers are urging the government to encourage agri-tech startups and digital platforms that connect farmers directly to markets. Initiatives like the e-NAM (National Agriculture Market) platform need further expansion to reduce dependence on middlemen and ensure fair pricing.
The Budget 2025-26 presents a golden opportunity for the government to address the needs of Indian farmers and strengthen the agricultural sector. By focusing on MSP reforms, climate resilience, infrastructure development, and financial support, the government can empower farmers and ensure long-term sustainability in agriculture. Farmers across the nation are hopeful that their voices will be heard, and their expectations translated into actionable policies.
