Agriculture Budget 2026: Budget focuses on increasing farm income, major plans for dairy, poultry, coconut, and sandalwood

Today, Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is presenting the country's budget. She made several announcements regarding the agriculture sector. Let's find out what the agriculture sector received in this budget.

Union Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman has given special attention to increasing farmers' income and strengthening agriculture in the Agriculture Budget 2026. In her budget speech, she clearly stated that the government's goal is not limited to food grain production alone, but to advance every sector related to agriculture. Farmers will be given more opportunities to earn through dairy, poultry farming, horticulture, and special crops.

The Finance Minister said that if the diversity of agricultural products is increased, it will not only increase farmers' income but also create new employment opportunities in rural areas. With this in mind, Budget 2026 emphasizes traditional farming methods as well as new areas.

Major focus on dairy and poultry farming

The Finance Minister said in her speech that strengthening dairy and poultry farming is a priority for the government. Millions of farmers and small families are associated with these sectors. The government wants farmers to be able to earn a sustainable income through milk, eggs, and related products. Better facilities, training, and increased market access have been promised for this purpose.

The Finance Minister stated that India is a world leader in coconut production. Approximately 30 million people in the country are directly or indirectly dependent on coconut cultivation and related activities. Considering this, the government has put forward special proposals for the coconut sector. She said that the government will establish new facilities in the main coconut-producing states. This will provide better support to coconut farmers and improve both the quality and sale of coconut-related products. The government will also promote value addition of coconuts, i.e., the production of oil, fiber, and other products.

Cashew and cocoa to get new recognition

Cashew and cocoa have also been given a special place in the Agriculture Budget 2026.  Emphasis has also been placed on increasing exports. Farmers and entrepreneurs will be provided assistance to take cashew and cocoa products to the international market. He said that sandalwood cultivation would be promoted again. The agricultural budget for 2026 also includes special schemes for the North-Eastern states. The Finance Minister said that crops like almonds and groundnuts would be promoted in this region.