Budget 2026: Sitharaman Unveils 5 Major Gifts for Farmers, Boosting Income & Diversification

• Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman announced key initiatives in Budget 2026-27 to boost farmers' income through agricultural diversification and high-value crops.
• A Coconut Promotion Scheme will replace old trees with new, improved varieties to increase production and productivity, benefiting 3 crore people.
• Dedicated programs for cashew and cocoa aim for India's self-reliance, enhanced processing, and global brand recognition by 2030.
• Support for sandalwood cultivation, high-value nuts (walnuts, almonds, pine nuts), and agarwood in the Northeast will promote profitable farming.
• Strengthening the PM Krishi Sinchai Yojana will improve irrigation infrastructure, crucial for high-value crops and mitigating drought/flood risks.

Why It Matters: Budget 2026 focuses on agricultural diversification, high-value crops, and irrigation to double farmers' income.