Budget 2026: Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman is all set to present her 9th consecutive budget on February 1st. The general public has high expectations for this budget. Regarding agricultural development, the major demands of farmers include the availability of fertilisers and seeds, expansion of irrigation facilities, and an increase in the amount provided under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman informed in the Economic Survey that under the PM Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, more than ₹4.09 lakh crore has been disbursed to 11 crore farmers across the country so far.

She stated that the central government is focused on strengthening farmers. Reducing GST on items like seeds, urea, fertilisers, agricultural machinery, and tractors could provide significant relief to farmers. According to media reports, the amount provided under the PM Kisan scheme may also be increased in the Union Budget 2026. However, nothing has been officially announced yet. This is merely speculation. It is worth noting that under the PM Kisan scheme, farmers receive financial assistance of up to ₹6,000 annually.

Will the amount increase in Budget 2026?
Under the Pradhan Mantri Kisan Samman Nidhi Yojana, eligible farmers receive financial assistance of ₹6,000 annually. The central government is trying to help farmers in every possible way. The ₹6,000 is transferred directly to the farmers’ bank accounts. However, in the current situation, farmer organisations and agricultural experts say that this amount is insufficient given the rising inflation. In the last few years, everything from electricity and irrigation to agricultural machinery has become quite expensive.
Therefore, there is a demand to increase this amount in Budget 2026.

The government is running several agricultural schemes. Schemes like the PM Dhan-Dhanya Krishi Yojana can help in areas where agriculture is relatively weak. The budget should ensure that the benefits of these schemes reach small farmers, rain-fed areas, and women.