Agricultural Budget for 2025-26 Surges Sixfold Compared to 2013-14: Jitendra Singh
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Synopsis
Union Minister Jitendra Singh announced a six-fold increase in the agricultural budget for 2025-26, emphasizing the government's commitment to enhancing support for farmers and modernizing agriculture, which includes new initiatives and increased funding.
Key Takeaways
- Budget allocation for agriculture increased to Rs 1,27,290 crore.
- 30 lakh additional farmers added to PM KISAN scheme.
- Kisan Credit Card limit raised to Rs 5 lakh.
- Launch of PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana for agricultural advancement.
- Focus on eastern India’s agricultural development.
New Delhi, Feb 24 (NationPress) Union Minister Jitendra Singh on Monday pointed out the remarkable six-fold escalation in the budget allocation for agriculture in the 2025-26 financial year, rising to Rs 1,27,290 crore from Rs 21,933.50 crore in 2013-14. This surge signifies the enhanced government backing for farmers under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
During the distribution of the 19th installment of the PM KISAN initiative in Bhagalpur, Bihar, he noted that to further bolster this program, an additional 30 lakh farmers have been included as beneficiaries.
Jitendra Singh also participated virtually in a meeting at the Krishi Vigyan Kendra in Jammu.
The minister revealed that the government is set to distribute Rs 22,000 crore to 9.8 crore farmers as part of this installment. With Rs 3.46 lakh crore already dispensed over 18 installments, the PM KISAN scheme remains crucial in supporting farmers' livelihoods.
He also mentioned the increase in the Kisan Credit Card (KCC) limit from Rs 3 lakh to Rs 5 lakh, which will significantly enhance farmers' access to credit for investing in advanced agricultural techniques and equipment.
Furthermore, Jitendra Singh launched the PM Dhan Dhanya Krishi Yojana, a new program aimed at pinpointing 100 districts for agricultural development, ensuring that necessary resources and technologies are allocated to improve productivity in these locations.
He stressed the transformation of India’s agricultural landscape over the past decade, labeling Prime Minister Narendra Modi as the champion of farmers' welfare.
He recalled the Prime Minister’s vision of doubling farmers' incomes and advancing agricultural technologies to support their endeavors.
“Over the last ten years, we have observed a considerable change in agriculture, with the government providing consistent support for farmers. Initiatives such as soil health cards, Kisan Credit Cards, financial inclusion, and cutting-edge technologies like drones for pesticide and fertilizer application, micro-irrigation in elevated regions, and expanded irrigation facilities have been essential,” stated Jitendra Singh.
He highlighted that these initiatives not only aid agriculture but also play a significant role in the Indian economy, with agriculture serving as a primary driver of India’s growth.
The minister also outlined other significant government initiatives, including the six-year National Mission on Millets, the National Mission on High-Yielding Seeds, the establishment of a ‘Makhana Board’ in Bihar, and new research and development programs focused on boosting crop yields.
Jitendra Singh pointed out the establishment of a new urea plant in Assam with a capacity of 12.7 lakh tonnes, emphasizing the increasing focus on eastern India in the country’s agricultural strategies.
He reaffirmed the government’s dedication to integrating farmers and agriculture as a crucial part of Viksit Bharat @2047. He stated that the government’s ongoing efforts to empower farmers and modernize agriculture will ensure the agricultural sector flourishes and contributes to sustainable economic growth.
