Union Budget 2026–27 historic, transformative for villages, farmers: Shivraj Singh Chouhan

Union Minister for Rural Development and Agriculture & Farmers’ Welfare, Shri Shivraj Singh Chouhan, on Sunday described the Union Budget 2026–27 as “historic” and “unprecedented,” saying it lays a strong foundation for a developed and self-reliant India (Viksit Bharat) under the leadership of Prime Minister Shri Narendra Modi.

Shri Chouhan highlighted that the Budget, presented for the 12th time under PM Modi, aims to transform the lives of farmers, youth, women, and the poor — the four pillars of the nation — while fostering inclusive development and social prosperity. He also praised Finance Minister Smt Nirmala Sitharaman for presenting the budget for the ninth consecutive time, noting it as a historic achievement.

The Minister said the Budget significantly strengthens rural and agricultural development, with the Rural Development Ministry budget rising by 21%. Combined with the agriculture department’s allocation, the total funding now exceeds ₹4.35 lakh crore, reflecting the government’s focus on villages and farmers. The MGNREGA allocation has also been increased, with the Centre’s contribution surpassing ₹95,692 crore, taking the total to over ₹1.51 lakh crore.

Shri Chouhan highlighted direct transfers to panchayats, which will total ₹55,900 crore under the 16th Finance Commission — nearly doubling the previous five-year allocations. These measures, he said, will help build self-reliant, employment-oriented, and poverty-free villages.

On agriculture, the Minister announced a total allocation of ₹1.32 lakh crore, with a strong focus on research, innovation, and affordable fertilisers. A subsidy of ₹1.70 lakh crore has been provided to reduce farmers’ input costs. Special attention has been given to high-value crops such as coconut, cashew, cocoa, sandalwood, and the rejuvenation of old plantations. Provisions for the National Fibre Scheme and medicinal plants under Ayush aim to increase farmers’ incomes and promote exports.

Shri Chouhan also underlined initiatives such as ‘Lakhpati Didi’ and ‘SHE-Mart’ to empower rural women entrepreneurs, enabling women-led Self-Help Groups to access new markets and transition from subsistence to commercial livelihoods.

According to the Minister, this Union Budget is a dynamic and transformative plan that not only addresses immediate development needs but also lays the foundation for long-term growth and prosperity in villages and rural India.