7 Ways Higher Agri Infrastructure Investment Could Boost Indian Farming — Budget 2026 Outlook

G GOWTHAM
1. Farmers Want Bigger Agri‑Infra Spending

Ahead of Budget 2026, agricultural stakeholders — from farmer groups to industry bodies — are calling for scaled‑up public investment in agricultural infrastructure. The aim is to reduce post‑harvest losses, improve logistics, and boost farmers’ incomes.

2. Climate‑Smart and Green Infrastructure Is Key

Experts urge the government to fund climate‑resilient irrigation, rainwater harvesting, micro‑irrigation systems, and green infrastructure that makes farm production more durable against weather risks like droughts and floods.

3. wallet PLATFORM' target='_blank' title='digital-Latest Updates, Photos, Videos are a click away, CLICK NOW">digital Agriculture Infrastructure on the Wish List

Modernising agriculture through digital platforms — like agritech solutions, AGRISTACK and integrated data systems — can help farmers access credit, insurance, markets and extension services more efficiently.

4. Better Storage and Cold Chains to Reduce Waste

Post‑harvest losses are a major drain on farmers’ profits. Increased budget allocations are being sought for scientific warehousing, cold storage, and improved logistics networks to preserve quality and fetch better market prices.

5. Rural Credit & Insurance Reform

Alongside physical infrastructure, the sector wants rural credit reforms and better access to risk‑mitigating tools like crop insurance. This is seen as essential to support small and marginal farmers who lack formal financing.

6. Tech, R&D and Value Chain Modernisation

Beyond basic infrastructure, there’s a push for investment in research, climate‑smart seed varieties, precision farming tools and value‑chain upgrade — all aimed at lifting productivity and income sustainably.

7. Strategic Programmes, Like PM‑KUSUM 2.0

Agriculture‑linked schemes that blend renewable energy and farm support — for example, the proposed PM‑KUSUM 2.0 to expand solarisation of farm equipment — are likely to get a sharper focus in Budget allocations.

📌 Why This Matters

Agriculture still employs a large portion of India’s workforce but contributes a smaller share of GDP, and remains vulnerable to climate, credit and logistics challenges. Increasing agri‑infrastructure investments in Budget 2026 is seen as a way to unlock growth, boost farm incomes, and strengthen rural resilience.

 

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The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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